Kiwi Newbie

[Sharon]

Hi Guys
Just introducing myself, My name is Sharon and I'm a Kiwi girl from New Zealand. The land of sheep but unfortunately lamb isn't on my list. I'm only just completing day three so I certainly fit into the newbie catagory. I'm a shift worker so it will take a bit of juggling, I've written myself a check list so I can keep track, hate to miss out on something.
Looking forward to checking out this sight and catching up with you guys, sound like there is some great ideas.
TTFN :party1:

[Shasha]

{hi} there Sharon

A very WARM WELCOME TO YOU! :bighug:

Please send us some nice fresh, healthy KIWI FRUIT from New Zealand – MMMMMMmmmmmmmmmm :hungry: so nice!!!

They are very nice to eat because you can have more than one at a time, try mashing them up on your crackers as a snack between your meals...

What type of work do you do? As working shifts can be a challenge for anyone, I recommend that you avoid the yogurt and cheese options, most certainly in your first week and that you take a second vitamin each day at lunchtime – or your lunchtime ie: midnight…

Wishing you much success and hoping to hear lots more from you! And, please do get a ticker so that we can follow your progress... {cheerleader}

[Sharon]

Hi Shasha
Must admit our kiwi fruit are yummy, am going to buy some in the morning after work, is it two kiwi fruit to one apple or orange? and does it matter if they are the green or the yellow? do you get both kinds? What about the little hairless ones the size of grapes?
I'm a registered nurse and I work in a children's ward, really enjoy the work but the shift changes can play a bit of havok with the body. Ta for the yoghurt and cheese tips.
Have seen the neat tickers, will have to check them out next.
TTFN :love6:

[pumbza]

Hullo SHARON love the KIWI's always beat my team the SPRINBOKS at RUGBY like this last week-end it was a big match we will just have to try again!Ha Ha!:innocent4:You have made a good decision joining this Forum and DIET good luck on your future up and coming PROGRESS and as the forum war cry goes - "U CAN DO IT" so smile while u lose weight!Have a great DAY!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

Hi pumbza,
Did you see the game on the other day? thought they all played really well, really enjoyed it and looking forward to the rematch this weekend, sorry the Springbox lost, but glad the All Blacks won.
Congrats on the 10 kg, awesome work, your 9 days ahead of me I've looked at your progress and it gives me strength.
TTFN :love6:

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon yeah ALL BLACKS played well and they are a great TEAM as much as we would hate to admit it!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:So we will have to pull out our TRUMP card we are the WORLD champions!!Ha Ha!We are not to happy with our coach at the moment because instead of using the existing world cup winners and building round them he is chopping and changing and no one knows whats going on but I suppose if he wins he will be forgiven!!Ha Ha!!Have a Nice day we have a soft spot for u KIWI's although it doesn't seem like that on the RUGBY Field!!Ha Ha!:innocent3:

[bitten]

welcome to you sharon-
i wish you all the best.
bitten

[rbride05]

Hi Sharon
Welcome to the program. Its so great and interesting to see so many people from all over the world on this forum and this plan. It seems that struggling with weight is just another common thread throughout the human race. I have always wanted to travel to New Zealand, Im going to make that another goal on my list when I reach my happy healthy weight. Here's hoping youre just one more "big loser." (in the good way that is)

[Sharon]

Hi pumbza,
You gonna be watching the game this weekend, they thought it was cold last weekend, they will be further south and for us that means colder. Hope Dunedin turns on a good day for both teams, poor lads any their little shorts, their knees will turn blue.
We have a soft spot for SA here in NZ, at my husbands work is outnumbered 3:1 so you can just imagine what it is like when we get together to watch a game.: {hammer}LOL

Keep up the good work :weights2:
TTFN Sharon :love6:

Hi bitten and rbride05
Ta for the howdies and best wishes, it is great having this forum, makes a bit difference seeing how well everyone is doing and being able to connect.
New Zealand is beautiful and well worth the visit, I am biased mind you, I really enjoy tramping which is slingin on boots, a 15-16 kg pack and hitting the hills for a few days, but unfortunately will have to put that on hold as this diet isn't suitable for that kind of energy expenditure. Don't want to run out of oomph part way up a mountain.

Have a great day
TTFN :love6:

[pumbza]

Yeah it really gets cold by U the last time Irland played rugby in NZ Brain O'Driscoll said its the coldest he has ever been (Oh and it was Raining) in his life he even had problems shouting out instructions!Ha Ha!:innocent4:We have a NZ neighbour who when ever he watches rugby with us his team always wins so this week-end we will be watching with out him maybe just maybe things might be DIFFRENT!Anyway GOOD LUCK to ur TEAM on the WEEKEND I will be wearing the green and GOLD with a BEANY with yellow HORNS on my head (YES I AM A CLOWN)Ha HA!!:innocent3:

[Shasha]

{hi} there Everyone

Great to see you all having such a lovely chat!!! Seems the whole world is coming together right here on the 1st Personal Diet Forum...


{grouphug2}

Now that Pumbza has a Diet Buddie watching the same game but on the other side of the world, I’m sure he’ll be even more motivated to forget about the biltong and beer during the up coming match…

Sharon: Just to get back to the kiwi fruit question – 1 fruit = 160 g peeled kiwi fruit – as per page 15 of your New Customer Guide. I only know the green fruit. If the small ones are more sweet, maybe you should avoid having those – like cherry tomato they possibly could contain too much sugar…


MAY THE BEST TEAM WIN!!!
{wave}

[Sharon]

Hi Shasha,
Ta for the info on the kiwi fruit, the green ones would be the only ones I would eat on this diet, I actually prefer them, the yellow ones and the little ones have a far higher sugar content, I was interested to see if you had them or not as they are generally exported, as far as our produce is concerned we often get the none export quality:sadeyes:.


TTFN

[pumbza]

Hi Shasha,
Yes I will be watching the GAME this week-end and shoutiing for the SPRINGBOKS by saying GO BOKKE!!! But u are right no beer and no biltong only DIET BILTONG which I can make with DIET sprite as u know !Ha HA!:innocent3:

[Ladyjanenz]

Hello Sharon from another Kiwi in Canterbury. I.m on my 11th day and feel great. I am amazed how good i feel on such a relatively small amount of food. The first few days I found hard, constant desire for food..I missed the taste of things ..but my body/mind has now come into line and now I need to be careful I don't forget to eat.

What a terrible problem to have, for one who loves food !!!...hehehehe

Anyhooo....nice to see other Kiwis here and GO the All Blacks...(sorry Pumbza)

[bitten]

we are SO international...
it is fantastic.

what i really want to know is where is sha-sha???

greetings to lady J & sharon! welcome-
bitten

[happytmo]

I do love that everyone is from everywhere. I think that the coolest thing about this diet/forum is that I get to chat with people from Europe. I love it. :plane: Plus how awesome everyone is and how supportive they are, that's pretty cool too. {bouncing}

[bitten]

europe...... and south africa and new zealand and the UK...

[Shasha]

{hi} there Everyone

YEP, this is truly an INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM!!! {grouphug2}

Bitten: Cohen :cop: Cops live in a place called Cyberspace… which is perfect… we don’t have to cheer a particular team, and usually enjoy watching the spectators more than the players…

Have fun everyone… maybe try making some dried apple snacks to go with the game… I’ll be thinking of all of you on Saturday!!! {grouphug1}

[bitten]

i KNEW you would not tell us.....
i am happy to have your out there, sha-sha...
where ever that may be.

cyberspace. LOL!!!!!!!!

bitten

[Sharon]

Hi Everyone, it was so nice to click on to the forum to see all the messages

pumbza- WHAT A GAME, edge of the seat stuff, obviously you hadn't asked your neighbour to come over to watch, knew I should have tried to persuade you to invite him over, just to be neighbourly like :innocent4:, a close game and a good game. Wont be good for us for the next game on SA home turf, But we will have Ali, Richie and Brad back on deck:weights:
Is the Biltong dried meat?

Ladyjanenz- hi kiwi - geat to hear from you, :( about the game yesterday, next time eh, great to hear you are doing well on the diet, I found it hard not nibbling on veges at the beginning, but your right you do get use to it, and it is so worth it. I feel very decadent going to work with meals like garlic prawns and salad.

happytmo- hi and welcome to the thread, Shasha and Bitten -isn't it great being about to chat with people from around the world. Great to have the support, ideas and see how well everyone is doing, you really feel part of a community. Thanks guys.

TTFN :love6:

[Shasha]

{hi} there Everyone

Sharon: I think Pumbza is traveling at the moment… :plane: don’t feel bad if he’s a bit quiet, I do hope that he will pop in SOON!!!

Yes, biltong is dried meat; he was giving us his home made recipe in another thread…

I’m glad you enjoyed the game… {wave} who won??

[Sharon]

Hi Shasha
Alas was not us, a close game, rematch in SA, their home turf so will be harder to beat.

Good to see people are still getting away, and not staying home during their freefall phase. I'm off down south to study next week, luckily only overnight, so I've been working out how I'm going to do this, :thinking:. Unless the facility has got a small kitchen, my tramping cooker may come in very handy. Where there is a will there is a way eh, just keep away from the smoke alarms.:innocent4:

TTFN
:love6:

[Shasha]

{hi} there Sharon

I won’t dare comment on rugby or football games – somebody somewhere may just hunt me down and :elmer: me… LOL

YES!!! Where there is a will, there IS A WAY!!! {wave}

Pumbza was talking earlier about taking tuna etc – I know GettinSkinny takes her portable 2 plate cooker with her when she goes away too!!!

Personally, if it was a short trip, I would recommend you go with making the goodies at home and taking them with – remember, a meal can be as simple as cheese and cucumber or tuna and cucumber… Boiled eggs and celery travel quiet well…

Yes, just don’t focus on the NOW, but on your END RESULT ie: what are you going to achieve by every little sacrifice you make… : RESULTS!!!
Then smile and know that YOU CAN AND ARE BUSY DOING IT!!! {cheerleader} GOOD JOB!!

[Sharon]

Hi Shasha, {hi}
Ta for the advice :hug:.
I will keep things relatively simple I think, I normally go out with my brother for a lagar and a curry in the evening, we'll have to put that on hold. For lunches low fat cream cheese, chopped veges and 1 allocation of rice crackers may be on the menu, what do you think? :thinking:

TTFN Sharon:love6:

[Shasha]

{hi} there Sharon


For lunches low fat cream cheese, chopped veges and 1 allocation of rice crackers may be on the menu, what do you think?

{oops} {sorry} but you’re not allowed to have low fat cream cheese… :cop:

See page 13 of your New Customer Guide which says: Fat free only: Philadelphia (cream cheese)

Low fat or fat free: is for Cottage (plain with no added flavor), Mozzarella, Ricotta or Feta.

Feta is max once a week & other cheese max once per day.

So, if you go for fat free cream cheese that sounds good or perhaps cottage cheese and veggies – unless of course you feel hungry, in which case rather opt for something a little more filling.

If I were you I would invite my brother over for DIET curry… Curried onion with cabbage and ground beef makes a delicious meal. Do try mixing cold tea with sprite zero – the more tea the more ‘dry’ your home made lager will be… it sounds strange but please do try it… also experiment with different cold tea’s...

[pumbza]

Hi Diet Buddies and the honourable Kiwi's,
Bitten you forgot to add BOTSWANA to the list of people visiting this site its great to be International and its so nice to be diffrent and YET to have the same goal and thats to LOOOOSE WEIGHT!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:Yeah to my Kiwi Diet buddies THe Springboks (BOKKE) won two week-ends ago and I really enjoyed it because the ALL BLACKS always win and they are a great team so its nice to have some competition!Any Aussies out there we lost to the Kangaroos but it wasn't a really good effort on our teams part but they have been down under for three weeks and they were a bit TIRED (No excuses They won fair and SQUARE!)Ha Ha!:innocent4:But it does make the TRI NATIONS series a bit more Intresting don't u Think!Now this week-end ITS Newzealand Vs Australia that should be a humdinger and I am supporting the Aussies only because it may even the points situation on the LOG!Anyway enough of that SHASHA is looking totally confused and does not know whats going on!!Ha Ha!Yes Shasha RUGBY is a game were 15 men a side wrestle with each other to get a oval ball and try and score points by crossing the opponents goal line and I believe USA has a rugby team called the EAGLES!I love your idea of tea with DIET SPRITE I will definitely be trying that out it sounds like a great DRINK indeed!YES the Biltong is dried meat Beef or Game with some salt and pepper and coriander it was started in the Good OLD days when people had no refridgeration so dried meat was very useful for food!And here in Southern Africa we use it as a snack and especially with beer when watching RUGBY!!Ha Ha!Have a great day!:innocent3:

[pumbza]

To SHARON and all Newzealand DIET BUDDIES the Aussies won which is good from the point of view that they won there home game now they play in Aukland next week-end then I wan't NEWZEALAND (All Blacks,Silver Fern etc!) TO WIN just to even the Log out a bit!But I must say that Tri-Nations or Bledislo Cup was a hum dinger of a game about 8 to 9 Tries it was UNBELIEVEABLE game that was a show piece of RUGBY and the All Blacks had huge amount of Possession yet the Aussies defended like TROJANS and they won a game that should have been won by the ALL BLACKS but what a game it was INCREDIBLE!!!:innocent4:Better luck next week-end I will be rooting FOR all KIWI's the one strange thing is the Aussies Coach is a NEWZEALANDER so you won some where there!!Ha Ha!Have a great day and smile when you lose FAT!!!:innocent3:

[Shasha]

{hi} there Pumbza

Sounds like you really enjoy your rugby ball game…

15 Boys chasing a ball {idk} sorry, but that really doesn't do much for me...

BUT I guess that’s like a fashion sale to some of us girls {wave}

Did you try the tea-beer with your game??? Maybe try having dried apple instead as a snack…

[pumbza]

Yeah Shasha we are brought up with rugby and cricket down here and I know fashion is better for you GIRLS but diffrent strokes for diffrent FOLKS!!Ha Ha!!:innocent4:I see the Kiwi girls are rather quite I think they have taken the loss a BIT MORE SERIOUS I think they are in MOURNING!!!Ha Ha!!I haven't tried the tea beer but I will as soon as I can and its sounds delicious!!MMMM!!!Have a great day will be back home tomorrow and will chat to u then!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

Sorry guys, been away from the computor for a few days with being away studying.
Took that Philidalphia fat free with me and it was great for the lunches. Opps slipped up witha bit of low fat cream cheese, smack on hand (or head) for that one.{duh}

As for the rugby, what can I say :crying: was not good, they had the upper hand right from the beginning, hope we can do better in the next games. I reacon the Ozzie's new coach gave away too many of the All Blacks secrets. Hope we get a change in game plan real soon or we are gonna be dealt to again. Ah well if our teams won all the time we wouldn't have any competition eh.

That tea-beer sound interesting, will have to give it a go.

Better get back to work.

TTFN:love6:

[Mei Mei]

Welcome, Sharon.
I started this past Monday too, so I think we are about the same:) I knew the week would be hectic, so I measure and bagged and labeled the first three days. It has been pleasant, versus hectic, making my meals. I haven't tried anything fancy yet. That might help you when you have time to prepare so you can take meals with you. Good luck!
Mei Mei

[Sharon]

Hi Guys,
Great to hear from you.:party1:
I have been on the program for 4 weeks now and still measure, bag and freeze, it makes it so much easier. Especially as I am also cooking for 3 men, so doesn't matter what I cook for them I'm already sorted. I also measure out and bag my crackers, I have rice crackers or wafers, then they are already to grab and go for work or for my bag as emergency rations.
Going away was a bit awkward, but my brother enjoys stir fry and is not fussy so I popped around to his place and cooked him a meal (with a few additions for him). We are going to save the curry for a later date, the lager may become negotiable, tried the sprite and tea, not quite my cup of tea, but would be interested in trying anyone elses ideas. Luckily the place I'm stay when I'm down south for study has a communal kitchen and fridge, so I'm planning that my next visit will be more organized.

TTFN
Sharon:love6:

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon,
Looking FORWARD to the RUGBY this week-end I am SUre the ALL BLACKS will win because that will even the LOG out a bit and make for a exciting TRI-NATIONS SERIES!!!The game will be played IN NEW ZEALAND and the KIWI's are tough in there own backyard!!!I am going to try Shasha's wonderful sounding green tea and DIET SPRITE (so called Beer!!Ha Ha!!) Have a GREAT week-end hope you enjoy the rugby!!!:innocent3:

[pumbza]

Well done All Blacks won so that really even's out the LOG a bit so its really exciting and really tense!!Have a GOOD DAY!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

Hi and howzit going,{hi}
Your support must have made all the difference pumbza, what a great game, they played more like their usual selves. Will certainly make for exciting rugby in the upcoming games.
Did you try the Sprite and tea, I musta used the wrong tea, I used black which I can't abide without a titch of moo juice, so needless to say I haven't had any since I started the program. Will definately give it a go with green tea, thats probably more promising as I can't abide it with moo juice, geez I'm fussy.
How is it all going for you? All is going well but unfortunately we can't get the cheeses that they specify, how about you, any difficulties in accessing the various bits and bods?

Hope you are having a great day, :jumping2:
TTFN Sharon :love6:

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon NO have not tried the Green tea and DIET SPRITE BEER yet don't tell Shasha she may take me out and beat me with a stick!!!Ha Ha!!:innocent4:The other reason I have not done this yet is I have taken the option not to DRINK DIET SPRITE and Not to take MY Crackers and Fruit!!!I have only taken this option Because I feel I can cope and I don't need all this extra stuff and I hope it helps with the wait loss!!!I tried the Cheese Option ONCE but I have always looked at Cheese as a snacking OPTION and not a MEAL option so I rather not take this option at ALL at the moment otherwise I can GET all the things I require!!!How is GOING with You are You coping and how does it feel with all the FAT burning away!!!YOU KNOW YOU CAN DO IT!!!!Ha Ha!!!Have a BRILLIANT BRILLIANT DAY!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

Hi pumbza,
You are keeping it strong with holding off on your options well done, I am very impressed:clapping:. Regarding the cheese I have made a major faux par, have been eating the wrong cheeses, wasn't till I went back and read the program again (umptenth time like)that it was more clear and we can't get the ones specified, I think thats where it broke down in that we can't get them. Its not that it was the wrong choice, there was no choice. So like you I'm walking away from cheese as a food choice hoping that it will make a difference (I don't like cottage cheese), as I have come to a bit of a standstill. I haven't been able to contact my consultant recently which hasn't helped cos my home computor won't recognize .net for some reason{bangdesk}, but I'm back at work later this week and I'm sure they will tell me the same thing about cheese. Its been a bit of a hurdle but I'm getting over it and am gonna stay strong to the program:weights2:, and hopefully that will get my blubber burning motor fired up again{explode} LOL.

I had put some wonderful smilies in to express this message but alas was not to be, bit like the cheese I stepped over my limit, OOPs, LOL.
Have a great day, and hopefully like the wicked witch of the west we will be saying "I'm melting, I'm melting"

TTFN
Sharon (the sheep has escaped)

[pumbza]

Sharon LOVED YOUR Smileys WELL DONE don't know which part did not work seemed fine to me!!!!Sorry to hear about your problems BUT I KNOW "YOU CAN DO IT"!!!Ha Ha!!:innocent4:And being a Sprinbok and All Black SUPPORT GROUP YOU HAVE TO DO IT - ALL BLACKS DON'T QUIT - So nor will YOU!!I know its difficult when you are out of POSITION and not in a comfortable setting like home or a place you are use to to DIET but just keep on GOING and it will come RIGHT we are HERE to Support YOU ALL THE WAY!!!DIET BUDDIES RALLY AROUND!!!Have a GREAT DAY SMILE WHILE YOU LOSE WEIGHT!!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

Ta pumbza,
Its great to have your support :), I'll be a true All Black supporter and keep on keeping on. I've been fish shopping yesterday and found a deal and a half for being on this program, fresh frozen uncooked prawns for less than 50% off. So I bought a couple of kilo bags, yummy, guess what I'm having for lunch.{pot}
I know your not have sprite at the moment but if you decide to, I tried a little fresh grated ginger into it last night, I found it to be a very enjoyable drink, much better than the tea for me personally, and as long as you don't mind the floaties.
As far as the smilies go, we are limited to 4, you can get a bit carried away with them they are so cool :cool:so its probably just as well.

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon I enjoy Prawns especially PRAWN CURRY and 50% of thats a BARGAIN anyday PRAWNS here are a bit expensive because we are a bit LANDLOCKED!!!The diet sprite and GINGER sounds GOOD and I will try that when I get on to my REFEED and I will let you KNOW!!!Yeah I saw that with the SMILEYS I was pasting them all over my message and then saw that it wouldn't go through anyway its good to let the newbies KNOW about it!!!I have at last goit past HALF way when I started I nearly Cracked when I saw HOW long the diet namely 84 DAYS or 12 weeks WOW and in no time I am HALF way I am so HAPPY!!!Have a GREAT DAY and keep on GOING we are here to support you have a GREAT TIME!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

Well done, half way there, I'm just starting on week 6 so I'll be chasing you to the finish line, I've just pulled out a pair of jeans from the cupboard that I bought on sale ages ago for when I lost some weight, and they are too big for me (LOL). I had a mix of elation tinged with a pinch of disappointment, strange mix of feeling but didn't last for long, now I'm just elated. You have done well putting away the scales, I hadn't but they are quite right, they are distracting from the end goal, so I'm going to stay away from mine.
I cook alot with fresh ginger, yesterday had ginger and peach prawns, then for tea ginger and peach chicken (half a peach for each meal, I made the most of one peach as they are expensive here as we are out of season), after I've grating the ginger I swish the grater around in my glass of sprite (I have a little grater), I always have a glass as I cook tea.
Hope they are not going to tell me now that there is a limit on ginger:thinking:, hope not :praying:I must say a little fresh goes a long way.
Always a pleasure to hear from you.
Have a great day.

[Mei Mei]

Sharon,
That sounds awesome. I have been cooking peaches--both grilling and sauteeing, with dinner often. They are in season here in Texas, so I have bunches. :love1:I wish I could get you some. We are going to have shrimp Friday night, so I will try you recipe. I need ginger though. I love ginger. Can't wait to try it in tea. Cheers!
Mei Mei

[Sharon]

Hi Mei Mei,
yeah it would be great with those peaches, I have a peach tree at home but will have to wail till next year for the season, I can get tinned peaches some in water with saccharin, the other with pear and apple juice, I'm hoping if drained I can use one of those instead of the imported, I'm waiting for my consultant to let me know on that one before I do anything, fingers crossed.
Let me know how Friday nights tea goes.

[Sexymama]

Hi Sharon! Thought I'd pop on over and say hi!! {hi} I wish I have a peach tree! We have a pear tree but no pears! My kids are so sad!! Maybe next year!
:party8: Great job on the 6 week mark! How much have you lost? There is nothing better than fitting into those clothes you have stashed away!! :applause:
{congrats}

Julie

[Sharon]

Hi Sexymama, aka Julie,
I've lost 7.5 kg so far but I have put the scales away today and I don't plan to bring them out for 3 weeks, it's going to be tough, I'm one of these daily weighers which is a bad habit and its not like it stopped me putting on all the weight I'm trying to loose{rofl}. Pity about the jeans, ah well I'm just gonna have ta go out and get some more, what a shame:applause:. We have all the end of season sales over here at the moment so I should be able to pick up something reasonable, cos I don't plan to be in it that long before I'll be lookin at the next one down, your jeans fallin around your ankles may be a testimony to Cohen and his program but will never make a good look:embarrassment:.
Your pear tree, is it a new one or a sad one? we didn't have any on our peach/nectarine tree last season :(but we have sprayed it this year so fingers crossed, they always taste better than the bought ones.
How about you, how ya going on the program? Is it all working out for you?

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon I had a delicious tuna steak pieces and PRAWN Soup it was so NICE it really smacked of the SEA!!Ha Ha!!:innocent4:Yeah my cloth's ar falling of me at the moment BUT i have refused to replace them until I REACH my GOAl (I know I know its easier for MEN because we wear pants and a SHIRT!!Ha Ha!!)I must admit I am starting to LOOK a bit like a ORPHAN but hopefully I only have a month or TWO to GO and then I can rekit myself with some cloth's that FIT!!!(I have always wanted a problem like that!!!)Have a Brilliant Sunshine DAY!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

Hi
Pumbza, I agree its not a bad problem to have really, certainly not something I would complain about like. Keep looking at the new seasons gear with growing excitement. You'll start looking like that small child your trying to loose, hiding in the baggy clothes:laughing:. I reacon for the before and after we should also have photos taken in our old gear, on second thoughts it might be a bit reveally with everyone dropping their trou.{rofl}
That tuna steak and prawn soup sounded nice, was it your own recipe or a Cohen's forum?

Found out the Mozzarella cheese wasn't such a faux pa as far as the consultant was concerned, but it has 21.5 gm per 100g, I still think this seems high :thinking:, so I think I'm only gonna have it only on the odd occasion, anybody fill be in on their Mozzarella fat content?

By the way Mei Mei, regarding those tinned peaches, nah ah, its a no go, so back to the treating myself occassionally with a fresh peach. Just as well I waited. Don't want two steps forward one steps back for the sake of a piece of fruit.

[Mei Mei]

Hey Sharon,
Didn't mean to offend the other day by saying kiwi rather than kiwi fruit .:) I'm pretty naiive in International tongue. Apparently also ignorant in many of the abbreviations you and others use. Can you educate me? What do the following mean?
LOL, DH,

also, you mentioned, in the above post, tuna and prawn together. Are we allowed to mix proteins? Only of the same vein, as in cheese, fish, or poultry? I'm having a special dinner with family Friday night. Hubby is leaving town for a few weeks. shrim and steak would be nice...Maybe just a dream.
Mei Mei

[pumbza]

Ha Ha sharon everyone dropping there pant's that would be really really funny would that not be!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:No the prawn and tuna soup was something I made out of necessity because I had cut my portion value of the TUNA steak and I had some left over with not enough to make a meal so I added prawns to get my portion amount of fish and then cut vegtables but thinly and made a soup instead of a STIRFRY and the soup after adding spices was WONSEDFUL!!!Ha Ha!Mei Mei thats computer speak LOL is Laugh Out Loud and DH is Dear Husband I thing and WHEN YOU CAPITALISE LETTERS IT MEANS YOU ARE SHOUTING SOMETHING to some one!!!Ha Ha!!Mei Mei I stand corrected I think YOU can MIX fish but I all of a sudden have a doubt now that you mentioned that I am sure SHASHA will come to our RESCUE soon!!!!!Have a GREAT DAY!!!

[Sharon]

Oh Mei Mei,
Oh sorry If I gave the impression I was offended {oops}, most definately not, I only find it amusing, more from our aspect in imagining preparing your 'kiwi' for the evening meal, when its not a fruit. No so most definately not, I was only throwing out some useless information.
Regarding the food mix, I'm sure we can't mix our protiens across the types ie steak and cheese or fish, but whether you can mix the same family ie prawns and tuna, it doesn't sound wrong.And Pumbza your soup sounds lovely, I haven't ventured into soup yet, I haven't got any tuna, but I might give chicken soup a go, and I might give curry a go. {pot}
I'm excited about cooking lunch today I have just bought myself a new set of scales while I was away down south, they measures by 1 gm, my old one only by 5 gm. The old one won't go to waste as I still have to measure out the dogs food, she is on a prescription diet too). Also found myself some low fat mozarella cheese too, going to see if the local supermarket can stock it now I know it is available.
Just love hearing from you guys.:bighug:
TTFN
Sharon

[pumbza]

Hi SHARON the RUGBY is exciting this weekend we are playing the all blacks this week-end I have to support the sprinbok's but I do admit this weekend is going to be a tough game and the winner will have a good chance to win the TRI-NATIONS But we must not forget your cousins across the see the AUSSIES !!!Ha Ha!!!:innocent4:Have a good sporting weekend and enjoy will speak to YOU when I get back after the WEEKEND!!!:innocent3:

[Gaynor K]

Hi Sharon,

I started the programme on monday 11th of August. I live in Auckland, New Zealand. I first heard about the programme on Campbell live one night whilst watching tele. Hows things going for you so far? I found the first three days tough, thought my throat had been cut as I was quite hungry but its subsided now. Thank god for diet coke!!

Gaynor :-)

[Sexymama]

Welcome Gaynor!! Before I started I had read somewhere here on the boards the Chromium helps with hunger. I have been taking it since day on and have felt great. When my tummy does growl I drink water! Good luck! I can't wait to watch your progress!!

Julie

PS - - I think I need to come visit all of you in New Zealand!!

[Sharon]

Hi guys,
Really looking forward to the rugby, but is going to be played here at about 1 am Sunday morning, {scream} so will have to be satisfied watching it afterwards, but I bet we wont be able to get through the day without someone spilling the score. I've got the weekend off so we are going to spend it building a tunnel house to grow veges, weather permitting of course.
Welcome Gaynor, great to have you on board, like you I saw the program on Campbell Live, it was only a short piece but has been so worthwhile. This site is great for ideas, support and meeting great people, I look forward to chatting to you.
I have promised to put some photos on my forum, not sure how to do it yet but here goes, my fill size is to big, will have to get back to you.:thinking:

[Sharon]

Hi Guys,
I've worked out how to resize my photos acceptable to the forum program, you might regret it cos I will probably bore you to tears.

They are a bit mixed up, this is Nelson Lakes National Park on Mt Robert, a great bunch of work mates to tramp with, trying to stay on track.

This is Fenella Tarn up in the mountains of Kaharungi National Park. Beautiful terrain, far too cold for a swim.

This is me leading the way thru fresh snow up on Mt Robert

Yes, me again, beside a river on another tramp,

Our most dangerous inhabitant, got to be careful it doesn't creep up on you, ha ha, its the worlds only carnivorus snail. As you may have guessed I'm joking but only about being nibbled on, they are pretty mean on the big native worms thou, a swiss woman took a very wide berth when I told her about them, and looked very aprehensive, I don't think she realized how lucky she was seeing one as they are nocturnal and have been desimated by introduced predators, are very protected, you are not even allowed to take an empty shell out of the bush.

A beautiful spot on the Takaka Hill in the Able Tasman National Park

This is the loo on Mt Robert

This is the view from the loo

The view of Tasman Bay from Mt Campbell, Nelson my home town is on the far side

And this outside bath featuring one of my lads from where you can enjoy this view

This is that view at sunset, and no I wasn't in the bath, too cold to be out there stoking the boiler, (takes about 2 hours)

A mist morning on Mt Fell in Richmond National Park





I wasn't kidding about being snap happy, I'm the official photographer when we go walkabout, if you are wondering about all the National Parks, we are surrounded by them here on the top of the south island. If you ever get over this way, I'll be happy to introduce you.
This last is a piece of track on the Takaka Hill,

[Mei Mei]

Sharon,
Those pics are breathtaking, not boring! Wow. Didn't they film the Lord of the Rings in New Zealand? Thanks for sharing. How is everything else going for you?
Mei Mei

[Rachinnj]

Wow I would post pictures of NJ for you all but tI can promise they would be boring compared to this.
GORGEOUS!!!

Rachel

[pumbza]

I see your idea of BORING is definitely very different from mine those pictures are awesome YOU live in a PARADISE just to COLD for me BUT NEW ZAELAND is really a beautiful COUNTRY YOU are really blessed to be there indeed!!Now I have a QUESTION a big question for YOU SHARON why are YOU on DIET YOU LOOK FINE where is the UNWANTED weight I can't believe YOU have any and YOUR active as well CLIMBING Mountians etc I think YOU are on the WRONG DIET!!!!Ha Ha!!:innocent4:Hey here we EAT GARLIC SNAILS they are devine lucky I am on DIET otherwise that snail would not be in YOUR picture!!!Ha Ha!Ok DIET BUDDIES change in VENUE for the DR COHEN DIET BUDDIES REUNION it will be HELD in NEW ZEALAND at SHARONS house NO eating the SNAILS when we are there!!!!Gaynor K what is CAMPELL LIVE and what did they say about DR Cohen's DIET that would be interesting to READ!!!HAVE a GREAT CLIMBING DAY!!!

[Sharon]

Glad you liked my photos, it can get a bit cold Pumbza, and we do get people caught out, by being inadequately prepared, that is where the big pack comes in, even for an overnighter. But we have hut 2 hours and up to 8 hours from carparks, so these parks are assessible to lots of peoples fitness which is great. The one on Mt Campbell is a place you can hire, 4 wheel drive and argo up to a fully contained house with power and awesome views and of course that outside bath (there is also one inside), I have taken my 70+ parents up there and they loved it, have a look at BushandMountain. Yes the Lord of the Rings was filmed in NZ and certain scenes were in a couple of these National parks. Peter Jackson did an awesome job. A couple of friends were in it, one as a hobbit and her partner as a Orc. They were luck enough to be recruiting extras where they were living at the time, but no recruiting was here in Nelson unfortunately, they used our scenery for the smaller cast groups, ie when the seven were travelling together around open ground around the big rocks, and the walking of the elves through the trees, part of this was done on the Takaka Hill. Gandalf's white horse came from here in Nelson though. Have you seen the extended edition? an extra 2 1/2-3 hours, and some good stuff.
Sorry for anyone who isn't into LOTR for my monolog.
Campbell Live is a journalistic program during the week that runs straight after the news. It was only a few minutes long where a couple of kiwis sung its praises, Cohen I think had a short chat about it being a healthy diet, hormones and who it was for. Hardly worth a mention but that short addition to his program rung enough bells for me to get on line and google. Not alot of information was given regarding who to contact - or any, I only worked on the name Cohen.
Thanks Pumbza, I told you I hide well :laughing:, actually I gained a few kgs since these were taken, believe it or not I use to gain weight on these trips, regardless of the height of the mountain, the length of the tramp or the weight of my pack, that was my problem, but thanks to Cohen I think my body is coming back into alignment. But I wont be going out until this is over as the amount and type of food isnt right for this kind of activity and I would be a liability to my buddies, actually I'm a bit worried I'm gonna be that small I wont be able to carry my pack:laughing:. I have just done my follow up blood test yesterday, will be interesting to see if there is any change.
Good grief I have rambled, well done it you have gotten to the end of this and haven't fallen asleep.

[Mei Mei]

Sharon,
Not at all! so interesting. We love LOTR and I will have to find the extended version. What amazing and beautiful country. Please let us know how your blood work went. Did you just finish week4? Congrats!
Mei

[PosterGal]

Wow- I have always wanted to go to New Zealand - now I agree with PUMBA - Party at Sharon's!!!

Wouldn't that be great??

Just breath taking - thanks for sharing!

[Sexymama]

I agree! NZ here we come!!

[Sharon]

All I can say is, guys you are all most welcome, I'm really glad you like the photos, will throw the odd photo in here and there if you like. Imagine a forum get together, wouldn't it be awesome, we would definately know what foods would be served though, I would make sure prawns and venison was on the menu.

Pumbza, what a great game, sorry you guys lost, did you invite that kiwi neigbour over again? got a bit confused when my husband said the game was on Sunday late that it would mean it would be actually early am on Monday and we would miss it, but luckily got it wrong and we watched it when we got up this am, no risk of anyone blowing the excitement for us.

Hope you all are having a great day.

[pumbza]

Hi SHARON it was a GREAT CLASSIC GAME AGAIN but the BOKS failed to use their oppertunities and PAID the PRICE but GREAT work by the KIWI's WELL DONE!!No I was away so MY Kiwi next door neighbour was watching else where but I think ME forgetting to where my springbok OUTFIT led to my TEAMS DOWNFALL!!!Ha Ha!!!Have a GREAT DAY and KEEP the PHOTO's COMING!!:innocent3:

[rbride05]

Sharon

Thank you for posting the lovely pictures, its so much fun to be able to see such places so far away. Able Tasman National Park looks lovely as does the area around Mt Robert (quite a view from the loo, or is that loo with a view, or room with a view....).

Is Mt Robert always covered in snow like in the pictures? Ive read that your home, Nelson is also quite beautiful (actually is there anywhere in NZ thats not beautiful??).

I cant remember the name of the bird at the moment, but Im sure you'll know what Im talking about. If you have any pics how about posting a picture of the crazy bird you have there that likes to steal the buttons and stuff and you have to watch out for while tramping, I would love to see what it looks like.
Keep those pictures coming. So fun to see.

[Sharon]

With my pleasure few pictures of a couple of our native birds rbride05, this first one is the Kea (key-a) its very mischievious, bit like a toddler in mental level but more distructive, can strip your car of all kinds of bits and pieces, flatted your tires, raid your camp and steal anything that tickles its fancy, and when they come in groups they can cause quite a bit of damage but are very entertaining. The are alot heavier and bigger than a cockatoo. They are only in the high country and only in the South Island.

They have a very distinctive orange colour under their wings.

This funny looking bird is our pride and joy, it is a Kiwi, as I have said in a previous post, endangered and protected,

The claws are very strong and can do alot of damage when an adult but the young are very vulnerable, but a dog could kill or severely maim them, that is why we are striving for more predator free areas.

And the size of the egg, HUGH, make any woman wince just imagining.
.

Mt Robert is free from snow quite a bit of the year and the views are awesome, we were so lucky with this tramp, it was chocolate box scenery, and we had the whole mountain to ourselves, only ones crazy enough to climb up there the day before (but we do carry the warm gear). The loo is a long drop, the one it replaced was a little wooden cupboard size loo that was totally open on one side and gave a unadulterated view as you contemplated.(cause it was looking over the lake you couldn't be seen from the sides, must have been a bit nasty in bad weather). The new one has a door.

Pumbza, so pleased you didn't wear your Sprinboc top on for the game,:innocent4: ( you'll be buying yourself a new one soon, your old one wont fit you), am thinking of you coming up to the end of week 8

Hope you like,
Must off to bed its getting late and I have an early start,
Hope you all have a great day.

[rbride05]

Thank you Sharon for the pics

The Kea IS the bird I was talking about, so thanks for the great pics (my my they do sound like a bunch of juvenile pranksters) and also the lovely ones of the Kiwi. Have a great day

[Shasha]

{hi} there Sharon & Buddies

Great to hear that your pants are too big for the new you!!! If you really want to wear them, you’ll just have to walk upside down! :party3:

So, that’s how you get “ginger sprite” – I really must try this!

Had to LOL about your Doggie being on diet too! Can just picture this: one for me, one for you… one for me, one for you… sorry, too much imagination!

Your pictures of fantastic! And, you look lovely!! So nice meeting you and your serious looking back pack! I agree… now’s not the time to be weight lifting… How much does it weigh – more or less when you leave for your trip?

And, thanks, now I’ll be having nightmares about being chomped by snails tonight!!! {rofl} Just have to ask Pumbza to come and eat those snails in my dreams!!!

What an awesome country you live in!!! Thank you for giving us the grand tour!!! I love the looks of your Kiwi bird… always thought of Kiwi as fruit… How big do they become?

Had to LOL with your picture to the loo – clearly the pathway is used often… I was thinking GREAT, obviously you are drinking lots of water!! Goodjob!! But then I read this was in your BC days…

Thanks for sharing those fabulous pictures!!! I really loved catching up on your thread! Both your thread and Pumbza’s thread are soooooo very interesting!!! Just the kind of thing any Diet Buddie needs to take their mind of food etc… {goodjob}...

Please do post more pic's!! And enjoy the rest of your day!!

[Sexymama]

Love the pics Sharon!!

[Sharon]

They are quite a unique bird due to our past isolation here are some more Kiwi facts.
Kiwis grow to about the size of a chicken and weigh between three and nine pounds. There are five different species and they vary in size that is why there is quite a spread, They have no tail and tiny two inch wings which for all practical purposes, are useless. Despite its awkward appearance, a kiwi can actually outrun a human and have managed to survive because of their alertness and their sharp, three-toed feet, which enable them to kick and slash an enemy
Hope you will be able to access these 2 clips, do the top one first, its on the idea that the greatest dream of any kiwi is to fly, probably true of human rather than bird don't ya think, but its a bit of fun.

[Links removed by Admin]


rbride his is a clip of a Kea in action specially for you
[Links removed by Admin]

Our packs for tramping are about 15-16 kilos generally as we not only take our food and warm clothing, sleepingbags, cooking equipment ya de ya de ya, may have to rethink my list and take a few less goodies :sadeyes:. Doesn't seem to weigh must less on the way back but generally we are on our way down hill (thankgoodness)
Will get a couple of photos on over the next couple of days of the types of places we have stayed.
Love your remark regarding the snails
It would be a pretty slow moving horror movie being consummed by carnivorous snails, have to be a foodie show instead with Pumbza and use french stuntsnails, "NO SNAILS WERE INJURED DURING THE MAKING OF THIS MOVIE" whoops.
Hope you like the ginger sprite, I have one every night now, my newest concoction is Curry and ginger chicken soup (reacon I'll call it mock Kiwi), meaning to put it in the recipes all week, now that I have said it I'm gonna have to do it.
Always a pleasure, keep in touch.

[pumbza]

Hi SHARON whose mocking the KIWI's oh I see YOU MEAN MOCK KIWI like Mock Crayfish so chicken not the real bird the KIWI!!!This week-end is going to be a good week-end for YOU as you sit at home and watch the RUGBY (Or NOT) while the springboks and AUSsies POUND themselves to pieces two week's in a row and YOUR ALL BLACK's will pickup the pieces after that when they play the Aussies!!!So it will be a nerve racking weekend for me while I watch the game I am going to wish I was in one of YOUR MOUNTAINS some where!!Ha Ha!!Have a GREAT WEEKEND!!!

[Sharon]

Hi Pumbza
We will definately be watching the game and I'll be cheering on the Springboc, might even find some green so wear, you make sure you wear your shirt this time.
Not sure what a Kiwi taste like, but doesn't every thing that is not red meat taste like chicken? LOL, after the pics and clips of the birds I posted it just seemed to flow onto the chicken dish, there will be a few scatching their heads I suppose further down the line, well what do you expect from a crazy Kiwi.
Fingers crossed for the Springboc.

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon we all know Kiwi's aren't crazy They Just Can't FLY and run like CRAZY!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:Have a GREAT DAY sorry did not see YOU on LINE!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

No problemo buddy ol pal,
I gather you could open the net sights by your remark, I had my fingers crossed when I put them on so pleased they have worked.

[Sharon]

Big whoops see we are not suppose to put on web links
How about if you write them in so they are not a link the person who wants to see them can then cut and paste into your own address bar and add the 3 w's at the begining
ie

[links removed by Admin]

like this, it isn't a link then (or maybe I'm being too complicated)

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon the BOKKE lost it was so frustrating they just could not score and were driven of the BALL like GIRLS we will have to get down and dirty and secure the BALL!!Anyway enough FRUSTRATIOn I am NOW a ALL BLACK SUPPORTER for the next two WEEKS GO KIWI's for the TRI-NATION CUP!!!:innocent4:Have a GREAT DAY I am GRUMPY NOW!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

I've figured out what the Sprinbocs problem is, they are missing you with your new skin tight gersey on the field. Sorry your team lost, our All Blacks will do our best and keep it away from the Aussies.
How is your cold? hope you feeling alot better.
Will do with going on your new thread, what a good idea you had starting it.

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon YEAH I can only be the reserve ORANGE peeler for the springbok team but at least its a GOOD FRUIT!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:Yes you must do your thread and add your couple of photos of your country as a attachement to showcase your country!!Yeah Sharon I support two teams in RUGBY the SPRINGBOKS and any other team that PLAY's AUSTRALIA Ha Ha!!They are very Vocal about how good sport's men they are and how the rest of us are PLEBS!!!Ha Ha!:innocent3:I know this is a weak excuse BUT We are still the WORLD CHAMPION's Ha Ha!!!

[Sharon]

Whoops I've just been snapped big time and had my links removed:cop: the Cohen cops came and took them all away, knew it was coming once I read we wern't allowed them. Oh well.
Hay Pumbza love the pic, especially the 3 kiwis on the jersey, I think it is such a shame we don't wear them anymore, and so bizzare that alot of the countries we play do, just shows its all kiwi on the field:eyebrow:
As far as being the orange peeler, you would be a darn good one, and boy would those lads be healthy.
I know I have to do the thread, but caught up today on completing an assignment, all done yippy, has to be in the post by 5pm. I can now breathe.

have a good day:cloud9:

[pumbza]

Hows it Sharon YOU been a bit quite where are YOU I hope everything is OK and YOU are just working hard!!!Have a GREAT DAY!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

Hi Pumbza,{hi}
Still here, just tired and in the middle of a night shift rotation, yes I am a nurse and work in a paediatric unit. My last night tonight so looking forward to some days off.
Jumped on the scales today, so pleased had put them away 3 weeks ago, have managed to loose a few more kgs, not as many as you though, but did better than I thought, will have to update my ticker, but will definately be signing up for another 12weeks, but shouldn't need all that as I'm about half way there but its worth carrying on. Did you get a repeat blood test and alteration of your program after 8 weeks?
Started writing some stuff on NZ, but need to sort some photos that arn't just my tramping ones. My hubby says I have got to add some water ones, as we are surounded by the stuff I suppose he's got a point.
How is everything over your way? good I hope,

[Mei Mei]

Sharon,
We've missed you! Get some much needed sleep. Looking forward to those beautiful water pics. I wantch Twim Towers the other night, and thought of you! Hope you are well.
Mary

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon and Mei Mei yes MeiMei is right we missed you sorry to hear YOU had to work late shifts but it's with the LITTLE ONES they are so great its a PITTY they must be sick and I HOPE THEY ALL GET BETTER SOON?!Ha Ha!:innocent4:No there is No weight blood check at eight weeks only at 12 weeks and like YOUR self my weight has slowed big time due to a Cold I am having but its getting better but it seems to have messed my weight up so I will have to sign up for another 12 weeks which was in My BIG PLAN anyway that way I can tinker with my actual GOAL weight and experiment with a couple things because I wan't to make SURE I am not coming back on the ORIGINAL DR COHEN DIET NO disrepect Shasha ITS JUST NOT GOING TO HAPPEN!!Ha Ha!We are a country lanlocked and water to US is a VERY importatnt commodity in our daily lives so YOU can send all the loads YOU have we can do with it!!!Its fine here JUST work DIET and CHILDREN and WINTER is coming to the END which is nice looking forward to SUMMER and the LOVELY HEAT!!!Ha Ha!Have a GREAT DAY and like MEi MEi says get some well deserved SLEEP!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

Twin Towers, excellent movie, my fave is the Return of the King, especially when they lite the beacon fires, the scenery is so beautiful, some poetic licence of course, but the alps are spectacular. Did you manage to find the extended editions?
How is everything going with you? I've just finished my eigth week, and the program has been so worthwhile for me, I've never lost weight so fast or so easy, I'm one of these ones that I store easily, my fasting BSL is higher than after I've eaten toast, what the???, have a way to go yet but as one old fella on a cheese ad says, 'All good things take time'. I picked up my dogs heavy bag of diet feed, and it hit home that, good greif this is heavy, and I've just about lost that amount of weight. Excellent feeling. Only problem is my teenage boys will be able to push me around {slapfight}(play fighting of course) bless there little cotton socks they call be little cos they are 6+ inches taller than me, but reality was I had the upper hand on the weight stakes so I still won, I feel the tables are a turning.:gurney:


This is Abel Tasman National Park, very popular with tourists and Kiwis for boating, walking, minimal access by roads to some areas. Lovely golden sands, therefore has the name Golden Bay.








My next attatchments will be the 5 star accomodation in these National Parks of ours.
Great to hear from you,

[Sharon]

Pumbza :hii:,
I took so long getting my last post in you nipped in before me,:party1:only a half day sleep, so I'll sleep well tonight, not to many little ones in at the moment thankgoodness, but we have had a busy winter, me too am looking forward to the summer and some warm weather.
Know what you mean about the diet, I know I will be on a modification one way or another forever, but I DON'T {noway}want to get back to where I was, as you get older the risks just ain't worth it. I'm giving away the clothes I don't fit this time, last time I lost some weight I just bagged them up, when I got bigger it was easy to just get them out again, not gonna be so easy this time. My loss may be faster and easier than other times, but then I was pretty well starving myself while training for a half marathon, NOT GOOD and unsustainable. Not gonna do that to myself again.
There is so many good reasons to be a Cohan's addict, especially having eachother to keep us company and give support, which is great. You guys are just awesome.

[PosterGal]

Wow! Those pictures are incredible!

We've all got to come visit!

Thanks for posting those.

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon don't worry about posting TIMING I know YOU are a BUSY lady in a VERY important JOB looking after the Little ONES and I am GLAD to hear YOU don't have so many in at the TIME!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:I am definitely going to give my cloths to the church very soon and I really don't wan't to ever come back this way and I will remember all MY DIET BUDDIES who walked along the way with me and YOU are RGHT its more difficult with AGE but this weight LOSS has GIVEN me a NEW LEASE on LIFE I am starting to get all my things in ORDER which I have been wanting to do for ages so the PLAN is before I turn 50 I wan't to be the right weight do my will PROPERLY and Sort out My MOM's WILL get my company business in ORDER work on My spiritual LIVE etc its a heck of a lot from now to DECEMBER but I am SUPERCHARGED at the MOMENT!!Ha Ha!!Thank's for all the PICTURES and the SUPPORT I am going to the BUSH for 5 days with my BROTHER and Uncle and I am HOPING to come BACK with a COUPLE of pictures then NOTHING to match YOUR but once AFRICA's in YOUR blood YOU will never GET RID of it it seeps INTO your POURS and I love IT!!!But YOU really live in a Wonderous PLace INDEED!!!Have a Mountain Dew DAY!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

Hi
Glad you like the photos, Thought the map might help to get some bearings
those thinking they may like to visit this way we have a variety of accomodation to fit even the most discerning tastes, it is modeled on the open plan style, with pleasent river views.{rofl}
This one comfortably sleeps 6 but is more up market but may be just the thing for the special romantic getaway. The cooking is of course gourmet, the staff wear formal dress black, mood lighting is house rules and your food is prepared in your presence for your entertainment. The hotel as you can see is immaculate, and well groomed, and the ammenities are a pleasent bush walk, at night you must take your mood lighting with you, for ambionce of course., but I must admit the view aint to shabby from this establishment. Sorry guys couldn't resist, thought you may like to see where we end up with those big packs at the end of the day, these are a couple more back country huts, of which we have many, some are free to stay, some are $5 others $10 per person per night, this helps pay for their upkeep (unfortunately we do have people who wont even pay that little amount) Need less to say the first hut isn't on the hut maps but was someones home at some point. I've probably put all of you off for life.

Pumbza, You sound like you are gonna be pretty busy youself in the next few months, I find there is one thing that keeps me going and I'd like to pass my words of wisdom over to you, DON"T FORGET TO BREATHE . I am looking forward to some photos from your next get away, show me your night time protection I mean accomodation, (haha) I'm sure they will surpass any of my pics, your country is just beautiful, and so different from ours, the animals especially would make our trips away impossible. I would be in a photographers heaven as I love photograghing animals and african are the creme da la creme, the closest I got was the zoo in Sydney last year, or my fungi on the track (they move fast, you gotta watch yourself, Haha)Was sent this today and gave me my chuckle for the day.


My five-year old students, are learning to read.

Yesterday one of them pointed at a picture in a zoo book and said,

'Look at this! It's a frickin' elephant!'

I took a deep breath, then asked...'What did you call it?'

'It's a frickin' elephant! It says so on the picture!'

And so it does...





' A f r i c a n Elephant '



Hooked on phonics! Ain't it wonderful?

A BIG :bighug: TO ALL YOU GUYS

[Mei Mei]

Sharon,
You are so entertaining! I love the water photos. Spectacular. The camping pics are a lot of fun. I feel like I'm there with you. Very funny story to end with. Kids are so funny, their innocent minds, and what we hear/perceive can be so different! So do you teach also? No wonder you are so busy! How is your diet coming?
Mary

[Sharon]

Hi Mei Mei and PosterGal
I must admit we do have alot of fun, glad you liked the photos, I'll pop in some more water shots as I go. Seas and mountain Lakes, I personally love mountain lakes but they are so gosh darn cold.
I'm not a teacher, but you do educate when you nurse, in my field more the parents to help with their children. Very rewarding and my passion. The elephant was sent to me be email and I thought of Pumbza, hope he sees some on his next trip, (I have no idea if he wants to but I would)
Diet wise, I'm still hanging in there, I have my little note book and tick myself off, I'm starting to sence a bit of resistance from some as a person they have never seen before is starting to emerge from the fat, but they'll get over it. On the whole lots of support, and don't know about you this forum has just been great, I certainly don't feel alone, even if I am way down under.
How is the plan going for you, what is the biggest thing you have missed?

[pumbza]

Hi SHARON YOU had me rolling on the FLOOR with laughter about the frickin Elephant the KIDS say the DARNEST things and they are SINCERE and HONEST and say it as it IS!!!:innocent4:I would love to see a ELEPHANT really close I have seen some say 6 Feet away and its JUST really exciting how BIG and FAMILY orientated they are and BEAUTIFUL!!!!But a close call with the wild even with LIONS - like the one GUY had sleeping in a tent and a FEMALE lion rolled on this GUYS tent and the MAN NEARLY had a HEART attack but that must have been such a adrenalin RUSH!!!HA HA!!!I would love a close call like that I am sure I might LOSE a lot more weight quickly!!!Ha Ha!!!Where we are GOING camping its full of ELEPHANTS and other WILD animals so we should have a GREAT 5 days in the BUSH can't wait and I will definitely take a LOT of PHOTO's and bring them back if a LION doesn't eat me to show YOU all!!!Ha Ha!!!Have a GREAT PHOTO DAY!!:innocent3:

[Mei Mei]

Sharon,
How are things going for you? Did you hear any more about your blood work, or did they give you any suggestions? I hope all is well,
Mary

[pumbza]

Hi Mei Mei Sharon's been a GOOD GIRL and working hard so she will be back soon and chatting with us we do miss her so !!!Have a great day keep on egging the DIET BUDDIES You are doing a GREAT JOB have a GOOD DAY!!

[Sexymama]

Hi Sharon and Pumbza!! I LOVE your pictures!!! They are beautiful!
Pumbza I can't wait to see your pics from your next trip!!

I want to come see you both!!

Julie

[pumbza]

Hi there Sharon and Sexymama hope YOU are all Well and having a GOOD DAY!!Sharon YOUR team the ALL BLACKS WON well done it was a CLOSE game and exciting stuff the South African Refree was a BIT dubious with some of his decisions but that how the GAME rolls!!Your hubbie and YOU must be over the MOON come to South Africa so the SPRINGBOK's can teach YOU how to WIN a WORLD CUP (We have to fall back on something!!Ha Ha!!:cupid:) Have a GREAT DAY don't WORK to HARD!!!:innocent3:

[Mei Mei]

Hey Sharon, Julie, and Pumbza,
How are you all? I hope all is well! How are your exotic places? I was watching House Hunters International, and they were searching in New Zealand; I thought about you Sharon! It was breathtaking :)
Julie, You are just cooking the wieght off. You are going to look so sexy in Hawaii!
Pumbza, 6 inches lost!!Wow. That is fantastic! You guys are some kind of trio eh???
Hope all is well,
Mary

[Debbie J]

Testing! Testing! Hi to all! Just trying to get my ticker on my posts! Don't know if I got the hang of it or not? Hoping to see my ticker show up??? If its blank on this post, can I ask you guys for some more help. I've tried following Mrs. Peel advice, but think I'm still not doing something right!

Best,
Debbie J

[Debbie J]

Guess it worked! Hi Kiwi Newbie! I'm a California Newbie!
Nice to meetcha!

Debbie J

[PhyllisRis]

Good job Debbie!! I like your ticker! I notice you have a lot of weight to lose, as do I. We just need to remember while reading the other posts and watching people reach re-feed much earlier than us, that they are the rabbits and we are the turtles...slow and steady STILL wins the race! :)
Be patient and persistent!!

Phyllis

[Debbie J]

Thanks Phyllis! I do feel prepped and ready this time to go the distance! I look at Pumbza, for example, among others earlier on the forum, as being great "point men" and showing us what wonderful weight loss awaits us... plus you all seem to being doing it was great style and joie de vivre! (love of life!)... So, you're right Phyllis, I'll try not to be too jealous of the guys going 12 or less weeks. I'm hoping to be quite close to goal by my 51st birthday end of this Feb. Does that seem relatively realistic?

Have a great day!
Deb J

[PhyllisRis]

yes, your birthday goal seems do-able....for both of us....and if we're not at our goal by then we should be VERRRRRY close!!
I suspect it might be rough for us to make it through Thanksgiving and Christmas what with all the parties and FOOD during that time of year....but we MUST persevere with our diets and turn AWAY from anything that would send us off the deep end!!!
Go Girl!!
Phyllis

[Debbie J]

Thanks, Phyllis. Yes, I've already been pre-planning some possible holiday strategies that will help me side-step the often inevitable slip-ups. I've discussed with my husband just going away somewhere together quietly because he is sooo supportive that if I wish to, we can go play somewhere, I'll do all our cooking and food prep (and I'm a really good cook and he loves the Cohentype meals I prepare for him too) so... I'm wondering if I'll have the fortitude though to continue to attend some of the holiday food feasting type parties and just bring along a Cohen dish (say in potlucks) and then keep a portion aside for myself... hmmm. Know this Phyllis, with our minds set right we can come up with several cheery solutions for not feeling like we're depriving ourselves over the upcoming Holidays. I'm Jewish in background so I don't usually have to prepare Christmas dinners or anything, but I do get invited everywhere of course and then there's Thanksgiving!! But, I've been reading clever suggestions on how to handle that... and this time around, at least for me, I've just gone thru the last 2-3 years where the beginning of the holiday season was the beginning of my weight-loss "downfall". Only because I myself chose the attitude that I've been deprived long enough (having worked usually over summer and fall to lose 30 pounds or so) and between Halloween and Xmas then continuing thru my birthday in Feb (that's almost 6 months of justifying why I can go back to binging and unhealthy eating habits!!) Well, this time I'm feeling like I can handle things differently.

Do you have definite plans/strategies that you feel you can implement without feeling deprived or depressed? Let me know. We could start a thread and ask people their best successful actions in attacking the holidays....

Best,
Deb J

[PhyllisRis]

I'm planning on cutting a chunk of turkey out of the Thanksgiving turkey before roasting, weighing it and then pinning it back onto the bird to roast....I even thought about using dental floss to sew it back into position on the bird prior to roasting. I want to have that Thanksgiving turkey taste!!! smile.... and just that once, I'll leave the skin on my portion....I won't EAT the skin, but it'll cook with it on.
Phyllis

[Debbie J]

That's a great idea! :=}

[Sharon]

Hi Guys,{hi}
Just reading through all your messages, I feel like I have been away forever, I've taken my son away to a Disturbed concert, then dashed away for study now I'm nose to the grindstone trying to get an assignment done before the end of the week, in between times working. So sorry I have been away but so pleased you guys are doing so well, I've missed you all. Thankgiving sounds such a great celebration, and a real challenge to the program, great idea about the turkey and the dental floss, I've got a great visual, I wouldn't use mint though, or waxed, could be interesting.
Debbie J, So nice to meet you, I'm coming up to the end of my 12 weeks and will be signing up again, some of us need a little bit longer, hay but we'll do it together, to me I concider it a life long health commitment, but must admit am looking forward to a bit more variety, at the same time nervous about my bodies response. Also getting really nervous about hoping on those scales at the end of the week. Oh my goodness, I'm just one big bundle of jelly at the moment, I'm look forward to Saturday when the pressure comes off.
Mary, glad you love New Zealand, you'll have to come for a visit, :plane:would love to have you and show you around the top of the south. my blood results are borderline ok but are improving, so I'm moving in the right direction, I'm keeping to the kiss technique, so maybe that will help too. I'll just keep jogging while you guys sprint, but thats ok, I love who I am becoming on the outside, and I'm getting a good buzz on the inside. I've given soo many clothes away cos I'm never gonna wear them again.
Julie, Hawaii, beautiful images come to mind just with its name, wanna see some picks from your trip when you get back, your mum is gonna get such a surprize when she sees you.
Phillis, hi de hi.
Pumbza, buddy ol pal, miss your posts (all of you guys posts) didn't we do well in the rugby, they thought we were gonna be a walk over, ha ha. Thought of you coming to the end of your 12 weeks, my goodness you are just absolutely awesome, :applause:great work, you must be just fading away. Lookin forward to getting to the end of the week when I can get onto the forum without detriment to my study, you guys and this site is sooo addictive.
My son wants me to put this one in :party6: so rock on.

[pumbza]

Hi sharon we missed YOUR cheeriness we know YOU are the only one who works hard so we will forgive YOU!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:Hope it all goes well and I hope YOUR son enjoys the ROCK CONCERT and don't worry if YOU JOG or YOU sprint all we wan't is that YOU reach the WINNING LINE and we are there FOR YOU so don't worry we KNOW YOU CAN DO IT!!!!I await some more of your cheery POSTS know that we miss YOU!!!Have a GREAT DAY!!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

You are so right, I know I am the only one who works, all you guys do is sit on the computor all day on the Cohans site, waiting for me to log in and make your day.:clown:

Nah, the reality is
Something has crashed on my computor


And I can't find the mouse.
{rofl}
Alterative reality is, no computor access while away.
And I've finally finished my assignment so YAHOO, down side I've got another in 3 weeks, but hay, thats another day.
Had a hiccup one night while away last week, as I had promised my brother a curry for my last trip South, It was a shared meal as I was very restrained, but yes I know very naughty:quiet:, I decided, one evening before I sign myself up again, so you guys are stuck with me for a while yet.{duh}
Hope you guys are well and hanging in there, looking forward to touching base with you.
Pumbza, how are you going with your list of "to dos", are you winning. and are you falling out of your clothes yet? When do you go away on your next trip away, going bush, or headen for the hills, we say, do you have an expression for going out into the wilderness?.
Family are saying "WHATS FOR TEA" and starting to prowl around the kitchen like a pride of lions, so I had better sign off for now and feed them.

[LiLNightShift]

That is the cutest darn thing --EVER--!! I'm glad you took a picture... I needed to do the "Awwww" before I went to work today. How did you feed your fam?

[Sharon]

Hi from 4.20 in the morning.
I fed my family everything I can't have believe it or not, Sausages, peas and corn, and oven fries. I tell you I don't miss that kind of food, but they are happy, none of them has any weight issues thankgoodness,(being males they don't have my hormones either) pick good quality sausages though.
Give them a good healthy steak and salad tonight.
Isn't the kitten beautiful, bubbies will sleep just about anywhere.

[LiLNightShift]

Bubbies is adorable, and oven fries sound delicious too! I'm completely happy with my food right now though, no worries about slipping yet!

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon that picture of BUBBIES (I Agree with YOU LiLNightShift) is really GREAT what a CUTE kitten she seems adorable!!!Ha Ha!:innocent4:Yeah Sharon I am OFF to be master of ceromies at my daughter 21st in CAPE TOWN I am flying there and helping with taking pictures and video's I will eat the usual TUNA SALAD and then just drink water while veryone eats JUNK food and HAS A PARTY I will be the sober designated DRIVER!!!Then in a months time of to the BUSH with my BROTHER and UNCLE and all the lads and 5 days of just chilling out living amongst animals and elephants I hope to have pictures for YOU in NOVEMBER BUT unfortunately I might be in the middle of my refeed I told my BROTHER he will have to cater for the other GUYS while I look after myself and REFEED in the BUSH I bet I am the first DR COHEN DIETER to do that(REFEED IN CHOBE GAME RESERVE!!Ha Ha!)I then go in DECEMBER to a resort in the CHOBE again to celebrate my 50th BIRTHDAY with close family my BROTHER and Sister and there FAMILIES so its quite hectic but I will keep the PICTURES coming as soon as I come HOME I am hoping to be finished refeed before my BIRTHDAY celebrations and Before Christmass as well so I won't have to worry about the HOLIDAYS as WELL!!!I have got carried away again have a MARVELOUS DAY!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

I am so envious regarding your trip away, It would be so awesome chilling in the bush with the animals, what an adventure. Hope you will have finished your refeed by then, the way you are going I wouldnt be surprized, I am just imagining a nice port or Glenfiddich by the fireside in the evening with the sound of wild animals in the distance, {taz}would be sweet as.
When was the last time your daugther saw you, will she recognize you? Sound like you are going to have a buzy time between now and Xmas.
Sorry LilNightShift, and Pumbza
Have to clear up Bubbie, wish she was mine and the name would be so cute, my cat is a decrepid bag of bones, that no one has told him he is on his last legs, it was an email pic I put in, I had just recieved it and it was so cute and fitted in with my story, and I was refering to Bubbies as being little baby anythings that when get tired stop and drop,{oops}{sorry} for the misunderstanding.:embarrassment:

[LiLNightShift]

No worries Sharon, STILL sooooo cute and a spirit lifter!!

[Shasha]

{hi} there Sharon

YOU CRACKED ME UP!!


You are so right, I know I am the only one who works, all you guys do is sit on the computor all day on the Cohans site, waiting for me to log in and make your day.:clown:

Nah, the reality is
Something has crashed on my computor


And I can't find the mouse.
{rofl}
Alterative reality is, no computor access while away.


E-mail pic, or no e-mail pic, I really had a good laugh… THANKS!!!

WELL DONE on only having another 22.7 pounds to go!

I’m very proud of you for having lost 57.5 pounds! YOU GO GIRL!!

[Sharon]

Bubbie is beautiful and love kittens and they are so tempting but with a busy working household, I decided to only take middle aged moggies from the SPCA that will generally be put down, its good to give a second chance. Keeping on the cat theme and second chances, this is for all you Star Wars fans and boy does this guy need to be introduced to the Cohen way.

[LiLNightShift]

omg it's jabba the kitty

[pumbza]

Hi Sahron and ALL the DIET BUDDIES and Shasha hope You are all well had a laugh about BUBBIE and the confusion loved the pictures of the OTHER cat as WELL!!Ha Ha!!!:innocent4:Thought I would send this attachement of my MOM with all the animals on her bed at NIGHT HOW she sleeps I don't know ????All the animals at our place will only leave when they pass on to the next life or over eat themselves into the next live the VET said if he was a ANIMAL he would love to live with US because the cows and the ducks and the dogs and the cats and the birds and the Guinea fowls and the Vulturines etc all get feed and well looked after (TO WELL ME THINKS must put them all on DR COHEN!!Ha Ha)!!Have a GREAT DAY!!:innocent3:

[LiLNightShift]

Aww, all the little red kitties around that big dog. AWWWWW! Pumbza I want to hang out at your place!

[Sharon]

:laughing:I love it, my only concern is the one curled up in the line of fire, does he have a death wish{rofl}. I don't know how your mum sleeps either, your place must be awesome with animals.These are my two, Bella (my only female supporter) and Turby (the decrepid bag of bones)

believe me when I say we concider this was a mistake on one of there parts, cos we were so shocked we took the photo. I think they were both too stubborn to move. They have too big beds in the kitchen side by side but one was being washed. I would love to have animals that curled up together like your mum, but not all together on the bed me thinks. Thankyou for posting the photo, has made my morning.
P.S. say hello to your Mum from me, and tell her she has a heart of gold.

[LiLNightShift]

Wow! I'm lovin' all the animal pics!

[Sharon]

Hi LilNightShift
Arn't animals just the great, do you have a pet?
How is it going with the program, still a power pack of energy?
:weights2::weights::party1:

[LiLNightShift]

I have a chihuahua. The program is going, haha! I found out I was cheating and got a little depressed. I still have the energy though!

[Sharon]

Hi LilNightShift,
Hang in there, its one thing choosing to cheat, but when you think you are doing everything right and something has sneaked in, I think that feels worse, its more like you've been cheated. Must admit I threw a toy or two out of the cot the other day - ops, when a brand of herbs I was using suddenly decided to add red bell peppers and I haddn't rechecked the label on the new bottle. But hey we can't expect everyday to be sunshine and lollipops. Its what you do after that counts, personally I LOVE :love3:this program and what it is doing for me, I may go a bit grumpy :angry:occasionally but its only a lovers tiff and I'm stickin with it. So if you feel the same, and its still doing those great things for you, hang in there and I'll be there with you. Hope you still arn't feeling down, just think of all those great games you are going to play with your beautiful little angle, being rewarded with lots of smiles and giggles.
And of cause your chihauhau, great stuff, will expect a photo at some stage to add to our album.
You take care and hang in there

[Mei Mei]

Hi Sharon,
I just typed out a long hello, and it got lost somehow. Don't have time to redo it, just wanted to say hi and I hope all is well for you!
Mary

[Sharon]

Hi Mei Mei{hi}
Your message must be floating somewhere around the ether with quite a few of mine.
Really nice to touch base with you, You must have finished the refeeding program by now, and have made a well deserved investment in a new wardrobe, excellent. If so have you broken away from your usual style to have a new you?
I'm really good, into week 15 and going strong, have repeat blood test on monday so that will be interesting. We have just had school holidays these last two weeks so I took the boys away to my Aunties Bach in Anakiwa, it was only 1 night away, and no fish were caught but it was a good break and felt I had been away for longer. Its only 1h20 away from Nelson.

This is the view from up the hill behind my aunties bach

Even Bella enjoys the view

My lads spinning for salmon, not often but can get lucky

The view back, my aunties is first to the left of the bucket, alot of holiday homes scattered down the sounds

Anakiwa is to the left of Picton, right at the end of the blue.

[LiLNightShift]

Sharon, thanks for the love. I'm still trucking along! I'll make sure to take a picture of the pup for ya.

[PhyllisRis]

wow...beautiful pictures...thank you for sharing.
Phyllis

[Sharon]

Glad you like Phyllis, and really lovely to hear from you, its a lovely little place to visit but gets a tad cold in winter, my husband put in a heat pump for them a few years ago so we can go all year round, I'm sure some of you guys who winter in the snow will laugh, cause it certainly wouldn't compare to your "cold", but alot of these places have been there for a while and they have no insulation and loose the sun very early, its enough to turn your toes white.
How are you going?

[Shasha]

{hi} there Sharon

Your post card pictures are so beautiful – feels like I went on holiday :cloud9: just from watching them!

[Mei Mei]

Sharon,
Awesome pics! I want to visit you! It's funny, you mention cold, and we go back and forth between Texas and Florida, so i've almost forgotten what cold is :) We are from Michigan, but only go in the summer when it is spectacular there. We can usually get by with a sweatshirt. But you wouldn't want the upper temps probably. yesterday it was 92 here. I love the heat and the sun though. Haven't had a chance to go to the beach because of the food poisoning, but hopefully will get there tomorrow and maybe send a pic of this gorgeous island for you to see. If not, I will shoot one at Thanksgiving. Glad you are doing well. Let me know about your blood test! yes, I am finished with refeed, going on two weeks now. I feel really good about it. I was very nervous at first, but the weight is staying good, probaly lost a few on this vacation, and I feel very much in control. Still haven't bought a new wardrobe. I did buy a new pair of jeans, 2's :) but I will continue to lose a bit accompanying my dh on his diet. I hope to lose five more or so. We'll see. Take care,
Mary

[Sharon]

Please know that you would be most welcome.
I love the heat, have gone to Fiji a couple of times, the first time I was asked if I was interested in being the Islands nurse (3 resorts) it was so tempting to be able to live 6 months a year in the heat and sun but had two small boys and they would have had to go to international school on the mainland, you never know for later on:thinking:. Not too keen on the cold, I hate having to change in the cold, the only time its ok is when I'm up in the hills, but you don't want to get too cold up there, the cold catches people out - permanantly.
Looking forward to seeing this island if you were up to it, food poisoning you poor thing, not a good way to loose a pound or two. good to hear your weight is in control:weights:, I'm feeling nervous already about adding new things to the diet and I'm not even there yet, so thanks to know its been staying good for you. How is your dh :wedding:going on the program?
Your sizes are so different than ours, I think your 2 is our size 12, saw some clothes in Christchurch recently that had USA label size on. Normally labels are converted for Kiwi before they hit the shelves.
My blood test results are due today or tomorrow, hope they are better, but it is what it is.
I hope you are feeling better and making use of the heat and the beach:shades:and a great vacation.

[Mama Lake]

I know what you mean about the sizing on clothes. I went into a store my daughter was in and looked at the jeans. She said add 21 to whatever you normally wear and that is your size here. So, like a 10 is now a 31! How crazy is that. I think clothes should have a universal size code for all.

[LiLNightShift]

Mama, was that in like Guess? They go by inches around the waist there -- which kind of sounds the same. I WAS a 31 in Guess jeans, but now I have no idea.

[Sharon]

Know what you mean,
even here you go ages for children up to 16years (surely that is universal), CM or inches for men, and the 8 upwards x 2 till goodness knows sizing. The only problem is whos sizing would we use?

[Mama Lake]

We were in Vanity. So, I am not sure. I just keep saving all my teenage daughters rejects, the things they want to send to Goodwill, I always go thru first. I have an array of things to wear and may be a year late in fashion, but jeans are jeans.

I have went from an 18/20 in jeans to a 15 in So Jeans, and a 17 in Levi. I am pretty happy with this. One pair of dress pants is a 14, some are 16, 16W. I have a 14W dress, I am all over the place in sizes. I just do not worry about the size right now, if it looks good and feels good, I wear it. I work at a cemetery, so I have to look professional all the time, so I wear whatever makes me feel good.

[Sharon]

Well done on the drop in sizing, whatever the brand, you are doing really well, last years jeans will still be fine in 5 years as far as I'm concerned as long as bell bottoms don't come back, and the skinnies I don't think are even flattering to skinnies. And as far as comfort, every time, part of looking good is feeling good, part of feeling good is feeling comfortable:party1:.
So you go girl.

[Mama Lake]

Thanks, I do feel pretty good most of the time. I had a great experience shopping today and feel like Unspeakablejoy did. Just amazed that things fit and looked good. I think I went overboard shopping, but they should all last thru the winter season. Maybe not, but that is ok too. I found a good consignment store close to me to take some of my dressier things to for resale. Maybe then I can buy more clothes with that money. Nice to recycle.
Cindy

[Sharon]

Its easy to get carried away when you drop a size or two, must admit have a few new clothes in my wardrobe myself. But my excuse is the sales have been on, and I'm sticking to my story:innocent4: I'm looking forward to the weather warming up a bit more so I can get into some of my new clothes. I agree it is nice to recycle what doesn't fit you any more, I've gotten rid of all the tooo big clothes in my wardrobe, cos I'm never gonna wear them again. You go girl and enjoy those new clothes, you have earned them.:weights2:

[lfingers11]

I have been doing the same here. It is hard to recycle clothes that you have never fit into that size. Hehe. For about 2 weeks I had to wear the same pair of jeans everyday because it got cold all of a sudden here. I hate Ohio weather!
I have had the issue that numerous stores do NOT carry my size. I love to shop at Penny's, Kohl's, ect and they do NOT carry size 2's here. Kohl's had a couple pairs of pants but I did not like the style fit. Does anyone know if Levi's go down to size 2's? I love Levi's but everywhere I look they only go down to size 4's. Very annoying!! Maybe people in Ohio are just overweight. I did find 2's at B Moss which are cute and 0's and 2's at American Eagle. Still fitting into the size 2's but might get down to a size 0 (which I can't wrap my mind around) still having to loose another 13 pounds. Have a great week!
Pam

[CohenInAz]

Have you tried ordering online? I know Target carries 0 and 2 in their juniors section... so that might be an option... the other stores shold also have these sizes in their juniors.

Depending on your height, you might have to go check out the kids section. One of my friends who is 5'1 and very skinny gets a lot of her jeans from the Kohls kids and junior section.

[Sharon]

My goodness me, doesn't it seem amazing to be thinking about not being able to get your size of clothes cos you are too small, don't know about you but it all seems a bit of a dream :cloud9:just thinking about getting into a clothes size I haven't been in since a preteen. We still go low here to sometimes size 8 but generally 10 for adult, I think ten is size 0 for you. We have stores that clothe the teen and younger adult that go low but then you enter the mutton dressed as lamb scenario:noway:. In NZ/ Australia we have ezibuy which is an internet site which I use for my everyday stuff, and luckily will still be able to use. How tall are you Pam? I don't make 5'2".

[lfingers11]

I am 5'4". I never thought in a million years I would be getting this small and I still have 12.2 pounds to go. I just worry about ordering online because everything fits so differently. Junior clothing is a little to tight in the thighs for me. I found some really cute Calvin Kline Jeans in a size 2 but they did not carry them in a 30 length. I will keep searching and if worse comes to worse I could get them heamed. I think I might go to Columbus (40 minute drive) tonight or thursday night to see all the options that I might have. I never realized how difficult it would be to shop for clothes once I got smaller!!:)
Pam

[CohenInAz]

You could try myshape . com

They use sizesless dressing, based on your measurements and body shape.

Plus most places have free return shipping if you have to take it back and a lot take the returns in store...

Hopefully you find some cute stuff that fits right!

[Sharon]

Ta heaps for putting in the 'myshape' name, have just been in and had a look, interesting way to find the right size/style, and some nice stuff, have saved a couple of pictures for reference, the $ conversion rate from kiwi to US is a bit steep so I'll keep with 'ezibuy' and the like though. But great to window shop.
Let me know how you go in Columbus Pam,

[Mei Mei]

I don't know if they have Stein Mart up there, but they carry lots of 2's. the weird thing is, even when you are done losing, your body keeps changing. The 2's are loose on me now. I'm ready to add muscle, since I feel very flabby. What do yo do with that extra skin???
Mary

[Sharon]

Tell me about it, I feel a bit like the saggy baggy elephant. Gonna have to get back into my running and muscle work, but right now I think I would fall off the treadmill. I'm having a bit of postural hypotension at present, I've a tendency to be low, I think I'm even lower now and my body is gonna have to readjust I'd say, you have any similar probs with that? I'm off to google Stein mart.

[lfingers11]

That is funny that you mentioned Stein Mart. I called my mom complaining yesterday and she mentioned going there. It is a 45 minute drive one way though. I still have 11 pounds to go so I might wait another month before I go out there incase 2's get loose. What a great problem to have! I will just go between the 2 pairs of jeans for the next month or so.
I have huge issues with low blood pressure since being on this. I get dizzy almost anytime I stand up to quickly or bend over to pick things up. Cutting out most of my garlic has really helped. Garlic lowers your blood pressure more. My consultants said I could eat an extra apple a day but I don't want to stall any progress I am having plus I have found that apples make me hungry. I have had to cut them out all together. I am waiting to exercise until I am able to eat more. I can't wait to tone up. My gym membership is calling out my name "Pam, come work out!".
My birthday was last week and my husband was so sweet. He sent me flowers and the card said "You may be getting smaller but my love for you is getting bigger". Totally corny but it was so wonderful at the same time. Talk to you soon.

[LiLNightShift]

Pam, that is the cutest thing ever!! I love corny stuff! Just to feel appreciated is sooooooo nice!

[CohenInAz]

Sharon yes, myshape is expensive, but you can 'learn' the style and ask for regular sizing and then go buy it at Target or some other place :)

I know it really helped me shop better heavy and I've gone from an E to a... A? I think? Anyway, its where I store all of my measurements, so I will be able to reference it at the 4 week mark :)

[Mei Mei]

Pam, You are doing so well! You are almost there! How sweet of your hubby. Stein Mart is wroth the drive believe me. Bt save up, because you will want to spend a lot! They have great sales though. I have one jst around the corner, bt my bday is coming up too, and I want to be jst right before I go by new clothes. Today I was bad, though. I hope the scale doesn't kill me in the morning. No I did not follow the cohen post diety rles today. I don't even think I drank water like I sally do! What's up? I'll go to the gym tomorrow and we shall see! I did play tennis today at abot 600 cals burned!
Anyway... I ramble...Keep up all the hard work ladies!
Mary

[Sharon]

Pam that is so sweet of your husband, he's a keeper, interesting you have the same issues with the blood pressure, itsz a real pain when you are gardening that is for sure. Thankgoodness I don't have any probs at work, would not be a good look. I eat one or two apples a day and I haven't added garlic for yonks (thanks for the info on garlic by the way, I did not know that)
Thats a good tip about myshape AZ, I'll go back there and work mine out, and they can tell me what style to look for.
Mary at least you finished the program beforehand, I've just been away on a conference and decided I would not worry for the evening meal as I thought it wouldn't be too bad. WRONG had things I haven't had for 16 weeks and I feel like rubbish today, really wasted and headachy, so pleased to be back home and with my 'food', will have to be careful when I go back to 'normal' diet, as I think something does not agree with me.

[lfingers11]

Don't tell my hubby this, but he is really a great guy!! We have been though more in our 7 years of marriage than a lot of couples ever face and he has been there for me the whole time!! He is an awesome daddy too!!
Mary~I know it. I can't believe I will be requesting refeed soon!! I am excited about the new me!!
Sharon~the whole blood pressure thing is sometimes really hard on me. I could not count how many times I get lightheaded in one day but it definately is alot less when I don't use the garlic powder (or just use a tiny bit, still can't help myself.) It is hard at work because I have to bend over all the time. Bending at the knees helps!!
I hope everyone has a great weekend!!

[Sharon]

Hubby sounds a real gem, a supportive understanding man is worth his weight in gold.
Just redid my ticker and it looks like I'll be hot on your heels for the refeed, but I reacon it will take me another month yet, but its ok, cos at this stage I think every kilo is gonna make a big difference to our overall appearance. But I'll be ready for Xmas, and so will you be with your new glad rags.
Yea that low BP is a bit of a bugger to deal with especially if its hasselling you at work, hope it sorts itself out once you start the refeed.

[lfingers11]

Sharon,
I think we will be doing refeed the same time. Having a refeed buddy will be so much fun!! Did you see the new caption for refeed!! I was down to 130 this morning so only 10 more pounds!! I usually loose about 10 a month and since I have 5.5 already I will probably order refeed before my cycle but not start until after my cycle is over. So I am hoping for November 24th and if I don't hit it that is ok. I just want to be done for xmas!! Crossing my fingers.
My consultants have told me I can have another fruit during the day but I just don't want to slow down my results. I would just prefer not to use as much garlic. I think once I get some fattier meats/a little more egg in the plan that will all go away. I NEVER had an issue before so I think I am just eating so healthy!! Keep me posted on how you are loosing. Are you weighing once a week now to?

[Sharon]

I'll be glad of the company, {friendhug}
Just looked at the new thread, it sounds like it will be an interesting time, I've got to get onto the .net to document my new results but my computor wont do it{bangdesk}, so I have to wait until tomorrow night at work to log it in, so not sure if there will be new instructions, have you just moved from monthly to weekly weigh? My bloods have finally come back from the lab so am waiting for Cohen to respond to them.
Do you always eat all your fruit?
As far as xmas goes I'm sure you will be done, dusted and georgous for the festivities.:christmas:

[lfingers11]

I actually am signing up for my next 12 weeks a couple weeks late!!! :sadeyes: Money is so tight here since I am not teaching anymore!! I am not sure what they will tell me to do regarding blood draws. Since I am now within 5 pounds of ordering refeed I weigh once or twice a week. I do need to ask what they want me to due regarding the blood test though.
I eat all my fruits and crackers. Reasons are: low blood pressure and later when we start adding things in I want my body use to eating as much as possible. Plus I usually get a little hungry during the day now since I am getting close to the end!!
Won't we look awesome for the holidays!! I can't wait!! I have not liked having my pic taken the last few holidays but now I think I will be a little happier about it!! Have a great weekend!!
Pam

[Sharon]

Know what you mean by the camera, I tend to be more comfortable behind the lens rather than in front of it. I edited an older photo of me taken in a group to show just me and showed it to hubbie, he was really surprized, interestingly he never thought of me as that big, truth was, I got bigger before I started Cohen's. I thought it would be interesting for the before and afterwards for myself when this is all done and dusted. A reminder of where I came from, and where I'm not going back to.
I'm here at work at 1.45 am, have checked in with my consultant so its all a wait and see.
Hope your weekend is going well.

[Sexymama]

Hi Sharon!! Just thought I'd pop on over and say hi!! Your doing great and will be doing refeed in no time!! Way to go! It looks like you and Pam can be refeed buddies!!! How fun! I hope I have someone to do my refeed with!
Keep up the good work! Your almost there!
Julie

[Sharon]

Hi Julie,{bighug}
Ta for the encouragement, feel like I need it today, I get this feeling that I'm gonna go from a jog to a sedate walk for the last pounds, regardless of how well I stick to the program. But it's probably just shift work talking and I'll be back to my usual box of fluffies tomorrow:rolling2:.
Still on the monthly weigh, so I have the feeling the consultant thinks the same about my speed of decent.
Whenever you have had blood tests do you always get the added "look at your diet, is there something slipping in to slow your progress"? I have had it all three out of three times, just wondering if it is a bog standard signature for everyone:thinking:.
Enough of me, how are you going? :)

[lfingers11]

Sharon,
I was going to write you and let you know that you were going to beat me to the end but it sounds like you have stalled too. No fun is it? We do all this hard work for months and then we just sit there.
Both of my blood tests came back well. I never had to look at anything. The last time they did tell me I could add a fruit due to the low blood pressure and to add a vitamin. They told me to cut out cheese which I still have not done. I so look forward to the cheese. If on Tuesday I am not loosing I will cut it out for a week or two and see what happens.
I was thinking of this the other day. I now have come to the realization of when I am thirsty vs. when I am hungry. Alot of times I am thirsty and not hungry. Before I would have ate something but now being on this I actually have to drink water. Now I realize that the water really does take off the weight!! What a great thing to realize!! Please remind of this later if I forget!
Pam

[Sharon]

Oh well we will just have to stroll along together, it's good to have such excellent{friendhug} company. Right now I'm at work (3am), munching on an apple with a large water rather than a coffee.We must be travelling on the same wave :surf:length, I was just thinking about water and have decided that water is my new best friend. I've always drunk enough but I also have coffee, but tonight have decided that I'm gonna drop more of the coffee breaks and have more water breaks, see if that gets things moving. Interesting about the cheese, I must admit I have not had cheese for 8 weeks of my own choice, it didn't have enough flavour for me and we can't get the no fat, so I have opted the lean meat or fish options instead.
One thing is for sure we will get there, it just may be in a more the scenic route{motorcycle}, and for me its still the best program I've ever been on and will be for life, and you can remind me of that should I ever forget.

[LiLNightShift]

Hey Sharon!
It's been a little bit since we've chatted. You know what's funny?! I drink TONS of water, and just recently added coffee back into my life. I missed it SOOO much! For me to stay on this diet -- I definately need to take liberties with the stuff we are allowed to do!

[lfingers11]

I always forget about the huge time difference we have. It is almost 1 pm here. It is kind of funny we are awake at the same time. I don't drink coffee but I started drinking Zevia (natural pop) about 6 weeks ago. I have one or two a day and I am hungry during the day so I don't think I can cut them out. Can't wait till you start loosing again!
Pam

[Sharon]

Hi guys , good to hear from you in the early hours of our orning, have waited until I got home from work before replying though, I like to stay up until the boys go to school then hit the sack. I'm still loosing weight but I suppose I am being inpatient and would like to think I would be ordering my refeed at the next weigh in. I shouldn't be so and I need to be realistic, especially when we have come so far already but I suppose you sometimes get to the stage you want to move on to the next step. I drink sprite zero when I'm cooking tea, and like you Pam with your drink I don't want to cut it out unnecessarily. I use to add a little fresh grated ginger initially which was a nice change.
Mandy, you have done well going without your coffee, especially if you enjoy it sooo much and its on the allowances, how is the world going for you and your little angel, played any good games lately?
I'm off to my bed, catcha later, have an awesome day you guys

[Mei Mei]

Hey Sharon,
You are so close! I know how hard it is at the end, especially when you see the end coming near. Keep at it, you will make it, and be so, so, so pleased with the work you've done, the body you have, and how great you feel. I was just jogging int he parking lot of Walmart with my cart today, and was struck with how much easier it is to run with 25 pounds gone! Maintenance has been good to me. I actually enjoy it, am being careful, but having fun when I want. I was at 116 the other day, but ate pizza -2 pieces with my kids tonight. Tomorrow, I will be extra careful, and any extra wieght gain--if any-- will go away over night. It really works. Hope all is well with you.
Mary

[Sharon]

Had a bit of a jog with the dog myself today, it was so good to be out in the fresh air going for a walk and a little jog just seemed right.
Am feeling so good, over the last 2 weeks have lost another 2 kg, even with my indiscretion at the beginning of the two weeks which my body rebeled against (felt like I had a hangover without the headache and a 1.8kg weight gain - and I certainly didn't eat anywhere near that much in the one meal, just as well I didn't have a good go at the buffet, it is amazing at a nurses conference how unhealthy the food was, I was expecting some healthy food options, even the salads were laden with dressing, and the meat smothered in sauce, its amazing how your body can react).
I can feel my bum bones when I sit down now, soon am gonna need a gel cushion:laughing: (thats one of the reasons I weighed myself early:embarrassment:)

[LiLNightShift]

Hey Sharon! That's funny that the nurse conference didn't really have healthy food lol! My daughter and I haven't really been playing games together. She's at that "Mommy look at me" while she doesn't some silly trick for me. It's absolutely adorable and I LOVE it! How are things with the pup?

[lfingers11]

Sharon,
Isn't it great to keep on dropping and to be within 10 pounds of goal weight. I have been really bad about weighing myself to much. I weighed again today I am now down to 127.4. .6 down from yesterday. I will weigh again tomorrow since it is my official 16 week weigh in and then wait until Tuesday again.
I am glad that you had a nice walk/jog. I love that moving around is so much easier. Put your little indrescretion behind you.......I hope you don't plan on doing another since you are so close.
Can't wait to hear what you are down to the next time you weigh. What an awesome job!
Pam

[pumbza]

Hi Sharon and Co hope YOU all well Yeeah Sharon I sympathise with YOU I had to buy a coushin but apparently its more to do with my CORE being to weak so I am getting back pains and I have to use a coushin to overcome this and I think it will change once I do some weights and excercise to strenghten my core!!I think the weight YOU gained was due to water retention by your body I don't think its got to do with the FOOD you ate and DON'T worry sometimes we are put into unplanned situations where we just can do nothing about it!!!Ha Ha!!:innocent4:Pam enjoy YOUR little daughter they grow up so quick Mine is 21 TODAY and it felt like just the other day I was playing and teasing her!!Ha Ha!Hey Mary its great to hear YOU are doing so well on maintenance it gives US ALL hope!!!!Have a GREAT DAY AND ENJOY!!!:innocent3:

[Sharon]

{grouphug1}
Pumbza, unfortunatly it is de vaju with the response and it was two days after the event at a morning weigh cos I weighed myself before I went, so I could assess the damage on return, thats why I expect to find refeeding interesting, it always has intreged my husband. Fluid retention would have to be a response component but I think I have a trigger, this diet might finally show it up for me{praying}.If I tackle it straight away it goes but if I don't - not good.
Mandy, what a wonderful age, your little angle must be sooo cute. I was surprized too at the choice of foods, and may I say Cohen would make a fortune with the attendies alone{oops}
My girl is doing great, she is on a maintainance diet at long last and really enjoying it, both of us have more spring in our step these days.
Pam, its hard not to weigh yourself more often when you get close, I understand why they say 4 weeks so as not to get caught up with plateus and weight fluctuations, but when you are this close the disappointment that could jepardize you I don't think is there the same, well its not there at all for me, especially when you have come as far as we have. when I came to weighing at the 4 week period I always weighed myself on two consequtive days and picked the lowest to post to the consultant cos of fluctuations, and I stuck to that for the program until these last few pounds. The consultant has told me to keep to 4 weekly but between yesterday and today is loss of another pound (day 2 weigh). So I'll drop to weekly weigh, I'm wrapped where I am and how I am going, as I am sure you are, another indescretion {noway} I would rather go without for that meal now.

[lfingers11]

Sharon,
Regarding weighing, I always wish I was down more than I really am but then I think "hey, I lost 1 pound in 2 days" and then I feel a little better. I am just an impatient person when it comes to things I want. You should have seen me pregnant with all three boys. Wanted them out so I could hold them. They all came 2-6 weeks early, funny huh?
Well I am down to 127.2 so that is great from Thursday. I am going to be bad and weigh around noon because I always weigh less at noon than I do first thing in the morning. Weird, huh? Maybe I will be in the 126's. crossing my fingers.
I hope everything is going well with you and you are right. No temptations right now are worth it. I won't even take cold medicine right now.The cold is slowly getting better.

Pam

[Sharon]

Close to the finish line, you are doing so well, how many weeks has it taken you? Just think though it took longer than that to have put it on, me it has been 33 years{lol}. And we are gonna be in that winners circle together. Interesting about the noon weigh compared to the am weigh, just shows how individual we are and the norm is not the norm for everyone.

[Mei Mei]

You know what I still don't understand? At the beginning of weight loss at night I weighed a lot more than am. Towards the end, there isn't much difference bewtween am and pm. Curious. Here's the good news, my body is still changing--for the better. I can't wait for you ladies! You are doing so well, almost there. Keep it up. :)
I am really enjoying post diet. I still cling to my diet food on many meals, bt that is working well for me. (I am indulging plenty--see comments to Shawn). So you can have fun after also.
Mary

[Sharon]

Hi Mary,
So pleased it is all working for you, shows you can have a life past Cohens but still remain healthy, actually Cohens should become a lifestyle, not a passing period in your life, I think its a good ideas to still have your diet foods in the wings, its a good buffer to stop you ending up back where you were, so cling away my sensible friend. My slogan is "COHENS FOR LIFE".
Interesting that your body is still changing - for the better, is it still the diet do you think or is it toning up with exercise? Excellent to hear you are still indulging and having fun "MARY HAS FOUND HER BALANCE ":applause::dance::applause::dance:
I am ordering my refeed tonight, I know the last few pounds will probably come off slowly but its good to be heading toward the next phase and get myself schooled up for it.
Work has been bizarre, I worked a shift as hospital manager on an afternoon, and 4 staff in different areas denied meeting me previously me, it has been a while since some of them have seen me on that shift (I normally do nights) but one of them was gonna argue with me, so I just dropped it, the last few kilos have made a hugh difference to my appearance but wow. I also happened the other night, the next night she apologized profusely when someone must have put her right.
But I feel so good, they probably thing I've gone manic.

[Mei Mei]

Sharon,
So glad you are doing well. I know what you mean about the mania :) Life is good. And when you feel good on the inside--because of healthy food choices, and look good, can't be beat! Godd luck with refeed. Ask any questions. My dh will probably start refeed on Monday. He hopes to be done by Turkey day. We will drive to Fla from Texas. That's two days in the cart which is relaxing compared to our busy lives...But how am I going to cook and measure refeed for him? That will be a challenge, but nothing compared to our friend Pumbza who is doing it in the bush! Is he a man's man or what!!!
Mary

[Sharon]

Mary,
You wont have any arguement from me that is for sure,
Turkey Day - love it, one day I'd love to be in the states for Thanksgiving - I know its not our holiday but the celebrations/ traditions you have seem so great and it would be awesome to be a part of it, and giving thanks is something we should all do.
You need my little tramping cooker on your trip,
Staying at home is so much easier but no where near as much fun, sounds like you need a bit of a break which will be great for you and DH, I gather it is off to see family. Sounds like he is doing really well on the program. How does he feel?
Our buddy Pumbza - it must look quite comical him standing out there in the African bush with his scales in the morning ( we shall say with minimal attire), if I could only sketch - I've got an image in my head of him in the bush standing on the scales with elephants all around him. He has done sooo great and I hope he is having an awesome time, I almost wish he would fall off so you and I had an excuse to go over an kick his butt - HAHA - just kidding Pumbza, always wish you the best buddy.

[Sharon]

Mary,
Just concidering the weight loss am to pm,
I have a big difference as I would expect, but maybe now your body has become much more effective at utilizing the food you are eating instead of preparing to store it or whatever overnight.
I would take it as a good sign, that maybe your body/hormones have found there balance also.

[lfingers11]

Sharon,
I am so excited that you have ordered refeed. :party1: You are doing so great!! I am a little bummed that I have not lost anything for a week but I knew that was going to happen. :sadeyes: I am finishing up my monthly cycle so hopefully things will start to move again. I never gained more than 1/2 pound which was good. I heard some people gain 2-5 pounds so I am glad that is not going on.

I have had my refeed and days that I am doing for a couple days now and it driving me crazy that I can't start. I think this has been the worst part of the whole plan. Knowing it is so close but not able to start. I just need to stick to this until I am down another 5 pounds.

Mary,
I hope this trip is better than the last one!! You guys totally deserve to have a great little vacation!!

Pam

[CohenInAz]

WTG Sharon!!!

You are all going on Re-feed so fast!

I can't wait to hear about you on the re-feed!!

[Sharon]

It is great to be looking at the next step in the program, well I hope to be looking soon. But I am prepared that it will only be a look until I loose those last few pounds like you Pam. But the weather is warming up and the dog and I are enjoying the walking, so fingers crossed wont be too delayed. We have a big family get together (hubbies side) in 2 weeks and NONE of them have seen me since I started the program (have no idea I have even been on one), would have liked to have been done and dusted so I could have a wine with the birthday girl, but diet sprite will be fine, luckily its not the evening meal but supper, so I can avoid that obsticle of explaining - cos believe me they will all have an opinion, or two, or three, or four (you get the picture) HEHE.

[Sexymama]

Way to go Sharon!! I'm so excited for you! :clapping3: You have worked hard and I know refeed will be great! I can't wait to hear all about it! Keep up the good work, your almost done!!!

:party5:

Julie

[LiLNightShift]

WOOOOOOOOOOT! Raise that roof! We have a refeed reacher in the FORUM! Dance it up girl and congratulations!

[Sharon]

Thanks for all your support guys, it means so much, It feels so great to be at this end of the program, so looking forward to that 2 kg going so I can start, (not sure exactly where its gonna go from though). I'm hoping it wont be too long to get the refeed plan so I can start getting my head around it and have time to ask my consultant any questions. I am finding the prospect very exciting.

[PhyllisRis]

Sharon....you SHOULD be excited!! Whoo Hoo....you've worked hard to reach this point!! I'M excited for you, too!!!! You need to celebrate big time (but within Cohen limits, of course!!).....
CONGRATULATIONS!!
Phyllis

[Sharon]

Thanks Phylis,
Of course within the Cohen limits - haha.
I want this done and dusted for xmas so I am not gonna jepardize anything, I would be so gutted with myself if I did at this stage, I don't think ANYTHING would tempt me.
You guys are doing so great with your programs, hang in there cos it is so worth the journey. This for me is the impossible come true.

[Lauren]

Yay Sharon! Congratulations!!! You're so close now! How exciting!!! Now that feeling of nothing being able to tempt you to cheat, etc.--TRY TO KEEP THAT MINDSET EVEN AFTER THE DIET! Don't let anything tempt you enough to put any substantial weight back on at the holidays or whatever. It's so easy to get back in old habits, so just be really careful, okay? I don't want to see anyone else end up on this thing three times like me. :) haha!

[Sharon]

Thanks Lauren,
I.ve gotten rid of ALL the clothes that were to big for me, to give me a slap in the face if I can't fit the ones I have now, gone are the days of 3 different sizes in the wardrobe (3 sizes that stretched over 20+ kg that is). I've started my xmas menu already as I'll be hosting the extended family xmas. And Ive been making changes to the recipes and my menu to keep all the flavour and festivities but reduce the days caloric impact.
Lauren I'm sure for you it will be third time lucky.
The motto is "COHEN FOR LIFE" and I plan to live by it.

[PhyllisRis]

Sharon....I'm curious....what Christmas traditions do you have in your family and country??
Phyllis

[Sharon]

We have our summer holidays with school and the universities finished for their academic year. Some like my brother and his family will take their holidays and go camping (very popular)
We have the xmas tree, and decorate our homes,
For Xmas alot of people have one big blow out with pressies in the morning, maybe a champagne brekkie for some, for lunch maybe the lamb roast or ham or chicken, turkey is sometimes offered but not the usual kiwi fair but is available, xmas puddings, triffles laced with sherry, and pavlova (the recipe I posted in the 'roll call' that Pumbza started to introduce ourselves - yummy) , and fruit salads or fresh berries, with xmas crackers and party hats. As it is our summer some people are more low key and will have a barbeque (especially if camping).
Sliced ham and salads, are a big thing, always lots of chocolate, lollies, nuts and dried fruit, christmas friut mince pies (I'm gonna take away the cake type sweet pastry and use filo this year).
Like alot of places still have a percentage of the population that over indulge in food and alcohol.

For me I will be starting the evening before with the men in my house, and my parents with this year going to try a turkey on the spit roast (never had it before) with new potatoes, and fresh peas and baby carrots. (My Dad can't eat much at all and I also love the formal meal at xmas so I divide it up which is not the usual for alot of families, but it makes my xmas enjoyable and low stress)
Dessert will be xmas pudding I make myself and I just adore with brandy butter sauce, and fresh raspberries we pick the day before with cream and french vanilla icecream.
On xmas day we start with fresh sliced ham on toast, we have quite a few expected for lunch, we are cooking a large leg of lamb on the spit accompanied with gravy and mint sauce, any left over turkey cold, roast vegetables cooked in the oven with garlic, and cubed feta added near the end, baby peas, beans and broccoli.
For dessert it will be more xmas pudding and sauce, trifle, pavlova, berries, icecream.
Ongoing aray of chocolate, sweets, nuts, crakers/chips and dip.
For tea for who ever is still here will be sliced ham and salads - just something light, maybe a few BBQ sausages for the kids.
I wont be over indulging that is for sure, but little tastes of my favorites.
These are from last years post lunch relax

And of my men and I


THE NEXT DAY WILL BE COHENS.
That is of course if I have finished by then, if not, AAAGGGHHH.
What will your plans be, do you have any family traditions?

[lfingers11]

Sharon,
I want to come and eat at your house!! yummm......
Pam

[Sharon]

My motto is the more the merrier.
How are you going to starting on your refeed? I am waiting for mine to be sent to me.
I know I am going to be cutting it fine to be finished by the 25th.
Thanksgiving will soon be apon you (probably be your thoughts before xmas), what will your plans be? Once thankgiving starts does it just keep flowing on till xmas or is there a definate separation?

[Zee]

Hi Sharon,

I am a South African living in the UK. How I miss the xmas BBQ... Sigh! We used to do a very similar thing on xmas is SA, but now in the UK it is very traditional english, what with the nasty weather, it is very easy to want to eat all the wonderful goodies. I am only in week 2 of Cohen's and probably won't be able to take part in the food & alchohol part of the festivities.

Congratulations on your weight loss, that is fantastic, you only have 5 pounds to go, you go girl! :)

Zee

[Sharon]

Thankyou Zee,
Interesting that you do similar in SA, sorry that you probably wont get to indulge at xmas, you will have to plan a little celebration for when you are that gorgeous slim you. I'm hoping I will be finished so as able to indulge a bit myself, rather than just do all the preparing, only time will tell, I have a feeling it is going to be a very close finish.

[lfingers11]

Sharon,
Well, this weekend was interested. I got together 2 hours away with all my college friends. I am so proud I did not cheat except for 8 extra ounces of diet pop. I was at the bar and it was either that or a beer so that was definately the better choice. I had a great time seeing all of them!! A few of my friends were completely shocked and wanted to know all about it!! I use to be a size 8/10 in college and I am now a 0/2.

The following day I had a baby shower to attend. I ate right before I left and boy there were some real yummies there but again no cheating. Cupcakes, chips, bbq sandwiches, tons of alcohol. I was a little sad that I could not have any but I always feel stonger when I leave after a get together and not cheat!!

I am a little frustrated right now. Totally stuck in my plateau right now. I am at 124.6 but that is still alot to loose between now and the end of the month. I am crossing my fingers. I usually drop 7-10 pounds in a week and a half so I am hoping it hits soon.

I am first waiting to see if it comes off. If it does not I think I will make a new goal weight of 114 and stay on plan until down to that. I have decided that I will have a couple treats on Christmas if I am still on plan. I just don't want to start refeed and then have to cheat in the middle of refeed and mess everything up. I would rather have a small cheat on plan and then take a week to reset my body. Does that make sense?

I have had my refeed for a week now and it is driving me crazy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!
Being on this plan the last couple months have actually been pretty easy except for occassional hunger. Now that I have my refeed and know that I am so close it is driving me nuts!! I can't wait to start but know I can't. That is why I have not put anything on the boards lately. Kind of irritated but I will get over it!! I just hate being so close and stuck in a plateau!!

Sorry I am negative today!!

[CohenInAz]

Sharon in Arizona we also get to do the Thanksgiving BBQ! Sometimes even for Christmas, if it is warm enough... which it usually is!

It might be 80 this Thanksgiving!

[Zee]

Pam

Don't give up now, you are almost there. There is light at the end of the tunnel :).

It is great that you have got that off your chest - I am sure you are already feeling more positive by just venting. I understand how frustrating it must be, with the goal post so close, but you are doing great! Just look at what you have accomplished!!!

Keep up the wonderful work.

Zee

[Sharon]

Pam, don't blame you for having negative moments, it can be so frustrating being so close but yet so far. But hang in there it might just fall off one night and you'll wonder where it went.
You did so well in not being tempted, well done. And shocking your friends - excellent - way to go.
Are you saying that if you don't hit target by the end of this month you will keep going until after xmas? Can understand, cos once you start refeed you can't (or shouldn't) get off. How many days are on your refeed plan?, still waiting for mine. Hopefully wont be too long.

CohenInAz - what do you cook on the BBQ, is there anything traditional or is it a chill out and relax time?

[lfingers11]

Sharon and Zee,

Thanks for listening!!:) and being so wonderful!

I have 18 days to complete on refeed and that is if I don't have to go back and redo any days. I will start my refeed thread soon so you can see which days I have. So if I don't hit 120 by the end of this month I am thinking of staying on and going down to 114. I still have a little to loose in the tummy area and my body fat is still at 24% so I think this is ok. Dr. Cohen said my weight should be between 114-120. This way I will still be on the plan and not going through refeed at Christmas. I just don't want to mess up refeed but I also want a little for Christmas. If I do have a little extra at christmas I will then wait a week or two until after Christmas to start refeed to make sure my hormones are back in check. I am still not sure what I am doing but just thinking outloud to all my Cohen friends!!{grouphug1} Just waiting to see what happens the rest of this month!!

Pam

[Sharon]

Sometimes it helps to think out loud, and no one will hold you to it whatever you decide, so go for it, we are hear to listen.
I noticed that Dr Cohen gave you a weight range? I've just gone back to look through my initial postings, I hadn't remembered that for me it was 51-53kg. I suppose 53 seemed so impossible that 51 was not even a concideration. I will go to 53 and do the refeed then take it from there and as I want to start toning up, biking to work and will still be eating with concideration to the program so will see what happens.
So you have 4.6 to go until 120, is that right? that is so awesome, you have done so well, if you are plateauing now hopefully you will wake up one morning and it will be all gone with one big pee. Will have my fingers and everything else crossed for you. But it sounds like you are getting it sorted, I'm a firm believer in Murphy's Law so I'm sure it will all work out for you.

[lfingers11]

Hi. Well, I am just ready to throw the scale out the window. {pan} I am back up to 125 now and have not lost anything for 2 weeks now. Logically I know it will come off but this is just getting old knowing refeed is so close! {explode}{explode}{explode} Well, maybe I feel a little better now!!

[Sharon]

How frustrating, I am still losing thankgoodness, and so sorry you arn't{sorry}, I have removed my crackers and reduced my fruit for the last stretch - and I'm not hungry (I know they are there if I need them) and I have stepped up my walking (Brisk) to 30-60min every day whatever the weather. This I think has helped me as it is new for my body - sometimes change from your routine is what it needs to give it a kick. I have discussed with my consultant with regard to the crackers and fruit, the are optional, and whether you have them or not will not cause difficulty later on except that you will not be use to dealling with the quantity (I"ll have that anyway), as long as you are not hungry -as I say they are there if i want them (don't get trapped by mental deprivation).
I don't know if you have a fixed routine, but whether this helps - me hope so, I am frustrated for you {scream}.
Keep me posted.

[Sharon]

Someone wrote about craving for chocolate and I can't find the thread now, so I'll put it here and I hope you read this. I have just read a medical study that has found that if you have a craving for chocolate go for a brisk walk for about 30 minutes. It was found that people who went for the walk were more able to resist the temptation than those who had remained sedentary.

[lfingers11]

Sharon,
First I am so happy for you!! You are doing great and you should be so excited. I can't believe you passed me by!! :)

At least I am holding steady at 124. I will just see what the next week or two brings. My hubby does not understand. He told me I should start my refeed on December 1st no matter what weight I am. Irritating that he doesn't get it but I have to get down to 120 to start!! This has been my goal all along and it would bug me forever if I did not accompish it!!

Well, the refeed guide keeps calling out my name to look at it but I am trying to ignore that I have it now. I will check in with you in a couple days to see how you are doing.

I am so happy for you!!

Pam

[Sharon]

Everytime I come on line I think of how you are going, I'm positive its gonna happen soon for you and we will swap places on the tickers. As we went through the program 4 weeks was fine to wait for weigh day, now a day is frustrating. So close but yet so far. I am still waiting for my refeed plan and its been over a week. Its my turn to be {explode}.

[lfingers11]

I would be impatient to get mine to if I did not have it. When I got mine I sat down and started figuring out what I was going to have daily. I am looking forward to the first day with pineapple :embarrassment: and day 13 or 14 when we can mix proteins so I can add a little meat ontop of my pizza!!!!! :jumping2:

I will weigh and update you later this morning. I went to the restroom constantly yesterday so I think I am down. I have noticed that in the mornings I feel a little water retention so I will try to cut out most of my salt!!

Have you slowed down again!! I am sorry to hear that. I hope things pick up quickly. I am still hoping we will be refeed buddies by the 1st of the month!! I guess the reason I was so stressed (and I have dealt with it now) is because we have a cookie bake on the 20th and xmas. Hoping to partake a little but it might not happen. :sadeyes: I will get through it!!

Thanks again for all your kind words and listening when it was a bad week for me. I think of you to and hope your journey here is going smoothly as possible. I know we can do it!!!

My soon to be sister in law made me feel so great last night. She is a little taller than me (who isn't though :hypnotic:) and she has always looked super skinny to me. Well, we were talking openly about weight and clothes sizes and I am alot smaller now (but again she is taller so she is super skinny). She just made me feel great about myself and it was also nice we are getting along so much better. A little friction before but now we are both trying super hard to become close. She will hopefully keep me in check if I ever try to gain again. I am going to donate all the sizes I don't fit into anymore so I can never go up in sizes!!!!! Well, enough with me rambling again!!

Take care,
Pam

[Sharon]

Great to hear about you and your sister-in-law, sounds like she could become a great support.
Agree about the big clothes, I had a huge clean our, got rid of bags and bags of stuff, cos I am never gonna need them again.
I'm still chugging along slowly with the weight loss which is good.
Tonight has been a quiet night for a change so I have be going through Shawn and Pumbza's refeeds which have been really interesting, gives me some idea what is in store for me.
With the cookie bake you might be up to that on your refeed, or even finished, if not you will have to pop 1 or 2 of your favs aside for a little treat for afterwards.
I've got my fingers crossed for you for tomorrows weigh, but we have 8 days between now and December, "WE CAN DO IT"

[lfingers11]

How are you doing? Have you made it yet?

[Sharon]

No I'm being a real snail at the mo, but its that 'time a comin' and I normally with the 4 week weigh in had it at the second week so it has probably happened every time but I was happily oblivious:jumping2:. But I'm ok as I know I'm still 'burnin baby' {explode}cos I pulled out the old ketostixs I bought yonks ago when I tried Atkins (too much protien with lack of veges was my downfall) and it is still shows positive, regardless of the time of day. So it is happening regardless of the scales, I knew it was as I trust this program implicitly but it was reasuring to see none the less, especially pre refeed, that I have room to move so to speak.
And my refeed program finally arrived yesterday, took about 10 days, was worried about what they had in store for me but it was all good, I have 18 days, so it gives me a few more days to get to goal (had visions of being the whole 30 and blowing my plans out of the water)
How are you going?

[lfingers11]

Sounds like you are at where I was last week. Hang in there and I am here for you if you need anything. :comfort: You haven't dropped recently so it will probably happen soon.

Got up this morning and I am now at 121. :jumping2: I will be starting Monday which is so exciting. I can't believe I have dropped 2 pounds in 2 days!! I am a little concerned because I start my cycle next week but last month the most I went up the scale was .6 pound. I will just drink tons of water and hopefully that will take care of things.

Can you believe I am drinking between 3-4 liters of water a day plus my 3 pepsi's. And ususally I am still a little thirsty but I need to sleep!!

Have a great day and catch up to me so we can start on Monday together!!:jumping2:

Pam

[Sharon]

Looks like I may be a few more days into December, unless I have a sudden drop like you{praying}, but I have three more sleeps, if it doesn't happen over this weekend its ok, I've come this far, and it shouldn't be to long after. And knowing that i will only have 18 days will leave me a few days up my sleeve if I have to repeat any.
Right now I am feeling very fragile, went to the ward BBQ, LOTS of goodies I was soooo good I did not stray,cooked my steak on the hostesses BBQ where she had just taken off heavily marinated slow cooked meat. within minutes stared to feel unwell and am becoming progressively worse:sick:, same thing happened a few weeks ago when I added raw basil to a salad. Have to find out what she used, this program has made me ultra sensitive to something, and I want to avoid it really badly,its stopping me in my tracks. I'm off to my bed.
Have a great weekend

[CohenInAz]

Sharon you will make it!

I hope you figure our whatever it is that is getting you feeling that way!

[lfingers11]

That is great that you are being so positive!!!!! :jumping2:
I am crossing my fingers that it happens over the next couple days for you.

I am down to at least 120.6 now. I had to weigh myself at 4 am since I went out shopping for Black Friday. My whole day has felt really weird since I had to get up early. Walmart was totally insane but I got what I was looking for!!

I am going refeed shopping tonight because I might not get out the next couple of nights and I just can't wait to get started!! The reason I wanted to start refeed on the 1st was because we have a cookie bake day on the 20th and they planned it late just for me:)

Well, keep us posted. I am always watching for your posts and can't wait till you get there!


Pam

[Sharon]

I reacon I'm gonna be ready for the 1st, just had a good drop and have only a couple of 100g left to go and a couple more sleeps up my sleeve.

Thanks for the thoughts CohenInAz, I really appreciate it, had a rough start to the night and a bit fragile today but ok - I think it could be raw basil, and if thats what it is it doesn't take much.
Have asked my consultant if there have been other clients that have had sensitivities triggered or become more prominant over this program, but even the smell puts me off now, where as I use to love smelling it in my garden
Pam
4am to go shopping wow, what you wanted must have been worth it, what is black friday?
I've got everything crossed for you for that cookie bake, and such wonderful support to think they planned it late just for you, I think that is so awesome.

[lfingers11]

Sharon,
I am so excited that you lost a little more. :jumping2: I am retaining water this morning and my fingers feel super puffy. I think between getting up to early and eating at different times yesterday really made my body hold onto all the water.
Black Friday is probably the biggest shopping day of the year. There are tons of deals and the shops are packed full of people. The lines were not bad here either. The most I waited was 10 minutes. Every store was super organized. I was able to get the boys a hand held video game. That was the one thing I really wanted to get and it was 1/2 off. I got some other things to including an electric throw blanket because I am cold all the time. I have been super toasty since. If anyone suffers from being cold all the time I totally recommend this. It has really helped.
My sense of smell and taste have improved dramatically since I have been on this. I am excited to try new tastes and things just smell better than normal. But let me tell you Peanut Butter smells worse than ever. At least you know to stay away from Basil for the time being. Maybe when you add things back in it won't bother you as much.
Still crossing my fingers for you and I will check in tomorrow for your weight.

Pam

[PhyllisRis]

the term Black Friday was coined because that is the biggest shopping day of the year and supposedly puts the stores into the black (accounting wise) for the year. But, if a company/store has to wait until the end of November to be in the black.... that sounds like poor business to me....

[Sharon]

Ta Phyllis for the info, I would have to agree with you regarding waiting to get into the black - not a good managemenrt plan. But the sales sound really great from a shoppers point of view.

Pam, sorry about your fingers being puffy and retaining water, mine probably wont be much better later in this morning as I've been on a night shift and will only get a couple of hours sleep before I am on the move for a family get together, so I wont know until monday morning as to whether or not I start.
Excellent that you got what you wanted at the sales, well done. That throw blanket sounds very nice, luckily we are in the start of our summer so we are warming up nicely, so wont need anything like that for a while.

[PhyllisRis]

Sharon....like your new picture!! You look wonderful!! I'm proud of you!
Phyllis

[Sharon]

{bighug} Thankyou heaps Phyllis,