Monna, my friend, what a difficult decision to make. I sometimes think the only way we grow is to face our fears and put our faith in the hands of someone other than ourselves. Easy to say, difficult to actually do. My thoughts and prayers are with you, and whatever your decision, I hope you are as comfortable as possible with it. Please keep in touch and let us know what your plans are....you know you have a real cheering section here!! How cool that you are still the 'incredible shrinking woman'!! Every now and again I'll try something on and it won't be as tight, but I haven't had a moment with clothes that don't actually fit in a L-O-N-G time.... (I'm working on it though! ) Hang in there Monna!! Hugs, Nancy

Monna, things will be okay. You'll get your new valve and be raring to go soon after. It's amazing what medicine has done for the human body...try not to worry so much. You'll be in my thoughts... Pamela

Can't believe no one posted over the weekend. Hopefully it was because everyone was having too much fun. Two weeks ago I had a test so my cardiologist could get a good look at my mitral valve regurgitation. She sent my results to a thoracic surgeon whom she trusts. He and she agree that it is time to have my mitral valve replaced (damaged partly due to phen-fen). I am actually more afraid to have the surgery than not to. I have until November 2 to make any kind of decision. I know what my decision will be, but it is not my first choice. On a brighter note--Saturday night was a special event at Job's Daughters and all the Council members had to wear formals. I had not had mine on since May. It fell off the shoulders and I had to pin it to stay up (no other formal). I told my daughter that she'd better watch out because I would be stealing hers--I was joking. Later that night I tried hers on and it fit very well--even a little roomy. I was thoroughly jazzed. Good thoughts to all. Monna

Pam......sending lots of good baby making vibes your way!!!! I hope and pray that you conceive quickly!!!! As for me......I had a good weekend, didn't over do it. Stayed on track. I didn't have time to weigh this morning, but I'm feeling a difference in my clothes again for the better. That is a feeling I haven't had in awhile, so that is a nice one!! Really trying to stay on track so I can lose as much as possible before my PS consult next month. Today's plan B: med. apple/cheese slices L: Ham wrap (1 low carb tortilla, slice of ham and about a tablespoon of cream cheese) D: Grilled Chicken

Good morning all, First of all I want to thank all of you in my July baby family for your prayers and well-wishes during a very difficult time for me. You have no idea how much your love and support means. I'm back to work and back to business after a week from hell. Mom is settled in a nursing home and seems content and comfortable for the time being. I have rehomed one of my dogs and he seems to be doing well. I'm kind of down in the dumps still - it will take some time to get used to things. I hope to get out of some bad habits - eating on the fly and grabbing 'not-so-good' choices. I haven't weighed, I imagine I'm around 170-171. The discipline of work is good for me; I'm planning on a protein drink for breakfast, a protein drink for lunch and a protein bar for a snack. I'm not too sure about dinner. I have tap class tonight and I think they plan to grab a bite to eat afterwards - I plan on a healthy choice, maybe an omelet or something like that. My exercise will be my tap dancing class. Pam, you remain in my thoughts and prayers - I can't wait until you announce the news that 'we're' expecting!! Hugs, Nancy