Hello, anybody out there?

I am sorry that I haven't written much lately, life has been a little busy.

I definitely did not feel well after my second fill and it really took me a while to get back in the swing of things. I actually thought that I was going to have to go back and have more taken out. I didn't have too and I am grateful for that.

My next fill is next Thursday. I forgot the date and scheduled a Pampered Chef Party for the same night. So, I will be having people over and not eating anything that is fixed. Generally, after a fill I am not hungry for a while so that will take the temptation away. Plus laughing with your friends is just as good as eating.

I think for this next fill I am only going to get a 1/4 cc and see how I do, that is if they let me do that. Then make another appointment for only two weeks out and see if I can handle more.

For the two weeks after my fill, I really had no energy and slacked off on exercising. I know that I shouldn't have, but I just couldn't do it. I am now back to exercising daily and the scale has started moving again. I am down two pounds in the last two days. Let's see if it goes back down tomorrow.

So, the lesson that I have learned is this: If I do not exercise, I will not lose weight. Very simple, but very true. I have to move for at least 60 minutes a day to get the reward of the scale going down. I can do that, just put my mind to it and realize I have to help the band help me.

Friends are asking if I regret the band considering the problems I have had lately. I answer them - it's not easy but it is the best thing I can do for myself. The band is my partner and I have to show it the respect it deserves. And as a partner I have to carry my end of the bargain and that is movement.

That ah-hah moment is very much appreciated. Move your butt, Deena. I got it now.

Walked the dogs for fifty minutes tonight and then took a half hour back ride. I peddled the entire time, no coasting for me. My legs can feel it, too. Mona gave me her bike when she moved and I rode it tonight. It is like "Tubby" from my youth. Big seat for my butt and big tires. It rode so smooth. Thank you Mona.

We have hardly been home these last two weeks. Since Neal dislocated his knee cap, we have been to many doctors appointments and now are going to physical therapy three times a week. His knee is getting better slowly but surely, so that is a good thing. He really wants to play football this fall, I am just not so sure. What's a mom to do?

I am off to bed now, I have tomorrow off and have lots of house chores to do. All bedding is being washed and hung on the line. Nothing smells better than freshly dried sheets. Dogs need baths and I need to weed the garden and water all the plants. Then, I get to clean house. We are having a cook out on Saturday evening and I want the house to look at least a little presentable.

Hopefully, when I get up tomorrow I will have lost a little more weight. It would be a good way to start the holiday weekend, giving me motivation to eat the right foods. I'll let you know.

Have a great Independence Day. God Bless America!!!!!