Question:

Awwww – I’m happy you and Dudley found each other – he looks like such a character and he’s soooo gorgeous.  Thanks for re-telling the story. Susan M Otis and Chester

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The cats have been seeking the coolest spots in the house and have finally found the cement floor of the porch is cool even though it has a bit of carpet on it. They lie all stretched out to let the body heat escape with maximum efficiency. Cats seem to have a way of extending the body several inches longer than thye are when standing. I wish I could do that! You mean…like this? http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… It’s DEFINITELY a heat wave here in Chicagoland!!! Pam He’s such a character. You should tell everyone here all about him and what a fighter he is. Many of them (probably most) won’t know his story! Hi RPCA. Here is the story of my dear kitty Jasper. We actually call him Dudley, but it doesn’t really matter what we call him since he is deaf! (and blind!) Last year, DH and I went to a funeral. A friend of the family’s elderly mother passed away. She had 2 cats that needed to be rehomed. They were not a bonded pair, however. So, we went to the funeral and came home with a cat. Here he is on his first day with us! http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/random/jasper.html We kept him quarantined until he could be checked by the vet since I have another cat, Luna. We werent even sure if Jasper and Luna would work out, since Luna has a history of hating all other cats. We figured we would take Jasper and if he didnt work out with us, we’d take on the responsibility of rehoming him so that the friend of the family could deal with other matters. By the way, when we went to see him the day of the funeral, it took me about 3.2 seconds to say to DH "WE MUST GET HIM OUT OF HERE!!!" He looked so sad sitting on his meowmie’s hospice bed, hoping and praying for her return. Anyway, we fell in love with Jasper. And other than some rotting teeth, he *seemed* to be in good shape. We also didn’t understand at the time that rotting teeth could cause all kinds of other problems, so we did not take care of that right away. This was all last August! (one year anniversary coming up soon!) Within a day or three of having him, we realized that he was blind and deaf as shit! But, he liked to lay on his tummy and have it rubbed, just like a dog. He would knead his paws into the air, making him look like he was swimming. And his purr…what an engine he had!!! Can you tell how enamored we were with him? In February JasperDuds got real sick. He had pancreatitis and stopped eating. He had a fever and was a bit jaundiced. We took him to the emergency vet on a Sunday after a weekend of him declining. He spent the night there and saw a specialist the next day. He had an ultrasound which confirmed the pancreatitis. He was a TERRIBLE patient at the vet. Can you imagine being deaf and blind and swept off in a cage to a strange place where nothing smelled familiar and everyone seemed to be poking and prodding at you, sometimes with needles?! When I went to visit him, there was a sign on his cage: "WILL BITE! MUZZLE MAKES IT WORSE!" I remember thinking to myself "Jasper? Bite?!?! You assholes are putting a MUZZLE on my damn cat!!!" Anyway, to make a long story even longer, he did recuperate and did get to come home to us after 2 nites at the emergency vet and like a jillion dollars spent. Jasper’s triumphant return home! Complete with baby food diet!! (temporary of course) http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/homeco… DH is SO glad Jasper is home, even though we fought over vet bills, etc. http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/homeco… The plan, after he healed up from the bout with pancreatitis was to have a dental done. We knew he needed some teeth pulled and I really wanted to take care of it. However, at the end of March, I began my own rollercoaster ride with health problems (thyroid cancer!!) and Jasper’s teeth simply had to take a backseat. I felt guilty about it, too. After reading so much on RPCHB, I knew how important it was to get Jasper’s mouth cleared up! Finally, at the beginning of June, as soon as school let out and I could be with him (im a teacher!), we set up the dental and J-Duds had 4 teeth pulled. Now, all he has left are his little front fangs (they really are fangs-quite hilarious!) but he seems to be happy as a clam. I was really worried about the dental because I was terrified to put him under anesthetic, but he came thru like a champ!!! http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf8…. One last pic. Here is Jaspie in his youth. We are not sure of his age in the pic, but DH got it from our friend. Look how much lighter he was!!! http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/young-… We cracked up because that is the same position we still find him in…ALL the time! Last tidbit for now: Jasper’s previous two mommies were old ladies who passed away. I am hoping to reverse this trend and outlive my beautiful boy, who will turn 13 this fall. And that is Jasper’s story! Happy Thursday, Pam

Response:

And that is Jasper’s story! Happy Thursday, Pam

Jaspar/Dudley is so lucky to have found a loving home with you. Hugs and purrs, — CATherine

Response:

Friend, I’m glad you got a swamp cooler. Cats here are belly-up on the hardwood floors all day all night. Yesterday it was a new record 101o….can’t wait to see what today hit – they predicted 104o – did you know that? Take it easy…this can’t last forever. How did I know that last summer was a "cooler" one here?

I am glad to have it even though I don’t use it that much. I tend to save it for the really hot times like now. Mostly I depend on fans. But I have lots of trees around my house to cool the air before it hits the house. And the house is an old homestead house with thick solid walls, and high ceilings in the original part. I hope you and your cats can keep cool enough. The forecast I saw shows it cooling by a degree a day for a few days with thundershowers on the weekend. I am so glad I am not in the city with all that pavement and concrete to soak up and reflect heat. — CATherine

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The cats have been seeking the coolest spots in the house and have finally found the cement floor of the porch is cool even though it has a bit of carpet on it. They lie all stretched out to let the body heat escape with maximum efficiency. Cats seem to have a way of extending the body several inches longer than thye are when standing. I wish I could do that! You mean…like this? http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… It’s DEFINITELY a heat wave here in Chicagoland!!! Pam

He is gorgeous! What a tummy to nuzzle! — CATherine

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a digital indoor/outdoor thermometer that speaks when the outdoor temp goes below freezing. This afternoon it spoke for the first time in months. I was startled at hearing it, thinking it must be broken cause I knew it wasn’t freezing! Since it repeats the message three times, I went close enough to hear what it said. It told me the outdoor temp was 100.7 degrees!! But it was only 84 inside. Yesterday I had seen on the forecast that the temp was going to be in the high 90s for a week; so last evening I had my son get the portable swamp cooler out. So, with today’s temp, it is sitting ready to turn on and cool things down. I only run it a couple hours of an evening to cool things enough so that I can sleep. The humidity meter says 42 inside. Normally, it runs around 50. I bet it is a lot dryer outside. I was watering earlier and the ground was sucking up the water like a sponge. My lilacs look pitiful, even aside from the depredations of the leaf-cutter bees. I bet the cottonwoods and elms have lots of thieving roots under my lilacs and flowers. The cats have been seeking the coolest spots in the house and have finally found the cement floor of the porch is cool even though it has a bit of carpet on it. They lie all stretched out to let the body heat escape with maximum efficiency. Cats seem to have a way of extending the body several inches longer than thye are when standing. I wish I could do that! — CATherine Ugh! It’s awful here. I don’t htink I’d survive with out central air! (I was a stranger to it until 2 years ago. Boy, I couldn’t live without it now.)

Funny how quickly we can get used to a labor-saving device or convenience. Although central air might be cool; it can’t beat standing in front of the swamp cooler’s water-chilled air blast to cool off. <aahhh! — CATherine

Response:

Hi RPCA. Here is the story of my dear kitty Jasper. We actually call him Dudley, but it doesn’t really matter what we call him since he is deaf! (and blind!)

Thanks for retelling that, Pam. Let me get this straight.  His name is Jasper, but you call him Dudley.  Is this anything like Winnie-the-Pooh living under the name of Saunders?  :) — Wayne M.

Response:

— CATherine Ugh! It’s awful here. I don’t htink I’d survive with out central air! (I was a stranger to it until 2 years ago. Boy, I couldn’t live without it now.) When I grow up, I am going to have central air AND a walk in closet!!!! Pam -33 y.o.

At 33 you are almost there—–MLB

Response:

Hi RPCA. Here is the story of my dear kitty Jasper. We actually call him Dudley, but it doesn’t really matter what we call him since he is deaf! (and blind!) Thanks for retelling that, Pam. Let me get this straight.  His name is Jasper, but you call him Dudley.  Is this anything like Winnie-the-Pooh living under the name of Saunders?  :)

Heh. He came to us named Jasper. We called him that. For a long time. Here is how he got the name Dudley. One of the nicknames I used to call him was "Dude-ly"…he was my little dude, so…"dude-ly". Anyway, in December I got married. Before the wedding, DH’s best friend was staying with us. And one night, the two boys were out and drinkin up, etc. Apparently Dan asked DH-"What’s the cat’s name again? Dudley?" It stuck. He is MUCH more of a Dudley than a Jasper. Pam

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a digital indoor/outdoor thermometer that speaks when the outdoor temp goes below freezing. This afternoon it spoke for the first time in months. I was startled at hearing it, thinking it must be broken cause I knew it wasn’t freezing! Since it repeats the message three times, I went close enough to hear what it said. It told me the outdoor temp was 100.7 degrees!! But it was only 84 inside. Yesterday I had seen on the forecast that the temp was going to be in the high 90s for a week; so last evening I had my son get the portable swamp cooler out. So, with today’s temp, it is sitting ready to turn on and cool things down. I only run it a couple hours of an evening to cool things enough so that I can sleep. The humidity meter says 42 inside. Normally, it runs around 50. I bet it is a lot dryer outside. I was watering earlier and the ground was sucking up the water like a sponge. My lilacs look pitiful, even aside from the depredations of the leaf-cutter bees. I bet the cottonwoods and elms have lots of thieving roots under my lilacs and flowers. The cats have been seeking the coolest spots in the house and have finally found the cement floor of the porch is cool even though it has a bit of carpet on it. They lie all stretched out to let the body heat escape with maximum efficiency. Cats seem to have a way of extending the body several inches longer than thye are when standing. I wish I could do that!

It’s been miserable here in Ohio for weeks, upper 80s and low 90s.  We only have the one air conditioner, in "The Cool Room" (aka, the bedroom).  Last evening, I had had it, and hid in the Cool Room all evening and night.  Apparently, the cats had *all* had it, too.  Every single one of them came up, without any urging on my part.  It was a crowded room, but at least we all got some relief from the heat and humidity! Ginger-lyn Home Pages:   http://www.spiritrealm.com/summer/   http://www.angelfire.com/folk/glsummer (homepage & cats)   http://freepages.genealogy.rootsweb.com/~summer/index.htm (genealogy)   http://www.movieanimals.bravehost.com/ (The Violence Against                                              Animals in Movies Website)

Response:

The cats have been seeking the coolest spots in the house and have finally found the cement floor of the porch is cool even though it has a bit of carpet on it. They lie all stretched out to let the body heat escape with maximum efficiency. Cats seem to have a way of extending the body several inches longer than thye are when standing. I wish I could do that!

You mean…like this? http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… It’s DEFINITELY a heat wave here in Chicagoland!!! Pam

Response:

— CATherine Ugh! It’s awful here. I don’t htink I’d survive with out central air! (I was a stranger to it until 2 years ago. Boy, I couldn’t live without it now.)

When I grow up, I am going to have central air AND a walk in closet!!!! Pam -33 y.o.

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The cats have been seeking the coolest spots in the house and have finally found the cement floor of the porch is cool even though it has a bit of carpet on it. They lie all stretched out to let the body heat escape with maximum efficiency. Cats seem to have a way of extending the body several inches longer than thye are when standing. I wish I could do that! You mean…like this? http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… It’s DEFINITELY a heat wave here in Chicagoland!!! Pam

He’s such a character. You should tell everyone here all about him and what a fighter he is. Many of them (probably most) won’t know his story!

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have a digital indoor/outdoor thermometer that speaks when the outdoor temp goes below freezing. This afternoon it spoke for the first time in months. I was startled at hearing it, thinking it must be broken cause I knew it wasn’t freezing! Since it repeats the message three times, I went close enough to hear what it said. It told me the outdoor temp was 100.7 degrees!! But it was only 84 inside. Yesterday I had seen on the forecast that the temp was going to be in the high 90s for a week; so last evening I had my son get the portable swamp cooler out. So, with today’s temp, it is sitting ready to turn on and cool things down. I only run it a couple hours of an evening to cool things enough so that I can sleep. The humidity meter says 42 inside. Normally, it runs around 50. I bet it is a lot dryer outside. I was watering earlier and the ground was sucking up the water like a sponge. My lilacs look pitiful, even aside from the depredations of the leaf-cutter bees. I bet the cottonwoods and elms have lots of thieving roots under my lilacs and flowers. The cats have been seeking the coolest spots in the house and have finally found the cement floor of the porch is cool even though it has a bit of carpet on it. They lie all stretched out to let the body heat escape with maximum efficiency. Cats seem to have a way of extending the body several inches longer than thye are when standing. I wish I could do that! — CATherine

Ugh! It’s awful here. I don’t htink I’d survive with out central air! (I was a stranger to it until 2 years ago. Boy, I couldn’t live without it now.)

Response:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – The cats have been seeking the coolest spots in the house and have finally found the cement floor of the porch is cool even though it has a bit of carpet on it. They lie all stretched out to let the body heat escape with maximum efficiency. Cats seem to have a way of extending the body several inches longer than thye are when standing. I wish I could do that! You mean…like this? http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… It’s DEFINITELY a heat wave here in Chicagoland!!! Pam He’s such a character. You should tell everyone here all about him and what a fighter he is. Many of them (probably most) won’t know his story!

Hi RPCA. Here is the story of my dear kitty Jasper. We actually call him Dudley, but it doesn’t really matter what we call him since he is deaf! (and blind!) Last year, DH and I went to a funeral. A friend of the family’s elderly mother passed away. She had 2 cats that needed to be rehomed. They were not a bonded pair, however. So, we went to the funeral and came home with a cat. Here he is on his first day with us! http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/random/jasper.html We kept him quarantined until he could be checked by the vet since I have another cat, Luna. We werent even sure if Jasper and Luna would work out, since Luna has a history of hating all other cats. We figured we would take Jasper and if he didnt work out with us, we’d take on the responsibility of rehoming him so that the friend of the family could deal with other matters. By the way, when we went to see him the day of the funeral, it took me about 3.2 seconds to say to DH "WE MUST GET HIM OUT OF HERE!!!" He looked so sad sitting on his meowmie’s hospice bed, hoping and praying for her return. Anyway, we fell in love with Jasper. And other than some rotting teeth, he *seemed* to be in good shape. We also didn’t understand at the time that rotting teeth could cause all kinds of other problems, so we did not take care of that right away. This was all last August! (one year anniversary coming up soon!) Within a day or three of having him, we realized that he was blind and deaf as shit! But, he liked to lay on his tummy and have it rubbed, just like a dog. He would knead his paws into the air, making him look like he was swimming. And his purr…what an engine he had!!! Can you tell how enamored we were with him? In February JasperDuds got real sick. He had pancreatitis and stopped eating. He had a fever and was a bit jaundiced. We took him to the emergency vet on a Sunday after a weekend of him declining. He spent the night there and saw a specialist the next day. He had an ultrasound which confirmed the pancreatitis. He was a TERRIBLE patient at the vet. Can you imagine being deaf and blind and swept off in a cage to a strange place where nothing smelled familiar and everyone seemed to be poking and prodding at you, sometimes with needles?! When I went to visit him, there was a sign on his cage: "WILL BITE! MUZZLE MAKES IT WORSE!" I remember thinking to myself "Jasper? Bite?!?! You assholes are putting a MUZZLE on my damn cat!!!" Anyway, to make a long story even longer, he did recuperate and did get to come home to us after 2 nites at the emergency vet and like a jillion dollars spent. Jasper’s triumphant return home! Complete with baby food diet!! (temporary of course) http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/homeco… DH is SO glad Jasper is home, even though we fought over vet bills, etc. http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/homeco… The plan, after he healed up from the bout with pancreatitis was to have a dental done. We knew he needed some teeth pulled and I really wanted to take care of it. However, at the end of March, I began my own rollercoaster ride with health problems (thyroid cancer!!) and Jasper’s teeth simply had to take a backseat. I felt guilty about it, too. After reading so much on RPCHB, I knew how important it was to get Jasper’s mouth cleared up! Finally, at the beginning of June, as soon as school let out and I could be with him (im a teacher!), we set up the dental and J-Duds had 4 teeth pulled. Now, all he has left are his little front fangs (they really are fangs-quite hilarious!) but he seems to be happy as a clam. I was really worried about the dental because I was terrified to put him under anesthetic, but he came thru like a champ!!! http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf00… http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/dscf8…. One last pic. Here is Jaspie in his youth. We are not sure of his age in the pic, but DH got it from our friend. Look how much lighter he was!!! http://public.fotki.com/kitkatluna/miscellaneous/jasper_dudley/young-… We cracked up because that is the same position we still find him in…ALL the time! Last tidbit for now: Jasper’s previous two mommies were old ladies who passed away. I am hoping to reverse this trend and outlive my beautiful boy, who will turn 13 this fall. And that is Jasper’s story! Happy Thursday, Pam

Response:

I have a digital indoor/outdoor thermometer that speaks when the outdoor temp goes below freezing. This afternoon it spoke for the first time in months. I was startled at hearing it, thinking it must be broken cause I knew it wasn’t freezing! Since it repeats the message three times, I went close enough to hear what it said. It told me the outdoor temp was 100.7 degrees!! But it was only 84 inside. Yesterday I had seen on the forecast that the temp was going to be in the high 90s for a week; so last evening I had my son get the portable swamp cooler out. So, with today’s temp, it is sitting ready to turn on and cool things down. I only run it a couple hours of an evening to cool things enough so that I can sleep. The humidity meter says 42 inside. Normally, it runs around 50. I bet it is a lot dryer outside. I was watering earlier and the ground was sucking up the water like a sponge. My lilacs look pitiful, even aside from the depredations of the leaf-cutter bees. I bet the cottonwoods and elms have lots of thieving roots under my lilacs and flowers. The cats have been seeking the coolest spots in the house and have finally found the cement floor of the porch is cool even though it has a bit of carpet on it. They lie all stretched out to let the body heat escape with maximum efficiency. Cats seem to have a way of extending the body several inches longer than thye are when standing. I wish I could do that! — CATherine

Response:

Friend, I’m glad you got a swamp cooler. Cats here are belly-up on the hardwood floors all day all night. Yesterday it was a new record 101o….can’t wait to see what today hit – they predicted 104o – did you know that? Take it easy…this can’t last forever. How did I know that last summer was a "cooler" one here?

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I have a digital indoor/outdoor thermometer that speaks when the outdoor temp goes below freezing. This afternoon it spoke for the first time in months. I was startled at hearing it, thinking it must be broken cause I knew it wasn’t freezing! Since it repeats the message three times, I went close enough to hear what it said. It told me the outdoor temp was 100.7 degrees!! But it was only 84 inside. Yesterday I had seen on the forecast that the temp was going to be in the high 90s for a week; so last evening I had my son get the portable swamp cooler out. So, with today’s temp, it is sitting ready to turn on and cool things down. I only run it a couple hours of an evening to cool things enough so that I can sleep. The humidity meter says 42 inside. Normally, it runs around 50. I bet it is a lot dryer outside. I was watering earlier and the ground was sucking up the water like a sponge. My lilacs look pitiful, even aside from the depredations of the leaf-cutter bees. I bet the cottonwoods and elms have lots of thieving roots under my lilacs and flowers. The cats have been seeking the coolest spots in the house and have finally found the cement floor of the porch is cool even though it has a bit of carpet on it. They lie all stretched out to let the body heat escape with maximum efficiency. Cats seem to have a way of extending the body several inches longer than thye are when standing. I wish I could do that! — CATherine

Response:

Question:

Well, gang, it’s 90F with a dewpoint of 67%.  I get heat exhaustion very easily.  Aside from extra water, are there other dietary changes that may be helpful?  I’m concerned about added potassium.  I’ve been warned off of it by my physician and in asdlc. Thanks so much! Hot Carol — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

Well, gang, it’s 90F with a dewpoint of 67%.  I get heat exhaustion very easily.  Aside from extra water, are there other dietary changes that may be helpful?  I’m concerned about added potassium.  I’ve been warned off of it by my physician and in asdlc.

This isn’t dietary, but how about a cold wet cloth across the back of the neck?  Even one of those cold compresses you can keep in the freezer and then mold around your neck? Priscilla — "Come to Planet Earth! Watch people with brains not use them! Several shows daily! Free admittance!"  Keera Ann Fox in alt.support.menopause

Response:

Well, gang, it’s 90F with a dewpoint of 67%.  I get heat exhaustion very easily.  Aside from extra water, are there other dietary changes that may be helpful?  I’m concerned about added potassium.  I’ve been warned off of it by my physician and in asdlc.

This isn’t dietary, but how about a cold wet cloth across the back of the neck?  Even one of those cold compresses you can keep in the freezer and then mold around your neck? Priscilla

Also, wear a light-colored hat or bandana to keep the top of your head from getting sunburned. I didn’t the other day, now I have a red, tender scalp.    ~ ~ ~ ~ Sh0rtcircuit (Deb) Clean out the junk. Started LC 04/03/04 Me: 186/155/100  5′0" Gunny: 280/233/180 5′11" June goal: 155, 3lbs    ~ ~ ~ ~

Response:

This isn’t dietary, but how about a cold wet cloth across the back of the neck?  Even one of those cold compresses you can keep in the freezer and then mold around your neck?

God bless you, Priscilla!  (If you want Him to) Wouldn’t hoit my forehead, either!  I’m going to see if Crash wants some, too. Thanks for the tip! Carol — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

Also, wear a light-colored hat or bandana to keep the top of your head from getting sunburned.

Yeah, I really should have a hat.  I’m in a small town now, but I still carry the inner-city fear of wearing the wrong color bandana in the wrong area.  I don’t know if that’s a problem here or not.  But a hat with a nice brim would probably be an excellent idea. I didn’t the other day, now I have a red, tender scalp.

OWIE!  Our biggest outdoor problem right now is hoardes of mosquitoes.  I understand that this is very unusual here.   WalMart is almost sold out of Sevin and other lawn treatments.  Crash isn’t as delicious to mosquitoes as I am, so he gets to spread the stuff. Carol — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

This isn’t dietary, but how about a cold wet cloth across the back of the neck?  Even one of those cold compresses you can keep in the freezer and then mold around your neck? God bless you, Priscilla!  (If you want Him to)

Her blessings are always welcome.  ;-) Wouldn’t hoit my forehead, either!  I’m going to see if Crash wants some, too.

My middle name is "Hoit."  No kidding.  ;-) Thanks for the tip!

You’re welcome.  Sounds like we’re going to need this here in Boston come Wednesday.  At least my tomato plants will appreciate it. Priscilla — "Come to Planet Earth! Watch people with brains not use them! Several shows daily! Free admittance!"  Keera Ann Fox in alt.support.menopause

Response:

This isn’t dietary, but how about a cold wet cloth across the back of the neck?  Even one of those cold compresses you can keep in the freezer and then mold around your neck? God bless you, Priscilla!  (If you want Him to) Her blessings are always welcome.  ;-)

Yeah, da bode of ‘em! Wouldn’t hoit my forehead, either!  I’m going to see if Crash wants some, too. My middle name is "Hoit."  No kidding.  ;-)

I have GOT to hear the history behind this!  Don’t leave anything out! Thanks for the tip! You’re welcome.  Sounds like we’re going to need this here in Boston come Wednesday.  At least my tomato plants will appreciate it.

If I ever get my garden in (it may already be too late), I’ll have dill, cucumbers, scallions, green beans, and sugar snap peas.  And rhubarb.  Next year, I’ll put in some asparagus, too.  Although that stuff really attracts mosquitoes.  Maybe I’ll skip the asparagus. G’night, Carol — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

My middle name is "Hoit."  No kidding.  ;-) I have GOT to hear the history behind this!  Don’t leave anything out!

Old family name.  We’re super WASPs, so middle names are family names. If I ever get my garden in (it may already be too late), I’ll have dill, cucumbers, scallions, green beans, and sugar snap peas.  And rhubarb.  Next year, I’ll put in some asparagus, too.  Although that stuff really attracts mosquitoes.  Maybe I’ll skip the asparagus.

Too late for rhubarb for this year.  Plant some now and start pulling it in two years.  Asparagus also has lagtime, but I’m not sure how much, since I’ve never grown it.  Get the rest of it pronto!  It may be too late for the snap peas, but it’s definitely not for the cukes and beans.   Scallions, I dunno.     I’ve got 10 varieties of tomato and three kinds of lettuce, 2 soon to be 3 kinds of green beans, cucumbers, eggplants, zucchini, yellow squash, and lots of herbs.  I do love my summer vegies! Priscilla, urban farmer — "Come to Planet Earth! Watch people with brains not use them! Several shows daily! Free admittance!"  Keera Ann Fox in alt.support.menopause

Response:

Well, gang, it’s 90F with a dewpoint of 67%.  I get heat exhaustion very easily.  Aside from extra water, are there other dietary changes that may be helpful?  I’m concerned about added potassium.  I’ve been warned off of it by my physician and in asdlc.

Last night I was feeling light headed, had a rough night of sleep, and I had to hold onto the wall for balance each time I went to the bathroom.  I fixed the problem by drinking lots of water and turning on the airconditioning.  I believe it was simply too hot and humid for my system to handle. Regards, Gunn

Response:

Last night I was feeling light headed, had a rough night of sleep, and I had to hold onto the wall for balance each time I went to the bathroom.  I fixed the problem by drinking lots of water and turning on the airconditioning.  I believe it was simply too hot and humid for my system to handle.

We turned the a/c on last night, and still can’t get the interior temperature below 80.  The vents just don’t seem to be pushing much air. The water helps, and so does sleep.  Hope you’re doing better today! Carol — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

Last night I was feeling light headed, had a rough night of sleep, and I had to hold onto the wall for balance each time I went to the bathroom.  I fixed the problem by drinking lots of water and turning on the airconditioning. I believe it was simply too hot and humid for my system to handle. We turned the a/c on last night, and still can’t get the interior temperature below 80.  The vents just don’t seem to be pushing much air. The water helps, and so does sleep.  Hope you’re doing better today!

Loads better!  Fortunately, by the time I had to go to work I had already recovered. Regards, Gunn

Response:

 The vents just don’t seem to be pushing much air.

Carol, did you check the filter?

Response:

Well, gang, it’s 90F with a dewpoint of 67%.  I get heat exhaustion very easily.  Aside from extra water, are there other dietary changes that may be helpful?  I’m concerned about added potassium.  I’ve been warned off of it by my physician and in asdlc. Thanks so much! Hot Carol

I’ve read that low vitamin C levels can cause sensitivity to cold and/or heat. Try anywhere from 2 or 3 1000mg up to 10 or 12 1000 mg per day, at intervals thruout the day. It oughta help. I would also recommend a good B vitamin complex stress formula to ensure a well rounded vitamin pick-me-up. They all work together. Take 2 B’s a day, with food, and not before bedtime. These are all water-soluble vitamins which means they deplete quickly and you need regular doses to keep the levels up. And they are completely non-toxic and safe. Cheap with no side effects. TC

Response:

 The vents just don’t seem to be pushing much air. Carol, did you check the filter?

Crash is doing that as we speak.  I’ll keep you posted.  The a/c worked last fall when we moved in.   Long distance phone call.  I’ll get back witcha! Thanks! Carol — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

the minute you begin to feel too warm get yourself to a water faucet & let the ice cold water run on your inside wrists. it drops your body temp & cools you down. it works for me **When I was young we used to go ’skinny dipping’. Now I just ‘chunky dunk’. witchy

Response:

 The vents just don’t seem to be pushing much air. Carol, did you check the filter?

This is weird.  They installed a new furnace for us (this house was a HUD rehab), and the a/c is ancient.  Crash looked several times during the winter, and couldn’t find a filter.  Anywhere.  I checked too.  No filter that we can locate.  I think we’ll call the furnace guys tomorrow and see if they can tell us where to look for a filter. The a/c worked last August when we first moved in, and the heat worked fine all winter.  Now, we’re just barely getting the faintest of breezes coming from our vents.  We even tried turning on the heat to see if that would work (Had to crank it up to 87 to get it turned on – it’s 86 in here). Still just a mild breeze. Right now, it’s warmer in the house than it is outdoors, but it’s so humid out there! I’m going to try one small thing and see if it helps.  I’m going to shut my computer down overnight.  I can feel heat blowing off that sucker.  Can’t be doing much good for our electric bill, either. Thanks for the suggestion! Carol — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

the minute you begin to feel too warm get yourself to a water faucet & let the ice cold water run on your inside wrists. it drops your body temp & cools you down. it works for me

So, I suppose that washing dishes all night was A Bad Thing.  I have to do it, though.  I’ll put Priscilla’s damp towel around my neck, wash some more dishes (we only wash them when we run out), then run nice, cold water on my pruney wrists. Thanks for the tip! Carol — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

I’m in Minnesota too……put your *air* on and chill……

Response:

So, I suppose that washing dishes all night was A Bad Thing.

Sauna city.  Not designed to cool one down.  I have to do it, though.  I’ll put Priscilla’s damp towel around my neck, wash some more dishes (we only wash them when we run out), then run nice, cold water on my pruney wrists.

Fold that towel around some ice cubes so they sit within the cloth at the back of your neck.  ;-) Priscilla — "This religion [Christianity] isn’t for sissies."  - my friend Jane "Being in the church is sometimes like doing the Bunny Hop."                               – my same friend Jane

Response:

says… the minute you begin to feel too warm get yourself to a water faucet & let the ice cold water run on your inside wrists. it drops your body temp & cools you down. it works for me

Before I start exercising I pour tepid water over my head until my scalp is soaked and it helps to keep me cool.  Of course, after that I ride my exercise bike in front of a fan that’s in front of a portable air-conditioner and I keep a squirt bottle nearby to spritz myself pretty much continuously — and then there’s the fan blowing at the back of my head.  That’s when it’s warm.  When it’s HOT, I also keep a wet washcloth around an ice pack to apply to my face.   Sometimes I’ll soak my exercise top before I put it on, too (put your tongue back in your mouth, JJ — Saffire 205/154/125  -  5′2.5" Atkins since 6/14/03 Progress photo:  http://photos.yahoo.com/saffire333

Response:

I’m in Minnesota too……put your *air* on and chill……

You don’t happen to be in the heating and air conditioning field, do you? It’s 81 outside and 85 inside.   Carol, in the mosquito capitol of the world — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

You don’t happen to be in the heating and air conditioning field, do you? It’s 81 outside and 85 inside.   Carol, in the mosquito capitol of the world —

Supposed to hit the 90’s this week. I bitch about it being cold and wet and flooding. Now I guess its time for me to bitch about the heat and humidity. With your AC, have you checked to make sure the vents are fully open? Then the filter thing.. call the manufacturer and see about finding out about what type of filter. I thought we in Ohio were the mosquito capitol of the world

Response:

You don’t happen to be in the heating and air conditioning field, do you? It’s 81 outside and 85 inside.   Carol, in the mosquito capitol of the world — Supposed to hit the 90’s this week. I bitch about it being cold and wet and flooding. Now I guess its time for me to bitch about the heat and humidity.

It’s *been* in the 90s the past couple of days.  It’s going to be horrible walking back and forth across the lawn, spreading mosquto killer.  Those things are thick! With your AC, have you checked to make sure the vents are fully open? Then the filter thing.. call the manufacturer and see about finding out about what type of filter.

Our vents don’t adjust.  They’ve been painted so many times that they’re all just permanently open.   I thought we in Ohio were the mosquito capitol of the world

Didn’t you hear?  Minnesota has annexed Ohio! Carol — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

Didn’t you hear?  Minnesota has annexed Ohio! Carol

OMG, you are too funny! ) Sucks with the mosquitos, they carry disease and all. They eat me up at night if I sit outdoors. I itch my skin raw sometimes. I use .. deep woods off, the mosquito repellant.. when fishing or camping. I have a bug zapper on the back patio also, its like cheap entertainment. With the vent thing. The vents can also get backed up with dust and stuff, cause allergies.And also low flow of air.  Maybe use something like a paint thinner to loosen them, pry them open, so you could possibly vacumn them out?

Response:

the minute you begin to feel too warm get yourself to a water faucet & let the ice cold water run on your inside wrists. it drops your body temp & cools you down. it works for me

HEAVEN! Thank you! Carol — Fasting BG 151 227/223/150 (official weigh-day: Thursday) Bernstein 5/25/2004 Diabetes Dx 5/15/2001 Diet, Exercise, Oral Medication

Response:

Question:

Damsel, L5-S1 is what’s busted in my back.  I’ve spent months trying to figure out what I can do.  Anything that involves leaning forward leads to major back pain.  This includes all the "elliptical trainer" machines. Recumbent bike worked for a while, then I ended up with new and nasty pain in my hips that hasn’t gone away. I finally decided that the safest exercise for me was treadmill without too much slope. It worked great for months, then my foot started to hurt and now I’ve got some kind of nasty soft tissue thing going on. My conclusion:  When you’re driving a jalopy, don’t floor it. <g Seriously.  Slow and steady, go easy, walk but not to where you give yourself repetitive stress injuries, and don’t take exercise advice from healthy people in their 20s or 30s even if they claim to be "trainers." My dad has made it to almost 99 years old just walking. –Jenny  - Low Carbing for 4 years. At goal for weight. Type 2 diabetes, hba1c 5.2. Cut the carbs to respond to my  email address! Low carb facts and figures, my weight-loss photos, tips, recipes, strategies for dealing with diabetes and more at http://www.geocities.com/jenny_the_bean/ Looking for help controlling your blood sugar? Visit  http://www.alt-support-diabetes.org/Newly%20Diagnosed.htm – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Just wanted to let you know that this wasn’t another false start.  I’m really doing it this time.  I just don’t have anything to say this weekend, for some reason. Sittin’ here, eating sausage and cheese.  I had an Atkins shake for breakfast, because I was too groggy to cook anything (we got home at 1:30 last night, following a Dream Theater concert in Minneapolis).  Tonight will be a big salad and some kind of animal product.  And I’m drinking lots and lots of water.  I’m assisted with that by three medications that cause dry mouth.  Aren’t pharmaceuticals grand?  :) I can’t wait for tomorrow, when Curves will be open again.  They’re closed here on Sundays, and are only open for two hours on Saturdays.  Crash will be scoping out a 24-hour a day gym here in town, and I’m going to try to decide if Curves or this other place is my best option for my goals.  I really do enjoy the structure of Curves.  Boy, I hate making descisions. If anyone has comments on that, here are some of my considerations.  I’ve had two lower back surgeries (laminectomies on the L5-S1), have had a whiplash injury in the past, and have high blood pressure.  By the time I leave Curves, every inch of my skin is red, my pulse is pounding in my head, and I got dizzy and left early one time.  Would a regular gym be even more cardio-oriented?  I’m really out of shape, and need to take things slowly. Thanks in advance for any comments or suggestions. Carol — 227/223.5/150 Atkins since March 12, 2004 Type 2 Diabetic since May 15, 2001

Response:

I can’t wait for tomorrow, when Curves will be open again.  They’re closed here on Sundays, and are only open for two hours on Saturdays.  Crash will be scoping out a 24-hour a day gym here in town, and I’m going to try to decide if Curves or this other place is my best option for my goals.  I really do enjoy the structure of Curves.  Boy, I hate making descisions.

What kind of rinky dink gym is not open on Sundays and only a few hours on Saturdays? Find a real gym that allows you to work out whenever is convenient for you!

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I’m strongly leaning toward staying with Curves, by virtue of my injuries, the fact that it’s a structured work-out, and that it’s so close to home. Do that then, but take it easy on the cardio.  Just kinda sway on those platforms, or march in place if you feel up to it. Sway!  Now there’s the ticket!  When I tried jogging in place, my head nearly exploded.  One of the other girls suggested marching in place.  I’ve found that strolling in place works best.  But swaying will be much better, until I get my heart up to speed. Thanks so much! Carol

Did you ever consider Isometrics, or Yoga? Sleepy      The True Axis of Evil Bush – Cheney – Ashcroft – Rumsfeld

Response:

says… Seriously.  Slow and steady, go easy, walk but not to where you give yourself repetitive stress injuries, and don’t take exercise advice from healthy people in their 20s or 30s even if they claim to be "trainers."

Isn’t it amazing how every day you come another step closer to grasping exactly WHY older people do things the way they do?  OY!  :-) — Saffire 205/166/125  -  5′2.5" Atkins since 6/14/03 Progress photo:  http://photos.yahoo.com/saffire333

Response:

Just wanted to let you know that this wasn’t another false start.  I’m

It never occurred to me that it COULD be a false start will be a big salad and some kind of animal product.  And I’m drinking lots and lots of water.  I’m assisted with that by three medications that cause dry mouth.  Aren’t pharmaceuticals grand?  :)

I hear ya on THAT one!  A surprising number of people refer to me as "the water bottle lady"   If anyone has comments on that, here are some of my considerations.  I’ve had two lower back surgeries (laminectomies on the L5-S1), have had a whiplash injury in the past, and have high blood pressure.  By the time I leave Curves, every inch of my skin is red, my pulse is pounding in my head, and I got dizzy and left early one time.  Would a regular gym be even more cardio-oriented?  I’m really out of shape, and need to take things slowly.

Like you said, take it S-L-O-W-L-Y.  With the unseasonably warm weather we’ve been having in CA, I’ve had to start taking summer measures lately when it comes to exercise.  Working out at a gym is NOT an option for me.  The weather is beautiful, but I don’t handle heat well AT ALL (another REALLY annoying artifact from pesticide poisoning referred to in another post).  I usually start off with a stationary bike and then work on an Ab-Doer (flexibility), then a Total Body Trainer (resistance).  The biking is what gets me really overheated, although the TBT can give me a run for the money, too, since I’m already hot by then.  Here’s what I have to do in order to exercise without quickly overheating (which totally saps my energy): 1.  Big fan pointed toward the face 2.  Portable air-conditioner positioned behind the fan 3.  Medium fan coming in from an angle on my back 4.  Soak my hair in water first 5.  Douse my bra in water first 6.  Keep a squirt bottle of water handy (use ice water if REALLY hot) 7.  Keep a wet washcloth around an ice pack nearby 8.  TWO full 25-liter bottles of water handy So far, with the weather in the 80s and the house in the low-70s, the only thing I haven’t had to do this last week was put ice in the squirt bottle, use the ice pack/washcloth, or douse the bra (but only because my son is just home from Iraq and I don’t want to completely gross him out just yet — I’m making a big concession by wearing a homemade, elastic-banded crop-top OVER the bra .  I’m giving the squirt bottle a real workout, though (make sure you change the water each time — 2-day old water is STINKY).  So far my son has either stayed in his room or quickly made a beeline for the backyard to smoke whenever I exercise   Don’t get me wrong — he is THRILLED with the improvement in my overall health, however, and VERY happy that I’m exercising, but really, NO ONE wants to see their MOM in exercise gear in undignified positions.   — Saffire 205/166/125  -  5′2.5" Atkins since 6/14/03 Progress photo:  http://photos.yahoo.com/saffire333

Response:

My conclusion:  When you’re driving a jalopy, don’t floor it. <g Seriously.  Slow and steady, go easy, walk but not to where you give yourself repetitive stress injuries, and don’t take exercise advice from healthy people in their 20s or 30s even if they claim to be "trainers." Sound advice, I’d say.  I’m strongly leaning toward staying with Curves, by virtue of my injuries, the fact that it’s a structured work-out, and that it’s so close to home.

Do that then, but take it easy on the cardio.  Just kinda sway on those platforms, or march in place if you feel up to it. — Michelle Levin http://www.mindspring.com/~lunachick I have only 3 flaws.  My first flaw is thinking that I only have 3 flaws.

Response:

 I’m strongly leaning toward staying with Curves, by virtue of my injuries, the fact that it’s a structured work-out, and that it’s so close to home. Do that then, but take it easy on the cardio.  Just kinda sway on those platforms, or march in place if you feel up to it.

Sway!  Now there’s the ticket!  When I tried jogging in place, my head nearly exploded.  One of the other girls suggested marching in place.  I’ve found that strolling in place works best.  But swaying will be much better, until I get my heart up to speed. Thanks so much! Carol — 227/223.5/150 Atkins since March 12, 2004 Type 2 Diabetic since May 15, 2001

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –  I’m strongly leaning toward staying with Curves, by virtue of my injuries, the fact that it’s a structured work-out, and that it’s so close to home. Do that then, but take it easy on the cardio.  Just kinda sway on those platforms, or march in place if you feel up to it. Sway!  Now there’s the ticket!  When I tried jogging in place, my head nearly exploded.  One of the other girls suggested marching in place.  I’ve found that strolling in place works best.  But swaying will be much better, until I get my heart up to speed. Thanks so much! Carol

Yer welcome.  When I first started there, my heartrate would shoot way up after certain machines, so they told me to sway after those.  If I go too hard on cardio I feel like I’m going to die, and there’s really no benefit to getting your heartrate so high that you throw up or can’t breathe. — Michelle Levin http://www.mindspring.com/~lunachick I have only 3 flaws.  My first flaw is thinking that I only have 3 flaws.

Response:

My conclusion:  When you’re driving a jalopy, don’t floor it. <g Seriously.  Slow and steady, go easy, walk but not to where you give yourself repetitive stress injuries, and don’t take exercise advice from healthy people in their 20s or 30s even if they claim to be "trainers."

Sound advice, I’d say.  I’m strongly leaning toward staying with Curves, by virtue of my injuries, the fact that it’s a structured work-out, and that it’s so close to home. My dad has made it to almost 99 years old just walking.

I look forward to doing a lot of walking around the neighborhood when it warms up a little more.  Did I mention I also have asthma?  Physical exertion in cold weather  is NOT a good thing! Thanks, Jenny. Carol — 227/223.5/150 Atkins since March 12, 2004 Type 2 Diabetic since May 15, 2001

Response:

Damsel in dis Dress  burbled across the ether: I can’t believe I want to work out at home.  <Damsel checks her forehead, to see if she’s running a fever

Damsel, check your email. — revek   www.geocities.com/tanirevek/LowCarb.html  lowcarbing since June             2002 5′2" 41 F  165+/too much/size seven petite please One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, floor.

Response:

You can get plenty of exercise without leaving the house. But excuses are so much easier. — Most of us probably aren’t in danger of eating too little. Becky P. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – My conclusion:  When you’re driving a jalopy, don’t floor it. <g Seriously.  Slow and steady, go easy, walk but not to where you give yourself repetitive stress injuries, and don’t take exercise advice from healthy people in their 20s or 30s even if they claim to be "trainers." Sound advice, I’d say.  I’m strongly leaning toward staying with Curves, by virtue of my injuries, the fact that it’s a structured work-out, and that it’s so close to home. My dad has made it to almost 99 years old just walking. I look forward to doing a lot of walking around the neighborhood when it warms up a little more.  Did I mention I also have asthma?  Physical exertion in cold weather  is NOT a good thing! Thanks, Jenny. Carol — 227/223.5/150 Atkins since March 12, 2004 Type 2 Diabetic since May 15, 2001

Response:

My friend, who used to be a competitive bodybuilder and lifted *very* heavy developed lower back pain and disc compression in the lumbar region.  She’s been pain free and stayed very fit (a lifelong  obsession of hers) doing Pilates.  She took lessons (very expensive) but thinks the Winsor Pilates tapes are good.  It just really opened up her spine and takes pressure off, and her follow up X rays (or MRI?) showed the improvements she already felt.

I have a Pilates tape that LizC generously mailed to me.  We still haven’t found the VCR since we moved.  I’m getting antsy to start doing some working out at home, so I’ll likely find it in the next week. I can’t believe I want to work out at home.  <Damsel checks her forehead, to see if she’s running a fever Thanks for the suggestion, Carol — 227/223.5/150 Atkins since March 12, 2004 Type 2 Diabetic since May 15, 2001

Response:

Damsel in dis Dress  burbled across the ether: If anyone has comments on that, here are some of my considerations. I’ve had two lower back surgeries (laminectomies on the L5-S1), have had a whiplash injury in the past, and have high blood pressure.  By the time I leave Curves, every inch of my skin is red, my pulse is pounding in my head, and I got dizzy and left early one time.

You’re working too hard.  Try a slower pace, or a different kind of excercise. Would a regular gym be even more cardio-oriented?  I’m really out of shape, and need to take things slowly.

Only if you want it to be.  At a regular gym you can focus on resistance/strength training and reduce or skip the cardio until you are ready for it. That is the extent of my knowledge. — revek   www.geocities.com/tanirevek/LowCarb.html  lowcarbing since June             2002 5′2" 41 F  165+/too much/size seven petite please "I want to find a voracious, small-minded predator and name it after the IRS." -Robert Bakker, paleontologist

Response:

Just wanted to let you know that this wasn’t another false start.  I’m really doing it this time.  I just don’t have anything to say this weekend, for some reason. Sittin’ here, eating sausage and cheese.  I had an Atkins shake for breakfast, because I was too groggy to cook anything (we got home at 1:30 last night, following a Dream Theater concert in Minneapolis).  Tonight will be a big salad and some kind of animal product.  And I’m drinking lots and lots of water.  I’m assisted with that by three medications that cause dry mouth.  Aren’t pharmaceuticals grand?  :) I can’t wait for tomorrow, when Curves will be open again.  They’re closed here on Sundays, and are only open for two hours on Saturdays.  Crash will be scoping out a 24-hour a day gym here in town, and I’m going to try to decide if Curves or this other place is my best option for my goals.  I really do enjoy the structure of Curves.  Boy, I hate making descisions. If anyone has comments on that, here are some of my considerations.  I’ve had two lower back surgeries (laminectomies on the L5-S1), have had a whiplash injury in the past, and have high blood pressure.  By the time I leave Curves, every inch of my skin is red, my pulse is pounding in my head, and I got dizzy and left early one time.  Would a regular gym be even more cardio-oriented?  I’m really out of shape, and need to take things slowly. Thanks in advance for any comments or suggestions. Carol — 227/223.5/150 Atkins since March 12, 2004 Type 2 Diabetic since May 15, 2001

Response:

Question:

If your Tioga is so old, why pop 6 to 8 hundred bucks for an RV A/C when you can hang a window unit on it for maybe 100 to 150??  In addition, the window unit will use far less electricity?? Good question… I really know nothing about window units for RVs and wasn’t aware of their existence.  Any good places or search keywords to learn more about RV window units?

I can’t help with window units, but have you considered one or more of the 120 volt units the Carl A has in his class B. (You might need two, since I seem to recall that they are about 6,000 BTUs each.) I don’t think they stick out very far, and you might permanently mount them on the back of your rig blowing through holes which you cut in the wall(into the bedroom?) to avoid knocking down hitchhikers and traffic cops. –RW

Response:

… I’m not really sure how many BTUs we need.  The Fedder window-unit that claims 5250 BTU says it’ll cool rooms up to 10×15 feet.  I figure the area we need to cool is about 7×17 feet at most, which is fewer sf than the Fedder claims.  There may be a difference because it’s a mh not a house, but I don’t know how to evaluate that.

Not surprisingly, the important variables include:    - outside temp    - (desired) inside temp    - insulation (expressed as R-rating)    - heat load (sun on walls and through windows, cooking, etc.) The square foot guesses accompanying new units are a rough stab at those things, plus the usual sales hype. There are some experienced heating/air-conditioning people on RORT who can elaborate far beyond my knowledge, all of which I have brain-dumped above. But the bottom line is that you will have to make a wild guess, perhaps based on the BTU ratings of common RV air conditioners. That will roll up all of the thermodynamics mumbo-jumbo suggested above. What’s the best place to find out more about the units "Carl A" has, website someplace or just a google groups?

Carl has a GREAT web site at http://sky.prohosting.com/chainfl/. (Allow a few hours to hitch hike along on his travels.) He describes his air conditioner somewhere there, perhaps in an "about my rig" page. Carl visits RORT frequently when not traveling, so maybe he will jump in, or you might want to ping him, since he could have filtered this thread (not interested in nominal subject, the Slabs.) I’m sure his email contact info is on his site. Google Groups will have many posts on the Subject "Carl A’s Air Coditioner" (keep the misspelling) and others. Chris Bryant is always a great source of practical info. –RW

Response:

A window unit for a small RV costs a Helluva lot less, and this would avoid your concerns about roof leaks, strength, etc. That’s where I get Real Puzzled, Bob.  I’ve not found any window units *for* small RV’s, just conventional hang-out-a-foot-or-more house units.

OK, I was insufficiently clear.  I should have said "A window unit being used to cool a small RV…." If there was something 3-6" deep that seemed practical I’d probably be all over it, but I’m not finding that.  It takes a lot less effort to spend the night sweating than pulling a window a/c off and putting it back on every few days, methinks.

Your choice.  It may be less trouble that having a less than good condition roof cave in on you.  It may cost a bit more than hanging it on a window, but I’ve seen applications where someone pierced the side of the rig for the A/C unit and even had slides so he could push it in and out.  Shouldn’t be too difficult, "do it yourself". Otoh our time in the RV has been oddly mixed, three months on our place in CO followed by a few days here and there, soon to be followed by something or other else.  I guess I’ll probably stay confused until it smacks me upside the head that what I need to do is x, y, or z. <g

If you’re going to stay in one (hot) place for a while, you can also get some wood and build a stand to support the A/C unit.  You can always stow the stand up on the roof.  This way you’d avoid stress on the side of the motorhome.  Getting the thing shrouded is a simple matter of cardboard and duct tape. I did this on a 31 foot cabin cruiser moored at Portage de Souix, MO. several years ago.  I had forgotten that when I said I’d never done anything like this.  It worked fine. cheers bob

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Carl has a GREAT web site at http://sky.prohosting.com/chainfl/. (Allow a few hours to hitch hike along on his travels.) He describes his air conditioner somewhere there, perhaps in an "about my rig" page. Indeed he does.  The ac is described as a "Panasonic 6,000 BTU" and I’ll see what I can find out about it and possible siblings from Panasonic — here I thought they just made electronic stuff.  Thanks.

I’d be surprised if that would do the job on the hottest days. It might be acceptable on moderate days, but in many cases you’ll probably need two. — D.J., N8DO; FMCA 147762 davidjosborn at sbcglobal dot net

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Someone suggested a swamp cooler.  They are pretty damned good as long as the humidity is very low.  During the monsoon season in Arizona, they don’t work worth crap.

However from October to the following July the air is usually quite dry and most homes use the evaporative coolers when they need cooling. Residents tell me the evaporative cooler is MUCH cheaper to run than an air conditioner.  All that is turning is a small motor to drive a squirrel cage fan, no compressor. Never having done this, I cannot speak to Neon’s reports that he noticed no difference in electricity in window unit vs. RV A/C.  What I do know is about a dozen full timers in Buckeye, Az,  who have added window units to use vice their roof top RV units.  ALL say they did it because of the difference in electricity costs and that the difference was significant.

The only evaporative cooler I’ve seen that was designed for RVs was a small (but adequate) unit designed to run on 12 volts.  The people said it did the job quite well.  I imagine a stand could be improvised to use a standard one as a window unit.  You see quite a few of these hanging on the side of mobile homes. Me?  I dunno.  Your mileage may differ.  A window unit for a small RV costs a Helluva lot less, and this would avoid your concerns about roof leaks, strength, etc

If you are going to spend several months in one spot, a small window unit would be quite practical. LZ – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – cheers bob

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let’s start a new thread… AFAIK, there is no such thing as an RV window unit.  He’s talking about a conventional residential window unit.

Yes.  Most who use them take them off for travel.  They ain’t purty, but neither is an old Tioga. cheers bob – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Just went down that path with my new concession trailer so I can offer some experience. The first and maybe biggest problem is that I could not find a 120volt powered window unit any larger than 12k btu.  RV units are commonly available in 15k btu and sometimes larger.  12k is just barely enough for the concession trailer but I didn’t have the option of using an RV unit. RV ACs are designed with low inrush compressors.  Window units are not. This has a major impact on generator usage.  The 4kw Onan in my mom’s MH will not reliably start this window unit when the weather is in the 90s.  Sometimes the compressor starts and sometimes it doesn’t.  It puts a pretty good whack on my 8kw genny I use for the trailer.  This genny starts it OK but you can really hear it labor for a few seconds. I really can’t see any big difference in power consumption once running. My window unit has a little higher SEER rating than the RV AC I have but not enough to matter. A window unit is not designed to manage the condensate with any significant tilt.  An RV  unit will.  If my window unit is even a degree off level with the rear high, water runs out the front of the unit.  It’s a good name brand (Fedders) so it’s not that it’s cheaply made or anything.  A window unit simply doesn’t have to deal with that problem.  I’ve mounted mine at a fairly steep down-angle.  It looks somewhat funny but the water drips out the back as it is supposed to. A window unit is not designed for continuous vibration.  I’ve seen instances where the constant vibration from travel caused the internal plumbing inside the can of the hermetic compressor to fatigue and fail.  An RV compressor is designed for that kind of service. For equal cooling capacity the prices are not that much different.  New, this unit I have was around $350.  Add another hundred plus some careful shopping and you have yourself an RV AC. John If your Tioga is so old, why pop 6 to 8 hundred bucks for an RV A/C when you can hang a window unit on it for maybe 100 to 150??  In addition, the window unit will use far less electricity?? Good question… I really know nothing about window units for RVs and wasn’t aware of their existence.  Any good places or search keywords to learn more about RV window units? — John De Armond http://bellsouthpwp.net/j/o/johngd/ Cleveland, Occupied TN

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AFAIK, there is no such thing as an RV window unit.  He’s talking about a conventional residential window unit. Yes.  Most who use them take them off for travel.  They ain’t purty, but neither is an old Tioga.

In 1977 – I had a Scamp Travel Trailer. We took it on a cross country trip. In Indiana on a really humid day – I went to a K Mart and bought a "GE Carry Cool" for $125. It fit perfectly into one of the little windows. We stuff a little polyurethane foam in the cracks. It worked great through Nevada, Arizona, Utah, etc.

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  Get yourself a little swamp cooler.   It will work just fine most of the time in the desert,  and doesn’t take much juice.                                              Don

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – let’s start a new thread… AFAIK, there is no such thing as an RV window unit.  He’s talking about a conventional residential window unit. Yes.  Most who use them take them off for travel.  They ain’t purty, but neither is an old Tioga. cheers bob Now I have to take exception to that Bob, our old Tioga is just as pretty as a junkyard dog to us!

Grin.  My aplogies. (Spending a couple weeks completely resealing the roof and dealing with the cheap plastic moldings they used at the roof corners has given me some emotional commitment to the thing that was lacking before, go figure… about 3 days of Tucson monsoon rain, slow and steadily unrelenting, and nary a leak).

Someone suggested a swamp cooler.  They are pretty damned good as long as the humidity is very low.  During the monsoon season in Arizona, they don’t work worth crap. Never having done this, I cannot speak to Neon’s reports that he noticed no difference in electricity in window unit vs. RV A/C.  What I do know is about a dozen full timers in Buckeye, Az,  who have added window units to use vice their roof top RV units.  ALL say they did it because of the difference in electricity costs and that the difference was significant. Me?  I dunno.  Your mileage may differ.  A window unit for a small RV costs a Helluva lot less, and this would avoid your concerns about roof leaks, strength, etc. cheers bob

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Saw a portable air conditioner, not sure where I could put the thing because of its size, either when in use or not in use, and it was over $300 which makes it silly to consider when a good rooftop unit can be had for well under $700 and might actually do the job decently.

FWIW, I have a couple of the GE portable units.  One I use to spot cool my dishwasher dude so that I don’t have to AC the whole washroom.  The other I use to spot cool me in the bed at night so I don’t have to cool the whole place. They work good for those purposes but they’re not so hot for general air conditioning.  The problem is, while the hot condenser exhaust air is discharged through a hose to the outside, the condenser cooling air is taken from the room.  IOW, the unit is pumping out cold air just about as fast as it is making it.  If the unit had two hoses, one for condenser inlet and the other for condenser outlet, it would be a GREAT idea. John — John De Armond http://bellsouthpwp.net/j/o/johngd/ Cleveland, Occupied TN

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<< Apparently the sarcasm was too subtle for you. You will have to wean them off the <gs slowly. Tom M

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let’s start a new thread… AFAIK, there is no such thing as an RV window unit.  He’s talking about a conventional residential window unit. Just went down that path with my new concession trailer so I can offer some experience. The first and maybe biggest problem is that I could not find a 120volt powered window unit any larger than 12k btu.  RV units are commonly available in 15k btu and sometimes larger.  12k is just barely enough for the concession trailer but I didn’t have the option of using an RV unit. RV ACs are designed with low inrush compressors.  Window units are not.  This has a major impact on generator usage.  The 4kw Onan in my mom’s MH will not reliably start this window unit when the weather is in the 90s.  Sometimes the compressor starts and sometimes it doesn’t.  It puts a pretty good whack on my 8kw genny I use for the trailer.  This genny starts it OK but you can really hear it labor for a few seconds. I really can’t see any big difference in power consumption once running.  My window unit has a little higher SEER rating than the RV AC I have but not enough to matter. A window unit is not designed to manage the condensate with any significant tilt.  An RV  unit will.  If my window unit is even a degree off level with the rear high, water runs out the front of the unit.  It’s a good name brand (Fedders) so it’s not that it’s cheaply made or anything.  A window unit simply doesn’t have to deal with that problem.  I’ve mounted mine at a fairly steep down-angle.  It looks somewhat funny but the water drips out the back as it is supposed to. A window unit is not designed for continuous vibration.  I’ve seen instances where the constant vibration from travel caused the internal plumbing inside the can of the hermetic compressor to fatigue and fail.  An RV compressor is designed for that kind of service. For equal cooling capacity the prices are not that much different.  New, this unit I have was around $350.  Add another hundred plus some careful shopping and you have yourself an RV AC. John If your Tioga is so old, why pop 6 to 8 hundred bucks for an RV A/C when you can hang a window unit on it for maybe 100 to 150??  In addition, the window unit will use far less electricity?? Good question… I really know nothing about window units for RVs and wasn’t aware of their existence.  Any good places or search keywords to learn more about RV window units?

— John De Armond http://bellsouthpwp.net/j/o/johngd/ Cleveland, Occupied TN

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(Oh, wait — you must have meant — never mind. Sorry.) GB in NC If you’re sorry for what you wrote, don’t hit the send button.  Since you did, you obviously aren’t.

Apparently the sarcasm was too subtle for you. GB in NC

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – …snip Would an a/c be mandatory this time of year?  It’s been hotter’n blazes in Tucson except for the latest monsoon rain. Quartzsite is lots lower and thus lots hotter. Jenny Understood.  It’s my understanding that temps cool down in the fall and winter, but it isn’t clear to me exactly when that begins.  I’m in favor of going out and buying a rooftop a/c for our old Tioga mh, the wife is in favor of waiting to see how bad it is first.  Not clear how far I’d have to drive to get to a place that sells one for retail instead of inflated middle-of-nowhere prices.  Having just gone through hell to seal up the Tioga’s leaking roof, I’m not so enthusiastic about cutting a hole in it for an a/c that I’m jumping up and down with glee at the prospect.  Any info you can offer would be appreciated.

If your Tioga is so old, why pop 6 to 8 hundred bucks for an RV A/C when you can hang a window unit on it for maybe 100 to 150??  In addition, the window unit will use far less electricity?? cheers bob

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mts   What exactly is it that you do,  that creates such a godawful racket?                                              Don

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I might add that Slab City isn’t really free when you consider the costs of dumping, hauling water, etc.  Overall, Quartzsite is less expensive if you stay all winter and is better suited to your grinding/banging lifestyle. We’ll be paying dump/fill costs wherever we are I think.  The LTVA’s charge a fee that covers it as I recall.

Yes.  However, if you stay the full period you’ve paid for, the daily cost is very low with unlimited use of water and dump facilities. Why would Quartzite be more suitable than Imperial Dam?  More places where you can get out of earshot?

Yes. I haven’t been to any of the camping areas in western AZ yet, but expect to shift our winter headquarters in the next few days.

Your choice. Would an a/c be mandatory this time of year?  It’s been hotter’n blazes in Tucson except for the latest monsoon rain.

Quartzsite is lots lower and thus lots hotter. Jenny Before emailing, remove Clothes

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… I don’t recall any place there that you could set up far enough from others to not be a problem with your grinding and banging.  You might not get kicked out, but you’d certainly not be appreciated. That could depend on whether others are allowed to watch the grinding and banging. (Oh, wait — you must have meant — never mind. Sorry.) GB in NC

If you’re sorry for what you wrote, don’t hit the send button.  Since you did, you obviously aren’t. If you truly want to avoid nastiness in this newsgroup, you ought not be nasty yourself. Jenny Before emailing, remove Clothes

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It’s my understanding that temps cool down in the fall and winter, but it isn’t clear to me exactly when that begins.

Here’s data for Yuma.  Quartzsite is just a tad cooler. Click here: Weather Underground: Average High/Low Temperatures for KNYL http://www.wunderground.com/NORMS/DisplayNORMS.asp?AirportCode=KNYL&S… tyName=Quartzsite&StateCode=AZ&Units=none&IATA=NYL I’m in favor of going out and buying a rooftop a/c for our old Tioga mh, the wife is in favor of waiting to see how bad it is first.

What do you plan to power it with?  There ain’t no hookups in LTVAs. Not clear how far I’d have to drive to get to a place that sells one for retail instead of inflated middle-of-nowhere prices.

Prices in Quartzsite for RV equipment are very competitive from November thru March — and often big bargains if you pick some RV pro from Montana or Idaho who escapes to Quartzsite for the winter.  Stay away from those in fancy buildings.  Investigate those who have set up shop in a shack, a tent, or some parking lot. Slightly different topic, what about cellphone or wireless internet access in Quartzsite?  I have the sprintpcs wireless broadband card and their coverage map says Quartzsite *might* be covered but it said the same thing about Benson and there was no coverage at all there.

I answered that (as best I’m able) in your other thread. Jenny Before emailing, remove Clothes

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Understood.  It’s my understanding that temps cool down in the fall and winter, but it isn’t clear to me exactly when that begins.

Here is some climate info. http://www.wrcc.dri.edu/cgi-bin/cliMAIN.pl?azquar Maybe you could buy a cheapo WalMart window unit AC?  I saw some antelope hunters in Colorado last fall that had a $90 special to cool a little "doghouse" on a trailer they were using as a cooler for the antelope meat. LZ

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Kinda reminds me of the camping trip we took with Viola’s folks back in ‘65 <g.

You must have been a small child, right? <g We both pointed out birds on the other side of the road till we were past the si(gh)t(e). Neither kid saw the action.

What? You may have deprived (depriven?) them of a valuable educational opportunity. Or maybe not. GB in NC

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snipped Or maybe not. GB in NC

Yep, as they were born in ‘58 and ‘61. It was an awesome sight and the trailer was a’rockin’. This was in early afternoon. It was not one of our better camping trips <g. The park rangers were not in control, just too many people. Folks had several units on some sites and the booze was a’flowin’. HD in NY

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snipped Or maybe not. GB in NC Yep, as they were born in ‘58 and ‘61. It was an awesome sight and the trailer was a’rockin’. This was in early afternoon. It was not one of our better camping trips <g. The park rangers were not in control, just too many people. Folks had several units on some sites and the booze was a’flowin’. HD in NY

Better not attend the PNWCO then… <weg BD

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I’m looking for a cheap warm place to winter.  There are lots of cheap places, but I tend to make noise grinding steel and banging on things. The info I found on the imperial dam ltva makes it sound like I might get kicked out of there for noise… the slabs sound pretty interesting but not necessarily safe.

In our experience, Slab City is safe enough.  We had no problems and wouldn’t hesitate going there again.  However, I don’t recall any place there that you could set up far enough from others to not be a problem with your grinding and banging.  You might not get kicked out, but you’d certainly not be appreciated. I might add that Slab City isn’t really free when you consider the costs of dumping, hauling water, etc.  Overall, Quartzsite is less expensive if you stay all winter and is better suited to your grinding/banging lifestyle. Jenny Before emailing, remove Clothes

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… I don’t recall any place there that you could set up far enough from others to not be a problem with your grinding and banging.  You might not get kicked out, but you’d certainly not be appreciated.

That could depend on whether others are allowed to watch the grinding and banging. (Oh, wait — you must have meant — never mind. Sorry.) GB in NC

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- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – … I don’t recall any place there that you could set up far enough from others to not be a problem with your grinding and banging.  You might not get kicked out, but you’d certainly not be appreciated. That could depend on whether others are allowed to watch the grinding and banging. (Oh, wait — you must have meant — never mind. Sorry.) GB in NC

Kinda reminds me of the camping trip we took with Viola’s folks back in ‘65 <g. After spending a few days ay a State park near Niagara Falls, we went south to Allegheny State Park. It happened to be a July 4th weekend and the campground was brim full. We spotted his Airstream and our tent so we sorta had a semi circle around a common campfire. Went for a walk with Dave, Julie and Grampa. There was a trailer that had a canvass fold down part in the back. As we walked along the park road Grampa and I both spotted the scene through the window of the camper. A guy had a gal on the bed and was going at it pretty good. We both pointed out birds on the other side of the road till we were past the si(gh)t(e). Neither kid saw the action. HD in NY

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Question:

Heck, for running just a laptop you can get a cute little Vector model that plugs directly into the 12v socket — no cords to deal with. They’re around $20-$22 at Wal-Mart, etc. (in the auto electronics department, usually found between sporting goods and auto parts). GB in NC Do you recall what wattage those are? I might just pick one up at that price for my pop-up as well.

150w surge, 75w for 5 minutes, 60w continuous. I thought it was a "Vector" brand, but apparently it’s Xantrex. I just found one at        http://www.DonRowe.com/inverters/xpower_75.html They want $30 for it, but they’re cheaper at W-M and other places — maybe even Northern. I can’t remember where I’ve seen them, but they’re commonly available at discount places. (That’s about the only place I shop. <g) GB in NC

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Hi, I’m the newest MH owner I know….:-) I just bought a used 1991 Airstream MH yesterday and have not used it yet. I’m getting a ride back to it on the weekend to pick it up from the former owner’s house. It doesn’t have an inverter nor solar panels. I was wondering if the cost of adding one or both of these options is very high. I’m mostly interested in running my laptop off of 120V at night and while I’m driving. Unfortunately the laptop DC supply is some odd value (like 18V or something like that) so I need to use AC to run it most of the time. I realize solar isn’t related to running the laptop but it seems to be a nice way to charge the batteries in the daytime. I still have the option of just plugging in a portable inverter and using it. Maybe that’ll do for the long term….just don’t know yet as I’ve just bought the RV and it’s my first.

<snip Thanks for any advice.

Dave – Take a look at this site for a good tutorial on 12-volt: http://bart.ccis.com/home/mnemeth/12volt/12volt.htm I too have problems with the voltage on my laptop.  The Sony is labeled 19.5v, so I run one of the inexpensive inverters.  The laptop is old enough it is not worth the cost of a car adapter.

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GB I don’t even use my inverter for the laptop. I have the 12v car plug and just plug it in the TV jack.

Only problem is that most laptop 12v cords cost a heck of a lot more than a low-end inverter. And the inverter can be used for other things, while the computer cord can’t. But whatever works… GB in NC

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GB  what can I say I pay wholesale on pc parts and stuff .

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – GB I don’t even use my inverter for the laptop. I have the 12v car plug and just plug it in the TV jack. Only problem is that most laptop 12v cords cost a heck of a lot more than a low-end inverter. And the inverter can be used for other things, while the computer cord can’t. But whatever works… GB in NC

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GB I don’t even use my inverter for the laptop. I have the 12v car plug and just plug it in the TV jack. Only problem is that most laptop 12v cords cost a heck of a lot more than a low-end inverter. And the inverter can be used for other things, while the computer cord can’t. GB in NC GB  what can I say I pay wholesale on pc parts and stuff .

Okay. Lucky you. <g I really meant my comment as a caution that most people would pay more for a 12v laptop cord (with only one use) than for a small inverter (with many potential uses). GB in NC

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In most cases the inverters sold today are O’k for use with laptop, tvs, and other small items.  However some are not suitable since they do not have a sinewave output and may damage electronic equiptment.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’m mostly interested in running my laptop off of 120V at night and while I’m driving. I bought an inexpensive 350 watt inverter for just that purpose. You can get them anywhere from $35 to $65. Heck, for running just a laptop you can get a cute little Vector model that plugs directly into the 12v socket — no cords to deal with. They’re around $20-$22 at Wal-Mart, etc. (in the auto electronics department, usually found between sporting goods and auto parts). If I didn’t already have two other inverters I’d probably buy one. GB in NC

GB I don’t even use my inverter for the laptop.  I have the 12v car plug and just plug it in the TV jack. I also have a cell phone cable that charges my cell off the USB port. Dave

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Heck, for running just a laptop you can get a cute little Vector model that plugs directly into the 12v socket — no cords to deal with. They’re around $20-$22 at Wal-Mart, etc. (in the auto electronics department, usually found between sporting goods and auto parts). If I didn’t already have two other inverters I’d probably buy one. GB in NC

Do you recall what wattage those are? I might just pick one up at that price for my pop-up as well. Tom

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Anne that’s what I want to do,is add a panel just to keep the batteries topped off. http://www.rvsolarelectric.com/

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – You will get all sorts of answers reguarding addition of solar panels, depending on what you think your needs are and where you live.  I have two panels, live and the southwest (lots of sunshine). For me they are the only way to go. Actually I have 3, one small one keeps the engine battery charged up just fine. Do some net reading on solar, and then decide.  For my RV the hardest part of the job was feeding the wires from the panels to the controller  and to the storage batteries. If you decide to test thw waters with just one panel, make sure the installer feeds wires through for another panel at that time. Remember that you will not have battery power enough to run an air conditioner.  But I run my laptop, stereo, lights, furnace and an evaporative cooler just fine. Hi, I’m the newest MH owner I know….:-) I just bought a used 1991 Airstream MH yesterday and have not used it yet. I’m getting a ride back to it on the weekend to pick it up from the former owner’s house. It doesn’t have an inverter nor solar panels. I was wondering if the cost of adding one or both of these options is very high. I’m mostly interested in running my laptop off of 120V at night and while I’m driving. Unfortunately the laptop DC supply is some odd value (like 18V or something like that) so I need to use AC to run it most of the time. I realize solar isn’t related to running the laptop but it seems to be a nice way to charge the batteries in the daytime. I still have the option of just plugging in a portable inverter and using it. Maybe that’ll do for the long term….just don’t know yet as I’ve just bought the RV and it’s my first. "Look out, there’s a new RV driver on the road with NO EXPERIENCE driving a 30 footer." Actually, the thought of new inexperienced RV drivers makes me nervous to think I was sharing the road with some of them. <g Need to get used to driving in the slow lane and letting cars pass and all that stuff… Thanks for any advice.

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I’m mostly interested in running my laptop off of 120V at night and while I’m driving.

I bought an inexpensive 350 watt inverter for just that purpose. You can get them anywhere from $35 to $65. I mounted it right next to (not in) the battery compartment. From one outlet I ran an extension cord through the cabinets behind everything, to a regular outlet under the seat by the table. Good place to run the laptop, charge cell phone, camera batteries etc. The wife plugs in a curling iron in the other outlet. (Inverter is in bathroom cabinet) The advantage to a small inverter is that you (she) can’t run energy hogs, thus depleting the battery. My fiver only has room for one battery, so the whole setup works for me. Tom

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I’m mostly interested in running my laptop off of 120V at night and while I’m driving. I bought an inexpensive 350 watt inverter for just that purpose. You can get them anywhere from $35 to $65.

Heck, for running just a laptop you can get a cute little Vector model that plugs directly into the 12v socket — no cords to deal with. They’re around $20-$22 at Wal-Mart, etc. (in the auto electronics department, usually found between sporting goods and auto parts). If I didn’t already have two other inverters I’d probably buy one. GB in NC

Response:

Hi, I’m the newest MH owner I know….:-) I just bought a used 1991 Airstream MH yesterday and have not used it yet. I’m getting a ride back to it on the weekend to pick it up from the former owner’s house. It doesn’t have an inverter nor solar panels. I was wondering if the cost of adding one or both of these options is very high. I’m mostly interested in running my laptop off of 120V at night and while I’m driving. Unfortunately the laptop DC supply is some odd value (like 18V or something like that) so I need to use AC to run it most of the time. I realize solar isn’t related to running the laptop but it seems to be a nice way to charge the batteries in the daytime. I still have the option of just plugging in a portable inverter and using it. Maybe that’ll do for the long term….just don’t know yet as I’ve just bought the RV and it’s my first. "Look out, there’s a new RV driver on the road with NO EXPERIENCE driving a 30 footer." Actually, the thought of new inexperienced RV drivers makes me nervous to think I was sharing the road with some of them. <g Need to get used to driving in the slow lane and letting cars pass and all that stuff… Thanks for any advice.

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You can add an 2000 watt inverter for about $200.00. Solor power costs to much to actually use it for anything. Like $600.00 for a 100 watt panel and that’s assuming you get 15 hours of sun a day and live on the equator.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I’m the newest MH owner I know….:-) I just bought a used 1991 Airstream MH yesterday and have not used it yet. I’m getting a ride back to it on the weekend to pick it up from the former owner’s house. It doesn’t have an inverter nor solar panels. I was wondering if the cost of adding one or both of these options is very high. I’m mostly interested in running my laptop off of 120V at night and while I’m driving. Unfortunately the laptop DC supply is some odd value (like 18V or something like that) so I need to use AC to run it most of the time. I realize solar isn’t related to running the laptop but it seems to be a nice way to charge the batteries in the daytime. I still have the option of just plugging in a portable inverter and using it. Maybe that’ll do for the long term….just don’t know yet as I’ve just bought the RV and it’s my first. "Look out, there’s a new RV driver on the road with NO EXPERIENCE driving a 30 footer." Actually, the thought of new inexperienced RV drivers makes me nervous to think I was sharing the road with some of them. <g Need to get used to driving in the slow lane and letting cars pass and all that stuff… Thanks for any advice.

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You will get all sorts of answers reguarding addition of solar panels, depending on what you think your needs are and where you live.  I have two panels, live and the southwest (lots of sunshine). For me they are the only way to go. Actually I have 3, one small one keeps the engine battery charged up just fine. Do some net reading on solar, and then decide.  For my RV the hardest part of the job was feeding the wires from the panels to the controller  and to the storage batteries. If you decide to test thw waters with just one panel, make sure the installer feeds wires through for another panel at that time. Remember that you will not have battery power enough to run an air conditioner.  But I run my laptop, stereo, lights, furnace and an evaporative cooler just fine.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I’m the newest MH owner I know….:-) I just bought a used 1991 Airstream MH yesterday and have not used it yet. I’m getting a ride back to it on the weekend to pick it up from the former owner’s house. It doesn’t have an inverter nor solar panels. I was wondering if the cost of adding one or both of these options is very high. I’m mostly interested in running my laptop off of 120V at night and while I’m driving. Unfortunately the laptop DC supply is some odd value (like 18V or something like that) so I need to use AC to run it most of the time. I realize solar isn’t related to running the laptop but it seems to be a nice way to charge the batteries in the daytime. I still have the option of just plugging in a portable inverter and using it. Maybe that’ll do for the long term….just don’t know yet as I’ve just bought the RV and it’s my first. "Look out, there’s a new RV driver on the road with NO EXPERIENCE driving a 30 footer." Actually, the thought of new inexperienced RV drivers makes me nervous to think I was sharing the road with some of them. <g Need to get used to driving in the slow lane and letting cars pass and all that stuff… Thanks for any advice.

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Question:

I guess if she never speaks to me again and prevents her SO from seeing me, it’s a steep  price to pay, but I’m tired of listening to bullshit. I have several relatives who drank themselves to death because nobody ever said "Yeah, you’re gonna cut back someday. How bout you start today?"

You do know you can’t change her, right?  You can only change the way you react to her.   Sorry if you think it’s the wrong decision, but I’m sure I will find a tactful way to do this. Maybe I’ll tell her *I* need OA and will she go with me. I’m sneaky, I can do this right.

Your choice.  Just remember that no good deed goes unpunished. Myra Please direct e-mail to myra [at] primenet [dot] com

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I don’t think you should say anything.  I am sure it is annoying but it is her diet and her body.  Try and stay on target yourself and don’t worry about what she is doing or not doing.  You are probably right on the money about an eating disorder or addiction.  I am sure OA could help her but again, that is her decision.  Sally * Sent from RemarQ http://www.remarq.com The Internet’s Discussion Network * The fastest and easiest way to search and participate in Usenet – Free!

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Okay, one more time for the record: this girl is obviously NOT happy being fat. She talks about how she’s on a low carb diet ALL THE TIME.

Why are you suddenly responsible for her happiness?  Her life is her own, not yours, and you have no right, place, or business butting in.  Even if you were her own mother I would say the same.  You want to tell her something about her weight because you are pissed off about her talking about low carb eating as you are dieting, while she is eating foods you can’t enjoy.  You want to hurt her feelings, and make her feel like she has made you feel.  What if she were skinny?  Would you then feel the need to talk to her about her acne problem, her out-of-date hairdo, her smoking, her cholesterol consumption, her wrinkled clothes, or that she clumps up her mascara? You are a busybody, and you are butting in to someone else’s life because of your own feelings of inadequacy. If you are sick of her talking about low-carb eating, try responding to her when it happens, like "I’m sick of you talking about low-carb eating. It’s boring, and besides I’m following the plan myself and I already know what to do."  and get up and walk away.  Deal with her like an adult.  This B.S. of telling her about her weight problem is just passive-aggressive on your part. And by the way, trying to be sneaky and mentioning your own struggle with weight, or whatever "sneaky" way you have in mind of bringing up the weight loss topic, will not work.  All you will do is hurt her feelings and piss her off.  If you want to deal with the bad karma associated with this mean gesture, then by all means, have at it, but don’t be surprised down the road when your luck starts to turn. I can never understand people who try to "help" others with what they perceive to be as a weight problem.  It’s like going up to someone with a big nose and giving them a pamphlet for a nose job. emz – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – afterwards.  She gives herself ‘free days’ and ‘controlled one hour binges’ ALL the time…and STILL insists she’s low carb. NO, SHE IS NOT and she needs to either put up or shut up as far as I’m concerned. If she doesn’t want to take care of herself, fine, but I dont’ want another low carb lecture from someone who is sitting there munching taco chips and salsa.

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walked back from the matanza deblaterating, slumped into a chair and penned: Okay, one more time for the record: this girl is obviously NOT happy being fat. She talks about how she’s on a low carb diet ALL THE TIME.

I guess my question would be, why are you still listening? Constantly. Lectures me and anyone else who will listen on the evils on processed starches and refined sugars, and then proceeds to eat anything that isn’t metal or porcelain and ask "who wants to go get ice cream" afterwards.  She gives herself ‘free days’ and ‘controlled one hour binges’ ALL the time…and STILL insists she’s low carb. NO, SHE IS NOT and she needs to either put up or shut up as far as I’m concerned. If she doesn’t want to take care of herself, fine, but I dont’ want another low carb lecture from someone who is sitting there munching taco chips and salsa.

If it bothers you THAT MUCH, then do tell her to shut the f*ck up! Is there some unwritten rule that says you have to spend time with her? If not…get away from her if it bothers you that much! YOU are not going to change her, but if she is affecting YOU negatively, then YOU need to take care of it. I *know* she is unhappy with her body, because I have suggested going dancing, or out to different places and she always says that she wants to postpone such outings until she is skinny again.

Okay, so she’s not happy…that still doesn’t mean she wants your help and may react very negatively when you talk to her.  But as I said, if it’s causing you great stress, then do talk to her.  Otherwise let her prattle on and ignore her.   I guess if she never speaks to me again and prevents her SO from seeing me, it’s a steep  price to pay, but I’m tired of listening to bullshit. I have several relatives who drank themselves to death because nobody ever said "Yeah, you’re gonna cut back someday. How bout you start today?"

Co-dependent behavior is notorious among addicts of every kind.  I once (and only once) brought up someone’s drinking problem to them and got a black eye and a concussion as a thank you.  I do believe alcoholism is a disease but I also believe in personal responsibility. I refuse to be ‘the cause’ of someone else’s drinking problem and/or death simply because I didn’t speak up. Sorry if you think it’s the wrong decision, but I’m sure I will find a tactful way to do this. Maybe I’ll tell her *I* need OA and will she go with me. I’m sneaky, I can do this right. –E 190/182/140 1/3/00

I personally believe in the straightforward approach.  It always works out better for me, whatever the situation. If you feel you must talk to her, then do it and don’t pussyfoot around by "pretending" you’re the sick one! That’s just plain silly.  IMO, of course. YMMV. Cheryl ~~~Some people walk in the rain, others just get wet.~~~              (Roger Miller)

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Got to say I agree completely.  When I was in my "happy being fat" period….where I would still be if not for the diabetes…if someone suggested this or that diet or workout program to me, however well-meaning they might be, however gently they tried to do it, it just totally pissed me off.  How presumptuous!!

(snipped commentary) Okay, one more time for the record: this girl is obviously NOT happy being fat. She talks about how she’s on a low carb diet ALL THE TIME. Constantly. Lectures me and anyone else who will listen on the evils on processed starches and refined sugars, and then proceeds to eat anything that isn’t metal or porcelain and ask "who wants to go get ice cream" afterwards.  She gives herself ‘free days’ and ‘controlled one hour binges’ ALL the time…and STILL insists she’s low carb. NO, SHE IS NOT and she needs to either put up or shut up as far as I’m concerned. If she doesn’t want to take care of herself, fine, but I dont’ want another low carb lecture from someone who is sitting there munching taco chips and salsa. I *know* she is unhappy with her body, because I have suggested going dancing, or out to different places and she always says that she wants to postpone such outings until she is skinny again. I guess if she never speaks to me again and prevents her SO from seeing me, it’s a steep  price to pay, but I’m tired of listening to bullshit. I have several relatives who drank themselves to death because nobody ever said "Yeah, you’re gonna cut back someday. How bout you start today?" Sorry if you think it’s the wrong decision, but I’m sure I will find a tactful way to do this. Maybe I’ll tell her *I* need OA and will she go with me. I’m sneaky, I can do this right. –E 190/182/140 1/3/00

Response:

walked back from the matanza deblaterating, slumped into a chair and penned: – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –     As soon as you open your mouth, any chance of becoming friends with this person will be out the window IMO.  I sure hope you rethink having to do something about "her problem".  All you will do is piss her off.  There are "well meaning" acquaintances I have not spoken with for decades because they took it upon themselves to try and do what you plan on doing when changing was the last thing on my agenda.     Losing weight, getting healthy, and fitting into smaller clothes, and MYOB is the best thing you could do.  IF she gets tired of being sick and tired she will do what she needs to do to make changes in her life.  Until she decides to act no one and no thing is going to change her mind.  If you persist in opening your mouth.  Be sure you are the driver or make sure you have cab fare, because I would walk away and leave you standing right where you dared invade my privacy with such an intrusive question (if I didn’t deck you)  Good luck. Lee Rodgers

Got to say I agree completely.  When I was in my "happy being fat" period….where I would still be if not for the diabetes…if someone suggested this or that diet or workout program to me, however well-meaning they might be, however gently they tried to do it, it just totally pissed me off.  How presumptuous!! I had a couple of co-workers about 10 years ago… (trim and fit, of course) who, whenever they were around me, would start talking among themselves about their workout program, or the lettuce and carrots they’d had for lunch, or how they’d gained 5 lbs over the holidays and were going on a strict diet, etc.  I’m sure they felt sorry for poor, fat ol’ me…yet I was perfectly content with my body and living a full, happy life at that time while they were both going through a rash of physical and emotional problems.  Why is it that people always assume we need their help? Cheryl ~~~Take the clouds from your eyes and see me           as I really am.~~~  (Don Quixote)

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     As soon as you open your mouth, any chance of becoming friends with this person will be out the window IMO.  I sure hope you rethink having to do something about "her problem".  All you will do is piss her off.  There are "well meaning" acquaintances I have not spoken with for decades because they took it upon themselves to try and do what you plan on doing when changing was the last thing on my agenda.      Losing weight, getting healthy, and fitting into smaller clothes, and MYOB is the best thing you could do.  IF she gets tired of being sick and tired she will do what she needs to do to make changes in her life.  Until she decides to act no one and no thing is going to change her mind.  If you persist in opening your mouth.  Be sure you are the driver or make sure you have cab fare, because I would walk away and leave you standing right where you dared invade my privacy with such an intrusive question (if I didn’t deck you)  Good luck. Lee Rodgers – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Thanks for the comments, pro and con. I am not at all comfortable with suggesting OA for this person. Like I said, I don’t feel that we’re very close, and it will probably kill whatever chances I have of being her friend instead of being tolerated beause I am her SO’s relative. But…I can’t just watch her sit there and spout the gospel according to ATkins while wolfing down ice cream, chips, etc (it’s not just altruism, I’ll admit. Hypocracy annoys me.), and telling me how she likes to go to various restaurants alone, order tons of stuff and then instruct the waitstaff to leave her alone. There is something *wrong*, aside from the health problem of being overweight, there is something there that needs counseling and support. We have tentative plans to get together tomorrow and do some shopping. I am going to try to suggest it tactfully, one on one, as was suggested. I will probably ask her, too, if she’s been tested or diagnosed with any kind of food allergies….wish me luck. –E 190/182/140 1/3/00                              /"/              

LOSE weight for LOOSE jeans.  LOSERS have LOOSER jeans. "I have to say, if your mind weren’t so narrow, your waist would be." Dr. A Read the FAQ jack   http://www.grossweb.com/asdlc The Lowcarb Retreat http://www.lowcarb.org Lowcarb Cookbooks   http://members.tripod.com/Dietman2/cook_bks.html

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Thanks for the comments, pro and con. I am not at all comfortable with suggesting OA for this person. Like I said, I don’t feel that we’re very close, and it will probably kill whatever chances I have of being her friend instead of being tolerated beause I am her SO’s relative. But…I can’t just watch her sit there and spout the gospel according to ATkins while wolfing down ice cream, chips, etc (it’s not just altruism, I’ll admit. Hypocracy annoys me.), and telling me how she likes to go to various restaurants alone, order tons of stuff and then instruct the waitstaff to leave her alone. There is something *wrong*, aside from the health problem of being overweight, there is something there that needs counseling and support. We have tentative plans to get together tomorrow and do some shopping. I am going to try to suggest it tactfully, one on one, as was suggested. I will probably ask her, too, if she’s been tested or diagnosed with any kind of food allergies….wish me luck. –E 190/182/140 1/3/00                               /"/              

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And I in turn disagree with you.  As a member of OA you should know that a persons program is their own program.   If someone were to tell me I had a problem with food I’d be mad.  I know I have a problem with food.   I know I don’t always LC the way I should, but I’m better than I was last year.  And next year I’ll be better than I am now.  I’ve tried WW, atkins, cabbage soup, 3day diets, 4 day diets, you name it I’ve probably been on it.  Does anyone else understand EXACTLY  who I am and what I’ve been through?  No, No one knows be but me.  No one has I right to tell me how to live my life.  This persons friend is trying, even if not perfectly.  Who here said they were perfect?  And who has a right to tell her to change. If I were a friend I would tell her what I’ve been doing and how it’s working and leave it at that.  If she wants some accountability that’s one thing. Some people just need to "hit bottom".  They know what’s right and whats available. And I think things happen at the right time, sobriety, weight loss, whatever. — Christa K Atkins since Aug 99 260/232/220 next mini goal,  (Goal 2000 is #180) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -Though I am not a member of Overeaters Anonymous, I am a member of AA(2+ yrs) and I disagree with ‘Christa K’s commentary(respect it, but disagree). It is my belief that someone should ‘mention’ OA to her.  NOT to bring it up at a family gathering, but privately, one and one.  Very discrete. I was involved with a lot of issues when several people asked me whether I thought I had a problem with liquor.  I did(chose not to) nothing about it for years. Then, all at once, one day I decided that ‘enough was enough’.  I started going to AA.  Should’ve listened to my friends who mentioned it to me years earlier! It is up to this person if they wish to attend or not.  I believe that assisting as a friend or relative, then STICKING by HER through it, is a great thing.  So many times you hear people saying, "I knew she was this or that…" then are standing at a casket saying that!  Life is too short for regrets.  Especially regrets that cause death(as in AA or OA). If you go about it the right way, no harm done.  I believe that you would be remiss if you failed to mention anything to her. Good luck. No easy task confronting someone an anything. Tim H

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Though I am not a member of Overeaters Anonymous, I am a member of AA(2+ yrs) and I disagree with ‘Christa K’s commentary(respect it, but disagree). It is my belief that someone should ‘mention’ OA to her.  NOT to bring it up at a family gathering, but privately, one and one.  Very discrete. I was involved with a lot of issues when several people asked me whether I thought I had a problem with liquor.  I did(chose not to) nothing about it for years. Then, all at once, one day I decided that ‘enough was enough’.  I started going to AA.  Should’ve listened to my friends who mentioned it to me years earlier! It is up to this person if they wish to attend or not.  I believe that assisting as a friend or relative, then STICKING by HER through it, is a great thing.  So many times you hear people saying, "I knew she was this or that…" then are standing at a casket saying that!  Life is too short for regrets.  Especially regrets that cause death(as in AA or OA). If you go about it the right way, no harm done.  I believe that you would be remiss if you failed to mention anything to her. Good luck. No easy task confronting someone an anything. Tim H

Response:

*sigh* Okay, here’s a toughie: I have a relative (marriage, not blood) who did the low-carb diet for several months, apparently quite faithfully, as she lost a lot of weight. As she got closer to her target, she started doing all these ‘controlled one hour binges’ and ‘free days’ and whatnot, and is now back to square 1, or pretty close to it.

I have spent a good deal of time around addicts.  It is amazing how much they can deceive themselves.  Cracking the armor of denial is very difficult.  Eating the way your relative does is not consistent with low carb, but it is typical of addiction. Dealing with her problem will very difficult for you.  You can’t cure her problem.  Addiction problems have to be cured from the inside out. Taking her by the ears and telling her loudly and slowly that she has a problem and is fooling herself is a very natural thing to want to do. I know from experience, having viewed problems like this from both sides, that the only thing those actions will do is make the person angry and defensive. Go to a few OA meetings until you meet someone who seems to know about this type of problem.  Ask her (not him) for advice and get her phone number if she’s willing to give it.  When you talk to your relative again, wait for an opening – such as comparing how much you both have lost or how fast the loss was or how much loss she averaged per month – to see if she realizes she needs help.  If she evades the point or changes the subject, there is basically nothing you can do. If she realizes the need for help, see if you can bring in your OA guru or get your relative to attend a few meetings. My experience in dealing with addiction is that you have about a 1 in 20 chance of doing any good.  If this bothers you that you can’t help, attend a few AlAnon meetings and try to learn how to detach with love. A friend’s son got lost in alcohol and drugs a few years ago.  All she could do was detach and wait until he realized he was in trouble and wanted to change. This is a very hard lesson to learn.  I still don’t do it very well, but God and I work on it. Good luck. Before you buy.

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My aunt did OA for a while and I went to 1 meeting with her… they were telling people to go cold turkey on 1 "craving" food at a time which seemed silly as an addict could simply replace one trigger food with another.  I never saw any attitude or health change in my aunt while she was attending meetings so I don’t know if I would reccomend it to another person. My instinct is that this person you talk about doesn’t _want_ to lose weight or get healthy and is afraid of some success.  I would guess that she will have a major health crisis before she changes her ways so talking to her is probably pointless.  If she does have a crisis she will most likely blame LC for the problem because she seems delusional and is thinking that she is still being a LC eater. — Maguire’s Universal Signature: For use in newsgroups and other online situations… If part of this is applicable to you, you’ll recognize it. Or maybe not. AIM and MSN ID’s:  Maguire708 ICQ #: 54035938 IWG #: 708             RenGeek NSCCM: 91           Antioch: 95 ERMS Dx: 92         a11a87 Stone "troop leader" to YFWC 208/193 CAD        1/10/00 DANDR196/192/130 The trouble with life is, you’re halfway through it before you realize it’s a do-it-yourself thing

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Actually it could be related to some medical condition she might have but is not aware of.  A low-carber shouldn’t be eating THAT much. KoRn Before you buy.

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She knows she is NOT lowcarbing.  The free days and the one hour binge come from misguided and misunderstood mixing and matching of various diet plans.  Her clothes and her scale are a reality check.  When she is tired of being sick and tired, she’ll go back to LC properly or she’ll choose to stay fat.  Her choice, not yours. I’ve never seen an "intervention" do more than alienate families and friends while making the interveners feel like they have "done" something.  MYOB Of course she has an eating disorder.  But making her feel lie crap won’t help her one bit.  Now if you join OA and become an active member, you could invite her to come with you to meetings.   Lee Rodgers Owner Atkins-New mailing list LOSE weight for LOOSE jeans.  LOSERS have LOOSER jeans. "I have to say, if your mind weren’t so narrow, your waist would be." Dr. A Read the FAQ jack   http://www.grossweb.com/asdlc The Lowcarb Retreat http://www.lowcarb.org Lowcarb Cookbooks   http://members.tripod.com/Dietman2/cook_bks.html

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I don’t think you have any right to give her a reality check.  She knows if she’s kidding herself.  Being overweight is painful enought without you butting in and telling her about it. — Christa K Atkins since Aug 99 260/232/220 next mini goal,  (Goal 2000 is #180) – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – *sigh* Okay, here’s a toughie: I have a relative (marriage, not blood) who did the low-carb diet for several months, apparently quite faithfully, as she lost a lot of weight. As she got closer to her target, she started doing all these ‘controlled one hour binges’ and ‘free days’ and whatnot, and is now back to square 1, or pretty close to it. I knew she was low carb, so when we’d have them over, I’d always make sure to cook lean meats and fresh lo-carb veggies, salads, no pasta or bread, no desserts. Fine. She eats as much or more than my 240 lb, 6′3" man, and she is probably all of 5′2".  I *know* that low-carb is ‘eat all you want’ but don’t you think there’s something wrong with a petite little gal eating as much as a man twice her size and NOT being full? We occasionally go to restaurants where low-carb things can be ordered, but she’ll decide it’s time for a binge or a free day and go wild. Lately, after a meal at my home, she’ll suggest that we all go out for Amy’s Ice Cream (probably the densest, richest ice cream you’ll ever have)…and here I am trying to help her (and me) by keeping temptations like that out of my house. It’s really bugging me. She goes ON and ON about being low carb, and about how bad sugar is, and bla bla bla, she’s SO much healthier now…but I really think she has an eating disorder. She doesn’t seem to know when to stop. I’ve seen her eat everything on her plate, go for seconds, and then eat her husband’s food, too.  That doesn’t seem right to me, especially now that I’ve been low carb for a week and a half and have had very little appetite since about day 2. She and I are not very close. I think she tolerates me for the sake of the person we have in common, so I am having a really hard time with this.  I feel like *someone* needs to give her a reality check, tell her that it’s time to get counseling or try Overeaters Anonymous. I just don’t think her approach is healthy, and I don’t think she’s doing herself any favors by ‘binging’ and ‘free-day’-ing. Any suggestions on how I should intervene here, or should I just keep my mouth shut? Kind of a personal question, but is anyone on this ng in OA, and is it worth referring her to join? I want to help her, but I think the first level of help, like a drug intervention, is going to have to be a rude awakening to reality, and I am really not sure that our tenuous relationship will survive it. help? –E 190/187/140 1/3/00

http://www.freaks.net/eek – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text –                              /"/

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*sigh* Okay, here’s a toughie: I have a relative (marriage, not blood) who did the low-carb diet for several months, apparently quite faithfully, as she lost a lot of weight. As she got closer to her target, she started doing all these ‘controlled one hour binges’ and ‘free days’ and whatnot, and is now back to square 1, or pretty close to it. I knew she was low carb, so when we’d have them over, I’d always make sure to cook lean meats and fresh lo-carb veggies, salads, no pasta or bread, no desserts. Fine. She eats as much or more than my 240 lb, 6′3" man, and she is probably all of 5′2".  I *know* that low-carb is ‘eat all you want’ but don’t you think there’s something wrong with a petite little gal eating as much as a man twice her size and NOT being full? We occasionally go to restaurants where low-carb things can be ordered, but she’ll decide it’s time for a binge or a free day and go wild. Lately, after a meal at my home, she’ll suggest that we all go out for Amy’s Ice Cream (probably the densest, richest ice cream you’ll ever have)…and here I am trying to help her (and me) by keeping temptations like that out of my house. It’s really bugging me. She goes ON and ON about being low carb, and about how bad sugar is, and bla bla bla, she’s SO much healthier now…but I really think she has an eating disorder. She doesn’t seem to know when to stop. I’ve seen her eat everything on her plate, go for seconds, and then eat her husband’s food, too.  That doesn’t seem right to me, especially now that I’ve been low carb for a week and a half and have had very little appetite since about day 2. She and I are not very close. I think she tolerates me for the sake of the person we have in common, so I am having a really hard time with this.  I feel like *someone* needs to give her a reality check, tell her that it’s time to get counseling or try Overeaters Anonymous. I just don’t think her approach is healthy, and I don’t think she’s doing herself any favors by ‘binging’ and ‘free-day’-ing. Any suggestions on how I should intervene here, or should I just keep my mouth shut?   Kind of a personal question, but is anyone on this ng in OA, and is it worth referring her to join? I want to help her, but I think the first level of help, like a drug intervention, is going to have to be a rude awakening to reality, and I am really not sure that our tenuous relationship will survive it. help? –E 190/187/140 1/3/00                               /"/              

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Greetings all. I posted here a few times about a year ago, when I started Atkins.

Hi Eric, welcome back! Induction-low), or low-fat. I can exercise in moderation, especially once the summer heat is over. (I’m kinda backwards and sorta hibernate and put on weight in summer, huddled in front of the a/c like a slug.)

I can relate on the heat issue — I overheat in nothing flat!  I’ve developed a routine for exercising, though, that works for me.  I have a portable air-conditioner which I hook up to the window for exhaust.   Then I douse my bra in cold water (probably not an issue in your case Then I soak my hair and towel-dry.  Then I get a spray bottle of water out of the fridge.  If it’s over 76 degrees, I get an ice pack out of the freezer.  I get 2 25 oz bottles of water out of the fridge.  I put an 18" fan in front of the air-conditioner and point it up toward where my face will be on the exercise bike.  I have another fan that blows from behind and to the side at my head.  THEN I get on the bike and start pedaling, occasionally spraying my face and bod with the cold water, drinking whenever I get the urge and, if I get really hot, I hold the ice pack to my face, neck or chest.  Ridiculous lengths, to be sure, but it works for ME — I wouldn’t be able to keep to a regular exercise schedule without it.  I’m looking forward to fall & winter!  When I’m done with the bike, I pull the Ab-Doer in front of the A/C and do my exercises on that.  When I’m done with that, I pull the Total Body Trainer in front of the A/C and do exercises on THAT.  After the biking, I don’t need the 2 fans and usually don’t need the spray bottle or ice pack for the toning exercises unless it’s REALLY hot.  The bottom line is that I can do aerobic and toning exercises without overheating (much) or having to get down on the floor — it just takes some planning (and a list).   — Saffire 206/192/125 Atkins since 6/14/03 Progress photo:  http://photos.yahoo.com/saffire333

Response:

Greetings all. I posted here a few times about a year ago, when I started Atkins. I’m going back to low-carb on Tuesday, 9/2/03. Not completely pure Atkins; that did not agree with my system, to put it mildly. (I think it was just too much fat.) So I expect to lurk here for awhile, and possibly post some more. Seems like a sincere group. My question is: has anyone here combined low-carb with going to Overeaters Anonymous? I’ve never been to an OA meeting, but I’m giving it serious thought.

It is funny you posted this because earlier this evening while watching a biography on A&E I saw a commercial for OA and gave it some mild thought..then decided against it as I am not a *group* type person.  Never was…even in highschool. My biggest problem with food and my weight is simply that I _really_ like to eat. I can stick to low-carb, (though maybe not Atkins Induction-low), or low-fat. I can exercise in moderation, especially once the summer heat is over. (I’m kinda backwards and sorta hibernate and put on weight in summer, huddled in front of the a/c like a slug.)

You sound just like me.  I hate the summer humidity and it makes me feel like a slug.  I do not want to do *anything* in summer and I have noticed my energy levels get higher as the cooler weather comes. I can abstain from candy, desserts, beer, wine, bread, whatever.

Same here. Even potatoes hold no interest for me anymore. I can take it all and leave it now. But I really ‘really’ like to eat. Of course I’ll sometimes eat more if under stress or if depressed, etc. But even when healthy happy and swimming in joy, when hiking in the glorious fall climate here in the Poconos or supporting the electric company slumped in front of the a/c in mid-summer misery, I simply eat too much food. I have to literally write down everything I eat for it to sink in sometimes; and of course that depressed me to no end…. So I’m thinking OA might be something to try. I’m a little worried that I’ll be the only man there, or the only one who is not morbidly obese, or that it will be a truly extreme P.C. feel-good cryfest. Still I’m thinking of going. Does their program fit in with low-carb, or is that immaterial? Is it completely crazy for me to try to start low-carb and OA at the same time?

What about tracking your food into Fitday for a while and seeing exactly how many calories you consume daily.  Also have you thought about even going for something as simple as a 30 minute walk daily.  They do help. Ms.Jaime ‘If at first you don’t succeed, piss on it and go on to something else. Life is too short to waste your time.’

Response:

Greetings all. I posted here a few times about a year ago, when I started Atkins. I’m going back to low-carb on Tuesday, 9/2/03. Not completely pure Atkins; that did not agree with my system, to put it mildly. (I think it was just too much fat.) So I expect to lurk here for awhile, and possibly post some more. Seems like a sincere group. My question is: has anyone here combined low-carb with going to Overeaters Anonymous? I’ve never been to an OA meeting, but I’m giving it serious thought. My biggest problem with food and my weight is simply that I _really_ like to eat. I can stick to low-carb, (though maybe not Atkins Induction-low), or low-fat. I can exercise in moderation, especially once the summer heat is over. (I’m kinda backwards and sorta hibernate and put on weight in summer, huddled in front of the a/c like a slug.) I can abstain from candy, desserts, beer, wine, bread, whatever. But I really ‘really’ like to eat. Of course I’ll sometimes eat more if under stress or if depressed, etc. But even when healthy happy and swimming in joy, when hiking in the glorious fall climate here in the Poconos or supporting the electric company slumped in front of the a/c in mid-summer misery, I simply eat too much food. I have to literally write down everything I eat for it to sink in sometimes; and of course that depressed me to no end…. So I’m thinking OA might be something to try. I’m a little worried that I’ll be the only man there, or the only one who is not morbidly obese, or that it will be a truly extreme P.C. feel-good cryfest. Still I’m thinking of going. Does their program fit in with low-carb, or is that immaterial? Is it completely crazy for me to try to start low-carb and OA at the same time? Any advice greatly appreciated. Thanks. Cheers, Eric M WM, 39, 6′2", 260ish/215 (first goal)

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greetings all. I posted here a few times about a year ago, when I started Atkins. I’m going back to low-carb on Tuesday, 9/2/03. Not completely pure Atkins; that did not agree with my system, to put it mildly. (I think it was just too much fat.) So I expect to lurk here for awhile, and possibly post some more. Seems like a sincere group. My question is: has anyone here combined low-carb with going to Overeaters Anonymous? I’ve never been to an OA meeting, but I’m giving it serious thought. My biggest problem with food and my weight is simply that I _really_ like to eat. I can stick to low-carb, (though maybe not Atkins Induction-low), or low-fat. I can exercise in moderation, especially once the summer heat is over. (I’m kinda backwards and sorta hibernate and put on weight in summer, huddled in front of the a/c like a slug.) I can abstain from candy, desserts, beer, wine, bread, whatever. But I really ‘really’ like to eat. Of course I’ll sometimes eat more if under stress or if depressed, etc. But even when healthy happy and swimming in joy, when hiking in the glorious fall climate here in the Poconos or supporting the electric company slumped in front of the a/c in mid-summer misery, I simply eat too much food. I have to literally write down everything I eat for it to sink in sometimes; and of course that depressed me to no end…. So I’m thinking OA might be something to try. I’m a little worried that I’ll be the only man there, or the only one who is not morbidly obese, or that it will be a truly extreme P.C. feel-good cryfest. Still I’m thinking of going. Does their program fit in with low-carb, or is that immaterial? Is it completely crazy for me to try to start low-carb and OA at the same time?

Tried one OA meeting.  All women, and none of them very fat.  They all spoke in code as far as I was concerned.  I’m not one that likes to share, so it wasn’t a very good experience for me. I haven’t gone back yet, but I’m told that other meetings might be different.  It took a lot for me to go to that meeting, and it will take more to get me to another. FWIW, they did want to help, I just didn’t "click" with that group.  Maybe another would be different. Try it, maybe you’ll get "lucky." Chuck Demas —   Eat Healthy        |   _ _   | Nothing would be done at all,   Die Anyway         |    v    | That no one could find fault with it.

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There is no "diet" with OA.  OA is based on the principals of Alcholics Anonymous, and is generally for those who believe they have a problem with food that is disrupting their lives.  This problem is generally eating too much, although many memebers have toyed with anorexia and bulemia. If you are looking for a support group, you may be better off with Weight Watchers, especially as you seem to have control over your food.  OA might be too heavy duty for you, and you may not be welcome at some meetings.  People take these issues very seriously. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text -I am not an OA attendee, but my friends who are say its "no white flour" and no sugar. I find the no white flour rule very helpful and simple to follow, fitting in nicely with Atkins. Victoria from beautiful El Granada

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – There is no "diet" with OA.  OA is based on the principals of Alcholics Anonymous, and is generally for those who believe they have a problem with food that is disrupting their lives.  This problem is generally eating too much, although many memebers have toyed with anorexia and bulemia. If you are looking for a support group, you may be better off with Weight Watchers, especially as you seem to have control over your food.  OA might be too heavy duty for you, and you may not be welcome at some meetings.  People take these issues very seriously. I am not an OA attendee, but my friends who are say its "no white flour" and no sugar. I find the no white flour rule very helpful and simple to follow, fitting in nicely with Atkins.

There are different flavors of OA. "Gray sheet" OA does have a list of allowed and forbidden foods.  White flour and sugar are big no-nos there.  Or at least that was true a dozen or so years ago when I knew folks who did OA. Priscilla — The Episcopal Church welcomes you… and you… and you….

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Even up in the frozen north on the tundra? That’s a scary thought.

I wouldn’t actually compare Hamilton Ontario to the frozen tundra but it does get awfully ‘nipply’ up here sometimes.  :-) September is here; that’s always a good sign that the worst of the bluckiness (that’s a technical scientific term) is passed. We can still have some brutal days, but at least the nights will be bearable.

Duvet weather now here at night.  :-) I’ve been to southern Ontario to go fishing a few times, though that was many years ago. Big Lake Rideau, near Kingston. Very nice area, the people were great if just a bit on guard, but it seemed to be awfully expensive to live there.

Nowadays it is expensive to live anywhere. Then again, you can sip that fine imported beer Michelob Ultra….

I don’t drink so you can have mine.  :-) Ms.Jaime ‘If at first you don’t succeed, piss on it and go on to something else. Life is too short to waste your time.’

Response:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Greetings all. I posted here a few times about a year ago, when I started Atkins. I’m going back to low-carb on Tuesday, 9/2/03. Not completely pure Atkins; that did not agree with my system, to put it mildly. (I think it was just too much fat.) So I expect to lurk here for awhile, and possibly post some more. Seems like a sincere group. My question is: has anyone here combined low-carb with going to Overeaters Anonymous? I’ve never been to an OA meeting, but I’m giving it serious thought. It is funny you posted this because earlier this evening while watching a biography on A&E I saw a commercial for OA and gave it some mild thought..then decided against it as I am not a *group* type person.  Never was…even in highschool. My biggest problem with food and my weight is simply that I _really_ like to eat. I can stick to low-carb, (though maybe not Atkins Induction-low), or low-fat. I can exercise in moderation, especially once the summer heat is over. (I’m kinda backwards and sorta hibernate and put on weight in summer, huddled in front of the a/c like a slug.) You sound just like me.  I hate the summer humidity and it makes me feel like a slug.  I do not want to do *anything* in summer and I have noticed my energy levels get higher as the cooler weather comes.

Even up in the frozen north on the tundra? That’s a scary thought. September is here; that’s always a good sign that the worst of the bluckiness (that’s a technical scientific term) is passed. We can still have some brutal days, but at least the nights will be bearable. I’ve been to southern Ontario to go fishing a few times, though that was many years ago. Big Lake Rideau, near Kingston. Very nice area, the people were great if just a bit on guard, but it seemed to be awfully expensive to live there. Then again, you can sip that fine imported beer Michelob Ultra…. Cheers, Eric M

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I am not an OA attendee, but my friends who are say its "no white flour" and no sugar. I find the no white flour rule very helpful and simple to follow, fitting in nicely with Atkins. Victoria from beautiful El Granada

Response:

Greetings all. I posted here a few times about a year ago, when I started Atkins. Hi Eric, welcome back!

Thank you. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I can relate on the heat issue — I overheat in nothing flat!  I’ve developed a routine for exercising, though, that works for me.  I have a portable air-conditioner which I hook up to the window for exhaust.   Then I douse my bra in cold water (probably not an issue in your case Then I soak my hair and towel-dry.  Then I get a spray bottle of water out of the fridge.  If it’s over 76 degrees, I get an ice pack out of the freezer.  I get 2 25 oz bottles of water out of the fridge.  I put an 18" fan in front of the air-conditioner and point it up toward where my face will be on the exercise bike.  I have another fan that blows from behind and to the side at my head.  THEN I get on the bike and start pedaling, occasionally spraying my face and bod with the cold water, drinking whenever I get the urge and, if I get really hot, I hold the ice pack to my face, neck or chest.  Ridiculous lengths, to be sure, but it works for ME — I wouldn’t be able to keep to a regular exercise schedule without it.  I’m looking forward to fall & winter!  When I’m done with the bike, I pull the Ab-Doer in front of the A/C and do my exercises on that.  When I’m done with that, I pull the Total Body Trainer in front of the A/C and do exercises on THAT.  After the biking, I don’t need the 2 fans and usually don’t need the spray bottle or ice pack for the toning exercises unless it’s REALLY hot.  The bottom line is that I can do aerobic and toning exercises without overheating (much) or having to get down on the floor — it just takes some planning (and a list).

Sounds like a good system. I plan to mainly go for lots of long brisk arm-swinging walks. It sure attracts some strange looks from the young buff folks driving a few blocks to pay big bucks to work out in an air-conditioned gym…. I peeked at your pics, Saffire. Looking good—keep it up! Thanks for the advice, Eric M

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My question is: has anyone here combined low-carb with going to Overeaters Anonymous? I’ve never been to an OA meeting, but I’m giving it serious thought.

So many variables depend on the individual meeting. And how big your local city is, which will make a difference in the number of meetings to choose from. In my area, in some of the meetings, there are almost as many men as women. And there are quite a few of both sexes who are "morbidly obese." You may also meet people who are bulimic or have multiple addictions and/or are thin. Nobody CARES what you look like. You will find meetings are usually *far* from being PC, but there IS often crying because emotions are involved…anger, frustration, fear..you name it. Part of the program is about "getting honest" with your feelings and dealings with other people. Low-carb is immaterial. There is no official OA "diet", though there are groups that follow an old program called the Grey Sheet. I urge you to check some of their online sites and see what they’re about before attending: This Google page will get you started: http://tinyurl.com/lviq One of the basics is belief in a "higher power" but that can be Mother Nature or the Tooth Fairy as far as they’re concerned. Nobody is going to force you to be religious. One serious positive about OA is that it gets you OUT of the house, INTO the public, and sharing your problems with others. Many fat people tend to hide not only their bodies, but their thoughts and feelings. I enjoyed attending meetings. I found security in numbers when we went out to eat (steakhouses, usually) and relief in knowing I wasn’t the only one who "thought that" and "felt that way." I especially am happy with the lifelong friends I met there. If you attend, remember this, which is one of their catch-phrases: "Take what you need, and leave the rest." Nobody is going to force you to do, say, eat, think, or believe anything you don’t want to. You can sit silently in the corner if you want. But be warned – many people will say hello to you and attempt to be friendly! Connie My mind is like a steel…um, whatchamacallit.

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Question:

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – … would be worth it to have the second fairly new one recharged? (It cost about $250) Thanks. Walmarts $97.00 + Sales Tax will fix it real fast.    Pot, kettle, black.  Moron.  I told him that about 24 hours ago.    Do you always just re-read other people’s posts and re-write what    they say???    I wish I didn’t feel sorry for you, then I would rip you a new    one.  But I sympathize with you, having been hit pretty hard in    the head myself once in life.  Skull fracture, the whole nine    yards. Being you’ve (admitted yourself) been hit in the head by    several falling trees, I can only get on your shit to a certain    point. !)   What in the hell are you talking about ? 2)   Are you worried about upsetting me ? 3)   Now to you thinking you might even have a chance of a snow ball in hell of kicking my behind. Tommy , My Boy, Hummmmmmmm LOL , You need to come on down and get you some. I will say this I will kick your ass so bad you will have to take your shirt off to take a piss. Don’t let your mouth over load your butt for you will get more that you bargain for. If you would like to put up or shut up. I would like to meet you anytime and anywhere and I will kick your ass so bad I will even make you like it. I just got to thinking about it. i think you should bring a couple of your buddys with you to make it a even match. One On One with me is no match. You need two or more other to even up the score and not have the fight uneven. You could bring 2 more buddys and your self against me would be about even. Don’t let your mouth over load your butt for you will get it kicked bad. Was I clear about this Peter Boy ? 4)   I feel sorry for you because you having no friends and have to get some one to talk to you over the internet in a Trolling way. Sorry you having these type problem. 5)   If you feel lucky Meet me to get your ass kicked. 6)   Do you have medical insurance if not I will only beat your face in. Don’t worry for i won’t break any of your bones just your face.    Woooo.  I’m scairt. —    TP This is Turtle. You better be. TURTLE

Turtle– be careful.  Tommy is just wanting to get you down on the ground so he can fondle your balls.  Don’t let him!!!

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Hi J, hope you are having a nice day On 05-Aug-03 At About 05:11:50, J Kelly wrote to All  JK here.screamingelectron.net  JK How do they get the freon into a sealed system?  Seriously, I’ve  JK always wondered about that.. They put it in through a small process tube then crimp and braze it shut.  -= HvacTech2 <=- .. "Things don’t bug you if you don’t think about them." — Calvin             ___ TagDude 0.92

Question:

I don’t know about muscle building but you are burning calories and it is a GREAT start at an exercise program. I say keep up the good work girlfriend!!!! Tracey

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I KNOW I’m losing inches, but my weight seems to just sit like a slug. The only exercise I’m doing is about 20-30 minutes on my exercise bike about 4 times a week.  I try for every day, but with the current heatwave it’s pretty daunting, even with dousing my hair, dousing my bra, wearing only a bra and shorts, a portable air-conditioner pointed my way and a big fan in front of THAT pointed my way, lots of water and a wet towel to constantly refresh surface areas. Pathetic, but I just DO NOT handle heat well AT ALL.  I’m doing all that when it’s only 80 degrees, so the current 100 degrees is like a oven and I’m simply being steamed.  I have to keep reminding myself that my son is in Iraq where it was 122 degrees the other day and HE has to wear a uniform all the time. Of course, that doesn’t change the fact that my body just overheats VERY quickly. But I digress.  My question is:  How much muscle could I really be putting on with only 20 minutes every day or two on an exercise bike?  Other than that, I’m quite sedentary.  Would it be enough to make much of a difference on a scale? — Saffire 201/191/125 90/86/56 Atkins since 6/14/03

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You will not add muscle mass at the beginning.  Even later you would have to do more exercise to add muscle mass. If your weight has stalled then I would suggest a different eating pattern for a few days.  You could be still losing a little. Make sure you drink plenty of water because in the heat the body will hold every drop. Maybe a day or 2 of meat and salad would do the trick. Take out any frills and see what happens.  I do not know your eating pattern now so you may be already eating very basic and very low carb. It better to exercise a little in the heat.  The main thing people do not understand is that it DOESNT matter how much water you drink right before,during, or after but you need to maintain more water in your system thru the exercising and periods between. Athletes will start drinking alot of water a week or more before a big game or they try to maintain the high level thru-out the season. This way your body does not panic. good luck and your already 10 pounds lighter. good luck to your son as well–there are people out here who support and appreciate the guys over there frank

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I KNOW I’m losing inches, but my weight seems to just sit like a slug. The only exercise I’m doing is about 20-30 minutes on my exercise bike about 4 times a week.  I try for every day, but with the current heatwave it’s pretty daunting, even with dousing my hair, dousing my bra, wearing only a bra and shorts, a portable air-conditioner pointed my way and a big fan in front of THAT pointed my way, lots of water and a wet towel to constantly refresh surface areas. Pathetic, but I just DO NOT handle heat well AT ALL.  I’m doing all that when it’s only 80 degrees, so the current 100 degrees is like a oven and I’m simply being steamed.  I have to keep reminding myself that my son is in Iraq where it was 122 degrees the other day and HE has to wear a uniform all the time. Of course, that doesn’t change the fact that my body just overheats VERY quickly. But I digress.  My question is:  How much muscle could I really be putting on with only 20 minutes every day or two on an exercise bike?  Other than that, I’m quite sedentary.  Would it be enough to make much of a difference on a scale? — Saffire 201/191/125 90/86/56 Atkins since 6/14/03

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This doesn’t answer your question.  I don’t do heat well either.  What helps is keeping wet washclothes in the freezer and putting them on my neck. Yvonne – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I try for every day, but with the current heatwave it’s pretty daunting, even with dousing my hair, dousing my bra, wearing only a bra and shorts, a portable air-conditioner pointed my way and a big fan in front of THAT pointed my way, lots of water and a wet towel to constantly refresh surface areas.   Pathetic, but I just DO NOT handle heat well AT ALL.  I’m doing all that when it’s only 80 degrees, so the current 100 degrees is like a oven and I’m simply being steamed.  I have to keep reminding myself that my son is in Iraq where it was 122 degrees the other day and HE has to wear a uniform all the time.  Of course, that doesn’t change the fact that my body just overheats VERY quickly.  

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I KNOW I’m losing inches, but my weight seems to just sit like a slug.  The only exercise I’m doing is about 20-30 minutes on my exercise bike about 4 times a week.  I try for every day, but with the current heatwave it’s pretty daunting, even with dousing my hair, dousing my bra, wearing only a bra and shorts, a portable air-conditioner pointed my way and a big fan in front of THAT pointed my way, lots of water and a wet towel to constantly refresh surface areas.   Pathetic, but I just DO NOT handle heat well AT ALL.  I’m doing all that when it’s only 80 degrees, so the current 100 degrees is like a oven and I’m simply being steamed.  I have to keep reminding myself that my son is in Iraq where it was 122 degrees the other day and HE has to wear a uniform all the time.  Of course, that doesn’t change the fact that my body just overheats VERY quickly.   But I digress.  My question is:  How much muscle could I really be putting on with only 20 minutes every day or two on an exercise bike?  Other than that, I’m quite sedentary.  Would it be enough to make much of a difference on a scale?  

Little to none.  You might put a tiny bit early on due to going from no activity/resitance to creating some, but it would level off and not be all that much.   I would wonder if you’re not retaining water from the heat.  Or look at calorie intake. Cheers, Nina delicious! evil! calorie free! http://www.theslack.com

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:: I KNOW I’m losing inches, but my weight seems to just sit like a :: slug.  The only exercise I’m doing is about 20-30 minutes on my :: exercise bike about 4 times a week.  I try for every day, but with :: the current heatwave it’s pretty daunting, even with dousing my :: hair, dousing my bra, wearing only a bra and shorts, a portable :: air-conditioner pointed my way and a big fan in front of THAT :: pointed my way, lots of water and a wet towel to constantly refresh :: surface areas. Pathetic, but I just DO NOT handle heat well AT ALL. :: I’m doing all that when it’s only 80 degrees, so the current 100 :: degrees is like a oven and I’m simply being steamed.  I have to keep :: reminding myself that my son is in Iraq where it was 122 degrees the :: other day and HE has to wear a uniform all the time.  Of course, :: that doesn’t change the fact that my body just overheats VERY :: quickly. :: :: But I digress.  My question is:  How much muscle could I really be :: putting on with only 20 minutes every day or two on an exercise :: bike?  Other than that, I’m quite sedentary.  Would it be enough to :: make much of a difference on a scale? I doubt it….other than through weight loss….if you’ve been inactive, you *may* add a little muscle in your legs at the beginning, as your body responds to the new activity, but that would likely be offset by fat loss, too, assuming you’re controling diet.  And any muscle gain likely won’t keep going for long, and you didn’t say how long you’ve been riding.  Also, cardio tends you make you get smaller rather than bigger, since it is basically equivalent to eating less food.  Unless you are really pushing it to new levels, your muscles will adapt quickly to peddling….

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I KNOW I’m losing inches, but my weight seems to just sit like a slug.  The only exercise I’m doing is about 20-30 minutes on my exercise bike about 4 times a week.  I try for every day, but with the current heatwave it’s pretty daunting, even with dousing my hair, dousing my bra, wearing only a bra and shorts, a portable air-conditioner pointed my way and a big fan in front of THAT pointed my way, lots of water and a wet towel to constantly refresh surface areas.   Pathetic, but I just DO NOT handle heat well AT ALL.  I’m doing all that when it’s only 80 degrees, so the current 100 degrees is like a oven and I’m simply being steamed.  I have to keep reminding myself that my son is in Iraq where it was 122 degrees the other day and HE has to wear a uniform all the time.  Of course, that doesn’t change the fact that my body just overheats VERY quickly.   But I digress.  My question is:  How much muscle could I really be putting on with only 20 minutes every day or two on an exercise bike?  Other than that, I’m quite sedentary.  Would it be enough to make much of a difference on a scale?   — Saffire 201/191/125 90/86/56 Atkins since 6/14/03

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Question:

- Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve got a Haier portable Air conditioner going in my basement.   I’m considering venting (it’s got a 5 foot by 4" exhaust pipe) it out through the nearest wall, but this would put the vent outside under our back porch.  The under porch area is not enclosed, but I wondered if there would be an issue with the vent blowing out under there?  The porch is 5 feet deep and about 15 feet long and  about 4 feet off the ground.  It’s only covered on one side by a large opening latice. Tim this is Turtle. I don’t see any problem with doing this on a mechanical basis but here is what you should look at for your confort. 1)   Hot air will be dumped under your porch and heat will rise through the cracks and ends to be exposed to you when your out there. 2)   Depending the model and noise level of the air and the unit. You may want to listen to the unit exhaust before installing it there. Picture this : 6:00 A.M. , Cup of Coffee , Listening to the Birds, and you have this hissing noise under your feet and you look around to see it is not a animal under there. 3)   There is no problem with it working well under there but just the heat and noise to look at. TURTLE

My main concern was the heat and moisture going out under the porch. I’ll only be switching the unit on when I’m working down there so the noise shouldn’t be an issue.

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I’ve got a Haier portable Air conditioner going in my basement.   I’m considering venting (it’s got a 5 foot by 4" exhaust pipe) it out through the nearest wall, but this would put the vent outside under our back porch.  The under porch area is not enclosed, but I wondered if there would be an issue with the vent blowing out under there?  The porch is 5 feet deep and about 15 feet long and  about 4 feet off the ground.  It’s only covered on one side by a large opening latice. My main concern was the heat and moisture going out under the porch. I’ll only be switching the unit on when I’m working down there so the noise shouldn’t be an issue.

Won’t most of the moisture be gone from the exhaust air anyway (it will be hot!)?  My portable AC collects a couple of cups of water when I run it 8 hr or so. Sue(tm) Lead me not into temptation… I can find it myself! sue at interport dot net

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Moisture? LOL Not from a condensor….

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve got a Haier portable Air conditioner going in my basement.   I’m considering venting (it’s got a 5 foot by 4" exhaust pipe) it out through the nearest wall, but this would put the vent outside under our back porch.  The under porch area is not enclosed, but I wondered if there would be an issue with the vent blowing out under there?  The porch is 5 feet deep and about 15 feet long and  about 4 feet off the ground.  It’s only covered on one side by a large opening latice. Tim this is Turtle. I don’t see any problem with doing this on a mechanical basis but here is what you should look at for your confort. 1)   Hot air will be dumped under your porch and heat will rise through the cracks and ends to be exposed to you when your out there. 2)   Depending the model and noise level of the air and the unit. You may want to listen to the unit exhaust before installing it there. Picture this : 6:00 A.M. , Cup of Coffee , Listening to the Birds, and you have this hissing noise under your feet and you look around to see it is not a animal under there. 3)   There is no problem with it working well under there but just the heat and noise to look at. TURTLE My main concern was the heat and moisture going out under the porch. I’ll only be switching the unit on when I’m working down there so the noise shouldn’t be an issue.

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– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I’ve got a Haier portable Air conditioner going in my basement.   I’m considering venting (it’s got a 5 foot by 4" exhaust pipe) it out through the nearest wall, but this would put the vent outside under our back porch.  The under porch area is not enclosed, but I wondered if there would be an issue with the vent blowing out under there?  The porch is 5 feet deep and about 15 feet long and  about 4 feet off the ground.  It’s only covered on one side by a large opening latice. Tim this is Turtle. I don’t see any problem with doing this on a mechanical basis but here is what you should look at for your confort. 1)   Hot air will be dumped under your porch and heat will rise through the cracks and ends to be exposed to you when your out there. 2)   Depending the model and noise level of the air and the unit. You may want to listen to the unit exhaust before installing it there. Picture this : 6:00 A.M. , Cup of Coffee , Listening to the Birds, and you have this hissing noise under your feet and you look around to see it is not a animal under there. 3)   There is no problem with it working well under there but just the heat and noise to look at. TURTLE My main concern was the heat and moisture going out under the porch. I’ll only be switching the unit on when I’m working down there so the noise shouldn’t be an issue.

This is Turtle. Read Number 3) again. TURTLE

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This unit (at least in my limited AC understanding) evaporates any collected condensation and sends it out the vent. Tim – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Moisture? LOL Not from a condensor…. I’ve got a Haier portable Air conditioner going in my basement.   I’m considering venting (it’s got a 5 foot by 4" exhaust pipe) it out through the nearest wall, but this would put the vent outside under our back porch.  The under porch area is not enclosed, but I wondered if there would be an issue with the vent blowing out under there?  The porch is 5 feet deep and about 15 feet long and  about 4 feet off the ground.  It’s only covered on one side by a large opening latice. Tim this is Turtle. I don’t see any problem with doing this on a mechanical basis but here  is what you should look at for your confort. 1)   Hot air will be dumped under your porch and heat will rise through  the cracks and ends to be exposed to you when your out there. 2)   Depending the model and noise level of the air and the unit. You  may want to listen to the unit exhaust before installing it there. Picture  this : 6:00 A.M. , Cup of Coffee , Listening to the Birds, and you have this hissing noise under your feet and you look around to see it is not a  animal under there. 3)   There is no problem with it working well under there but just the  heat and noise to look at. TURTLE My main concern was the heat and moisture going out under the porch. I’ll only be switching the unit on when I’m working down there so the noise shouldn’t be an issue.

Response:

I’ve got a Haier portable Air conditioner going in my basement.   I’m considering venting (it’s got a 5 foot by 4" exhaust pipe) it out through the nearest wall, but this would put the vent outside under our back porch.  The under porch area is not enclosed, but I wondered if there would be an issue with the vent blowing out under there?  The porch is 5 feet deep and about 15 feet long and  about 4 feet off the ground.  It’s only covered on one side by a large opening latice. Tim

Response:

I’ve got a Haier portable Air conditioner going in my basement.   I’m considering venting (it’s got a 5 foot by 4" exhaust pipe) it out through the nearest wall, but this would put the vent outside under our back porch.  The under porch area is not enclosed, but I wondered if there would be an issue with the vent blowing out under there?  The porch is 5 feet deep and about 15 feet long and  about 4 feet off the ground.  It’s only covered on one side by a large opening latice.

Make sure you put a flapper door with a mesh animal/bug guard on the end. When those chilly nights come, a 4" hole with warm air coming out of it will attract LOTS of company. The higher off the ground you can get it, the better. aem sends….

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I’ve got a Haier portable Air conditioner going in my basement.   I’m considering venting (it’s got a 5 foot by 4" exhaust pipe) it out through the nearest wall, but this would put the vent outside under our back porch.  The under porch area is not enclosed, but I wondered if there would be an issue with the vent blowing out under there?  The porch is 5 feet deep and about 15 feet long and  about 4 feet off the ground.  It’s only covered on one side by a large opening latice. Tim

this is Turtle. I don’t see any problem with doing this on a mechanical basis but here is what you should look at for your confort. 1)   Hot air will be dumped under your porch and heat will rise through the cracks and ends to be exposed to you when your out there. 2)   Depending the model and noise level of the air and the unit. You may want to listen to the unit exhaust before installing it there. Picture this : 6:00 A.M. , Cup of Coffee , Listening to the Birds, and you have this hissing noise under your feet and you look around to see it is not a animal under there. 3)   There is no problem with it working well under there but just the heat and noise to look at. TURTLE

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Question:

I’m thinking of getting one of these for my office, but have a question about how it disposes of the water.  Does it work like a dehumidifier where you have to empty a bucket every now and then, or does it somehow exhaust it via the hot air exhaust out a window ?

the kind we had at work in some of the offices as a backup when the very large cent units went out.. you had a 5 gallon jug that you had to remove and pour down a drain to get rid of the water… no problem, it was alot better then suffering in an office building that had no windows to open and the parts were on order for the large central unit…i would

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I’m thinking of getting one of these for my office, but have a question about how it disposes of the water.  Does it work like a dehumidifier where you have to empty a bucket every now and then, or does it somehow exhaust it via the hot air exhaust out a window ?

I got a portable floor unit because my upstairs window a/c that came with a home built 1910, glued into an framed opening in top half of window (silicone sealer and expanded foam), suddenly failed when the heat came, and my other windows have steel storm window/screens that may not be easy to remove. The floor unit is a Maytag 8000 btu (basically a Fedders with full 5 yr warranty instead of 1/5 limited).  As is commonly done with window units too, I think the condensate is slung at the condenser to help cool it with evaporation, and is expelled in the form of water vapor out the vent hose.   If too much water accumulates, it will automatically shut down until drained.  I have only had it for a few days (including temps in mid-90s), but so far it does the job and has not required draining. It does cost twice as much as a window unit, but it is more easily installed without help, can be installed where a window unit cannot, and can easily be moved to a different room or location. And when I get around to replacing the upstairs window unit, I can use it on its dehumidify setting to dry (and cool) my half exposed basement, which starts getting warm in midsummer. — David Efflandt – All spam ignored  http://www.de-srv.com/ http://www.autox.chicago.il.us/  http://www.berniesfloral.net/ http://cgi-help.virtualave.net/  http://hammer.prohosting.com/~cgi-wiz/

Response:

I think the condensate is slung at the condenser to help cool it with evaporation, and is expelled in the form of water vapor out the vent hose.   If too much water accumulates, it will automatically shut down until drained.  

Question… Are you saying that the condensate is slung back into the room air? If yes…. isn’t that bad for people who suffer from allergies?

Response:

I think the condensate is slung at the condenser to help cool it with evaporation, and is expelled in the form of water vapor out the vent hose. If too much water accumulates, it will automatically shut down until drained. Question… Are you saying that the condensate is slung back into the room air?

No..the condensor is the part that moves the heat from the rooms, to the outdoors…portable units, window units in particlar, have what is called a slinger on the fan, and the water that is produced by condensation on the evap coil, is directed back to the condensor, where the slinger picks it up and throws it on the condensor as the air is passing over it, and its a cheap way to get more from a unit…its not the best way, but the smaller units are designed that way…its cheap… If yes…. isn’t that bad for people who suffer from allergies?

Umm..no..not unless there isa mold allergy and you have a high concentration of mold in the holding tank.. and consider this… The water that is produced by the evaporatior coil during operation, is the same water that is in the air that you breath all day long…. little thing called humidity.

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Umm..no..not unless there isa mold allergy and you have a high concentration of mold in the holding tank.. and consider this… The water that is produced by the evaporatior coil during operation, is the same water that is in the air that you breath all day long…. little thing called humidity.

OK Im curious Would a reg de-humdifier actually cool a room pretty well in the fact that it would be removing the moisture form the air? I mean… with a portable AC you have two units … one that sets inside and one that must set outside to pump the heat out, right? Whereas with a de-humdifier its one unit only as all its doing is removing humidity from the air.  So…. by that very fact Im wondering if just removing the humidity could make a room feel cooler?

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Umm..no..not unless there isa mold allergy and you have a high concentration of mold in the holding tank.. and consider this… The water that is produced by the evaporatior coil during operation, is the same water that is in the air that you breath all day long…. little thing called humidity.

The heat from condensor and re-evaporated condensate of a portable unit is exhausted through a 4" vent hose (like a dryer vent) to outside through a small window mounted panel.  This draws in some outside air somewhere, so you are not breathing the same stale air all day long. Would a reg de-humdifier actually cool a room pretty well in the fact that it would be removing the moisture form the air?

A dehumidifier is like an air conditioner, but the air that is cooled by the evaporator to remove the moisture is then reheated passing through the condenser (instead of being vented outside).  So the air ends up drier, but slightly warmer. I mean… with a portable AC you have two units … one that sets inside and one that must set outside to pump the heat out, right?

That is a mini split, which is efficient because it just has small tubes between inside and outside units and no duct losses, but it is not portable and not generally DIY. Whereas with a de-humdifier its one unit only as all its doing is removing humidity from the air.  So…. by that very fact Im wondering if just removing the humidity could make a room feel cooler?

A dehumidifier can make it feel somewhat cooler since the drier air has more moisture holding capability (effective evaporative cooling of your skin instead of soaking sweat), especially if your a/c is oversize and does not remove enough humidity due to short cycling.  But they are most commonly used to stop cold pipes from sweating in a cool damp basement since cold air cannot hold as much moisture. — David Efflandt – All spam ignored  http://www.de-srv.com/ http://www.autox.chicago.il.us/  http://www.berniesfloral.net/ http://cgi-help.virtualave.net/  http://hammer.prohosting.com/~cgi-wiz/

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