I Want a New Body
Mar 23rd 2007
Nicole JordanGoddess Grins
In last weekend’s newspaper insert, Parade magazine, an article about cell aging and regeneration by Dr. Henry S. Lodge contained some facts I found fascinating: Almost every cell in your body dies regularly and is replaced by new ones.
And I mean regularly. Dr. Lodge asserts that white blood cells live about ten days, muscle cells three months. “Think of it as getting a whole new body every three months,” he says.
If that’s true, I want my body to come back as Angelina Jolie.
Okay, I know that’s not what the good doctor meant. The point of the article was that exercising, eating right, and lowering stress can bring new replacement cells back stronger and healthier than before. But I do all that stuff, and my body does not feel like new every three months. It feels – and looks – just like my old one, only a little more worn around the edges.
Why can’t I be Angelina? I whined when I finished reading the article. What I wouldn’t give to have her stunning beauty and her sex-goddess figure!
But then I came to my senses. I realized that even as gorgeous as she is, that poor woman has no privacy whatsoever, and I don’t think I could give up my privacy for any price, not even Brad.
And what would happen to my brain if I came back in her body? Would I lose all my memories and experiences and 
hard-earned skills? Sure, Angelina can play an assassin and a video game warrior to perfection, and she can lobby passionately – and admirably – for the world’s poorest children. But can she be me? A normal, everyday woman with flaws and imperfections and admirable qualities of my own? And would I really want to have to break in a new husband – even if the guy is considered a sex god in his own right?
Would I really want to live her life? I decided the answer is no; I like mine just the way it is, thank you. So I figured maybe I should try be satisfied with the old me and keep striving to make my three month regeneration cycle as youthful as possible… even though now and then, I still can’t help picturing myself in her body, complete with Brad.
Is any woman ever satisfied with her body? Are you? Do you want a new one? And if you could come back as someone new, who would it be?
60 Comments »
60 Responses to “I Want a New Body”
Stacy ~ on 23 Mar 2007 at 5:44 am #
Yesterday I went shopping for clothes and as I was in the dressing room, I cringed at my pear-shaped body - big butt and thighs yet small boobs. I wondered during those moments exactly what would it take to get enough money to have a complete overhaul LOL. But would I really do it if I had the time and money? Probably not. I don’t like the idea of having fake body parts for cosmetic reasons.
But yeah, it’s only natural to want to look beautiful. I would love to look like Angelina, or Kate Winslett, or my all-time favorite Goddess, Rita Hayworth. Will I? Not in this lifetime. But that’s okay. I wouldn’t trade my life for anything. I have my privacy, my freedom, and my family and friends. That all makes a world of difference.
ashefrog on 23 Mar 2007 at 7:33 am #
Just discussing cosmetic surgery options with my mother and couple of girlfriends. I would love to get some work done but it is scary when you see or hear of botched jobs. Also would I be able to stop once I started.
It is also a little depressing to know I can’t recover on some tropical island or isolated resort for several weeks while I am pampered.
So after much consideration I guess exercising and eating healthy are about the most I am willing to do. I work on loving myself the way I am and the way I am changing. Thank goodness for the spandex and other body shaper products on the market.
terrio on 23 Mar 2007 at 7:59 am #
I am not one of those people lucky enough to be born with good genes. I hate when hot famous people give that as their answer to why they look so good. There are alot of things about my body I would change but I’m well aware that changes to my diet and an increase in my exercise routine would take care of most of them. The only thing I would have done is my upper arms. That’s another gene thing. No amount of exercise seems to have any effect on these things and to get a shirt that fits over them I have to buy ones that are too big everywhere else. It’s most annoying. LOL!
I wouldn’t mind looking like Angelina and I certainly wouldn’t mind having Brad around but I bet if you asked her she would point out things about her body she probably doesn’t like all that much either. Other than those depressing-to-watch Victoria Secret models, I can’t think of any woman that doesn’t see something wrong in the mirror.
Claudia Dain on 23 Mar 2007 at 8:25 am #
I remember hearing an interview with a model who’d been a cover girl many times over, a Sport’s Illustrated bathing suit cover, Victoria Secrets model, etc, etc, and *she* said that when she had been on the cover of Vogue for like the 3rd time she thought that maybe, MAYBE she wasn’t too bad looking.
I think that sums up how most women feel about their bodies.
it’s for that reason alone that I wouldn’t trade with anyone; you gotta know that you’d think *that* body looked weird, too.
But I wouldn’t mind being a bit taller.
Julia London on 23 Mar 2007 at 8:46 am #
I have never been satisfied with my body, but I am satisfied with all of yours. Seriously! Intellectually I know that I can look at women in all shapes and sizes and think how cool, women are beautiful in all shapes and sizes. But then I look in the mirror and think, “except THAT shape. THAT shape wil not do!”
Ugh ugh ugh. And then toss in the little things that start to happen as you get older — sagging where you never sagged before, mysterious spots that crop up over night, WEIGHT YOU CANNOT LOSE NO MATTER HOW MUCH YOU WORK OUT OR LAY OFF THE WINE AND CHOCOLATE. I HATE THAT!!!!!
But Nicole, the good news is, you can have Angelina’s body and still be you. Just need to write a couple more books for the $$$ it will take to get there :-). Start with the lips. I hear that’s relatively pain free and inexpensive (relative being the key word there, LOL).
Karen Rose on 23 Mar 2007 at 9:03 am #
So it doesn’t help to lay off the wine and chocolate? THANKS, JULIA!! I’ll make sure I tell the trainer at my gym that you said so, lol.
That beautiful women have insecurities was a profound realization for me. I’d heard it, but hey, those gorgeous women have to say that to appear humble in interviews, right? Maybe not. I have a beautiful friend - I actually have many beautiful friends, but this one is stunningly so. I was stunned, though, when she said she didn’t like [a particular body part]. I thought, my gosh, if she doesn’t like hers, then I’m, like, totally doomed.
And then my husband grounds me - he’s always loved me the way I am. Wouldn’t it be nice to see ourselves the way we’re viewed by those who love us the most?
Karen Hawkins on 23 Mar 2007 at 9:06 am #
I want a playdoh body. Then when I feel ‘busty’ I can PAT PAT PAT myself busty. And if I feel ’svelte’ I can PAT PAT PAT myself svelte. And if I want to be taller, I can hang from a bar for a few minutes until my feet sloooowly touch the gfound …
Of course, I’d have to be careful not to sit in my car after the sun had heated the leather seats into burning hot stoves …
Julia London on 23 Mar 2007 at 9:06 am #
From my lips to your trainer’s ears, KarenR.
DebMarlowe on 23 Mar 2007 at 9:56 am #
I don’t want a new body, just my old one. The one I got married in, before it uh, expanded.
Which is why I am sweating on my keyboard as I type this! Just back from the gym. Wish I had started working out before I got so old that it takes twice as much work for the same result. Sigh.
But we perservere. Sweat on, ladies!
Nicole Jordan on 23 Mar 2007 at 9:59 am #
Playdoh body! Yeah, that would be great. I would give myself bosoms, which I’ve never had, much to my dismay, especially when I was thirteen and had to disrobe for swimming in PE class. Boy, was that traumatic.
It really is sad that the older we get, the more we have to sacrifice to keep what shape we do have… like bread and wine and chocolate.
And it really is something that even gogeous Victoria’s Secret models don’t always like their bodies when the rest of us would kill to have them, lol. But I suppose if you make your living from how your body looks, you do have a little right to want perfection.
Also, I have a question about plump lips. Is that collegen they inject? And how long does it last? Do you have to get them reinjected every few months?
NicoleJ
Sabrina Jeffries on 23 Mar 2007 at 10:15 am #
I like the playdoh body idea, except that what do you do with the excess? I already have giant feet, so that’s out, and a giant head, so THAT’S out. And if I put it all into my bosoms, I would fall over. All the patting in the world will not work on an… er … overly curvaceous body.
Now, if I could slice off the excess, that would be a whole ‘nuther thing entirely.
Karen Hawkins on 23 Mar 2007 at 10:29 am #
Sabrina — you’d make yourself taller and any excess would become your graceful height. So there is no excess! Just really hot car seats.
You know, I’m going to print up Julia London’s “chocolate and wine” thingee and put it beside my computer. I’m tired of those self help things like, “Carrots will make you thinner!” and “Sour grapefruit juice burns calories!” I WANT chocolate and wine. And I want it right after I get back from the gym.
I hate going to work out. I hate working out. But I LOVE finishing up and thinking, “I just worked out!” Odd how that is.
Julia London on 23 Mar 2007 at 10:50 am #
Just embrace the truth, Karen H, like I have embraced it. You still get the high from working out, but you can live with yourself when you have a Dove square of chocolate afterward. I know this — I honestly gave up both wine and chocolate for my scientific study and nothing happened. That’s right…NOTHING HAPPENED.
SuzyQ on 23 Mar 2007 at 11:10 am #
I don’t think there are many women out there that are completely satisfied with how they look. We always want to change something, from body parts to our hair. The hair is the easy part, if you don’t like a cut it grows back, if you don’t like the color pick another. Body parts are a different matter and I really don’t think I could go through surgery. And then what happens if you don’t like the results?
I’m with Deb – I would just like to have my old body back. The one before kids. I now have a little pouch that no matter how many crunches I do, it just won’t go away. I feel like a kangaroo – LOL! I am dreading bathing suit season. Maybe a some wine would help!
Nicole Jordan on 23 Mar 2007 at 11:12 am #
Stacy ~ on 23 Mar 2007
>>>But yeah, it’s only natural to want to look beautiful. I would love to look like Angelina, or Kate Winslett, or my all-time favorite Goddess, Rita Hayworth.
Kate Winslett! I forgot about her. She’s lovely. And for some reason I really like Cate Blanchette.
And I didn’t even think about some of the earlier era movie stars. I never was a fan of Marilyn Monroe, but in her day she was the ideal sex goddess for a lot of people…. mostly guys? lol
NicoleJ
terrio on 23 Mar 2007 at 11:28 am #
The best part about Marilyn was that she was a size 12/14! Did you know that? That just makes me feel better…
ashefrog on 23 Mar 2007 at 11:40 am #
Nicole:
I think it is mostly Botox injections now, atleast they are the current rage. I believe you have to have them every couple of months to sustain the look.
SuzyQ:
I was on a really challenging work-out regiment a couple of years ago. Working with a PT and after of couple of months of serious exercise (6 days/wk) and healthy eating I still had this flabby middle. My body fat was under 20% and I was doing over 150 ab exercises (switching off every other day, doing 8 different types, targeting different ab muscles) and I finally asked her what the problem was.
She told me that after having 3 kids my muscles were in fact taunt but the excess skin was only going to go away with a tummy tuck. I was soooo frustrated.
That was when the thoughts of cosmetic surgery started invading my thoughts. But I haven’t done anything except complain to my kids that they did this to me.lol
Danielle on 23 Mar 2007 at 11:44 am #
I have to admit, I could stand to loss a good 20 pounds or more. If I could have any body….I want the one when I was in my 20’s. Cute little shape, size 12…not perfect but me. Would I want to be a skinny meeny….no way!!!!!
I always look at it this way, there is more to me to love!!!!!!!!!!
Besides I read that Meryl Streep is a size 14.
Keri Ford on 23 Mar 2007 at 12:42 pm #
If I had my way, I’d do 2 things (course, my way involves having nerves to ‘go under the knife’, and I don’t) First would be, I’d change my belly button. I’ve always been a bit of an ‘outie’ and I’d much rather have one of those cute little slits.
And the second would be added height. At 5′2” I still have a hard time seeing over some of the department store check-out lines comfortable enough so I can write my check. Plus, when I want something my hubby has, he thinks it’s funny to hold it just out of my reach.
And that’s it. The smaller boobs, I can handle, I’m married, my husband knows what’s under there, so if I want to be a bit bustier, then I’ll wear one of those water padded bra’s or something (course, after kids if I go flat like an eleven year old I might add this to my ‘wish list’)
And for the larger bum and thighs, excercise and diet can handle that.
Ann in IL on 23 Mar 2007 at 1:19 pm #
I would take my 21 year old body in a heartbeat. But a little playdoh padding in the breast area would help. I have been pretty much the same size all my life (single - no kids). The one size that I gained thanks to chocolate won’t come off til I give it up, and that is NOT happening.
Honestly, there hasn’t been one body fad that has interested me. The current “big lips” thing just plain grosses me out. It looks like two huge bottom lips. What happened to having lips of two different shapes? My nieces have tried the plumper lip sticks and they report that it burns. !!! No thanks.
Tisa E on 23 Mar 2007 at 1:48 pm #
Eek! 5′2″? If I had anything done, it woudl be added height, that’s for certain.
I am a dreaded 5′0″ and have trouble with everything I buy. It is depressing to buy slacks and skirts, only to have to cut much of the length off. And capris? They are slacks on my short little legs!
I started back to Weight Watchers 6 weeks ago, to learn to eat better and to lose a few extra pounds I picked up through the years.
I love the Play-Doh idea though, pat, pat into shape wherever you feel inclined on a daily basis. What a grand idea!
All in all, if I just start to feel good about myself and continue to be healthy, I will be satisfied with my lot in life. And by the way, the tummy? I have it too, and don’t know if it bothers me quite enough to go “under the knife” as it were. So I will just join the large numbers of women you are dissatisfied with their bodies. It is a fabulous group of women so far.
terrio on 23 Mar 2007 at 1:56 pm #
I’ve always had that little tummy, since I was 11. So far, I’ve had one child and not a single stretch mark. See, that fat deposit had a purpose….LOL!
Suzanne Enoch on 23 Mar 2007 at 1:58 pm #
Having apparently stood up in a bizarre manner and thrown my back out about five minutes ago, yes, I think a new body would be very nice. One with strong back muscles who can wear some of the clothes I bought five years ago and haven’t been able to bring myself to toss out. Sigh.
Nicole Jordan on 23 Mar 2007 at 2:07 pm #
>>>I always look at it this way, there is more to me to love!!!!!!!!!!
LOL, Danielle! That’s a great way to look at it.
Keri and Tisa, for years I complained about my legs being too long (I have a 34 inch inseam) since I can never find jeans or pants that are long enough. But I do think I would rather be too tall than too short, *G*. Capris? I can’t stand to wear them… leftover trauma from my youth when my pants were always too short, I suppose.
Really, I never understood why I’m so attracted to the Petite department of women’s clothing. I never can wear anything there, but the clothes always look so cute.
Burning lip plumpers, Ann?? Yikes. I’ll pass, thank you!
Ashefrog, your kids have a lot to answer for, LOL. But I’ll bet you wouldn’t exchange them for the world, at least most of the time.
Terio, that would be funny if your fat deposit really did save you from stretch marks.
Which reminds me, I saw a print ad recently that touted a stretch mark cream as a great remedy for face wrinkles. I wonder if it works?
NicoleJ
Nicole Jordan on 23 Mar 2007 at 2:25 pm #
A kangaroo, Suzyq? I had to laugh at that image, it’s so descriptive. But hopefully it’s more in your imagination. I haven’t had kids of my own (2 stepdaughters and a horse) but I’ve had to struggle with a tummy pouch, mainly because I refuse to give up wine. And my stress levels a few years ago were sending wads of cortisol right to my stomach, so I try to blame my pouch on that. *G*
And Suzanne, I’m sorry about your back! My dh has that problem sometimes. But at least that’s one I’m not afflicted with too often, knock on wood… probably because riding hunt seat really is great for strenghtening back muscles. I’m probably more at risk with my knees since I have long skinny legs, which aerobics and skiing are NOT good for.
And Donna, if you’re reading this, re your post under Karen’s coffee talk blog, I’m sooo sorry about your knees and the fact that your work is about to change. Sounds like you’ve made the best of a difficult situation and found some wonderful benifits. It’ll be a shame if it all ends. Sure hope something great comes along to replace it!
NicoleJ
Maggie Robinson on 23 Mar 2007 at 3:47 pm #
Terrio, I’ve seen one of Marilyn Monroe’s dresses (in a Planet Hollywood, I think). Yesterday’s 12/14 is like today’s 4/6. I know, cause I used to wear yesterday’s 12/14, and now I wear today’s 12/14, and believe me, after 4 kids I am not the cute young thing I used to be! If I were ever to go under the knife (which I will NEVER do), I’d want to get rid of the upper arm flab. No sleeveless tops for me. If they invented a bathing suit with sleeves, I’d wear it. I have confinced myself that my face fat is keeping the wrinkles at bay, but I think maybe it’s just that my eyesight is going.
We should all just be grateful to wake up everyday. Pollyanna has spoken.
Susan K on 23 Mar 2007 at 4:34 pm #
The company I work for has the Limited as a client. I happen to work on site at the Limited in the Victoria’s Secret building. Everyday I get to look at pictures of models in little to nothing. It really messes with your self image. We were going to move to another building and I was so excited to not have to look at lingerie all the time but they decided we would stay where we are.
I just started Weight Watchers and am trying to exercise everyday cause I am not happy with how I look. I’ve gained a lot in the last 8 months. Now I need to get rid of it before my wedding!
Kelly Ann on 23 Mar 2007 at 5:32 pm #
I could never go under the knife! I do wish for contentment with the belly bulge (given as a present to me from my 2 sweet children) and my boobs that won’t let me buy the right size shirt because it would pop a button. I’m always afraid that if I tempt fate I’ll loose a button and with my luck it will hit my boss right in the forehead.
I would love to loose a little weight, but when I bike, dogs chase me or I make a cake of myself and end up in the ditch with the neighbors all laughing. I tend to be a little clumsy, I didn’t used to be this way. It must be my children who threw me off balance. Just joking, I would love to have the body I did even 4 years ago, size 5 with boobs that were bouncing and behaving. Now they get caught under my arm pit and I’m afraid one day will get caught in my wasit band. I shudder at the thought. I do try for contentment with my size 14 (yes, I’ve gained a lot of weight in the last few years!) because I know the battle of the buldge is my fault for not exercising like I did when I was younger and not eating like a bird. But I loooove food!!!!!!
I am a little disappointed though to learn that wine is not good for you! What about all those skinny french women? I thought I was on a french diet! Plus if I fill up on wine I eat less! I’m still not convinced it’s bad for me, I’m going to continue testing my french diet theory!
Judy F on 23 Mar 2007 at 7:24 pm #
This is timely. I put on a favorite pair of jeans today and about needed lipo to get into them. Yikes. Its funny how we are never happy. My sister got the boobs and I got the height. Though its not a lot of height but she is 5 ft and I am 5 ft 5. According to her its a big difference. LOL
I so need to lose weight but just never seem to get it in gear.
RachelG on 23 Mar 2007 at 7:43 pm #
I’d make myself taller so I wouldn’t have to take my clothes to a seamstress and have them altered. I’d also like my body back before I hit 35. Up until that age, I never watched what I ate. Then one day–bam. All those quarter pounders with cheese caught up with me.
MizMacgyver on 23 Mar 2007 at 8:05 pm #
Nicole, I totally understand the capri deal. I spent most of my teens and twenties never wearing pants because I can’t tolerate the high water look. The problem with me is, I am only 5′ 6″ tall, but I have a 32″ inseam. if my legs were in proportion to my body I would be approximately 5′ tall. If my body were in proportion, I would be 6′ tall. I think I would go with the 6′ if i had my druthers. I really, really look funny. And I don’t mean ha-ha, I mean totally strange. Growing up, no boobs, first kid, no boobs, had my son at 38 and uh-oh, where did THOSE come from and what am I supposed to do with them? So now we have this little short body AND boobs, the waist is gone and I pretty much look like a pillow on two long sticks. Not a pretty sight. I think even surgery (as if I could afford it or have the nerve) would not be able to help. So, I don’t look in a mirror and if my BF says I look great I praise him and tell him I love him and don’t look in the mirror to see for myself.
Kathy on 23 Mar 2007 at 8:36 pm #
I am relatively satisfied with my body. When it was great ie younger, I didn’t know it was great. Now I just think I am fine.
For longevity reasons it would be wise to cut the cholesterol etc, the “gasp” smoking…..
Would I like to be thinner, more fit, able to touch my toes, and leap over buildings in single bounce…Yes but I am not willing to do what it takes at this point. And that is okay with me!!!
Brandy on 23 Mar 2007 at 9:00 pm #
Thanks for 2 scars on my tummy (one from a c-section and the other from an ovarian cyst) I have an upside down T in my tum, so I will never have a flat tum. I don’t know of any women that are satisfied with their bodies. Goodness knows I’m not. But, I do worry. Because I have a (soon to be 12yr.old) daughter. Why do I put myself down in front of her? Why is it listen to me: “you’re wonderful as you are”, not listen to me: ” I hate the way I look”?
ladydawgfan on 23 Mar 2007 at 11:41 pm #
I don’t mind my height (5′4″) since I have tiny feet as a result. However, I am a fluffy woman, and that, combined with my 27″ inseam makes clothing that fits correctly darned near impossible to find!! What is it about clothing manufacturers that makes them think that all plus sized women are 10′ tall Amazons??? Even so-called “Petite” slacks and skirts are too long for me!!
(Whew! Okay, rant off!)
As to my body shape, I would LOVE to be less fluffy. I have had a weight problem ever since puberty due to PCOS, so I have no idea what it is like to be “normal” for my height. The thought is actually a little scary. I’m finally being treated correctly for the PCOS and I’m losing weight as a result, but I am wondering if I will always see myself as that fat chick that everyone teased in school regardless of what I weigh.
Sabrina Jeffries on 24 Mar 2007 at 12:06 am #
“Sabrina — you’d make yourself taller and any excess would become your graceful height. So there is no excess! Just really hot car seats.”
Karen, I somehow think that a ten-foot tall woman isn’t any less conspicuous than a very wide woman. And the extra height presents other problems, you must admit. Like being able to get INTO the car with the hot seats.
EllenElyse on 24 Mar 2007 at 1:38 am #
I ADORE Marilyn and Angelina! My husband and I actually got married in front of Marilyn’s hand and foot prints, in front of Graumann’s Chinese Theatre.
We both love her, and Hollywood is close by. 
Pretty cool. 
Maggie Robinson - I think you’re right on about yesterday’s 12/14 and today’s 12/14!
Though in “The Seven Year Itch”, Marilyn was a bit plumper. 
And especially in “River Of No Return”. And you’re so right… we should be incredibly grateful for waking up, with all of our limbs, having people who love us, and a safe roof over our heads. (Though that mantra is difficult to believe in when I’m looking at myself under those aweful flourescent lights when trying on clothes.) 
Angelina is just plain perfect.
If I could look like anyone… well… it’d be a toss up between Marilyn and Angelina. I’d definitely take Brad though. 
Though my hubby does bear a resemblance. At least in my eyes.
I too am petite… 5′2. Tisa - Have you tried Gap Boot Cut jeans? I pretty much only wear jeans so that’s all I know about… I’m sure they have other types of pants that fit us shorties
uh… I mean petite ladies. 
P.S…
THANK YOU! I’ve begun Fever Dreams, and it’s wonderful so far… as always. 
Alex Ryder is kind of… Heathcliff-esc to me… Wuthering Heights is one of my favorite books… and the 1992 movie version with Ralph Fiennes looking incredibly hot is my favorite movie. Sometimes during the book Ralph pops into my head. 
Lovin it! Thanks! 
Nicole… I finished Wicked Fantasy - it was as fabulous and dreamy as I knew it would be!
EllenElyse on 24 Mar 2007 at 1:40 am #
Sorry ’bout all the smilies ladies. (Suppressing a smiley.) aaahhh. It’s hard.
One. Not too bad. aaaahhh.
EllenElyse on 24 Mar 2007 at 3:12 am #
Ok. Sorry again… ‘Heathcliff-esque’. OCD.
Can’t leave a known spelling error alone. I knew that looked wrong. 
Thanks!
Nicole Jordan on 24 Mar 2007 at 11:20 am #
You guys are such fun! Thanks for the laughs. I think this just goes to show that we all have something about our bodies we’re not happy with.
And SusanK, I hope your wedding goes great.
ladydawgfan on 23 Mar 2007
>>> I have had a weight problem ever since puberty due to PCOS
What is PCOS, ldf? Whatever it is, living with it has got to be hard. And did I ask you before about your screenname? Are you a GA Bulldogs fan? If so, we’re rivals, since I went to GA Tech *G*.
And EllenE, thanks for the compliments! I’m thrilled you liked WF, and I hope FD holds up for you.
NicoleJ
dbrown3400 on 24 Mar 2007 at 1:20 pm #
I’m satisfied with my body. I’d be more satisfied with less of it and my cardiologist mentioned a low-fat diet. He didn’t gvie me a battery of heart meds so Im trying to watch what I eat. I can’t exercise like I used to and actually miss the Nautilus workouts, don’t miss the treadmill and am so-so on the recumbent bike. I walk more now and will increase that as the weather improves. My knees are starting to twinge more now but I’m beyond the time when my MD said we would start thinking of replacements which is good.
If I could pick I would take the body I had at 23. I have great genes for skin and hair from my grandmother but wrinkles highlight the eyes and mouth that makeup doesn’t quite cover and no amount of highlighting will disguise the silver of my hair.
Thank you Nicole for the good words regarding the demise of Pathmark. The powers that be keep saying two more weeks for the final word but they obviously can’t tell time.
Donna
EllenElyse on 24 Mar 2007 at 2:37 pm #
Thanks Nicole.
I haven’t read one yet that wasn’t a new favorite. 
Donna… I have always liked silver hair.
When I was in third or fouth grade… we had a substitute teacher. She was so cool, and so beautiful! She had a long whitey/silvery ponytail. I thought, “I want hair like that when I’m older”. 
I’m sorry you have to bother with a cardiologist. Of course, I don’t know why exactly, but, I know that cholesterol is found only in animal products, so becoming a vegetarian would stop the build up of cholesterol in the arteries. Don’t know it that has anything to do with your issues.
And lastly… my gramma had her left knee replaced, and she’s thrilled with it. Says it’s stronger than it ever was, and she has no more pain in it…
Selfish Addict on 24 Mar 2007 at 3:52 pm #
All women at some time or other would like to change a body part. I,(don’t hate me),a breast reduction at 21. It is so nice not to have upper backache,buy clothes that button down the front with out gapping,and bras that don’t dig into my shoulders.
I have Metabolic Syndrome that gives a belly pouch,(at 47 and fighting it for most of those,it’s quite a pouch),that won’t go away,so in a year or two when I have my hysterectomy,the plastic guy is being invited to the party. He’ll have quite a party favor.LOL I just wish it was from having kidsbut,we all have our druthers,I guess.
ladydawgfan on 24 Mar 2007 at 8:38 pm #
Nicole,
First things first. The “dawg” in my moniker is for Mississippi State, my alma mater (IMHO, the ONLY dawgs that count in the SEC
). So no rivalry between us.
As to your other question, PCOS is PolyCystic Ovarian Syndrome, which more women have than are diagnosed correctly for it. It is also known as Stein-Leventhal Syndrome or Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD). It affects an estimated 6-10% of all women and most don’t even know they have it.
It is also one of the leading causes of infertility in women.
Symptoms include:
Irregular or absent menses
Numerous cysts on the ovaries in many, but not all, cases
High blood pressure
Acne
Elevated insulin levels, Insulin Resistance, or Diabetes
Infertility
Excess hair on the face and body
Thinning of the scalp hair (alopecia)
Weight Problems or obesity that is centered around your mid section
The reason that I am going into such detail is so that anyone who recognizes these symptoms in themselves or another close female relative or friend can urge them to get checked out for it. You need to see a reproductive endocrinologist or an OB/GYN who specializes in reproductive problems to have it correctly identified. In my case, I couldn’t find a physician who would listen to me, with all of them suggesting Weight Watchers, and one even telling me “Well, I could send you to an endocrinologist, but it would be a waste of time for both of you.” She also told me that “some women are just hairier than others!!” It took me a LONG time to trust the medical profession after THAT little episode!!
I am on medication for the Insulin Resistance, and I am slowly but surely losing weight, but since I have been overweight my entire life, I have no idea of what I look like thin, no reference point to aim for, which is making this whole process more difficult.
EllenElyse on 24 Mar 2007 at 9:22 pm #
Selfish Addict… Metabolic Syndrome… I’m wondering if my mom has it. Hmmm… I’ll have to look that up. Thanks for bringing it to my attention!
Nicole Jordan on 25 Mar 2007 at 10:28 am #
ladydawgfan on 24 Mar
>>>The “dawg” in my moniker is for Mississippi State, my alma mater (IMHO, the ONLY dawgs that count in the SEC ).
Oh, good. That means we can still be friends. *BG*
>> PCOS is PolyCystic Ovarian Syndrome,
That sounds so awful. I’m so glad you figured it out practically on your own. But now maybe you can do something to help manage it.
NicoleJ
Nicole Jordan on 25 Mar 2007 at 10:30 am #
And Metabolic syndrome sounds pretty nasty too. It’s really the pits when you suffer from a condition that won’t let you control your own body. I mean, it’s one thing if I gain weight because I can’t resist chocolate or donoughts or margueritas, which is my own fault. It really isn’t fair, though, if it’s not your fault!!
NicoleJ
Nicole Jordan on 25 Mar 2007 at 10:33 am #
Susan K on 23 Mar
>>I happen to work on site at the Limited in the Victoria’s Secret building. Everyday I get to look at pictures of models in little to nothing. It really messes with your self image.
Now this is REALLY not fair! LOL. I think I would be so traumatized, I couldn’t go to work.
NicoleJ
ladydawgfan on 25 Mar 2007 at 10:51 am #
Nicole,
It IS tough when you have to figure these things out on your own. For my part, I knew that something wasn’t right. Regardless of what I did diet-wise, I couldn’t lose weight. I was on every diet known to woman, including Slim Fast, the Navy diet (NOT recommended), TOPS, etc. I even tried skipping meals and saving all of my calories for dinner. I was down to between 1000 and 1200 calories a day, exercising religiously, and STILL not losing weight.
Cont.
ladydawgfan on 25 Mar 2007 at 10:53 am #
Cont.
When I told my doctor about this, she basically discounted everything and told me to call Weight Watchers. That was when I started doing research on my own.
Ladies, you know your own bodies. NEVER settle for a diagnoses that you know is nonsense meant to pacify you, especially if you feel that something serious is going on. EDUCATE yourselves. It is the BEST defense!!!
Nicole Jordan on 25 Mar 2007 at 11:05 am #
ladydawgfan on 25 Mar
>> NEVER settle for a diagnoses that you know is nonsense meant to pacify you, especially if you feel that something serious is going on. EDUCATE yourselves. It is the BEST defense!!!
Beautifully put, ldf! I couldn’t agree more… and I haven’t even had to deal with all the stuff you’ve gone through.
NicoleJ
ps. Sorry about the too short length limitation. We’ll definitely have to change it!
Nicole Jordan on 25 Mar 2007 at 11:11 am #
Kelly Ann on 23 Mar 2007
>>>I am a little disappointed though to learn that wine is not good for you! What about all those skinny french women? … I’m going to continue testing my french diet theory!
ROFL! One glass of wine a day really IS good for you… reduces stress and red esp has antioxcidents. But my problem is I won’t stop at just 1. I have to have 2 or 3-over a 6 hr period, so I’m not truly a lush, but wine is the one thing I can’t make myself give up. I’d rather exercise more.
Selfish Addict on 25 Mar 2007 at 11:14 am #
Ellen Elyse,all women who have PCOS eventually develop some symptomps of Mtetabolic Syndrome,sometimes called Insulin Resistance Syndrome. You can have Met.Syn. without PCOS but,not vice versa.
ladydawgfan,hard to say you’re lucky cause now days people have done some reasearch and something is known. Try being 13 and no one knows anything. They removed 2/3 of both ovaries when I was 16 to diagnosis and treat. I am officially an experiment. I take about 20 Rx.meds.
Selfish Addict on 25 Mar 2007 at 11:23 am #
Before you say I wouldn’t take all that med., I feel better than I have since puberty. It’s a pain but, at least better. Sym. also include elavated cholesteral,trigy.,hypothyroidism and get this,sleep apnea. A study done on obese women&obese with PCOS. Guess who was more likely to have it? I just found this out last yr. and am the proud owner of a c-pap machine. Have you had trouble convincing people you’re insulin resistant but,not diabetic?Girl we need to talk.
Selfish Addict on 25 Mar 2007 at 11:28 am #
If you want to talk here so others can learn I’m okay,otherwise you or anyone else who wants to talk to a living experiment e-mail me. Even my GYN has said Karen,”I don’t have a yard stick for you. The studies are being done or haven’t been done.” Soory for being long but, i don’t want anyone else to go thru what I ahve and am still. 33yrs. is too long!
ladydawgfan on 25 Mar 2007 at 4:50 pm #
Selfish Addict on 25 Mar 2007: Have you had trouble convincing people you’re insulin resistant but,not diabetic?
Oh, yeah!! Especially since I am taking Metformin. You should have seen me arguing with the ”know-it-all” doctor who DIDN’T know it all when I was in the ER for an out of control migraine!! He’d never even heard of PCOS and thought I was making it up!! If my migraines didn’t make me cranky, I probably would have ignored him. Instead, he got a lesson he won’t soon forget!!!
EllenElyse on 25 Mar 2007 at 6:11 pm #
Mmmmmmm… chocolate, doughnuts and margueritas!!! Too bad we’re all so far away! We could have a girl party!
Oooo! And chocolate covered strawberries! Now I’m hungry.
Selfish Addict on 25 Mar 2007 at 7:39 pm #
Good for you ladydawgfan!! I’m lucky that my gyn about five yrs.ago, who knows about PCOS referred me to an internist who knew about Met.Syn. When we discussed the amount of meds she in turn referred me to an endocrinologist who knows too. It’s because I have so many of the symptoms that I need so much meds. Not many combo yet and nothing has been a big help for weiht loss. Gee I wonder why depression is part of it. I’ve been premenopausal for more than 10 yrs.
Selfish Addict on 25 Mar 2007 at 7:55 pm #
CONT.
All 3 have hugged,listened to me cry and rant. It’s as frustrating to them as me. They are doing all that’s available.They have alot of the same questions & not many answers. The endo.says there are more meds. to come out in a couple of yrs. I’ve heard that so many times and will they work for me? I feel like they cringe when I come for an appt. but,they’ve never treated me like that. At least I now have good docs who are looking out for me.
Selfish Addict on 25 Mar 2007 at 8:00 pm #
Cont.
One more question,does your tummy pouch pull and give you low back pain? Seems it’s always something. E-mail me at nanan2ljjm@yahoo.com. I have a very informative article on PCOS. I paid $14 for. I’d be happy to send it to you or anyone who wants more info no cost to you. It’s the best I’ve seen and have even given it to my docs. Good Luck to you.
TheNightPoet on 25 Mar 2007 at 10:27 pm #
I am happy with my body and satisfied with it. I do have some stretch marks, believe it or not, from when I grew too fast, on my legs, but I don’t let that hinder what I think of my appearance. I’ve never been too preoccupied with how I look. I didn’t start wearing makeup on a daily basis until my senior year of high school. I am one of those people that is content with how they look and don’t care what others think. If I had the choice, I would come back as myself.
Andrea