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Slow Healing

I am two months out from surgery and two fills down. I had my last fill two weeks ago and since then I have a huge bruise right over my port. I can also see the puncture mark. Does anyone else experience this? I have a appointment scheduled in two weeks and will see my surgeon also at that time. But could it be something that I am missing from my diet? I think I may switch to one of the bariatric vitamins also. Right now I take two centrum chewables, two viactiv for calcium and b12 as needed . I have been checking out the Celebrate website and I think I may go that way.   The scale is still in the same place but TOM is over so I guess it will move again soon. But my clothes fit good and I am feeling great.

sweetsoutherngirl

sweetsoutherngirl

 

Been A While

Its been a while since I've been here - I've been trying to pop in once in a while when I get the chance, but I've been so busy! I have now officially dropped over 70 lbs since I started my preop, and over 50 since surgery 3 months ago. I have had no complications, my skin is bouncing back thus far (I know I'll need to have some work done later but I'm good with that) - I have energy, I have enthusiasm and I have the best future ahead of me. I have been staying away from the scale - about every 3 weeks I weigh myself. I weighed myself the other day and I was at 314, and that's with a few pounds of bloat since its that time of the month. I'll weigh myself again in a few weeks to see where I'm at - I don't wanna see a 3 as that first number the next time I step on the scale.   I haven't had much opportunity to really incorporate additional exercise other than being a billion times more active than normal to my routine, but I'm getting there. As soon as i was able to, I of course tweaked my shoulder. But I'm feeling better and will be getting the exercise roaring very soon.   I have noticed some of my tastes change - I still crave red meat - that will never change. The large majority of what I eat has always been lean protein, but now....those "guilty pleasure" items - mac and cheese, potatoes, anything really starchy just doesn't do it for me anymore. I really dig that. Hubby and I went out to breakfast at Cracker Barrel and I had their egg sandwich, which I ate the 2 eggs and had a bite of the hashbrown casserole and a small bite of hubby's pancakes and they just didn't satisfy me - I just wanted the eggs!   Wow - i just got distracted by Maks on DWTS - (watching the results show on the DVR and he was dancing to "Let's get it on" good thing watching him dance is calorie free - in fact I think I just burned a few calories watching that! haha!)   Anyway! back to what I was saying! I've gone down in clothes sizes, I have the steering wheel all the way down in the car (my legs used to hit it), I sit in booths and feel small in them, there ain't a chair my butt won't fit in and I even sleep better and don't need as much sleep as I did for so long, I fit comfortably in the bathtub to take a bath (one of my favorite things) I'm wearing clothes I havent worn in years. I put on a pair of heels and not only did they fit my feet, they didn't hurt my feet. I'm getting my shoes back! Yay! Right now, I weigh less than I have in about 4 years. I cannot believe the progress. Once I got those f**king tumors out of my body, I'm feeling so much better - the only rage I have is that I couldn't get it done sooner. However, I have come to terms with that for the most part. I think that with the breast cancer scare, the steroid tumors, nearly losing my marriage, all the trials and tribulations that my husband and I went through with losing our jobs and our employer stealing tens of thousands of dollars from us has made us stronger individually and as a couple. Nothing in my life that I wanted has EVER come easily - but I tell you what - I have more appreciation for everything I have brought to myself than most people I know - and I will FIGHT for it. I cannot describe what all of these battles have done for me as a person. I'm glad that I got to know so many people here. I'm glad that I had the surgeon I did. While I'm not glad that our previous employer stole so much money from us, I'm glad of the outcome that we ended up where we did with the careers that we have now. I am decidedly in love with my husband and we love our life and what we have to offer to the world. We can't wait to see what happens next. Many that I talk to about this wonder how having to have surgery to have tumors and the majority of my stomach removed could be the best thing that's happened to me in a long time. I just smile and tell them that they haven't lived my life What I do know is that life is good and its getting GREAT   If you can't tell - I'm very excited about the future.

circa

circa

 

Starting To See The New Me...

So I was banded on March 5th 2012 at a size 18/20. Well on Sunday I tore a tag off of a 14/16 dress for church and YEP it was TOO BIG..... YAAYYYYY. Now I have only lost 24 pounds which does not seem like a lot to me, but I am happy with my success so far. I am only 7 weeks out and down in sizes so hay... I guess that is my first NSV..... its the small things that count and keep you motivated and I am ecstatic I still have 58 pounds to go and I am ready for the remainder of my journey and to get to where I want to be....... Loving my lap band....

newme2012

newme2012

 

Regretting

I wish I would have thought to write on here before. It would have been nice to look back at pre-op. But what is done, is done.   I was sleeved on Monday, April 16 2012 by Dr Alberto Aceves in Mexicali MX. Surgery was uneventful. The first couple of days post op were normal - some gas, a blown peripheral IV...normal things.   I was released to home on Thursday, April 19th....I drove myself the 4+ hours back home.   Since I have been home...each day, I have felt progressively worse - physically and mentally. Today I feel like I am at my bottom.   I ache all over, from neck, through my abdomen, all the way to my hips. For the first time since surgery, I have nausea. It gets better when sitting, worse when standing and almost unstoppable when walking. My first two days home, I could walk a mile without issue (I'm a nurse - I spend my entire day walking, one mile is normally insignificant.) Today...I could barely manage to make it to the soup aisle in the supermarket and back to the car without total fatigue and agony. I have a tightness behind my sternum that never seems to go away.   To top it - my stomach feels like it is on the LEFT side of my upper abdomen, and it is freaking me out. The left side of my abdomen continues as firm and tender to palpation since surgery, with minimal reduction.   I can't tell if these things are normal, or if I am just being paranoid/psycho patient. I have been able to consume around 1 liter of fluids daily, and minimal protein. Every shake or supplement I have attempted has ended up with me curled up in bed, in agony. It feels like a lead weight in my chest and stays that way for 2 or 3 hours after consumption. I've tried watering it down, making it hot, cold, tepid...no dairy, no chocolate, unflavored...you name it.   This is the worst decision I have ever made. I don't know how I'll live through it.   Rationally, I know why I did it. I am 31, and 2 months ago I was diagnosed with Coronary Artery Disease. I am a Type 2 diabetic. I have exercise-induced asthma, I am (was) hypertensive. I had tried and failed diets for almost 15 years. I had to do something.   But right now, sitting here crying over a bottle of sugar free Propel that I just can't seem to get down...I feel lost.

CrazyCatLady

CrazyCatLady

 

Week 4 Weigh In (One Month Postop)

Lost 2.4 lbs this week putting my total loss at 22.4 lbs. I am losing at approximately 3 lbs per week after surgery (I lost 10 lbs before surgery).   Happy with my weight loss even though at times I wish I could lose a more impressive amount (i.e. 7-10 pounds per week). I was the same way when I was dieting prior to the sleeve so I know that is unrealistic (but it doesn’t stop me from dreaming my weight loss fantasy!).   The last time I when I lost a significant amount of weight – 30 lbs – I basically stopped and gained it all back and then some. I don’t feel like that will happen this time with the sleeve (so for that I am grateful).   I’m still not exercising regularly. I am doing a Flash Mob performance with the local YMCA on May 5th and went to practice last week and that kicked my butt (I looked like a sweaty drowned rat after practice…but I felt good). I know serious exercise isn’t supposed to be introduced until week 6 but I don’t consider Zumba too serious (at least not the way I do it) and I kept my impact low during practice (less jumping more fake jumping). My problem is that I wanted to chug water like no tomorrow and it was really hard to slow myself down. I am finding the same problem with eating. I was technically allowed to start adding mushies this week but I had pretty much been eating mushies since my DC trip. The problem is I haven’t really got the slow eating down yet (working on it).   To give you an idea of what I am eating (and I am not hungry, just trying to get into a routine)…   Early AM – 8 oz of water and my gummy vitamins (fiber, regular, and dissolvable Biotin tablet) Breakfast – Generally is a protein drink. Something with 15 to 20 grams of protein. Midmorning – more water Lunch – Soup (although today I am trying some tuna and crackers thing I purchased at Walmart) Midafternoon – Water Snack – Peanut butter portable cup that I got at Walmart More water or another protein drink (I like OJ with vanilla protein powder) Dinner – Not sure what I am having tonight but the last night two nights I had a Taco Bell fresco chicken soft shell taco (just took the filling out and ate it..GOOD!) and refried beans (not the whole cup but pretty much the top layer with the cheese and beans). Water after dinner   Yesterday I had an Atkins chocolate/peanut butter bar with 19 grams of protein to see how I would tolerate it (it is 2.4 oz) and it was fine so I might be adding those into my meal/snack roation.   I am suffering from really bad dry mouth during the night so I keep a water bottle by the bed (seems to be a side effect of surgery for me).   The “bad” things I have had this week (lest anyone think I am some giant role model J. Saturday I had a class where they had a bunch of muffins and donuts. I took a Boston cream donut and ate the chocolate off the top and then ate the cream in the middle (none of the breading part).
Saturday after class I went to a hibatchi grill with a girlfriend and I ordered miso soup, edamame (which we split) and an order of gyozas. I did ok with the soup (I had about ¼ of a cup). The half order of edamame was good. I probably should have stopped at 2 gyozas and taken the remaining four home instead of forcing all six gyozas (I felt HORRIBLE and had the burpies).
Sunday went to my SIL’s house for dinner (which was fine – fish and steamed squash) it was the raspberry cream cupcake that made me a bit ill (again I would have been ok with just half instead of the full cupcake).
Monday went out to lunch and had half a small cup of tomato basil soup (good), half a tuna salad sandwich (just eating the tuna out of it – no bread) and then I got a child’s cup of lemon custard ice cream (which didn’t make me sick or ill but probably wasn’t the best choice…thank good there was a lot of walking afterward to move it through)
Tuesday was picture day at school and our photographer brought a ton of donuts. Did the chocolate and cream thing again but tried to eat the breading part. Got about a ¼ of it down and I could feel it sitting in my chest so I stopped.
  I’m not too worried about the bad things. I think a lot of it was a learning lesson for me and it was WAY less than what I would have eaten prior to the sleeve (normally I could have a full hibachi meal, four donuts and a waffle cone of ice cream…so I am considering this progress J).   Friday I have Relay for Life with my school so I plan to be trekking around that track quite a few times. Sunday I have my Zumba practice. Looking forward to both for the exercise.   People are noticing the weight loss in my face (my weight loss usually starts showing in the face, then boobs, stomach, and finally thighs). Nobody knows about the surgery.   I am a solid 20W in clothes size now. My 22’s feel/look baggie. I nearly bought a pair of white capris at Dillards the other day ONLY because I fit into the 16W (they were cut pretty big) but I had to buy a pair of jeans (Levis size 20 and a bit snug but figure they will stretch out normally) and both were around $40 so I opted for the jeans only (which I needed).   I think that is pretty much my week-in-review. Until next week….

mrsteacher

mrsteacher

 

No Second Fill....should I Be :) Or :(?

So I went in today, and I'm down to 138. I'm just glad to still be below 240!   My blood pressure, which was a problem post-op, was high, but is never high when I check it at home. Nurse said to just keep an eye on it. Could be "white coat" syndrome (lol) = doctor visit induced anxiety.   So my doctor, who is fabulous by the way, said no fill. he wanted to know what I was eating---we went through the list.....beans....rice....tabouli.....salads....veggies...protein drinks....my list is pretty general. Yes, sometimes I have ice cream. He was concerned about puking and band slippage. He was iinclined to remove some fluid...   He suggested I take out the carbs and focus on eating the things I've been complaining about.....grilled chicken that I probably don't chew enough before swallowing=vomiting; fish=ditto; eggs=ditto His suggestion is that I take more time to chew and eat these foods that absorb the fat in my body....to speed up weight loss. I was avoiding these foods because they get stuck and cause mucus buildup and puking. So now, I'm going to try it his way. Nutrionist didn't agree with the negative carbs and told me all about how carbs fuel the brain but I've also done enough reading to know that I won't die from not eating carbs. I kind of trust the surgeon more than the nutrionists on this one.....   So I have a new eating guideline....that includes breakfast which for me is normally a cup of coffee because I'm never hungry in the morning. Then I'm going to try some pure protein....vegetarian protein where I can as I'm not a big meat person anyhow.   So, we shall see how this works. I wasn't too disappointed about not having the fill. Wasn't looking forwards to liquids and mushies for 3 weeks:)   Be well friends. We are here and there is no turning back~

bluejeansdevotion

bluejeansdevotion

 

What To Eat

Can anyone please tell what they eat for breakafast, lunch & dinner..I need some suggestions. I have been craving chocolate an i know this isn't good. (it does make feel better after i eat chocolate.           **I don't know how to blog. I can't see anyone comments!!

Kalberda

Kalberda

 

Submiting To The Insurance

Today they submitted my things to the insurance company. I am so nerves and excited all at the same time. I started this process back on Jan 7 2012 and I have completed my psych eval and pre op diet/ nutritionist visits for 3 months. Those were the only things I had to do. I have stopped drinking coffee, teas, and sodas. I quit smoking in Dec of 2011 and I really don’t drink too often and when I do it is only one small glass of wine. I have been trying to eat good foods and not eating too many fatty foods or sugary foods. So from today I think it will be about one month till surgery. Wow time will fly I am sure.

Bremartus

Bremartus

 

Ok Class #1 Down 11 2 Go! Need A Little Nudge:)

So I am soooo excited to have started the process I have been waiting 2 yrs, BUT.... why am I not motivated to lose the 10% of my body weight??? They said we would idealy like you to lose the 10% but it is not mandatory as soon as they gave me the option to not lose it. It was all over my motivation went out the window. I was really excited to do the work and lose some weight on my own when I thought I had to. whats wrong with me lol... a little motivation to put positive thoughts back in my head would be cool thanks for your support in advance guys!!! my hubby is as fit as a fiddle lol.. so he does'nt understand the pickle i am in he just sayes work out yah ....

ILOVEMELC

ILOVEMELC

 

First Trip Back To The Doc's.

Hi Everyone,   Well, I said I would report back on my first visit back to my surgeon. 5 weeks after my operation, he was very happy to see how well my incisions have healed and was more than happy with my weightloss.(even though I have been stalled for three weeks). I also saw the dietician who was again, very happy with my food choices and thinks I am doing wonderfully. She fell about laughing when I told her about my step aerobics problems, but apparently she is just as unco-ordinated so fully understood where I was coming from.   Having seen them both I feel easier in my mind about things generally. To top it off this morning my stall broke, only by half a pound but who cares, things are moving again. I feel lighter in my mind some how too. I have been eating very carefully and slowly, and as soon as I begin to feel full stop eating. Even if I have only eaten a tiny bit (although I usually manage a good 2 ounces) I don't worry as I know I can always have something more if I feel hungry later. I don't worry about food now, it is not always on my mind. I enjoy what I have, and I have been very lucky in that everything I have tried my sleeve has liked. I am eating normally now. Not sloppy food, just well chewed and usually with a sauce or gravy to keep it wet.   A standard days food looks a bit like this. Breakfast: 1 weetabix with half a banana and semi skimmed milk or a few shredded wheat minis with semi skimmed milk or egg on toast (either poached or dry fried or boiled) the toast is a small wholemeal slice and yes I do put a little butter on it.   Lunch: a boiled egg mashed with a little cheese and salad cream or a slice of toast with pate or tinnned mackerel on toast or soft cheese on crackers. or soup (usually homemade with veg and either chicken or oxtail)   Dinner: It depends on what I have eaten during the day, but will usually be Chicken with veg pork with veg homemade shepherds pie homemade fish pie fish in some sauce with veg steak and a fried egg   Pretty much anything I or my husband fancy. I drink thoughout the day and am always over 64 ozs of fluid. So all in all, I think I have cracked it. Oops that could be famous last words!   I do still get tired but know that will improve the further out from my op I get. I am loving this sleeve, I feel better than I have for years, I am under 300 lbs and know that with time I will get to where I want to be. Life is good I hope everyone gets to feel how I do today Phoenix

Phoenix Rising

Phoenix Rising

 

The Numbers Just Don't Add Up

Ask anyone, I am not a numbers person. Math and science were not my strong points in school. Heck, I am not even sure they were a weak point with me. They seemed to be more nonexistent than anything. In high school, I fought to get a D in Chemistry and Geometry. I was good at Algebra, but most any other math based classes were able to strike fear in my heart with out even trying. My father never understood this as he was a math person. he could do almost any math problem in his head and within seconds. This only made my fear of math that much bigger. How could he make it so easy? Was I just an idiot who didn't get it? Would I ever get it? Did my IQ test lie? I must have scored much lower than the numbers said. Why else would I not be able to do what others considered simple math.   Then, when I was 26 years old, my now husband brought all those insecurities back on our first date. We were playing Trivia Pursuit and he got a geometry questions. I knew there was no way he would get the pie. I was feeling really good about my standing n the game when he asked for a pen and paper. "WHAT? You have got to be kidding me!!" He then rattled off the theory he needed to use and then proceed to plug int he numbers and draw designs I hadn't seen since high school. Needless to say, he got the answer right and won the pie piece. Right then, all my doubts came flooding back. Then jokingly I asked if he was some kind of a genus. He didn't want to answer but once pressed, he told me his IQ was 165. I just shook my head. How did I end up on a date with my father?   Now, I am not telling you this story in an attempt to say, "Look how smart my husband is!!!!! He's so cool. He can do math problems in his head." No, that is not my reason at all. I am telling you this in a feeble attempt to get you to understand that math and i have have a "hate, hate" relationship most of my life. With that said, I know I am still able to do simple math. But, after this surgery I am not sure if that statement is true anymore.   I joined Myfitnesspal.com yesterday. I logged in everything I ate and all the workouts I did. Every time I walked, I log it in with the amount of calories I burned. Now, it takes 3200 calories to make a pound. Which implies that if I burn more calories than I take in and it adds up to 3200 calories, I would lose a pound of fat. That to me makes sense. Well according to Myfitnespal.com, I burn/don't take in 1518 calories a day and have been doing this for the past eight days. I know this as I eat the same thing every day and work out around the same amount. With that being said, I should have lost a pound every other day (approximately) give or take a pound here and there. Now, if my math is right....and I will be the first to say that it may not be....I should have lost between 4-6 pounds in the last eight days. How may have I lost? NONE. ZIP. Absolutely nothing.   Now, I keep telling myself that I've been walking a lot, and I am sure I building muscle. But even knowing that, I think, doesn't muscle help burn more fat? So I am stuck back to the question, "Why isn't math working?" Is it because I am doing the math? Remember, math doesn't like me. So this could be it's attempt to get back at me after all the years I called it stupid. Maybe I hurt it's feelings and now it's out for revenge. I've even thought that maybe there are little math gremlins that stand on the scale with me (that I can't see over my belly) to make it does not change numbers. All I know is I don't like it. I don't like it one bit.   I know not to expect miracles. However, I did expect to lose weight once a week. I didn't care if it was a little or a lot. Even though I've read so many people say that there are times the scale just doesn't move, it still bothers me. When I run the numbers, it seems like I should have some downward movement. but I don't. Don't worry, I am not going to stop doing what I am doing. I will continue to follow my program and get in my protein and my liquids. Maybe I should give the math question to my father and husband and see what they come up with. Lord knows they are much better at the numbers thing than I am.   I will say this. If I don't see some movement (downward) in my scale soon....I am going to on math hunt. I promise that I will hunt down all those little gremlins and make them regret all the times they messed with me. Don't they know I'm sensitive right now? This is not the time for jokes when it comes to my weigh in. You will pay gremlins...you hear me? You will pay!!!

tmorgan813

tmorgan813

 

Moving Onwards And Upwards

Its been a while since I have blogged, just haven't had the time, energy or desire I suppose.. I had a follow up with the doctor yesterday and am 9 months post-op and sooooo not where I expected to be. I've lost maybe 30lbs total and now have 9.4 in my 14 band.   I feel pretty good overall but disappointed at the same time. I know everyone is different but I honestly expected my weightloss to be greater at this point in the game, I'm still doing my kickboxing class every morning, hitting the gym and started hiking too. Just can't seem to break out of this rut. And yes, I do follow my diet although I can be accused of skipping meals on occassion which I know is not a good thing.   For some time I have been considering converting from the lap-band to the bypass and think I'm ready to go ahead with it. I've discusssed it with my doctors office and they aren't against it at all. I feel that this will be more suitable to me and my particular lifestyle and will work better for me long term. I'm not knocking the band at all trust me. I just need to wait for the new bariatric surgeon to get my medical records and I can meet with him. Hoping the process isn't lenghthy as I'm itching to do it soon. With any luck I'll have it before summer.   Hope all is well with my band friends and family!

LeeLee76

LeeLee76

 

Three Weeks Post Op

Hello everyone. Just wanted to give a brief update. As of today, I am down a total of 28 pounds since I started but only 15 since my surgery three weeks ago. Unfortunately, I only on full liquid meals until my first fill on May 15th. Right now I am consuming 64 grams of protein a day which might be much but my bariactric coordinator want me to get in at least 60 grams once i get my fill. Of that 16 grams is milk (fat free) and 48 grams is whey protein and I consume about 500 calories a day and walk for 45 minutes a day when I feel like it. My sterile strip glue is just now pilling off and there are no scars...yeah!.   But I just wanted to stop in and see hello and let you all know that i am doing well! Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.

Ready2BFit

Ready2BFit

 

Weight Issues..lol

my weight is still stuck.I have played 2 super hard games of squash this week and,nothing!Before this surgery I would have dropped a couple of pounds at least.   My house mate (teeny tiny little thing with about 7kg's to lose) is losing weight faster than me at the moment.Scary really!

desertmom

desertmom

 

Wedding Dress Blues

Hi Ladies, I am getting married next month and still don't have a dress. I went to davids Bridal to buy one off the rack. I have lost 66 lbs and I still need a size 26 wedding dress but i can wear size 22 pants. This was very disappointing. My question is does anyone have a beautiful dress in a 26 they want to sell or know where I can purchase one off the rack in ohio, chicago, or Indiana? Any help would be great ahving a small vegas wedding. Trying to get rid of at lest 10 lbs in 2 weeks....lol   Thanks for your help.

Smilecharmer

Smilecharmer

 

Post Op Day 2

After a very uncomfortable night's sleep last night and a stiff morning, I'm feeling much better now. My referred pain in my shoulder is being managed by heat wraps and my tummy incision wounds aren't that bad right now. I am taking soluble panadol in water and it's so strange having to sip on that. I used to chug water into me like I was on a mission and now I'm having to slow it down so much. I'm so hopeful and yet a little apprehensive too that I'll be noticed... I know people will start to see the weight loss and wonder what I'm doing but you know what actually now that I've typed that, I don't care... I'm so excited!! My wonderful friend just dropped by with some panadol for me and she's as excited as me, complimenting my flat tummy (flat in comparison to 2 weeks ago- its still huge! But you gotta love her enthusiasm)   I'm having a bed day, I'm up and about in between but instead if sitting at the table or on the couch I'm propped up in bed. I can't go outside the weather is miserable (an Irish reality) and my place of work is too close to home to be seen until I get back to work next week. I've been told not to push it til after the weekend anyway which makes sense to me, keyhole or not, it's still surgery, a truma to the body that needs to be acknowledged and looked after.   I keep looking forward to the end of the summer and wondering what I'll look like, how I'll feel.... Will I still have the same crush I have right now? Will I be able to act it out with increased confidence and self belief? I find it funny that I'll be the same me but that people will get to see me at last... Food for thought....   I took 15 minutes to eat my ready brek this morning and it was freezing half way. I slowly drank a glass of juice and I mean very slowly compared to before and I still think I'm not being slow enough. Instead of shovelling it all in, I'm being forced to reassess my habits and take my time... Which is so not my usual style, I'm like a whirlwind in so many ways, especially in relation to my eating. I think this is gong to be enlightening in more ways than one. Maybe I'll slow everything down and become a calmer eater and person in general.   It's funny to listen to water slowly gurgling down or to feel a very slight back up when taking a drink... My band is going to kick in where will power won't, i will be forced to break my bad habits by being physically unable to shovel in bad food. This is FANTASTIC!!!! I am seriously going to try to focus on the positive. It doesn't matter what everyone around me does, this is time for me to focus on me. I still can't believe it's done, I can't believe I have a band inside me. I'm finally going to do it! I'm going to lose this weight that has shackled me for nearly my whole life. I'm so thankful. I wish everyone on the same journey the BEST of luck. We CAN do this!  

Cazz

Cazz

 

Happy Birthday To Me!

I had such an awesome birthday this year!   Friday: It started with a 1.89 hill training walk (after doing 5.21 miles the day before). Then I got a pedicure. I hadn't had one since my sister got married in 2008. Then the rest of the day was a blur from the lovely April 20th holiday.   Saturday: I finally got to a support group. It was good. I hadn't been to one all month b/c of work, and I felt really re-motivated to get back on track. We did this exercise where you write on a index card "Today I will" and whatever you want to do. Whether it's exercise, or take your vitamins, or stick to your meal plan, or not eat cake. After this specific group we have a clothing swap. I found this super cute dress that was too big, and I'm saving it for the sewing class I'm going to take next semester. The fabric was too cute to pass up. After that I went to the mall for 3 hours. That is nothing in Liz time. That's like 1 store. And I was able to hit 4 or 5. MAC, Sephora, TBS, Victoria's Secret, and Nordstrom. I renewed my card at MAC. At Sephora one of the girls there applied some blush and lip products on me. Another employee even took a picture of us and texted it to me. That was way awesome. I bought some stuff from the Sephora Pantone collection. At first I was unsure of my purchase, but now I don't regret it one bit, I love it! Then I went to The Body Shop b/c I had $25 in store credit to use ($10 for my birthday and $15 for reaching 4 points aka spending way too much money there. Seriously, I have enough body stuff to last me AT LEAST a year if not longer!). I got this set that has chocolate scented stuff and a loofa, which brought me up to my 8th point giving me a $25 credit I think, and renewing my membership for another year. After the mall I came home, got dinner for Jess and then dinner for me and packed for the hair show and stay at my brothers house.   Sunday: I got up super early, went to the hair show and spent way too much money.   Monday: I did the same thing minus the spending. I only bought a couple of things. I pretty much didn't eat anything until dinner. I had brought a protein bar with me but it was DISGUSTING!!! So I just went without eating anything b/c everything they had at the show was either super expensive or things that I can't eat. On the way back I stopped at Starbucks and got a grande decaf soy iced white mocha. It was yummy. And I got an extra one which I gave to my sister in law b/c they didn't make it decaf the first time. When I got back my brother, sister in law and nephew took me out to dinner for my birthday.   Today (my actual birthday): I got up early, went to Denny's and got my free grand slam. Went to work, got my hair cut/fixed by my manager/friend (another coworker who doesn't like me didn't do such a great job on it). Then I went to Ulta for my free birthday brow wax and the girl did my makeup too. I felt bad for not tipping her more, but I'm so totally broke right now. I really hope she doesn't think I'm a total cheapo. Then I got my free birthday car wash. Then I came home, changed clothes and we went out to a hibachi grill for dinner. After dinner I dropped the bf off at home and went to Ross. There I found this pair of capri/petal pusher pants that I had been lusting over but every time I saw them they only had super tiny sizes like 3 and 5 or the shorts version (I can't wear shorts b/c of my legs). I did a happy dance in the dressing room. It's conceivable that I could fit the next size down (which they didn't have), but entirely possible that I couldn't b/c of my legs, either way, I'm used to wearing belts, so I'm ecstatic that I found them! I also found a super cute dress (I just need to find tights or something to wear under it). Finding the capri pants was the cherry on top of my fantastic birthday. I am so content! And and and I almost forgot. I tried on a pair of size 6 pants (just for the heck of it) and they fit! But they weren't cute enough to justify the price.   I think birthday sex may be next and I am so looking forward to sleeping in tomorrow (if I can get to bed at a decent hour).

My Life as Liz

My Life as Liz

 

April Was A Bad Month (Week 19)

I knew this month was going to be bad and I was right. I gained 1.4lbs and 1.5 inches for the month. I can't let this get me down I just need to get on it and stay on top of things. But this does show me that making bad food choices and no exercise will result in a bad month or week.   I think I will write a letter to the hospital about changing the food in the vending machines so there are better and healthier choices. 5 days of that didn't help me at all. I am so thankful Tia (sis) is doing good and home again. She still has to have her wound packed and taped but at least that can be done here at home.   I had a doctor appointment and they have me so freaked out about going to the gym by myself, they are so worried that I will have another heart attack or stroke it is just driving me crazy. So I did some research on my health conditions and found that what they are saying is more serious then I thought. The chances of either of those happening is about 80 to 100% possible if I do to much of anything. So for now I will just be more careful and pay attention to the heart rates of the machines so that I don't over do, there is 1 good thing, they do have emergency buttons to wear at the gym when I'm alone.which is a good thing.   Well time for bed and prayers, tomorrow is another day and the start of a new week. I will do better I don't want to fail.   Day by Day Step by Step with Jesus

Charlotte

Charlotte

 

Discouraged..argh

I am so disappointed with my weight loss, I had surgery on Jan 18, 2012 and I have been at a stall for over 4 weeks, My scale is stuck it fluctuates 3lbs up or 3 lbs down. I drink my water, eat protein and exercise at least 2 -3 times a week, Just venting. Have a good day!!!!!

Smilecharmer

Smilecharmer

 

Feeling Yoda-Like Calmness, And A Letter To My Stomach

So I'm here at the hospital in one of their 'hotel-style' rooms. Very comfy. My check-in is at 7am for a 10am surgery and I know that this is right for me. My feet are on the right path and my head is in the right place. I don't know whats going to happen after surgery and what life will be like, but I have faith that everything will work out. I am calm. I am ready. Bring on the scapel, Doc, and let's do this.   Tomorrow is the day, thank you to everyone who has been with me so far on this journey and I'll keep ya'll posted.   See ya on the flip side!   ~Lyra   PS: A Note To My Stomach   Dear Stomach-   We've been together through thick and thin, literally. We've had good times, great times, and "how many tequila shots and burritos did I actually eat" times. Looking back on it, we've had a good run over the last 29 years. Granted, you were always a little bit finicky about lactose, and good at making epically loud grumbly noises that were better suited for the soundtrack of Star Wars (the part where the Death Star exploded, to be exact) but overall our relationship has been just a bit too good. For whatever reason you didn't have any boundaries, and I was a champion at crossing mine. So, in all due respect for services rendered...I want a divorce. Don't worry, though, my dear stomach, part of you will live on inside of me. We will still have a relationship, albeit a much healthier one. Remember the humiliation I felt when I couldn't get on the rides at the state fair? Yeah. I'm not saying it was all you, I definitely had a hand in it, but we're just not good together. You're just too much stomach for me to handle.   Please don't look at this 'divorce' as a forever goodbye. We will still enjoy food, just in smaller and much healthier amounts. Overall my happiness and future will be brighter because of this decision. Together we will strive for a better future. Together we will succeed, and together we will ROCK OUR SLEEVE!   So, goodbye dear stomach. In the morning we will go to sleep and when I awake I will no longer have a demanding and lazy stomach. Instead The Sheriff will be born, and a new sheriff will indeed be in town.   With love for the last 29 years of overly dedicated service, and with hope and faith for the future-   ~Lyra

Lyra

Lyra

 

This Bunny Is Off Her Meds!- Non Scale Victory Time!!

So, I haven't posted in a while. I am crazy busy with Nursing school, and would normally blame it on that. ( I really should be studying right now) But I think I need to look deeper inside to the truth. I had nothing to report. I was BUMMED. I was at a stand still for a month or so. I lost 40 pounds in first two months then nothing for almost 2 more. Hovering at 212 forever. I had my 3rd fill a few weeks ago again and it has start to come off again, Slowly, but still going downward. I'm at 203 now, teasingly close to under 200, for the last week or two. So I was a bit down that nothing was happening. I want to be under 200 so bad. I am so stressed with school and kids and life. I was stressing over not lossing more recently. Stressing over the scale, I not suppose to get on everyday, and really not suppose get on every few hours, just to check...the numbers were not being nice to me. Then I got some great news today. New numbers that were dropping...   So this morning, I had a doctors appointment, I only wrote my doctor's name in my calander so when i showed up for my annual physical with my 8 year old in tow, after we just had breakfast, they were surprised, but saw me anyway, just need to go back for blood work now. I thought it was an appointment for my blood pressure screening for my hypertension-I been going every few months to recheck see if more medication was needed or if it was still working ok at controlling my Blood Pressure.   I started on Blood pressure meds only this past fall. Prior to this my blood pressure was alway low. My blood pressue shot up the day after my 41st birthday. : 164/94. I was really scared. I had chest pain and could feel my heart beating out of my chest- ended up in ER and they kept me over night.- no heart attack- just the starft of hypertension. After a lot of tests they put me on blood pressure mediacitons to lower my BP to a normal level. So when My doctor started me on meds, in september I was 256 pounds and had a average BP of 150/85. I was all ready in the process of getting my preop stuff for my lapband surgery completed. I was scared, I waited too long to get a hold of my weight and I wasn't going to be around for my kids whe they got older if I kept on this heavy path.   Today I saw my primary care doctor for the first time since my surgery. He was very excited over how well I was doing, my BP was 124/70, my EKG was normal, my weight was 53 pounds lighter. SInce I didn't know I was having a full physical today I ate breakfast, so I going back in a few weeks to recheck my BP after being off medications, and do my blood panel. I am so excited to be off my Blood Pressure medication.   So remember, just because the scale is not moving in the right direction all the time, doesn't mean you not getting healthier everyday.   Let look at our non scale victories: I was banded the Dec 16 2011. In four mouths I have gone down 53 pounds, am now free of BP medications, my four year old can get on my back for piggyback ride and his little legs fit around to front, I wearing a size 14 not a size 22 anymore, ( I actually got a pair of 12's on, they were on and zipped but it really wasn't pretty.- I bought them of course- they with fit better soon enough!), and my feet got smaller, had to go down a size. who knew my feet were fat too? I can shop at victoria secrets now.   So celebrate they little things in your life that are really HUGE. STOP getting so upset if we stall in our scale numbers, it happens to everyone. Usually at about 3 -4 months from what I have notices and been told from others who gone throught it all ready. It normal. Your body is going through some big changes and sometime needs to take a break and caught up on the inside to how your looking on the outisde, and vice versa, before it starts lossing again. So don't stress. These non scale successes are what it all about!!!! ( You of course know I will so be posting when I get under 200, however long it takes-still a big milestone for me)   What non scale victory do you have to share? Here's my other new one...my husband's can't accidently put on my jeans...too small now, His are too big for me.

suzbuni

suzbuni

PatchAid Vitamin Patches

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