Frazzled Friday

In four days we start our drive to my mom's. We won't be back again until NYE.   I can't believe that all the time I have to finish things!  I haven't finished buying gifts, but I will have some time at my mom's so that's not horrible.  I still have so much to do around the house, cleaning and organizing oh and making some homade gifts.

I hate coming home to a dirty house so I'll do as much as I can.  I'm hoping to schedule the cleaners to come while we're gone so it's even more clean.

Thanks for all the good wishes on the 5K.  I had so much fun I signed up for another one this weekend.  Crazy to do, with everything else, but it sounded like so much fun I couldn't resist.  It's a Santa Hustle.  You get a tshirt that looks like a Santa outfit, Santa hat and beard.  The pics look so fun.

The forecast is for chance of rain.  I hope it holds off, not sure if I'll want to do it if it's raining.  Fingers crossed for no rain,  I wouldn't even mind snow.  I think that would be fun, but I'm a freak like that.

Had my last Derby Lite class Wednesday.  Can't believe I survived the whole session, and with only one Urgent Care visit, and no major injuries.  I have done more in the last couple of months than I ever thought I could.  I can't wait until the next session to start in January.

Weigh in Wednesday and 5K results

Weighed in this morning at 

249.6

I broke into the 240"s!!!  YIPEE!  Can't even remember last time I weighed less than 250.  So close to 80 pounds lost, only 0.6 pounds more and I'll be there.  MFP rounds up, but officially I'm at 79.4.  

Jingle Bell 5K was last weekend.  I was so tempted to skip it.  I was feeling so far out of my comfort zone.  My first victory was that even though it was cold and rainy saturday morning I showed up to the 5K.

Pre Race

Post Race

Getting Time Tag cut off.

I have been doing Ease into 5K.  Only just started doing week 3, so it was a combination of walking and jogging.  I'd say I probably jogged about 10-15 minutes total.  My overall time was 47:45.  My goal was to finish under an hour, so very happy with that time.  I also didn't want to finish last, and I wasn't.  Out of the 1645 timed people I came in 1448 I think, somewhere around there.  There were also lots of people that didn't get timed, so there were lots more people after me.  

So happy that I did this.  Can't believe that I did it, but I did!!

Ten Things Thursday

1.  5K is this weekend. I think I'm ready as I'll ever be.  My goal is to finish in under an hour.

2. I'm excited, but I'm also kind of bummed.  Mu husband is going out of town so he won't be at the finish to cheer me on.  I was ok cause I thought I had my team to support me.  Turns out my team isn't much of a team.  My instructor who asked me to join her team old me yesterday we probably won't see each other during the race as there are so many people, and she didn't seem interested in even trying to find each other.

3.  I will be so far out of my comfort zone, part of me just wants to skip the whole thing. Trying to push through and just do it.

4.  When it's almost 70 degrees it's hard for me to get in the Christmas spirit.  Cold front has moved in and we have snow flurries in the forecast. :)

5.  They are setting up for a party at work.  I'm happy about the party, just not all the noise they are creating while I'm trying to work.  Sound system checks all afternoon really?

6.  In two weeks I'll be at my mom's.  I can't wait.

7.  I didn't sign up for Z'z weight loss challenge, missed the deadline. I was sad, even more so since I've lost 2.8 pounds this past week.  I think that's the total I lost in the last challenge!

8.  Had Arby's for lunch.  I don't think that will happen again anytime soon.  Curly fries and my band didn't agree with each other.

9.  Last Derby Lite Class is next week.  I can't believe how far I've come in 13 weeks.  I can't wait until next session starts up.

10.  Only had one taker for a Christmas Card Exchange... anyone else up for it, let me know.

Anyone up for a Card Exchange?

Thanksgiving was good. pretty quiet actually.  Just me, the hubby and a friend for dinner.  I cooked so I had control over what we ate.  Didn't make stuffing since my husband doesn't like it and I don't eat it (carbs are my downfall).  Other than that it was a usual Thanksgiving dinner for us: turkey, roasted potatoes and carrots, butternut squash, snap peas, rolls and cranberry sauce.  It was hard to remember to not take a huge portion of anything.  It helped that the plated we use for special occasions are my grandparents wedding china, the made the plates a lot smaller back then.  I made mini apple and mincemeat pies and our friend brought a no bake pumpkin cheesecake.  That cheesecake was sooooo yummy.  He left it at our house.   Problem is my hubby won't eat it and it calls my name.  So I did something almost unthinkable... I thew it out.  Well, not right away.  I ate it for two days and realized having it in the house was a mistake, cause I was going to end up eating all of it, so in the trash is went.  I felt bad that i was throwing out perfectly good food, but it's what I had to do.

You'll see me new ticker at the top of my blog for the Jingle Bell 5K.  I'm trying to kick things up a little.  I've got less than two weeks, so no excuses for me.   After I got the turkey in the oven I went out and did Week 2 Day 1.  First time with wogging for 90 secs.  Didn't do so well with that, couldn't make it the whole time.  The amazing thing is the 45 sec wog really wasn't that bad!  I did W2D1 again on saturday and this time made it through all the run times without stopping, yippee!!

Saturday we went out an my hubby got me an early Christmas present, new sneakers.  Not just any old sneakers mind you, but running sneakers from New Balance.  I'll try and take a pic of them.  They are very comfy, they should be for $150.  Never spent that much on shoes EVER.  They will be worth it though, I plan on wearing them into the ground.

Sunday was spent taking down the fall decorations and starting to put up Christmas stuff.  Didn't get everything up, just didn't seem right since it's still November.  I'll do most of it this coming weekend.

I did pull out my cards for this year and it got me thinking.  I love sending cards, and even more I love getting cards.  I display them all winter long.  Any one interested in a card exchange?  I would be more than happy to arrange.  Just let me know if anyone is interested.  I know we are semi anonymous here in blogland, so it's ok if you don't want participate because you would have to share your real name/address.

If you are interested I would just need your name and address.  I would compile everyone's info and send to everyone participating.(I promise not so sell, or use for any other nefarious purpose).   You would send a card to everyone on the list then sit back and wait for the cards to roll in.

Weigh in Wednesday and 6 Month Bandiversary

Weighing in today at...

255.2

Down 0.4 pound since last week.  Disappointed it's not more, but thankful it's a loss and not a gain.  With the bum ankle I wasn't able to do my Derby or aerobics class, and I didn't get the dogs walk in for a couple of days.

On a more important note, it had been exactly 6 months since my surgery.  I can't believe how fast the time has gone.  The decision for surgery was the best one I ever made.  I am in such a better place than I was 6 months ago.  I still have a ways to go, and I seem to be at a plateau, but I know I can get there.  

Just a few stats from before and now:

Weight

   Before: 329

   Now:    255.2

Pant Size

   Before: tight 28

   Now:   tight 18

Shirt Size

   Before:  4x

   Now:     1x

Medications

   Before:  7 medications

   Now:    4 medications; stopped the two for high blood pressure, one for pre-diabetes and cut in half the dose for reflux

Exercise

   Before:  what exercise ;)

   Now:    walk the dogs every day for 30-60 minutes, Derby Lite (roller skating) 90 minutes each week, aerobics class 60 minutes each week.

Total Loss to date:  

73.8

An average of 12.3 pounds per month!!!  

I am so proud of myself for losing the weight.  I am more proud of myself for admitting I needed help.  Taking that first step to attend a seminar was one of the hardest things I have ever done, but I'm so glad I did it.

Ten Things Thursday

1.  Well, it was bound to happen, I'm surprised it took this long...I hurt myself at Derby Lite last night.  Not too bad, just a sprained ankle.  It was right at the beginning of class.

2.  I have to admit for about 15-20 minutes of icing it down I was seriously considering putting my skates back and finishing class.  That lasted until I tried to stand up and pain shot up my leg. It's puffy and still hurts, hopefully it will get better quick.

3.  I signed up for my first (and maybe last) 5K. I'll be doing the Jingle Bell 5K on December 8th. My goal is just to finish under an hour.  I plan on doing mostly walking, with a little wogging thrown in for good measure.

4.  I started an Ease into Couch to 5K. So far I've only done week 1 two weeks in a row.  My plan was to finish Week 1 tomorrow and start Week 2 on Sunday.  Think I might have to delay that for a few days.

5.  I bought an awesome pair of high boots.  I've wanted a pair for a looong time, but couldn't find a pair that would fit over my pudgy calfs.  I was so excited that these fit!

6.  Thanksgiving is a week away.  I'm cooking and have yet to even think about what I'm going to make.  There will only be three of us, so not a big deal.  But I probably should decide soon so I can shop this weekend.

7.  Most of the things I'm asking for for Christmas are exercise related:  FitBit, new wheels for my skates, bag for my derby gear, new skeakers... wow what I change.

8.  I'm running out of things...I always think I have sooo much to say, but end up scapping the bottom of the barrel to make it to 10.

9.  Any suggestions for songs to add to my 5K playlist?  My favorites so far are Stronger by Kelly Clarkson, and Firework by Katie Perry.

10.  I saw Christmas lights when I was out last night.  Too early, way to early.  I LOVE Christmas  but can we at least wait until after Thanksgiving people?

Weigh in Wednesday aka Teeter Totter

UGH, I want to get off this Teeter Totter,  I feel like I've been stuck on it forever.  Today's weight...

255.6

Up a pound since last week...  I think I've hit a plateau.  For the last month I've been gaining and losing the same pound or two.  Need a good swift kick in the arse to get me into the 240's.  I thought I had been doing so much better this past week, and still up a pound.  It may be due to my TOM, and just water weight.  I have noticed my rings are tighter this week.  

Maybe next week will be a big loss, but that won't happen if I don't keep up with eating right and exercising.  So that's my focus for this coming week, one day at a time.

Liebster Award

Katrin at go goggy go has nominated me for the Liebster Award.  Thanks Katrin for thinking of me.  Liebster is a German word and means sweetest, kindest, nicest, dearest, beloved, lovely, kind, pleasant, valued, cute, endearing and welcome.  

The Rules

- Once you're nominated, write 11 facts about yourself.

- Then, take a look at the 11 questions the person who nominated you asked and answer them.

- Get your thinking cap on and come up with 11 questions of your own for your nominees to answer

- Then choose the 5 bloggers you want to nominate (they must have less than 200 followers) & let them know they've been nominated (there are no tag backs - you can't nominate the person who nominated you).

- Complete this post and then link it to the person who nominated you (in the comments of their blog).

11 Facts about Myself:

1. I've lived in 7 different states as an adult.
2. I love old movie musicals.
3. My Derby Name is Polly Yerinsane
4. I love animals and have worked with a couple of different dog rescue groups.
5. I turned 40 this year, and I have no idea where all those years have gone.  I don't feel 40.
6. I like given presents more than getting presents.
7. I have studied three lanquages: French, German and Russian.  I'm no good at any of them, and now if I try to speak one I end up mashing up all three.
8. I've been to Ireland twice, and can't wait to go back.
9. I LOVE the smell of fresh ground coffee, but can't stand the taste.
10. I worked as a telemarketer in college.  Great money, but horrible job.
11. I love doing crafts, however I usually start projects, but never finish them

11 Questions from Karen for me to answer: 

1. What is your favorite holiday of the year?
   Christmas, I love being home with family and friends, and giving presents. 
2. What is your best childhood memory?
   Spending time with my Grandpa and his ponies
3. I  love to blog because......
   I get so much support from some amazing people.
4. What would your dream job be?
   Haven't figured this out yet, when I do I'll go for it.
5. What would your last meal be?
   Chicken Parmasean  (This was actually my last "real" meal before being banded.
6. Do you feel like you are in the space and place you are meant to be?
   Yes and no.  I am happy with who I am and where I am, but I still wonder about who I could be.
7. George Clooney or Brad Pitt?
   George Clooney, absolutely
8. What is your most precious possession?
   Pictures of my family
9. Do you prefer an adventure vacation or relaxing vacation?
   relaxing with a little adventure thrown in for good measure.
10. How do you define success?
    Being happy, making other's happy.
11. What inspired you to create a blog?
    When I was planning my surgery I found some wonderful blogs that answered my questions, and made me more comfortable in my decision.  I hoped that by sharing my story I may help someone else.

My 11 Questions:

1. Weirdest thing you have ever eaten?
2. What crazy activities do you dream of trying someday?
3. Have you ever won a trophy? If so, what was it for?
4. Dog or Cat?
5. Why do you blog?
6. What would you do if you didn’t have to work?
7. What is your favorite movie?
8. How often do you get a haircut?  Describe your worst haircut
9. What books on your shelf are begging to be read?
10. What quality do you like most  about yourself?
11. What quality do you like least about yourself?

My 5 Nominees Are:

The Dandy Bandy
Lady Biker Banded
Laps in Life
Banded in Texas
From Fabulous to Fit

Who's Morbid? NOT ME!!!!

I weighed in this morning, saw a loss, but wasn't really too excited.  Today's weight...

254.6 *

Wasn't excited that is until I logged into my weight ticker and it said my new BMI is 39.9.  I am officially no longer Morbidly Obese!  OK, I understand I'm still obese, and  I still have a looooong way to go,but getting rid of that word is something I've been so focused on.  My BMI has gone from 51.1 to 39.9 in just a little less than 6 months. YIPPEE.

Refocus... that's my plan.  Got a new pedometer (lost my old one), starting logging food and fluids on MFP. Taking more time to plan out my meals so I'm not scrambling to figure out what to eat.

I have also started working towards a 5K.  The instructor of my aerobics class has a team for the Jingle Bell Run in December.  I'm going to sign up for her team.  Walking is fine, but I don't want to completely embarrass myself.  To that end I've started a Ease into Couch to 5K program.  Did Week 1 Day 1 on Monday, I was pleasantly surprised.  I wogged through the running parts and I didn't "wog" every time I was supposed to, but I did so much better than I thought I would. In total I think I wogged for almost 6 minutes.  Each wog time was at most 60 secs, and I was able to do that.  I was sucking wind by the end, but was able to recover relatively quickly.

I should do Week 1 Day 2 tonight.  Not sure if I will or not since I've got Derby Lite tonight as well.  I'll see if I have time to do it before class.

Thanks for all the words of encouragement!!  

* had to update, my dyslexia kicked in when I originally posted weight as 256.4, it really was 254.6

Struggling and wisdom

I've been struggling with my eating, I've been using halloween as an excuse, but I know that it started before that.  Eating cookies, candy, and yes even drinking soda.  I know that all that is against the rules, but I did it anyway.  UGH, why do I do this to myself.

I've also been struggling with my emotions.  It's hard not to fall back into the old mindset of since I've messed up a little, might as well just give it all up and continue to eat crap.  Reading other people blogs is so helpful...today I came across o great post by Julie at The Dandy Bandy.

Just what I needed today.  So no more wallowing, time to get back up and re-dedicate to my journey.

Sometimes when you're struggling it's hard because you think you are alone.  But remember, there are lots of use out there going through the same things.  We need to share our struggles, as well as our successes.  We can do this TOGETHER!!!

Weigh in Wednesday aka Crapitty Crap Day

Yes, it's Crapitty Crap Day..  those are the words that came out of my mouth when I weighed in this morning at:

256.2

Yep, one pound gain.  crapitty crap!!!!  I'm not surprised I'm up, I'm actually surprised it's not more since I've been eating candy like it's the end of the world. I sucketh,  BLECH.

This has to be my wake up call.  The band is not a magic bullet, it only works as much as I let it.  Doesn't stop me from eating candy, cookies (even had a piece of pie yesterday).  I have to do that, or NOT do that as the case may be.  Yes, I'm eating better and exercising, but that doesn't give me licence to eat whatever I want.

Will I do better, try harder.  YEP!  Will I be perfect, NOPE.  Guess what I'm not perfect, no one is.  We make mistakes, and have to pull ourselves up and try again.  It's not the stumbles that are the problem, it's getting back on track and not letting this stop us from where we are going.

Weekend Recap

I had a good weekend.  Met up with a friend I hadn't seen in a while.  She had gastric bypass years ago (like 15 I think, well before I met her.  Did a little shopping and then went out to lunch.  Ordered a backed potato with veggie chili and cheese.  Ate only 1/4 of it, but didn't feel self conscious, took the rest home for later.

I've noticed it doesn't take much for me to get full, and I'm staying full for a while.  Not sure if this is Green Zone or not.  Sometimes I still get ravenous quickly.  I think I'm scheduled for a fill next week, not sure if I'm going to get it or not.

Got some great things at Goodwill this weekend.  One pair of casual pants (brand new Levi casuals), one twinset cardigan sweater, one turtleneck sweater and one shirt/jacket.  The turtleneck is a little small, but as my hubby says, I'll shrink into it soon :).  Those cost me about $15.00.  Whoo hoo.  I did go to four different stores to get those, two of them I didn't find anything.  It was worth it though.

I also bought a couple of scarves as someone suggested (I can't remember who, sorry).  I wore one today with my black cardigan.  I need a remedial scarf tying lesson please.  I'm so clueless,  I keep playing with trying to get it to look good, and stay in place.  Hopefully I'll get better at it.

I'm wearing a size 18 pants I bought at Goodwill a couple of months ago.  Happy Dance time.  I think they are still a little too tight, but the rest of my pants were downstairs in the laundry, so it was either these or nothing.  When I bought them there was no way I was even getting these over my hips, let along zipping them.  The change in my body is amazing!

Eating wise I didn't do so well.  I'm such an addict.  If there is something in the house I like, I have to eat it, can't wait.  Ate so many cookies and cashews this weekend, I don't even want to think about it.  It's not like I was hungry, it was just like, the food is there so I've got to have some.  UGH, how do I stop?

Ten Things Thursday

1.  Derby Lite is amazing!  I'm pushing the edges of my comfort zone, and I'm loving it.  I skated backwards last night.  It wasn't pretty, in fact I'm sure I looked ridiculous, but SO WHAT, I was skating backward!

2.  I had two unplanned falls at Derby last night, bummer...but I fell the right way so I didn't get hurt and I was able to get up by myself both times.

3.  I want to update my blog for fall, but the free site I used for this template doesn't exist anymore.  Any good sites for free blog templates?

4.  I ate 6 hershey's minis after lunch.  I wasn't even hungry, so why did I eat them?  Because they were there. ARGH.  Why do I do that to myself?

5.  Cleaned out my closet and I have 7 shirts that fit.  5 black and 2 brown.  I do have a couple of sweaters, maybe three?  I think I need some more clothes, but I haven't had much luck with goodwill the last couple of weeks.  

6.  My dogs are crazy if they don't get a walk everyday.  I missed tues since I wasn't feeling good, and yesterday I was late getting home and then had to dun to Derby, so no walk.  This morning they were literally bouncing off the furniture. (I wish I had gotten video if them, is was actually really funny). So I took them out before work today.  It was still  dark out, blech.  

7.  I wogged this morning.  Not sure what that means?  Head over to Adokbl's amazing blog and find out what I'm talking about. I love that term, so I'm usurping it for my own use.  I was so proud of myself.  I was scared to try, but I'm trying to push the boundaries so I thought what the hell, just give it a shot.  Oh and it helped it was dark out, and nobody was around to see me.

8.  It will probably be a long time before I wog in the light of day.

9.  Holly at 300 Pounds Down is my inspiration.  It never seems to fail that her posts hit so close to home.  I love this post.  

10.  I love reading everyone's blogs. I may not comment, as I'm really bad at that. But I gain so much from ready everyone's stories, truly inspirational.  Thanks everyone for sharing your lives with us out it blogland.

Weigh-in Wednesday and Pics

Weigh in for Let the Weight Fall Off Challenge

255.2, down 2 pounds for the week :)

Here are my most recent pics.

Pre-Surgery

5 Months Post-surger 

Pre-surgery

5 Months Post-surgery

  

Pre-Surgery

5 Month Post-Surgery

Tuesday Troubles

So last night for dinner my husband made spicy chicken breasts, sauteed in a frying pan.  I cut it up really small. used my little fork and chewed like nobodies business.   Let's just say won't be having that again anytime soon.  I think it was just too dry for my band.  I've had it since being banded, but not since this last fill.  Ended up being stuck, then PBing then feeling stuck again then PBing again.  BELCH.

So I'm just doing liquids today.  Don't feel like eating anything else anyway.  That's a very good thing considering this is what my day looked like yesterday:

Breakfast:  3 Dark Chocolate Milano Cookies

               

Lunch:        Leftover chili

                  Reeses Peanut Butter Pumpkin

                 

Snack:        6 Hershey's minis

Dinner:        Chicken breast (only ate about 1/4 c and most of that came back up).

Drinks:         16 oz Diet Peach Tea Snapple

                    20 oz Orange G2

                    12 oz light lemonade

So horrible day protein and liquids.  So much for getting back on track, oh well today is another day.  So far today:

Breakfast:   1/2c oatmeal mixed with 1/c milk to make it more "liquidy:

Lunch:         6oz broth

Drinks:     16oz snapple

                16 oz snapple

                 8oz milk

On a better note, here's the pic from my walk with the puppies last night.

I'm a winner

My friend's daughter is in Girl Scout's and they had their first annual Chili Cook-off on Saturday.  My friend needed contestants and since I'm a sucker nice person I said I would do it.  Mind you I have only made chili a couple of times in my life.

As luck would have it when I was home at my mom's my bother made this great low fat vegetarian chili.I got the recipe from him and made it for the first time saturday.  Amazingly I won first place in the non-traditional category!  My mom's first question when I told her was "Were there other entries in that category?"  Yes, there were 5 other non-traditional chili's (meaning using a protein source other than beef).

Here's my booth

And my trophy 

Had fun, an won a nice cash prize as well.

On the band front I'm not really feeling like a winner these days.  I've lost focus and having trouble getting back on track.  I lost my pedometer and it's gone down hill from there.  Stopped loggin my food and exercise.  Stopped making the best food choices.  BLECH!

But, this is a new day, and time to get back on the bandwagon.  I'm also participating in the "Let The Weight Fall Off" Challenge that Sandra at http://thinkitdoitliveit.blogspot.com/ is running.  Just what I need to get me re-started.  

Weigh in Wednesday

257.2

Down a pound from last week.  I have been very bad about logging my food and exercise the last couple of weeks.  It started with the traveling I was doing and I just never got back into the habit.  I can definitely tell the difference in how I've been doing. I do so much better when I write things down.  In my line of work the rule is "If you didn't document it, it didn't happen".  Unfortunately even though I didn't write it down, the ice cream I had (a couple of times) really did happen.  The scale would have moved much more if I had eaten better.

I'm also fighting a cold, I hate colds.  I never get too sick, but they seem to last forever.  I'm going on a week now, and no sign it's going away soon.  I have been making sure I still get moving, even if I don't feel like it.

So plan for this week...log everything I eat and drink.  Make better food choices and make sure I drink enough fluids.  Some form of exercise every day.

Single Digit Size

Had to go out and by some new clothes this weekend.  No, not pant size, but undie size!  Hey, I'll take single digit size whatever way I can get it.

Oh, Friday a miracle happened... someone I worked with came up to me and said I looked like I had lost a lot of weight, that I was looking great.  Only took 70 pounds for someone to say something. I was so happy that someone noticed.

Had a nice weekend. Hubby was out of town for a concert, so it was just me and the puppies.

Farmer's Market and Vintage Market Saturday morning, then random errands the rest of the day.  That evening I walked in the Leukemia Lymphoma Society Light the Night, in memory of my friend's Mom who died of Multiple Myeloma four years ago.  Our little team raised almost $1000.  It was amazing to see so many people, including survivors, walking together.  I had a NSV as well.  When I checked in they only had XL tshirts.  I wasn't sure if it would fit, but it did!  Happy Dance time.

Woke up to a dreary Sunday morning, but took the puppies for a walk.  I'll post a picture later.  By the time we got back home the sun was out, but I was tired, so I took a little nap.  Got up and decorated the house for fall.  Also was in a mood so did some re-arranging of furniture and cleaned out my hall closet. Got rid of a bunch of jackets and shoes.  Went to Goodwill and donated that stuff and tried to shop, but no luck.

Weigh in Wednesday

Almost forgot to weigh in this morning.  This week is going by sooo quickly.  This weeks weight.....

258.2

Another 2.6 pounds lost forever!  Officially makes me 70.8 ponds down from surgery. I love hitting those milestones.  I'm hoping I can maintain this pace,  I think 2-3 pounds a week is doable for me.  Just need to keep up the movement.  

With my traveling and other stuff going on in the evenings it hasn't been as easy to get in my walks.  I haven't met my goal of doing some form of exercise each day.  I'm ok with that, life isn't always perfect.  Just have to keep on trying.

I see I have some new followers, thanks for joining me on my journey.  I'll take all the supporters I can get.  Please leave me a comment and introduce yourself, and link to your blog if you have one, so I can follow you as well.

Random Thoughts

Flew to my mom's again this weekend for her b-day party.  She was so surprised to see me.  Especially since I talked to her the day before and told her I wasn't coming since I had just been there two weeks ago.  She just stared at me and said "What are you doing here?" probably a dozen times.  I'm so glad I decided to go.

It was great to see all of my family.  Hadn't seen all the Aunts/Uncles together in years.  Had a great time at the party, did well with eating.  I tried everything I wanted to, eating a small amount and was satisfied.  Such a NSV for me. I just kept thinking how much I would have over eaten without the band.

I just wished I lived closer.  Currently about 12 hour drive or a 4-5 hour combination of flights.  But, both my hubby and myself have wonderful jobs that we wouldn't have if we lived closer.  Luckily we are in a position that we can fly home when/if we need to.

Stopped at the mall during the weekend.  Actually bought clothes in a "real" store, not the fat lady stores I've had to shop in.  Granted in was only Old Navy, and the sweater and shirt were both an XXL, but this is the first time I've shopped in a "real" store in YEARS.  Still a ways to go before I'm only in real stores, but a huge step for me.  I still felt like people were looking at me wondering what I was doing there.

Ten Things Thursday

1. I had a great day yesterday.  
2. Started volunteering at an elementary school through the Read Up program.  The goal of the program is to help kids who are having trouble reading, they are usually a grade or two behind in their reading scores.  I'm there for about an hour, split between two kids. They read aloud and we help them with words they don't understand and reading comprehension.   Yesterday was the first day, and of course I was nervous, but I didn't let that stop me.  I'm so glad I'm going to be doing this.
3. I actually made it to the Lap Band support group.  It was nice to check in with them, since I haven't been able to go since June.  Although I'm bummed because they might be cancelling it because so few people come it it.  I wasn't able to stay too long, but I did get to talk to someone who's going to be banded later this month.  I wish I had more time to talk to her.  I did give her my blog, so maybe she'll pop in here.
4. I went to Derby class.  It was awesome!!!! My legs were very shaky to start, but got a lot better as the night went on.  I didn't fall, except when I was supposed to, and I was able get get back up on my skates by myself.  MAJOR accomplishment for me.  First time there was no way I could do this.
5. Still haven't finalized my derby name yet, really need to do that.  I'm down to two and can't choose.  The first is something my mom called me growing up.  A loooong time ago there was a famous actress named Sarah Burnheart.  She was known for her melodramatic style.  I was quite the drama queen growing up, so my called me little Sarah Heartburn ;) My second choice it Polly Eurinsane.  A friend thought that up for me.  I like it, but I'm torn.  I'm leaning toward Sarah Heartburn, but most people wouldn't get it.
6. I'me so sore from class last night, but in such a good way!  
7. I'm headed to exercise class tonight, so I know I'll be even more sore tomorrow.
8. I drank a Diet Pepsi for the first time in 5 months.  I was so tired, and had all day meeting so I needed a quick caffeine fix.  Funny thing is that it didn't even taste good to me.  I drank it really slow and actually didn't even finish it.  Don't think I'll have another anytime soon.
9. I'm headed back to my mom's tomorrow.  Yes I was just there two weeks ago, but my Aunts/Uncles are throwing her a birthday party this weekend (even though her bday isn't until December).  No one wanted to travel to upstate NY in Dec, go figure.
10. I told my mom I wasn't going to come since I just flew home.  I can't wait to see her reaction.  It will be great to see my family.  Aunts and Uncles spread out over the country, so I haven't seen all of them together in years.

Weigh In Wednesday

I had a a reinforcement of something I keep telling myself, and everyone should take to heart.  Only use one scale for your official weight, since scales can very a great deal.  Use one scale every time and you will have consistent  measurements.

Yesterday at the Dr office I was 265, and I was a little bummed that my weight was up since last week. This morning on my scale that I've been using for official weigh ins I was...

260.8

Howza that's a big difference!!  I'm glad I didn't let the 265 bother me.  So my official loss to date is 68.2 pounds.   Yippee Skippee.

I'm headed to my Derby Lite class tonight.  Hopefully this goes better than the first class.  My butt is still sore from the fall I took.

Fill #3

Went back to see the dietitian and the PA at the surgery center today.  They were both impressed with my weightloss. Happy Dance.  Dietitian just said keep up with what I'm doing, although I have to get better about taking my vitamins.  I was bummed that the scale there said 265.  I'll do my official weigh in tomorrow, but I'm not expecting much of a loss if any based on the number i saw today.

PA put in 0.5cc today with no problem.  Last fill I originally had 4cc in but had an unfill of 0.5cc the next week.  So with the 0.5cc today I am back to 4cc.  Hopefully I won't get sick again this time, going to take it easier with progressing onto real food. 

4cc isn't a lot, and I know some people have that much in with their first fill.  My dr is conservative, and I'm all for that.  I hate getting sick (kind of like Drazil and the P word).  Just talking about it is too much for me.

ok onto better topics...my dogs are keeping me motivated.  If I don't take them for walks they go crazy, and the one digs holes under the fence and takes herself for a walk.  So even though it's been cold and rainy the last couple of days as soon as I get home we take off around the neighborhood.  I'm sure I'm getting a reputation as the crazy lady who walks her dogs in the rain.

Clothing Sizing Sucks

No wonder women have messed up body images...  Today I'm wearing a top that's a 3x, and pants that are 22.  Both fit appropriately, not too loose, not too tight.  Yesterday I was wearing a 1x top and 18 pants, again not too loose, not too tight.  WTF?  why are the sizes so different?  I've accepted that sizes don't really mean anything, but if I hadn't I would be devastated that I was in a 3x after I had lost so much weight.  Luckily for me the top is one I bought long time ago (8 years ago, at at a store closing sale for like $5...I never wore it because it was too small).  It still had the tags on, I figure I might as well get the use out of it now before it gets too big.

So what size am I?  No frackin clue.  Somewhere between a 1x and 3x?  How do you determine what size you wear?

On the other had I need some new exercise clothes for me Derby Lite class.  Went to Target and got a pair of workout capris, size xxl. From the "normal size" section, not the "plus".  Happy Dance, Happy Dance.  They are a little too tight for me to wear out in public (some people would, but not me), but for this class they're perfect. Just have to wear a longer top to cover the pooch.

Also got a couple new long sleeved tops and a pair of pants from Goodwill.  The pants are an 18 from Lane Bryant, but they look soooooo small.  Haven't tried them on yet, will save them for a few more pounds down.  The other 18's I bought are just starting to fit right.

Now that the weather has changed I've got to clean out the summer clothes from my closet.  Not sure If I'm going to donate those right now, or wait until next summer.  Most of the stuff is getting too big now, I'm just afraid if I give everything away I'll regain the weight and have nothing to wear next year.  I have to keep telling myself that won't have, I won't let that happen.  I may just move them into the spare room to get them out of my main closet, that way I can really see what I have for fall winter.

Ten Things Thursday

1. I realized as I was walking the dogs last night that I have lost a dog.  Not literally, but my one dogs weighs 66 pounds, just the amount I have lost currently.  She's HEAVY...put's into perspective as to how much I have lost.
2. Went to see Earth Wind and Fire last night.  Amazing show, if you have the chance to see them GO.  You may not think you know any of there songs, but I guarantee you do, and you'll be up and dancing.
3. Because of the concert I missed my Derby Lite class, very bummed.  I had fun at the one last week.  I realize I never blogged about it, but I will soon.
4. My butt still hurts from the fall I took in the first class.
5. Tried on the size 18 pants I bought a while ago.  I got them up, buttoned and zipped!  Still too tight to wear out of the house, but so close.
6. Had a nice time with my mom helping her at the craft show.  It was lots of work, but it's fun.
7. Saw lots of family and friends while I was home.  Everyone was shocked at how much I've lost already.  It was great to see their reactions.
8. I'm jealous that I'm not going to BOOBs this year, maybe next year.
9. Going to my exercise class for the first time in three weeks.  Looking forward to it, but since I'm still sore from Derby I'm a little scared at how I'll feel tomorrow.
10. I love Fall.  Going to pull out all the decorations I have this weekend.

Half Weigh There!

So today is Weigh in Wednesday, and as you can tell by the title, things are going very well.  Today's weight...

262.8

That makes 66.2 pounds lost since the beginning of this journey.  My goal (for the time being) is to weigh 200.  That would require a loss of 129 pounds from my highest.  So as of now I have lost (just a little) more than half that.  totally blows my mind!!!  It's been just over 4 months, I never thought I would have come this far this quickly.

I've still got a long way to go, and probably more.  My plan is to get to 200, then re-evaluate my goal.  I've learned a lot about myself during this time.  Most of all that I'm not perfect, but you know what...I don't have to be perfect, no one is, even those who seem to be.  

I just have to try my best, and when I stumble I just have to pick myself up, dust myself off and keep moving in the right direction.

Weigh-in Wednesday

Another week, another pound...   266.4.

Not great, but I'll take it.  I haven't done so well with my eating this past week.  Had a work dinner it was so yummy and so fattening, and had ice cream a couple of times.  I know, I know not following the rules, but not going to beat myself up.  I lost, I could have lost more, but this is me living my life... the good, the bad and the ugly.

I have been doing really well with exercise, taking the dogs for walks is so much nicer with the cooler weather.

I'm excited because my new exercise class is starting tonight, Derbylite.  I think it's going to be so much fun, as long as I don't kill myself.  I'll take a picture in all my gear tonight.

I'm leaving to go see my mom this weekend.  She's got a business making soap and other bath products.  This weekend is her biggest craft show of the year, so I go home and help her every year.  Check out her website, she makes awesome products:  Yellow Rose Soapworks  The weekend will be crazy busy, set uop friday and then show's open from 8-5 saturday and sunday.  Oh and it's 50% chance of rain...did I mention it's outside?  Rain is nothing new, usually rains every year, it just makes it yucky.  People still come and shop though,

I'll get to see some friends and family as well.  First time since surgery. Can't wait!

Pants on the ground

I have almost no clothes for fall/winter.  Given that it's been going down into the 50s at night and only up into the 70's in the day this is going to be a problem.  So Saturday I took off on a shopping adventure.  It was nice out so I grabbed a t-shirt and a pair of capri's out of my closet and headed out.

First stop Goodwill...by the way, did you know they have a rewards card? Neither did I until I signed up on saturday.  Anywhoo, was walking around Goodwill and I realized my pants were falling down, not just a little, but a WHOLE LOT...like it's a good thing my t-shirt was long, or I would have been indecent.  Had to keep my hand in my pocket or they would have been on the ground.  First purchase...belt for 99cents. :) Also got a pair of casual pants and a dress shirt for work.

That's what I get for not looking at the size, they were a 26, considering I'm into 20's now, I'm surprised I made it out the door without them falling off. Time to clean out some things from the closet so that doesn't happen again.  What a great feeling.

After Goodwill I went to the outlets.  Struck out there.  Didn't see anything I wanted to spend money on, knowing it might be too big soon. No good deals to be had.

Then stopped at Fashion Bug and Walmart.  Found a soft jacket type thing at FB, but in a size 0X.  A teensy bit snug, but wearable.  And will be fine as I lose weight.  Also got a tank to wear under it, as well as a casual long sleeve shirt.  Walmart I picked up a t-shirt and a shirt for work.

All told I spent about $80, but got  4 shirts to wear to work, two casual shirts and a pair of casual pants.  More money than I have spent on clothes for awhile, but really not that much.

It's hard to spend money on clothes not knowing how long they will be wearable.  How did you keep yourself clothed during the losing period?

Weigh-in Wednesday

267.4

Down another 1.6 pounds.  Yipee!  

Thanks for all the great comments on my pics.  It's so nice to have people tell me they see a difference.  Only   one person in real life says she sees a difference.  It's amazing to think I've lost 60+ pounds and no one else has said anything.  I'm going home to see my family next week so I should get some good reactions then. :)

Pictures

Ok I promised pictures and here they are.

Pre-Surgery

16 weeks post surgery

Pre-surgery

16 weeks post-surgery

The shirt is new, just got it yesterday.  The shirt I started with was just way too big, couldn't really see anything.  The new shirt is an xxl from Target, yes from the regular section.  Obviously it's too tight and I'd never where it out of the house, but definitely a NSV that I could even get into it.

I've noticed as I've lost weight I have gained rolls.  Need to invest in some type of garment to smooth everything out.  Any suggestions?

 

Weekend Wrap-Up

Had a good, fun productive weekend.  And the best part the weather has changed and it was cool, yes cool this weekend.  It wasn't 90 degrees and 100% humidity like it has been most of the summer.  It was so great!  Dropped into the high 50's at night and only up into the high 70's during the day.  If it would stay this way I would be in heaven.

Had two great walks with the puppies.  It includes a great upper body workout as well.  Holding Millie back since she pulls so much and pulling Missi since she likes to stop and smell everything.

Had good luck at Goodwill.  I desperately need fall clothes, everything I have is smaller sizes in short sleeves/summer type.  I got a four tops and 1 pair of casual pants for $18.00.  Pants:  new with tags Lee casuals, Land's End sweater, no tags, but looks brand new, a top from Cold Water Creek and one from Chicos.  Amazing steals!  Only the sweater fits right now, the rest should be OK by next moth. I'll go look at a few more stores and see what else I can find.  I may need to break down and buy some new stuff.  I hate spending the money, but I'll need some sweaters and long sleeved shirts.

Went and picked out all the gear I need for my Derby Lite class.  So excited, it starts next weekend.  I can't wait, it looks like so much fun.  Let's just hope with all the padding/protection I have I won't kill myself.

I'm do for some new pictures, but forgot to do them yesterday.  I've got to do them, especially since I didn't do last month either.  Hopefully I'll be back tomorrow with new pics.

Have a great week everyone!!

Thanks, weigh-in and TTT

1.  First thing I want to thank those of you who responded to my last post.  It really means a lot to me that there are people out there reading along, and willing to take time to encourage me.

2.  Missed posting on weigh-in Wednesday, but I did actually weigh in.   After my pity party the other day I wasn't expecting much, but... 269.  Yowza, that's 60 pounds down from the start of this journey.  I just need to learn patience.

3.  I made a yummy meal yesterday, Shelly's Zucchini Roll-ups (aka Pasta-less Manicotti) from The World Accrding to Eggface.   It took a while to grill the zucchini since I was using my little bitty George Foreman grill and could only do two slices at a time.  Other wise it was easy peasy.  and did I mention yummy?  I added crumbled turkey sausage to add a little more protein.

4.  I am less than 5 pounds from half way to my goal of 200lbs.  I may revise my goal if I actually make it to 200, but for now that's what I'm shooting for.

5.  I had a personal trainer come out the the house and teach me how to use our weight machine.  She had lots of great suggestions.  I totally feel the burn.

6.  Now I have to make sure I actually use the weight machine.

7.  I missed my monthly support group meeting for banders yesterday.  I'm so bummed.  This is the 3rd month I've missed.  July was cancelled due to the holiday and August I was on vacay.  I really miss the group.  I have to make sure it's on my calendar for next month.

8.  I think part of the reason I've been feeling blah is because of #7.  There's nothing like meeting up with people who are going through the same things you are.

9.  Off to exercise class tonight.  I also missed last weeks class, may have contributed to blahness.

10.  I am so thankful for all of you followers.  Just knowing you are out there encourages me to keep going.

Blah

The title pretty much sums it up.  Just feeling blah about my journey.  Up to now I have been doing amazing, better than I ever thought possible.  I had no loss last week and I got on the scale this weekend (I know I shouldn't, but I did) and it was the same as last week.  Maybe it will be better tomorrow, but I'm not planning on it.

My eating isn't bad, staying around the 1200 calories my nutritionist recommended, taking the dogs for at least a 30  minute walk 5/6 days out of the week.  Just no movement on the scale.  I think I have entered my version of Bandster Hell, and I DON'T like it!!!  I find my thoughts going to why not eat whatever I want if even when I do eat ok I don't lose, might as well enjoy right?

TTT actually on Thursday!

1.  Sitting in a meeting, done with my part, but at the back of the room and too hard to get out, so I'm playing online.

2.  Trying not to get discouraged by the 1 pound gain this past week.  I'm noticing more bad eating habits trying to creep back in.  Got to nip those in the bud.

3.  My hair started falling out about a week ok.  big clumps in the shower and throughout the day.  Doesn't bother me since I've got so much hair.  I usually get it thinned in the summer, so I have more than plenty.  I can understand if you didn't have lots of hair to start with this could be upsetting.  I'm getting my protein in, I didn't start biotin, but maybe i should.  Thoughts?

4.  The arm band holder for my ipod actually fits around my upper arm.  When I started I had to wear it around my forearm :(.  So much nicer on my walks now.

5.  I've hired a personal trainer to come to my house and teach me how to use the equipment we have.  Mainly the weights, we have a big giant weight system that I'm not sure how to use.  She'll give me some exercises and routines to do.  Then in a couple of months I'll have her back to see how I'm doing.

6.  Friends were supposed to come in for the weekend, but thanks to the remnants of Isaac we are supposed to get they changed their plans.

7.  Have been furiously trying to get the house ready for them.  It's now cleaner than it has been in a loooong time.

8.  I'm jealous of everyone going to BOOBs.  At the time of registration I wasn't sure so I didn't sign up, but now I  really wish I had.  IT sounds like lots of fun, and it would be great to meet other bandsters.

9.  Price of gas jumped again, was 3.99 this morning, but I didn't have time to stop.  Wondering if it's going to be over 4.00 by the time I leave.  I'm almost on empty, so I'll have to get some tonight.

10.  Can't wait for Fall to get here.  I'm tired of it being sooo hot.  I love Fall :)

weigh in wednesday

Running late trying to get out, I was downstairs dressed and about to walk out the door when I remember I didn't weigh in. So back upstairs, take off the clothes (they're heavy you know).

273.4

Up one pound since last week, ugh should have just stayed in bed today.  Rationally I know that one pound is just normal fluctuation, and that the 6 pound loss I saw last week was an anomaly, but still.  It's hard to see the scale go up.

So I rush to get to work, get a space in the close garage (yeah me) and head into work. OK, maybe today will still be ok.

Except you have to badge in and my badge doesn't want to work.  Ok, push the button to talk to security, they tell me my access isn't valid... WHAT???  is this their way of firing me?  Said they would send someone down to badge me in and figure out what was going on.  So I wait, and wait and wait.  20 minutes later still no one.  Get back in my car, drive to the front of the complex go try to go in that way.  Have to wait in line at reception, they finally confirm that I still should have access (yay, for not being fired).  They send me down to security have to have a new badge made, with a new picture...so not picture ready today.

So should have made it into work before 8:30 actually wasn't in the building until after 9:30.  Head to the cafeteria to grab some eggs for breakfast only to find out they've already closed breakfast.  ARGH.  Head to the coffee shop in the building to pick something up cause I'm starving.  Not a good idea, ended up getting a chocolate croissant and I ate the whole damn thing. DOUBLE ARGH.  

So all in all my morning has sucked.  Just trying to make it through the rest of the day.  

TTT, second time around

I was in major brain fart mode last night so I couldn't think of anything, even though earlier in the day I had lots of things I wanted to write about. Let's continue where we left off yesterday...

5. When I walked into aerobics class the instructor looked at me and said "wow, I can tell you've lost weight since last week" :)

6. I thought I saw my elusive collarbones at class last night in the mirror, but alas when I came home I saw no evidence of them :( Must be that special mirror in the workout room.

7. On vacation I made it through two rounds of golf (9 holes each, and with a cart) and felt I could have gone another 9. Last year it took everything I had to finish 9 holes without feeling like I was dying.

8. I fit into those size 20s I bought a few weeks ago at Goodwill. I can't wait until I get into those 18s.

9. I'm going home to see my mom at the end of September and I can't wait to see how much more I lose before then. My goal is to be around 260 by them.

10. I'm sitting in a really boring meeting doing this. It started at 8:30 and is scheduled to go until 4. UGH I hate all say meetings on Friday (well, any day that is an all day meeting sucks.) Hopefully we'll get out early.

Have a great weekend everyone!

TTT

1. Didn't have to use a seatbelt extender on our trip to Florida.

2. The slight unfilled seems to have been enough. No PBing since and no horrible pressure. I'fe been on soft foods so far, tomorrow is first "real" food so we'll see how it goes.

3. I'm scared about moving back to real food.

4. I had lots of things in my head, but I cant think of them now. Ill finish TTT tomorrow.

Weigh In Wednesday

Holy sh#$%#$!

272.4

Six pounds since last week!!!  I know that some of this is because I had a fill that was a little too much so I've been on liquids/soft foods for a week. However, I think a big part of this is the amount of exercise I've been doing; 13 out of the last 14 days I've done at least 30 minutes. That's HUGE for me.  I've found things I love to do, so it's easier for me to keep with it.  Hopefully that will last.   I can't wait until my Derby Lite classes start next month!

I wanna be a Derby Girl

I've been looking around for new types of activities/exorcise to keep me motivated. Before my surgery I heard about an organization I wanted to try, but I new I wouldn't be able to make most of the classes do to recovery. Yesterday I just happened to check and see if they were starting a new session and low and behold they were having an information session that night, so I went and had a blast!

So what is this great organization you may be asking...Derby Lite



From their website:
Derby Lite is Roller Skating for Fun & Fitness. Our certified instructors lead high energy classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced skaters where ladies become healthier humans - physically and mentally - as they learn to skate a la roller derby without the impact or competition. Each 90-minute to two hour workout includes off-skates dynamic warm-ups, on-skates skills and drills, upper body strength exercises and cool-down stretching. It's a balanced, whole body workout that's never boring, shows progress week after week, and brings you into a welcoming community of women like no other. Are you ready?

I had so much fun, even though I fell on my ass a couple of times. I haven't been on skates in a long time. Last time on Rollerblades was more than 15 years, and quad skates I haven't been on since Junior High.

I didn't feel embarrassed, or out of place. The girls were great, and so encouraging. They made me feel welcome. I'm so sore this morning, especially my butt! I can't wait to go back.

Classes are once a week for 12 weeks, 90 minutes each. I think it's going to be an awesome workout. the classes themselves aren't expensive, but the gear I'm going to need is a little pricey. Skates, helmet, wrist, elbow and knee pads, and I don't want to skimp on the padding ;)

Now I just need to come up with a cool Derby name. Any suggestions?