Weigh in day

Boy - It seems like these weigh in days are coming so close together. Here it is.

Starting Weight - 291
Last week - 259.4
This week - 258.6

-.8 lbs. Okay... at least it's not a gain. Still in the 250's... I'm thankful for that.

I need to do a comparison picture.. and measure myself.. That's my goal for the week.

OH... And only 1 more week and we get to fly away to be with my family for Christmas!!!!! Sooooo uber excited!!!!
I miss my family like crazy, and I get to meet my 7 month old neice! Can't wait. I am a proud Auntie, so here is a picture for your viewing pleasure.

Don't you just want to pinch those cheeks?!?

Trucking right along

Good morning Blog World.

Things are going busy on my end. I have noticed that many blogs are getting less each day, probably like me..very busy during this time of year.
I have taken some good ideas from some people I have reached out to in my journey, and I feel like it is really helping. Hollee gave the great lunch idea of cottage cheese with meat sauce. LOVE IT! It keeps me satisfied, while keeping the calories low, but protein high. I too like to have mostly the same thing every day. I prepared everything last weekend,so it's easy in the morning to scoop a 1/2 cup of cottage cheese with 1/2 cup turkey meat sauce, sprinkle with parmesan, and head out the door lunch in hand. For breakfast, I have 2 eggs at 7:30am and that keeps me satisfied till about 11:30am. I usually have a morning coffee with a dash of vanilla soy milk around 10am.
I also reached out to one of my mom's friends that had lapband in 2007. She lost 80lbs in 9 months. I asked her what she did to keep from getting stuck. She said she gets back on the original diet, walks, and (the most important to me) keeps her band a little tight. She says she always does better like that.
I feel like I am a tad loose. So close to that perfect spot, but I feel bad going to the doctor just 3 weeks from my last appointment for yet another fill without much weight loss to show for it... however... isn't that why we get fills?

Is it okay to get fills so close together?

On a side note, last week when I was feeling crappy about my weight loss, I talked to my boss at Curves. Even though I am a coach for any and all programs Curves offers, and I rock at helping others break their plateaus and mental blocks, I suck at doing it to myself. My boss called the club when I was working, and she said I was on her mind about my weight loss. I tell her everything, so she know how upset I was. She asked why I self sabotage myself (which I fully admit I do) and I said I didn't know.. then she said she thinks I am so afraid of failing, because I had failed at so many other diets and programs, that my mind blocks me from thinking I can succeed.
Ha... I was like.. um... who do you think you are? Bob from the Biggest Loser? But she must have hit the nail on the head, because for no apparent reason, I started tearing up. I am used to failing at weight loss. I have failed for 20 years.

Not this time! I refuse! I'm gunna keep trucking right along, enjoy the journey, and keep going.

Good news is, now that I buy and cook all kinds of healthy meals, my man has also lost about 10 lbs. He doesn't really need to lose weight, but he is noticing he feels much better. Me too.

Weigh in

Starting weight: 291
Last week: 260.4
This week: 259.4

I broke the 260's finally!!! A loss of 1 lb? I will take it. It sure can be a long journey huh?

I was thinking before surgery that my mind was strong, by body was ready, and I was going to rock it like others on the blogosphere. Guess not. All I can do is my journey. But it does suck when I compare myself to others that are having better success.
Sometimes I have this fear, like I did before surgery, that I will be one of those people where this "last resort" weight loss method doesn't even work.
SLOWLY, but surely I am heading in the right direction.

That's all I can do

Keep pluggin right along.

Make good, healthy choices.

And stop self sabotaging myself!

I probably could have done a lot better than 1 pound, but I ate late at night, I didn't watch my carb intake, I only got 2 days of exercise in, and I blamed it all on a "crappy" week. That's what I get for eating 2 bowls of rice.

Sometimes I wish I had those painful experiences others have when they eat rice or bread.. the kind that makes you never want it again. I could really go for some negative reinforcement, but that hasn't ever happened.

It's time to change my relationship with food (not that I haven't been trying).

JUSTifications

So, I want to brag about my Curves biggest loser competition. My team is in the lead with 62 pounds down in 4 weeks. Our competitors have lost 54.85 lbs. 2 more weigh-ins.. and the prize is nearly mine. If my team wins, they all get Aqua Zumba passes, tanning sessions, and Circle Farms baskets (organic produce). My prize is that I get to do the next radio commercial for Curves in Juneau. Looks like you all will be knowing someone famous real soon. :)

That is great motivation for me. I am lucky to have such supportive women in my life. Especially this time of year when it's easy to fall off the band wagon. There are so many treats lurking in the halls, the kitchen, and around every corner.

I have to say no to that little voice saying.. "It's Just a cupcake." I'll JUST have a bite of that holiday morsel."

I am done with my JUSTifications on getting off track.

Sure there will be days when I crumble, but I am learning that it doesn't have to de-rail me.

Keeping it going!

Weigh in day

Starting weight - 291
Last weeks weigh in - 262.8
Today - 260.4

-2.4lbs this week

That's what I'm talking about!! Even though I am where I was last month, I think and hope I am on a roll now. My body is just holding on so tight to the 260's and not letting go. I will be thrilled to death to see the 250's on the scale.. and that it never goes back up again. It seems my body did that with the 280's too, but once my body was on a roll, I pretty much skipped the 270's. Boy oh boy would that be freakin' awesome if I skipped the 250's. But I'm not holding my breath.
Goals for this next week -

Work out at Curves 4 times, and do stairs at lunch 3 times. Zumba on Saturday, and walking to the glacier on Sunday.

Log my food in MFP every day. Still not sure what kind of calorie range I should shoot for though. Maybe 1000?

On to the next great week!

Happy Friday Everyone!

My wonderful Fill

So in my last post, I gave a little description of my fill. After all the pain and a couple days of liquid diet, I really feel a difference. A great difference!!! I am never really hungry at all, and that has really helped me make and keep good choices going.
Here was my food yesterday:
7:30am - 1 "fried" egg
10:30am - Green tea with splenda, gummy vitamins and calcium
11:30 - half of my spinach and chicken salad with balsamic vinegar (half of 1.5 cups = 3/4 cups eaten)
4:00 - half of my fruit and veggie smoothy I made (recipe below)
7:00 - Veggie and Chicken stir fry - 1 cup

65 grams of protein
97 grams of Carbs (a bit high for what I prefer for my body, but it's the fruit)
823 calories
How many calories do you usually stay around?
The thing of it is, I wasn't hungry, so I didn't force myself to eat. I focused on protein and wholesome foods, and I didn't have a desire to eat more or crave the things I usually do. This was the first time since 2 weeks after my surgery that I have felt like this.. AND I LOVE IT!!!

I'm not going to lie.. I was feeling discouraged that I haven't been able to lose weight consistently, and I voiced that to my doctor. She said that sometimes it happens that way for a bit, then all of a sudden, your body let's go, and you get on a roll. I sure hope she is right and not just saying that to make me feel better.

I do not ever regret getting the band. Even though the scale hasn't been so nice to me, the band has really made me aware of my body more. Aware of when to stop eating (even though I didn't always listen). Aware of my calories in and out. Love my band.

So my fruit and veggie shake was given to me by a friend. I think she got it from Dr. Oz or something. Maybe this is a rendition of it.
I have a magic bullet, so I put everything in at once, blend, and enjoy (or refrigerate it for later... it turns funky colors).

1/4c spinach
1 cup frozen mixed berries
1 banana
1/4c kale
1 TBLS Almond Butter
1c water
1 TBLS ground flax seed
2 TBS Lemon Juice

Surprise, surprise....

Thanksgiving was great! I took Lap Band Gal's advice and wore my "skinny jeans". That, plus my band, kept me in check. According to my scale yesterday, I even went down by a smidge. That has NEVER happened. Yippeeee

Saturday, my honey and I took a "road trip" to the end of the road. I know, I know... the end of the road??? Here in Juneau, there are no roads out to the real world. The roads just end. period. WEIRD!!!

Here is a view along the drive

We were in search of our Christmas tree. After a few hours of toodling down the road, looking at the scenes, I spotted one down the ditch towards the water. We parked the truck, hopped over the guard rail, shuffled down the hillside, and got our tree.

Such a fun adventure, and it's perfect!

And of course, I decorated the house this weekend. It looks great, and makes me reminisce of the Christmas' with my family.

Here it is all decorated with snow in the back yard.

I also went in for a fill today. It was a very interesting experience. According to my doctor, my port is a bit sideways. It took her 20 minutes, 2 needles, and the threat of going to radiology to find my port. I was a human pincushion. It didn't hurt, she numbed it before trying, but it was difficult keeping my abs tight while she struggled to get the needle in the port. Success finally happened, and I was filled with 1 more cc. I think that takes me up to 7.5cc's! I am really hoping this one will do the trick. I need to see the scale move down more!

Happy Monday!!

Going forward from a standstill

Today I weighed in at 262.8

I just can't break the 260's. I feel disappointed in myself, but I must remember that disappointment is not failure. The only reason I can believe that, is because even though the scale has not moved in the direction I would hope, I worked out 6 days last week. That's HUGE! I feel good!
I wish it wasn't so cold and icy outside so I could continue my C25K. I have put that away for now, mostly because I am scared to death about falling on ice while I am running. I have done it before, and my knees just can't take the falls. It would really be nice to have a treadmill at home. Would I use it if I did?
I have another fill scheduled for next Monday. I feel pretty close to a sweet spot, so I am hoping this next fill will get me there. Is there a "too soon" for getting fills?
You know what I was thinking? A lot of you have super good recipes. If I didn't have 2 jobs already, I would totally take on getting together all the band friendly recipe's you all have posted and create a book for all to have. Maybe someday I could do that. In the meantime... keep posting those great recipes!!!

Life+exercise

This weeks challenge is about life and exercise. Think this week about how to get more active. Is it taking more steps each day? How will you do that? Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park in the farthest parking spot. Take one bag of groceries into the house at a time. Walk in place during commercial breaks of your favorite show, better yet, try push ups. There are a lot of simple ways to up our exercise every day. What are you going to do this week? I want to hear it.

As a Curves coach, I get to see all the accomplishments my clients do. You inspire me and motivate me. Keep it coming, because you know I need it! :)

Today for lunch, I walked the halls and up the stairs at work for an hour. The fun part was that I never walked the same path twice. With 3 buildings and 11 floors each, I had plenty of room to explore. Tell you what.. I got my heart rate up pretty quick.

I am hoping for some good results this week!

Blogging Award and Weigh in day

Starting weight: 291
Last (time, I forgot last week) 260
Today: 260

No loss, no gain. :(

So Miss Michelle nominated me for the Liebster Award. Thank you!  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 me:

1) I have been to 16 countries

2) I am the oldest of 3 sisters

3) I participated in 4-H for 10 years showing horses

4) Fall is my favorite season

5) Baking is my favorite thing to do at Christmas time

6) I am horrible at keeping secrets (not personal ones, but like presents I have purchased...I just squirm with excitement)

7) I have a pet Chinchilla named Inca Loa Caipora, which means Incan beautiful protector of the beasts. :) I love her

8) Volleyball and Softball are my sports of choice

9) I am a certified water aerobics instructor

10) I am good with technology

11) I cherish my family and friends tremendously.

 

 

My 11 Questions to Answer:

 

1.    If you could have lunch with anyone who would it be, where and why? My best friend Janell. We would eat at a street shop in Cairo Egypt, because we always said we wanted to go there together someday.

2.    Paid in Full Vacation:    Relax in Hawaii or Shop in NY, London & Paris? Hawaii without a doubt. I have been to Hawaii many times, and I keep wanting more. Although I loved Paris like no other, I would just rather relax by the beach.

3.    Favorite Restaurant? Don't really have one. But I do love me some Taco Bell.

4.    Favorite type of exercise? Water Aerobics

5.    Are you still in contact with your childhood bff?  Thanks to Facebook, yes.

6.    McCartney or Lennon? Eww. Neither. The Carpenters, Backstreet Boys, Shania Twain

7.    If you did not need to work for $$$, what would you do with your time? Travel the rest of the world with my Honey.

8.    Favorite ice cream? Mint Chocolate Chip

9.    Do you believe in Love at First Site? I didn't until it truly happened to me.

10.  Do you ever regret getting your WLS? Absolutely not!!!

11.   Tell me something about you I would not find out on your blog cause its not about WLS. I used to work on Cruise ships (hence the name of my blog). It was hard work, but worth it! They were small cruise ships, so we did everything. My favorite duty was being the Karaoke host!!! :)

My 11 Questions to my Nominee's

1) What do you do to stay motivated in your weight loss:

2) If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be?

3) What is your favorite movie?

4) What is your best childhood memory?

5) What is the scariest thing that you have done?

6) What is a typical day for you like?

7) Where would you like to retire?

8) What is your favorite recipe?

9) If you could change anything, what would it be?

10) What is your clothing style?

11) What quality do you like most about you?


I nominate:

Christy

Steph

Amanaka

snarkyanna

Bandedwithfavor

Challenge beginnings

I am sorry I have been a bit MIA. Work has been extreemly busy for me. I love it. I have also discovered that I love project management(and I'm pretty good at it :) ) and I hope to further my skills and find good ways to up my career in that path.

This is the first week of our 6 week Biggest Loser Challenge at Curves, and my team has been amazing at challenging me and holding me accountable. I have exercised every night! That is a big deal to me. Each week we are having a "temptation challenge", and this week we were asked what our temptations are and to write it down, put it in the box, and walk away from it for 6 weeks. I chose cookies. Before I saw this challenge, I walked away from my co-workers to-die-for german chocolate cookies. I was so proud of myself. I knew that once I had one, I would not be able to stop myself. So that's what I put as my temptation.

NO MORE COOKIES (Till christmas) :)

Candy, vitamins, and fills, oh my

Good morning November!!!

Last night was a blast. I have never lived in a neighborhood that had kids come tricker treating, so now that we are in our new house with a very family oriented neighborhood, we had a lot of kids stop by. Because I am at the beginning of a challenge for weight loss, I was challenged by my team mates to do a push up for every piece of candy I passed out. That was hilarious. I would be in the middle of doing push ups, and the doorbell would ring again. I couldn't get a break. I probably did close to 100 push ups last night! Good times.

Here was my office party. I was Pippy Longstocking :)

So, I didn't think it would happen to me, but my hair has been falling out a lot lately. I don't like it. So I went to GNC and picked up some Super Biotin 6000 last week. The pills are tiny, so they go down without a problem, and call me crazy, but I think it might be helping. This morning in the shower, only a small handful of hair was at the drain. Yippy. I was warned to only take 1 a day, as to not grow hair where I don't want it to grow. :) Here is my regimen right on my desk so I don't forget.

I also go in for a fill today. I have been getting pretty ravenous after about 2-3 hours after I eat. That has been leading to my brain out talking my will power. I hate that. It is almost like an out of body experience when I am physically walking to the kitchen, telling myself no, it is just head hunger or boredom, but my body (muscle memory) takes over and before I know it, I have something going in my mouth. I would love to blame it on being possessed by some hunger demon, but it is my mind, my choice, my fault. I really wish there was a support group here. I need that breakthrough with my mind and food addiction. I want to have that Biggest Loser breakdown moment where it all makes sense now, moving forward knowing why I got this fat to begin with and dealing with it. But this isn't a reality TV show, it is reality. Let me know if you come up with the magic formula! :)

Weigh in day

Starting weight 291
Last week (well.. Wednesday of last week) 261
Today 260

Yay.. a loss of 1 lb. and that is after a 5 day trip to Vegas. I LOVE MY BAND.

I am all gung ho for this 6 week challenge. As of yesterday we had 22 members sign up for the challenge. Much more than I was anticipating. That only means that I have to be the leader, the example, the motivator... not only for me, but these people who are counting on me. Comes at a great time too.

At my other job, with state government, my division sure knows how to celebrate the season of gluttony. They have this thing called "The Holiday Feast-a-thon" Sounds great right? No wonder we are so fat. We sit at desks all day, and stuff our faces for 20 days of yummy deliciousness. Last year, I had no self control, the winter was getting to me, and my division was so warm and inviting to socialize over home made goodness. I had gained probably over 15 lbs last holiday season. Sad, I know. :(

Not this year. Not only do I have that challenge to keep me motivated through the season, but I have my band! I have the scars to remind me everyday of my choice to get healthy, to change my relationship with food, and to make better choices.

What is your plan to keep losing over the holidays?

I'm back in the action

So... what happens in Vegas... right? I won't go too much into details about the trip, but it was awesome. Very fun. 2,400 Curves women took over the Caesar's palace.
Came back home re-energized to get Curves as well as myself back on track. Curves works, if you do the workouts.. which for the longest time, I would make the excuse that I was too busy to work out during my shift, and wouldn't come in on my days off. But now I have to. Even though this is just my part time, second job, I still love it, and need to utilize it.

My boss and I are hosting a bit of a competition at work. At first it was just going to be between us, but then we ended up creating a pretty cool team competition similar to the biggest loser. It will be a 6 week challenge starting on November 5th. We are gearing up our teams, and will hold each other accountable. I am pretty excited about that, because I need the tangible accountability of people around me. The cool part is, if my team wins, they each get a local organic produce basket, and I get to do our next radio commercial! How cool is that? I will soon be very famous, so be glad you know me now. :)

On the weight loss front, I gained 2 lbs, but then this morning they were gone. Must be getting rid of the "water" weight. Let's just say, I didn't do so well for food choices, but the band helped me from eating too much of it, but of course there are those "liquid" calories that just slid right by. Back to the plan.

Here's a little funny from the streets. We always like to promote a little Village People and a great place to workout. And yes.. that is how we found him. Hahahaha. Good times. (I'm on the far right)

Sick

Blahhh I am home sick from work today and had to come home early yesterday. Kind of a flu like feeling. I decided today to just stay on liquids and that seems to make me feel a bit better. It just is here at a horrible time. Because......

I get to go to Vegas on Thursday!!!!! I am going for "work" at the Curves convention I am going to have such a great time with my boss and friend. Off to warm weather and get to be surrounded with people who are all part of of an organization that helps and encourages women to get healthy. It will be a great re-motivator for me in my journey. I just hope I can kick this illness before I go.

I know it isn't weigh in day, but...

I couldn't help but to update my ticker, because of my fitness pal. I update that almost every day. But.. I got back to 261 this morning, which means back to my 30 lbs lost. I was pretty bummed with this last month's progress, but I was measured last night, and I lost 9 inches last month. I think that is pretty cool. For a total of 28 inches lost since the beginning. It is a cumulitive of my chest, waist, abs, thighs, and arms. So while I was discouraged that the numbers on the scale were not moving, my body was. And that's what matters.

Weigh in day

Starting weight: 291
Last week: 264
Today: 263


Down 1 lb, but still not back to my lowest. However, I have been very encouraged this week, and I think I found a routine that works for me.

I feel great!

On a cool note.. I did something very Alaskan yesterday... I went down to the docks....

 bought some fresh, local prawns.

And cooked it up with some pasta (for my man, I just had the prawns)

Yummmmmmmm

My body is shifting for this NSV!

I have been waiting a year to fit into this shirt. Now, not only are the buttons where they should be and not ripping at the seams, there is actually some wiggle room. This is now going to be one of my favorite work shirts. So excited. 

Wait... it's after Labor Day... can I still wear white?  I need a fashion advisor.

This is why I blog

..... You all are my inspiration and the best support I can get (really... there is no support group for WLS patients here).

I love that yesterday, you come through with the right information at the right time (Tina, LBG, and Rockband Barbie). This is certainly a journey, but gaining more and more knowledge about how to use the band is super helpful! I was eating more because I could and my body does get affected by carbs. Now it clicked in my head of what I have to do.

New(to me) game plan.

NO DEVIATION OF WHAT I PACK FOR MEALS

I can pack it perfectly, but all the goodies at the office, the temptation from my man because he wants to go out to eat instead of walk for lunch, the celebrations that all revolve around food... JUST SAY NO.

For now, a once in a while treat will have to come far and few between, because that doesn't work for me. When I hit goal and am maintaining, then I will allow myself those little pleasures, but I have a goal in mind, with a timeframe in mind (mostly because of a more than likely wedding that will be in my future :) ).

This post was mostly for myself.. a reminder, a scolding, and a plan. But most of all I just want to thank you for your continued support and encouragement. It really does mean a lot, as I'm sure you know, so thanks!!!!

Huge Cyber Hugs to all of you!!!

Starting something new

I'm trying to fight the good fight.. it is hard!

I track what I eat, but even though I am in my calorie/protein goals, I still hold on to the same weight. It all goes back to how my body responds to what I eat. I am learning about my body.. you would think that after having this body for almost 32 years, I would understand it, but I don't. I think it all goes back to how my body responds to carbs. I will do really good with protein and calories, but if I go above 50 grams of carbs a day (which isn't a lot) I totally feel the difference. I feel bloated and lethargic. Even though I thought it affected me earlier, I didn't have a range of grams that made me feel different. Now, I know that if I keep it at about 30-50 a day, my body is happiest. Sometimes I wonder if it is gluten. I have a friend that started cutting gluten out of her diet, started exercising, and lost about 80 lbs in a year. Does it really have that big of effect on people sensitive to it? I have never really paid attention to how I feel after I eat anything.

On a good note, I got back into my routine of exercising. I do Curves about 3-4 times a week, and I started the C25K program. I see so many of you all doing it, and I thought to myself... why not give it a try. The first night I did it, I got the biggest grin on my face when I started running. I finished, and to my surprise.. I ENJOYED IT. I loved playing my music, clearing my head, just being alone and doing something for me. Very empowering. Of course, I couldn't wait to do it again. I know it only says to do it 3 times a week, but since the weather has been good, I really want to get outside and keep up on it.

I am hoping that my body is just gaining back some muscle that I lost during healing time, and I will start to see downward movement on the scale.

Thank you all for encouraging me and reminding me that it should be how I feel. I do feel good, and people have been noticing that I have lost weight. I don't particularly notice, but it is nice to hear. I will try to post progress pics later. I didn't even do a one month Bandiversary post.

Weekly Weigh in

Starting weight: 291
Last week: 261
Today: 264

What?!? A gain? A weird large gain?!? I don't get it. I maintained my loss through my trip, then this morning this? I have been on liquids the last couple days due to my fill, so I was anticipating a nice loss... :(

Sad Panda.

I just have to remind myself that I can just get back on track, continue through. The Journey keeps going... but boo. So discouraging.

Behind the times, but lots to tell.

Hi all!!
Every time I sit down to write, I get interrupted for one reason or another.. and I don't even have kids... What is up with that??

My trip to Ohio was amazing. It was so beautiful, and the wedding was perfect. I was the photographer, and I was very thankful that the weather was perfect. The background showed blue skies, but a nice cloud came to cover the harsh sun. Perfect coloring :)
I did pretty good with my food choices, but I did indulge in some vino.

To my surprise, I maintained my losses. It is a known fact that when I travel, especially out of Juneau to the land we call "down south" where there are a plethora of choices of food joints, that I overindulge in the not so good for you foods. This time I only had Wendy's once in the airport. I was so missing their spicy chicken sandwich with a small chocolate frosty. Boo for bad choice.

I had my first fill yesterday. That was a crazy cool experience. Since it was my first fill, I had to do it at the hospital due to the fact that I have too much belly flab... by words of the doctor.. she didn't want to poke around, she wanted to hit it right the first time.
I laid down on the table and watched the screen as she was pushing the needle through my belly to the port, pulled out the saline that was in the band already, and filled it back up and added 2 more cc's. Then the table sat me up, and I swallowed the fruity flavored barium and watched as it slinked it's way through my band. VERY COOL. The doctor said my port, pouch, and stomach was perfect, and I had no trouble getting the liquid down, so I am now at 6cc's in my 10cc band.

I am on liquids again, which isn't so bad. It helps me re-focus. I can feel the restriction already, so that makes me happy! Can't wait to see the scale move again.

Our housewarming party is on Saturday, so I have been busy baking lots of fall goodies and treats, so in ode to my liquid phase right now, I made a delicious pumpkin protein shake. It's simple.. just take 1/4 cup pumpkin puree, 1 tsp each of nutmeg and cinnamon, 1 scoop vanilla protein powder, and 8oz water(I use muscle milk that can be mixed with water, you might have to use milk if you want). Mix and Enjoy. Yummy

I am doing it!

So, I am blogging my weigh in a bit early this week for 2 reasons. First, I am sitting in at the Seattle airport right now waiting to get on my next flight to Ohio for my friends wedding, so I will be out of touch for the rest of the week. Second, because I couldn't wait to tell you the news.......

I am officially 30 lbs down!!!! Woohoo.

Starting weight: 291
Last week: 264
Today: 261

I was and still am not having any restriction yet, so I took it back to pre op status diet and watched my carb intake. I learned a few things about my body this week. I don't know if it's carbs in general or maybe gluten, but I feel better when I limit them. I feel more energetic and in control. It's a good feeling, so I am going to keep it up.
One more week till my first fill!

Oh.. And if anyone is still in Chicago, I have a layover there on Sunday night. Anybody else flying?

Weigh in day and a fill a comin'

Starting Weight - 291
Last Week - 265
This Week - 264
Ugh.. only 1 pound. This last week was so hard with choices and keeping track. I would hate to be stalled so soon into this process. Today, I am focusing on protein and water. So far so good.

The good news is that I called my doctor to schedule my first fill, so I will have it done on October 3rd. That should help.They said I could do it next Wednesday, but that night I am flying to Ohio for my friends wedding. The nurse said that would be a bad idea, in case I am having any difficulties, she wouldn't want me to go to the emergency room there. So I am waiting. She also cleared me for exercise again, so here I go!!!

Gotta get back into that routine. I plan to work out at Curves Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday for Zumba, and try the aqua Zumba class at the pool on Wednesday night. Did I tell you that I work at Curves as my second job? I have been there for 2 years, and although I love the circuit, I make every excuse not to exercise while I am there. Sometimes I am so busy that it is really impossible to get a good workout in, and it is hard to focus on me, when I still need to pay attention to the members. But hey, it's free, and it makes me show up there 4 times a week, so I should make it a higher priority... I can talk the talk, but now I need to show them that I can walk the walk. My boss just told me that she is paying my way to the Curves Convention in Las Vegas next month. I am sooooo excited to get out of Juneau. There is already new snow on the mountains. I need sunshine!!!! Plus it will really re-motivate me for the job. I love my ladies!!!

Have a great weekend!!

Weekend Realization and Rules

This weekend was a true test of strength for me. For some odd reason, I was hungry all the time!!! I noticed I could get more down, and I wasn't diligent in measuring out my food, but when I did measure it out, I was still hungry. :(  What happened??? I need to go back to basics, so I decided to post the rules as a reminder to myself.

1. Three small meals a day
2. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
3. Stop eating as soon as you feel satisfied
4. Limit drinking during meals
5. Limit snacking
6. Eat only nutritious foods
7. Avoid fiberous foods
8. Drink 64oz+ water each day
9. Drink only low calorie drinks
10. Exercise

I was also reviewing "The Green Zone" tips from the Lap Band Website. After reading the "symptoms" of the yellow zone, I feel like I need a fill.

• I am hungry between meals
• I am eating more than I should
• I am losing, but was hoping for bigger numbers to start off with.

How do you know if you are in the "green zone"?

NSV ALERT!!!

6 week challenge at work. My goal was to lose 10 lbs, I lost 21. Am I cheating?

So the NSV-------- CAN YOU SEE IT???

I went from Morbidly Obese (Greater than 40 BMI) to just Obese (39.1). Making progress.

Weekly Weigh in

Starting Weight - 291
Last Week - 267
This Week - 265
A loss of 2 lbs. A loss is a loss and that makes 26 lbs down total. Aunt flow came, so I feel super bloated. I also can't wait till the doctor clears me for exercise. I am learning more and more on how to work my band, and I LOVE IT. I love being full with a little amount of food, and I look forward to weighing in. Weird!!!!

Still right on track for my Christmas goal.

Have a great weekend everybody!!!

Learning to trust

Since starting on solid foods, I have to really think about my portion sizes. The weird thing is that I am finding I can get anything down. I have never had a too tight feeling (so I am looking forward to a fill), but I do notice it is faster when I get that full feeling. Love it already. But I am having to learn to trust my band to do what it is supposed to do. In the past, I would keep a lot of snacks on hand, eat somewhat larger meals, in an attempt to never be caught off guard hungry. I get tired, irritated, and usually a headache when I get hungry. Hence the reason I am FAT! I am really making an effort to pick out proteins, eat very small portioned meals, and trust that I will not be hungry too soon. Not as easy as I thought it would be.

But I am doing it!!!

And my band really does work!!!

I will usually have 1 hard boiled egg for breakfast because I get pretty rushed, and it lasts me till 11. Then I have my vanilla muscle milk protein shake mixed with some orange juice. After my lunch break(where I walk a mile and a half with my man) I will have something for lunch, like a homemade chicken and bean quesadilla, tuna avocado salad, or left over chicken spaghetti over spaghetti squash. Depends on the day, but on the days I work at my second job, I usually have a snack of cottage cheese around 4:15, then dinner is always changing. But the good thing is I feel great! I am really excited to rock this thing.

On a crazy side note. I had 3 people ask me in the last couple days if I had lost weight. None of those people knew about my band, and I can't believe people are noticing already. That's a bonus.

Weigh in day

Starting Weight - 291
Last Week - 274
This Week - 267

7 LBS THIS WEEK!!! Nice. It was kind of roller coasting up and down this last week, but then I think it was just my body getting used to going back to work, and letting go of more water weight. I felt really bloated the last couple of days. I am happy with how it has been going, I just hope it continues to downward spiral!

That's 24 pounds down this year. 9 pounds since surgery.

On a cool note, because I felt less bloated today, I tried on a pair of black pants for work that I haven't worn in over a year... They fit!
I was in a pretty tight size 22, and now my 20's are feeling good. Maybe this weekend I will pull out some old clothes and host a fashion show for myself.

I do have a goal... By Christmas, I want to be down 30 more lbs. That's 15 weeks away @ 2 lbs a week. I think that is do-able. I get to go home for Christmas, which means there will be shopping in actual malls. The last time I remember being near 230's, I was able to wear some things in size 16. That would be the best Christmas gift ever!

Back to work

Holy Moly.. my first day back to work was Tuesday, and I had to go to both jobs, so that is a 12 hour day. I felt great in the morning, almost as if I had never had surgery. 2 o'clock hit and WHAAAMMM... tired, achy shoulder, difficulty focusing. I figured it was because I would sometimes take a nap at that time of day while I was recovering, so maybe my body was just adjusting. I sucked it up, grabbed a half a cup of coffee, went to my second job (which luckily is not a desk job), and all was well again.
EXCEPT the shoulder pain. It is still happening. Even today. My boss knows that I got the band, and asked me how I was feeling.. I just said... uh.. would it be ok for me to take my bra off? She laughed. I didn't really take it off at work, but I sure wanted to. Up till today, I was still having issues breathing. But it seems fine now. I just got to find a way to get rid of the shoulder issue.
I did a 45 minute stretching video last night. Have any of you heard of the Slim in 6 videos? Yup.. fell for the infomercial and bought the set about 7 years ago. Lot of good that did me sitting on the shelf right? So I used the "Cool it off" video that is all stretching. Boy did that feel better.
I also feel really bloated and the weight seems to drop, then hang, drop, then hang again. I am not too worried about it since I am still healing, but I am hardly eating. I try, but I only make it to about 900 calories a day.
The band seems to be doing good. I have noticed that I can eat more and more each day, but for now, it still keeps me satisfied for a long time. You know, all the research, and all the prep, and all the ideology of what is is like to have a Lap Band, still doesn't fully prepare you for what really happens. Since each person is different. But the biggest thing I am learning (which I knew pre-band very well, but it just now clicked) is that ya, I can eat small portions and not feel hunger for hours, but I still need to make well balanced choices. The other day I was like.. you know.. I really want a piece of that fried chicken.. so I did...The band didn't stop me from eating it.. but it did keep me from eating the rest of my "healthy" choice food because I was too full to eat it. Which is good, but I just wasted that opportunity with crap. I need to post my doctor's post op meal instructions on my fridge so it is there in front of my face.

Was there anything that helped you in the beginning to train you to eat band right?

First post op dining out experience

I did it! I successfully managed a dining out experience. We had a farewell meal for one of our friends that we see almost every weekend when their ship is in town. We went to one of our favorite places, but I was nervous about going out. I can only have mushies right now. Luckily it was at the best breakfast joint in Juneau!
As we sat down, I was thinking about drinks... then I stopped. :) I don't need a drink. Then I looked at the menu. Now, here is the thing about Juneau... even breakfast can be expensive when you eat out. A simple omelet meal is well over $12 a plate. That is normal here, but I was thinking.. man.. I can't eat much and that is a lot of money.. but wait.. there is a sides section. I ordered 2 eggs and hashbrowns.
I took my time eating, put my fork down between bites (which didn't feel awkward like I thought, because the meal was full of conversation), and ate until I felt full then stopped.
There was a lot of food left on my plate. After a few moments of me not touching it anymore, our friend noticed and asked if breakfast had gotten the best of me. :) He doesn't know I just had this surgery. I felt kind of embarrassed with that comment, but I just brushed it off and handed my plate to my man. He wanted to finish it for me. And that was breakfast.

What I learned:
I am a cheap date - my meal was $4.
This band works already - I was full for 5 hours on a few bites of eggs and hashbrowns.
When eating out - there will always be an option, I just need to chose it.
I can't keep giving my man the leftovers, otherwise he will gain all the weight I lose. :)

I am not sure how I feel about comments made about me not eating a lot, especially when the people know how much I could have eaten before. I guess I will have to get used to that. It was sad to see our friend leave for the season, but that's what facebook is for. He shared with us his plans on proposing to his girlfriend, so I can't wait to see that happen.

Stay tuned for more.. I can't wait Friday's weigh in!!

What I've been up to while healing

Here you go RockBand Barbie!!!

So this was my recovery! :)

I am super glad that I was feeling well enough to be productive.

Oh and last night I went to a Slumber Party.  Have any of you girls gone to one? Holy shades of gray batman... I had such a great time with my girls. I picked me up some basic instinct and the 3 in 1 massage oil candle. Can't wait to get pampered :)

Post Op check and weigh in

Blogland! Guess what? I have a loss! :)

Starting Weight - 291
Last Week - 276
This week - 274

Being post op this week, I have been bloated and swollen, so losing weight was not expected. Sure it is only 2 pounds, but I am stoked. The swelling is going down, but the gas pain came last night. Talk about a delayed reaction. Maybe because today I have been sitting down more. The last couple of days I have painted 2 rooms of my house, and converted/made an old bookshelf into a wine rack with an upside down wine glass holder. I have been pretty good at not lifting anything, but a paint brush and power drill doesn't weigh that much. Hahaha.

I just got back from my surgeon's office for my post of check. Everything looks good. I have some bruising, but all in all, things are awesome. I did mention I am sometimes having a hard time getting a deep breath, especially when I am wearing a bra, but she said it was because of the anesthesia. She said my lungs might have deflated during surgery, so I am just trying harder to fill it back up. Weird right? It isn't horrible, I just find myself catching my breath once in a while.

Eating (okay, drinking) has been great. I have been getting in my protein and soups. I haven't been hungry, which is I guess a perk of healing. I just have to remember my water. My doctor has me on the schedule in 5 weeks for a fill. At this point, I can't even imagine being tighter, but I am sure by that time, I will want one.

Thank you all for keeping me in your thoughts!

Day 2 post op

Wow. Things are going much better than I was anticipating. I feel great and I moved on to full liquids. There is a lot of funny gurgling and noises coming from my tummy, but no pain. I wish it wasn't pouring down rain. I really want to get outside for a walk.
So here I am, sitting on my couch, watching the biggest loser. I am now onto season 2. Hahaha. Makes me want to get up and start working it, but I know my time will come for that. Now healing is the important thing.
I have my follow up appointment Friday at 10. I hope the doctor likes what she sees. I did weigh this morning just to see how bloated I am, and I am up just 2 lbs. I'm not worried about that at all... but the weird thing is ( OKAY I might be gross here, so if you don't want to read, you don't have to) it isn't easy to pee. It doesn't hurt at all, it just feels like, you know, when there is someone around, its harder to relax.. that is how it feels. It's like a little trickle, and when I am done, I get up, and 2 minutes later, I feel like I have to go again. I don't quite know how to explain it. I'm sure it will get easier.

WARNING: Pictures of my belly fat ahead!

Here is a picture of my belly with my 5 incisions. The big bandaged one is my port. I feel that more than anything else. Not bad, just feels like I pulled a muscle doing sit ups.

Man I look swollen.

Why is it easier to post pictures of fat on these blogs, but I won't even let my family see my stomach?

Welcome to the other side, I have my Band!

Thank you all who were thinking of me today. Things went really well. I actually feel great!!
Here is the recap of the day:

We got to the hospital at 6am, checked in, and got dressed in the lovely gown and double sided traction socks. First the nurse came in, asked me my name, DOB, and what kind of procedure I was having.Obviously they knew, but they wanted to make sure I did. :)
She started my IV, gave me a shot in the belly to help prevent blood clots, then added some antibiotics to the IV. Next the anesthesiologist came in and asked me the same questions, and told me exactly how it would work and what to expect. That made me feel better, because being put under was actually more scary to me than the procedure. He was a nice guy to boot. Then in came my surgeon and asked if I had any last minute questions. Truly I felt so prepared from our previous consultations, and what I have learned from all of you, that I didn't have any. She did surprise me with the fact that I can shower whenever I want to. I was expecting to have to wait like 3 days. She reiterated my after surgery diet of today being clear liquids, then regular liquids the rest of the week. Next week mushies, then the following week solids if I can tolerate it.

I just realized I have been rambling with a lot of details. I hope you all don't mind. I guess I want to write it down in case I forget later. So bare with me the rest of this blog, :)

Here was the weird part. I was ready to be wheeled into the operating room, cool compression things around my legs that made it feel like a massage. I'll take it. I got to the OR and saw all the tools and probes. Holy Cow.. good thing they gave me a relaxant because then it was real. I scooted myself onto the operating table, they strapped me in, and the anesthesiologist said, okay, I'm putting the mask on. Took some good, deep breaths, and I was gone. I had some crazy dreams, but when I woke up, I couldn't remember what they were about. I did wake up with horrible back pain. I have a history of back spasms, and it sucked!!!! I told the nurse and she got some pain meds in right away, so after I had them sit me up to make it feel better, the pain went away fast. But then I started to shiver and my teeth were chattering really bad, so they gave me something for that too. All in all, that was the worst part, but it only lasted about 5 minutes. I was wheeled back to my room about 5 minutes later and was told to relax while I waited for the chest X-Ray. Every time I closed my eyes though, the room was spinning and it made me nauseous, so I watched Family Feud. I miss the old version. Oh well.

About a half an hour later, I got up, then got in a wheel chair and was taken down to get the X-Ray while drinking the gastric coating solution. It was a bit different then the barium I was expecting, and didn't taste very good. After that was all said and done, I was taken back to my room. By that time, I just wanted to stand up and walk around, so the nurse let me change into my clothes, asked me to make a pit stop, and wait for the x-rays to be interpreted. Luckily that only took about 10 minutes. I was cleared to go. I got home at about 1pm.

I was so thirsty when I got home, I was sipping on coconut water while watching the episode of biggest loser on Netflix that I didn't finish last night. HAHAHA

Soon I was sleepy, so I went to bed for a good 3 hours. Still not really any pain. The place where she put my port is the most annoying pain, but really nothing. I can't believe it. After my nap, we went for a walk around the lake by our house. Walking really feels great.

So if you are still reading, thank you. Thank you for all the encouragement, and the good vibes sent my way. I hope tomorrow is just as good or even better than today.

I will keep you posted.

Last night before the rest of my new life

Well, the time has finally come. It seemed like such a waiting game, but all of a sudden, here it is. I get my Lap Band tomorrow morning!!!
Last week I was nervous, tonight I am excited. I feel really calm and happy. I had my man take my before pictures, and I had my measurements taken, so here are the results.. right out here on the Internet for all to see.

See you all on the other side!!!

Pre-op, weigh in, and gowns

Good morning blog world,

Here is my weigh in:
Starting weight - 291
Last week - 278
Today - 276

Total of 15 lbs down! Woohoo.

Yesterday I got the grand tour of our hospital... by way of doing my pre-op. First stop was same day surgery. I met my nurse that will be there when I go in at 6am Monday morning. I will be the first case of the day :). She was such a sweet gal. I was given some special soap to wash myself with in the shower the night before as well as the morning of. I was told what to expect, and that I should be good to go by noon or 1.
Next stop was the lab. Had to pee in a cup and give them some blood. Piece of cake.
The downstairs to diagnostic imaging for the chest x-ray. Again, a very sweet nurse! This is a great hospital, full of amazing people. Can't forget the wardrobe change...

I am such a dork, but the gown looks pretty sexy riiiiiiiiiight? :)

After that, I left the hospital and went to Safeway to pick up some last minute items for next week. Needless to say, I AM READY!!!
I've got a lot to do today at work to prep for a week without me.. I think they will survive, but it is a bit questionable. I love my job and the people I work with, but I am stoked for a week off.

I will try and blog through this whole ordeal. I really want to capture what I go through, so when I get frustrated later, I can look back and see how far I really did come.

Call from the Doctor

So I got a call from my surgeon the other day, and she wanted to inform me of the recent articles and information about the Sleeve. I was caught off guard with her call for sure, hoping that nothing was going to go wrong, but I was delighted that she wanted to let me make my decisions informed. She didn't really have an opinion on which surgery is better, she just told me the "facts". She does however, think I would be very successful with the band, and that her local track record is a 95 % success rate. I think she has done about 35-40 lap bands in this town. Only a couple have not lost what they wanted to. That seems good to me. She also said she really likes to keep up with her patients and keep them on the track of success. AWESOME!!!
I had done my fair share of research on which WLS I wanted to have. Gastric Bypass was out. My aunt had that done, and she never finished losing her weight, she looks malnutritioned, and I don't like the idea of having my guts rearranged. Maybe she did it wrong, but that left a bad taste in my mouth about that WLS. To me, the sleeve is like a mini GB. I know a lot of people have had success with it, and have even converted from the LB to the sleeve, but I still like the idea of keeping myself accountable to my doctor for each fill, having something that could be reversible, using the tool and learning how to change my eating habits bit by bit. (or should I say bite by bite?) So.. I'm sticking with the band!

She also told me that I will have a 10cc band, and will have 3-4cc's in it after surgery. Hopefully with that I can avoid "Bandster Hell"!

I am excited
I am nervous
but, I'm ready.

Did any of you have doubt right before your surgery? I am still losing quite a few pounds on this pre-op diet, and I have only had one day where I was extremely tired and grouchy. But my horrible inside the head voice keeps saying.. well if you can do it now without the band, why would you go through with it.. or... maybe you didn't try hard enough in the past...
Of course I tried hard, of course I could not keep up with this diet.. I would get tired of it, stop making good choices, say the word CAKE and gain it all back plus 10 more.
Must be pre-band jitters. All I know, is that when I get my band, I am going to rock that thing! I have a shopping spree to get to.

And by the way,
I just wanted to say thank you to all of you who are reading and commenting. You are really encouraging and such great supporters. More than I ever imagined participating in a blog would uncover. I am truly lucky to have found all you awesome, strong, women who want to share their lives with the rest of us. THANKS!!!!

Weekly Weigh In

Starting weight: 291
Last week: 281.6
This week: 278

Looks like this pre-diet is working. Goodbye 280's! I have been stuck on you too long.  The first day was challenging, but when I actually counted what I was eating, it shocked me how many carbs are in everything!!! Once I got in the groove of it, it is pretty easy and not too hard to follow. I am surprisingly not hungry (for now). I think I am a bit low on the calories, but I am motivated to do this right for the surgery. I just don't want to put my body in starvation mode.

ONLY 10 DAYS TILL MY SURGERY!!!!

I am getting nervous. But I am looking forward to having a week off of work. I really wanted my mom to fly up and "take care" of me, but the tickets in and out are so expensive, so that is out. My man is taking off my surgery day, and hopefully the day after (it's hard for him to take time off due to his HR job), but then I will be alone in the house the rest of the week. Good thing I have Netflix cued and ready to go.

Any preparation tips ya'll want to suggest?

Getting closer!!!! :)

Day 2 pre op

I won't write my meals every day, but today was much, much better. I still feel weird eating food, when all along the doctor's office kept referring to it as a liquid diet, but at the consult, they said to do this low carb thing. The funny thing is that the instructions also mention that if I cannot do or stay on the low carb diet, to switch to the liquid diet for the rest of the time. Personally, I prefer not to have choices.
Last night I ended up making a shepherds pie with cauliflower instead of potatoes. Mixed in some cream cheese, and sprinkled with cheddar, and OH MY GOODNESS! A-FREAKIN-MAZING. I really liked it. So I thought I found the recipe on Sparkpeople Recipe's, but when I looked again, I couldn't find it. So I tried going by memory. Even today, I still cannot find it. Oh well.. it was yummy anyhow.
I went over my carb allowance yesterday, so I feel bad, and thought maybe I should switch to the liquid diet, but I decided to try again.
So this is what I have eaten (and will eat tonight).

It is REALLY hard to only be at 30 grams of carbs. I work from 8 am till 7:30 pm (due to a part time evening job) so I have that muscle milk around 4:30 to last me till I get home at night for dinner. Not sure if I could cut those out. Maybe I should try celery or other "free" veggies instead to try and last me. Any suggestions? I guess I never counted carbs before. I just worried about protein and calories. So far the scale likes it. We shall see come Friday how big of a difference it can make.

Day 1 Pre Op

I didn't prep as much as I wanted this weekend. Other things took priority. Look what I did!

Before

After

I was am still so sore, and the pictures really don't do it justice, but I LOVE MY LIVING ROOM!!! It feels so fresh and even bigger.

So today I started off with some Greek yogurt. Oops.. it has 22 grams of carbs! My doctor doesn't want me to go over 30 grams a day for these 2 weeks. So that was kind of a bad start. I had a little bit of cottage cheese, some tuna right out of the can, about a cup of watermelon and grapes mixed (which had carbs too), and a protein shake. I like Muscle milk because I can mix it with water, and it has relatively low carbs/sugar. Really handy to have at the office.

I did great with protein, but double the carbs I should have done. The 22.1 would be the number of carbs if I cut out the fruit and Greek yogurt.
You see, the problem is.. it is only 4pm. Looks like salad for me tonight :)

I just sent the man out to get some ground turkey. I totally trying Lap Band Gal's turkey burger tomorrow.

But the cool part is, I am not hungry. You know when you psych yourself out for a really long road trip, and you surprisingly don't feel tired, even after 8+ hours of driving? I think that is what I did to prep/psych myself for this surgery. This is for a very important purpose. It is short term. It preps my mind for my new habits to come.

So I will survive :)

Weigh in

Starting weight: 291
Last weeks weight: 284.2
This weeks weigh in: 281.6

Down is a good direction! Monday I start my pre-op diet. I have some serious planning to do to make sure I am prepared. That is half the battle right? Lot's of prepping is planned for Sunday!

I need a hat like this...

Cheers!

I survived

Last week was craziness, but I survived. Survived the move, the extra hours at my second job, survived the wedding rehearsal, and then the wedding (which was beautiful). Congrats to my BF's brother and new sister in law!

We got all moved in, and mostly unpacked. I see a weekend of painting in my near future! :)

Funny story.. so my man was unpacking some clothes, and he headed to the kitchen. He said, "Honey, I am making you dinner tonight." I was excited, so I went into the kitchen to find this....

Not my CHINCHILLA!!! Poor Inca. Don't cook her.

Don't worry, no animals were harmed in the making of our home! :)  This man truly makes me laugh all the time!

So I saw my surgeon last week. They gave me my prescription, took my "before" pic, made me sign my life away, and my pre/post op diet instructions. It was very interesting to read what they want me to do. All this time I was preparing for a 2 week liquid diet, when in fact, they want me to eat low/no carb, low fat, diet. SOLID FOOD. They did say that if I am vegetarian or cannot follow the diet, to go on the liquid diet. Very interesting to me. I think the best plan of action is to prepare all meals in advance so I don't screw up. I start next Monday!!!!

I love my nurses and doctor by the way. They were just so excited for me and told me I had the right attitude to rock this. I sure hope so!



Nicest Kids in Town!

That was the first dance number I learned on Saturday for Hairspray. Truthfully, I was so nervous to go. I like to dance, I have rhythm.. but man oh man I was a basket case. Turned out I had a blast, and caught up quickly to the people who have been practicing since May! Go me!This is going to be an awesome production. Oh.. and it was 2 hours of dancing.. I survived, and felt great!!!
My place is packed up... I move into our new house tomorrow! Super excited about that. But a bit overwhelmed on all the things I have to do still.
Thursday I have my appointment with my surgeon. I met her in February when I was referred to her by my doctor. I love her. She was very to the point, failure was not an option, and the office is very much wanting every patient to succeed. Plus, when I first thought of this surgery, I thought I would have to go to the lower 48 to get this done, but low and behold, there is a surgeon right here. That probably would have been a deal breaker for me if she wasn't local. Can you imagine having to take a plane or boat to get fills and checkups? No way Jose!

Here we go

So we are off and running. I have my consult with the surgeon on Thursday to do paperwork and ask some more questions. They will go over my pre op diet then, but I don't start that till the 13th. Life just went into overhaul... Here is a glimpse into the next couple of weeks.
Tomorrow I have my first dance rehearsal for Hairspray (I am soooo nervous. Sure she can sing, but can she dance too? We shall see) for 3 hours.
Then a few friends and I are hosting a bachelorette party for my soon to be sister in law (my boyfriend's brother's fiancé). BTW, I made a scavenger hunt that should generate some pretty hilarious blackmail photo ops! Should be fun and wild times.
About a month ago, I agreed to cover shifts at my second job, so I am working straight next week from 8am till 7:30pm, while trying to move out of my house Wednesday evening, going to the surgeon’s office Thursday afternoon, cleaning and handing over the keys to my apartment Thursday evening, rehearsal dinner Friday evening, and busy with the wedding all day Saturday (while skipping out on my dance rehearsal).
Busy, busy, busy… but that’s the way I like it.
So, I thought I would get it out of the way now, since I will be wrapped up in other things the next few weeks. I am going to put this out here now, because I know when I look back, I will have appreciated it.

Highest weight: at start of doctor’s visit: 291
Current weight: 282.4
Height: 5’9”
Goal: 165?

This one I have a hard time with… I much as I try to remember weights, I know I was a size 16 at around 230, and when I was 14, I remember I was 145 because that the same weight as my grandfather at the time. (He is a small Dutch man, and my grandma was even smaller. She was the one who weighed me and freaked out that I weighed more than he did. Perhaps that is why I remember that weight.)
So I don’t really know what will be good for my body. All I know is that I want to reach at least 165, and see how my body is there.
I will post official measurements and body shots later, but here is one from last weekend. I look like a marshmallow man! UUGGGHHH. That is gross. And no... I am not talking about the halibut guts… I just want to look cute in tank tops… is that so much to ask?

Second Approval in one week!!!!!

I got approved for LapBand!!!!! That was fast. I just talked to the office on Monday, and here we are on Thursday with an insurance approval, a surgery date, and my next appointment! I am so happy and ready. Come August 27th, I will be on the other side with the rest of you.
We are having hot, sunny weather, so I gotta get out and enjoy it before it ends.... which, in SE Alaska, that could be moments away. See ya!

Insurance and Sunflower seeds

Out of curiosity and patient responsibility, I called my insurance to check the status of my pre authorization for WLS, and they said they have not received anything. Odd... So I call my surgeons office, and the gal said she was missing chart notes from my regular doctor for 3 months.. Ok.. Odder(haha.. is that even a word? :) )... Needless to say, I called my doctors office and talked to my doctors nurse. She said she always faxed it the day after each visit, but she will get those over to the surgeon's office. That means I have to keep waiting. Seems to be the story of my life recently.
Oh well.. I get to move into my new house next week!!! Super excited about that.

My new house!

I also rediscovered my love of munching on sunflower seeds. When I am stressed, I really crave something crunchy, so instead of going after a full tin of pringles, I decided to grab some low sodium sunflower seeds. That seems to do the trick.