Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Unthinkable a Year Ago!!!!






I just finished a hearty helping of shoveling our driveway! It was covered with about an inch of ice and 3 inches of snow ontop of that.

We have a LOOOOONG driveway so this chore took me the better part of 2 hours, whew! I even swept the porch and then laid down salt.

A year ago you wouldn't have caught me doing this, I would have found some excuse not to, for example: It's too cold, the babies need me, my back hurts, I'm too tired, I need to cook dinner, I need to work on laundry. The list can go and on!!!!!

I feel like a million bucks, really I do!!!! Thanks so much RNY you truly have saved me in more ways than you know!

Amy

Wednesday, December 10, 2008

3 MORE POUNDS!!!!

178 TODAY! I am saving my 100th post (this is post #98) for my update at hitting 100 pounds so forgive me if I am not updating as often nowadays.

We are all moved in and unpacked ~ well still have a few boxes left for our bedroom, sigh....

Christmas is rapidly approaching ~ usually this time of year is filled with dread of gaining weight and overeating but this year it is much more joyful for me.

I can't believe that I am 5 pounds away from a normal BMI according to the National Institues of Health. You can check our the NHI's BMI calcuator here:

I will be on the highest end of normal and by no means am I done but I love the thought of being considered NORMAL.

After hitting 100 pounds lost (which puts me at 175) my new goal will be to hit 150 which is another 25 pounds. I am setting this goal for myself to be reached by spring but one never knows.

Hope to update with these final 3 pounds gone SOON!

Merry Christmas to EVERYONE, love you all!!!!!

Amy

Sunday, November 30, 2008

5 Pounds to GO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


I have 5 more pounds to go to hit 100 pounds lost, and that done HOPEFULLY before the year is out and in 1/2 of a year.

I'm READY!!!!

Friday, November 14, 2008

10.....9.....8.....

As of today I am EIGHT pounds away from hitting 100 pounds lost since June 1st! I can't believe it!

I am trying to get settled into our new home, i've only told one person here about my WLS (I know her DIL) but I plan to keep it under wraps from everyone else and make this my fresh new start!

I've had so many people ask me if I was the active duty member stationed here (it's actually Bill) but it blows my mind that i'm perceived thin and healthy enough to be in the military, YAY!

I am looking forward to hitting the gym at the start of the new year, we have so much to put away still and reorganizing to do, then the holidays so I am going to wait until January and go full speed forward to hit 150 as soon as possible, I might even go below that if I can but my body is in charge first and foremost.

So yeah, 8 more pounds to go until I hit a MAJOR goal, help me get there!!!!

Love ya!

Amy

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

90 Pounds!!!!

Blinkie Maker


Amazing! I finally found our scales yesterday, i'm here by myself and doing all the unpacking while Hubby is still in Nebraska (can't wait until he gets here). I about died of shock when I stepped on the scale, i've lost 6 pounds in a week.

I am on the final countdown to ONE HUNDRED POUNDS, help me countdown! I hope to hit 175 before the end of the year ~ fingers crossed!!!!

I promise to post pics as soon as I can find my camera, LOL!

Saturday, November 1, 2008

I Have a Lil Devil Inside of Me!

Had an AWESOME time at Brenda's party tonight, check it out for yourself:

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Soooooo HOT!!!!!

Tell me what you think!!!!



Tell me what you think!!!!

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Crazy Days, Crazy Weighs!!!

Woke up to 191 this morning, that feels good but I haven't had the chance to enjoy it much with all the craziness that our move has to offer, ugggg!!!

Here is just a glimpse at the change in what a month has done to my face:



Can't wait to see what another months has to offer, yipppeee!!!!

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

192, OMG!!!!

Wow, the weight is flying off this week! I came to the realization last night that I had lost 60 pounds since surgery (today it makes 61 pounds) which puts me at an overall total of 83 pounds.

I am inching closer to the century mark aka 100 pounds and it seems so attainable now whereas before I doubted if I would ever see it. Beliving in myself has really put things into motion for me, I no longer "fear" of failure but 83 pounds ago it consumed me in almost everything I did, what a waste of time and energy!!!

I hope to put some pics up later today of what I look like now compared to prior to surgery ~ come by and take a look and tell me what you think!

Amy

Thursday, October 16, 2008

80 Pounds and....

Today Tasia and I hit up Goodwill and she found the PERFECT pair of size 10 jeans for me.

Of course they are skin tight and won't button or zip up, but a month ago my size 12's were the same way yet I'm wearing them comfortably now, yay!

I can't believe that i've lost 80 pounds, wow! So now the real countdown begins. I want to get down to 150 and I hope to do that by spring, yippeeeee!!!!!

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Sometimes Cheating Can Be Good....

So I broke my promise and weighed myself this morning and WOW I am down to 197, amazing! I can fit comfortably in size 12 pants and size large tops too. I am dying to buy a pair of size 10 jeans and make them my inspiration pants, LMBO.

So many months ago none of this seemed possible yet here I am! I have been selling things like wildwire on Craigslist and one of the ladies who came to pick up an item was obese like I used to be and I wanted to tell her my story but paused and didn't.

But then she looked at our family portraits on the wall and commented on how much weight I've lost....I said thanks so much and left it at that, now I feel bad, should I have divulged my tool?

Tell me what you think!!!!

Friday, October 10, 2008

I Promise Starting Today...

Starting today I will only weigh myself on Friday's.

Starting today I will become better about taking my supplements.

Starting today I will stop obsessing about my weight.

Starting today I will do all these things and be successful because I deserve to be happy and healthy.

Wednesday, October 8, 2008

Sunday, September 28, 2008

200.5 and 4 MILES!!!!

Wow! I got to the gym this morning at 8:30 and weighed 200.5, now that's more like it! I can't wait to go to the gym, I hope to see that magic number!!!!

I punched out 4 miles on the ellipictal today, a new record for me and it felt great!!! Took the kids to Vala's pumpkin patch this afternoon then came home and grilled shrimp which were oh so good!

Thanks for all the encouragement and kudos, it's nice to hear that everyone is behind me. Thanks so much!!!

XOXOXO Amy

Saturday, September 27, 2008

Stuck.....

Well, I am currently back and sitting at 202, ugggggg!!!!! Did a 40 minute Gilad workout, it was intense at points but overall was great even with the kiddos jumping all over me while I was trying to do situps, LOL!

I will hit 12 weeks in 3 days and I was really hoping to have hit 199, I'm trying to stay positive about it but DAMN come on body!!!!!

Just hanging around the house today b/c Edward is sick with something that is making him have a high fever and feel miserable. Feeling tired since I was up until almost 3 and back up at 7 this morning so I hope to make the best of my day and not veg on the couch but it's a high probability the way I feel.

In other news, I found a lump in my right breast that is extremely painful. While I was working out this morning it was throbbing, brings back memories of having an abcess removed from the same breast when I was 13 (talk about an emotional ordeal). My body has been doing weird things lately: 4 periods in 11 weeks, constant back pain, random aches/pains and occasional vomiting when I eat too fast ~ I'm falling apart, LOL!

Well, if you're reading this, I could use a little nudge of encouragement...feeling unmotivated and tired today, blah!!!!

Amy

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

201.5!!!!

Let's go Amy, Let's Go!!!!

199 Is YOURS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tuesday, September 23, 2008

202.5!

OMG, I am jumping up and down as I type this!!!! Come on 199!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Is This Even The Same Person?!?

May 2008 ~ 275, blah!!!



11 Weeks Out and a few pounds away from Onderland!!!!

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Saturday, September 20, 2008

3 Miles!!!

I was banging down the doors this morning to the gym, LOL! I got there at 7:45 only to learn they didn't open until 8am. Grabbed a coffe, and a base newspaper and before I knew it they were ready.

I can't believe how far I've progressed! I was able to complete 3.04 miles in 35 minutes, amazing!!! I love the tone and definition i'm seeing and my endurance and energy are endless.

Yay for this feeling, I love it! And oh yeah, I weighed 204.5 this morning, YAY!!!!

Amy

Friday, September 19, 2008

5 More Pounds!!!!

204 Today and I am ready to make goal!!!!! It's so close I can taste it, I want it more than anything right now, come on body let's get this done!

Amy

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Ohhhhhh Yeaaaaaah!!!!

Saw the Chiropractor tonight, Dr. Teusaw is a God!!!! I really needed treatment, even he was surprised at how much adjustment I needed. I felt great for about 2 hours but then my back started hurting again so I guess it will be a weekly thing for me until I get all the kinks worked out.

Tasia and I had lunch earlier, took her to Vidlak's and it was soooo yummy, I have a feeling that she may be taking her family there soon :) We also were naughty and had an Expresso Smoothie on our way to the gym, mmmmmmmmmmmmm!!!!!!!

Did 3 laps around gym, weights on arms and abs and then TASIA DID 1 MILE ON THE ELLIP!!!!! Go you girl, I am sooo proud of you! I remember when I hit a mile, I was so proud yet exhausted, it was a GREAT feeling...I'm glad I could share your moment with you, YOU ROCK!!!!!

I was a little shy of 2 miles but had sweat draining down my face and body so I knew it did me good, I love this feeling ~ who ever knew that I would LOVE THIS??? I sure didn't, I think even is someone pulled me aside a year ago and transported me to here and now I would not believe it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Focused on getting below 200, it's all I can think about. Started experimenting with calorie cycling and so far so good, I hope it gets me where I want as quick as possible, did I ever mention that I'm not patient??? LOL!!!!

I'm afraid my caffeine buzz is going to make to pull an all nighter, the price we pay for being naughty, LOL! Gotta run!

XOXOXO
Amy

New Milestones!!!



Blinkie Maker


With this weight loss my wedding ring no longer fits, the slightest shake of my hand makes it fly off, WOW!!!! I've been working hard lately with Tasia, we've been making rounds at the gym and she has pushed me farther than anyone has ever before, thanks and you ROCK!

6 More Pounds and I am in Onderland (199) and for the first time in 15 years I will be under 200 pounds. Yippeeeee!!!!

Amy

Monday, September 15, 2008

Gym Bound....

YeeeeHaaaww!!! Tonight Tasia and I are going to the gym, I am so excited. We had a GREAT time last week and I will be unable to attend water aerobics (what's new??) this week because of obligations and next week Hubby is out of town.

I am so excited to work hard tonight, OH YEAH!!!!!!

Amy

Sunday, September 14, 2008

GNO, Great Friends and Yummy Food!

Last night my friends Kate and Tasia invited me to a GNO to see "The Women" and then sushi afterwards. Movie was great and then we drove all the way out 144th and Maple (a good drive out there) to Blue Sushi.

Here are a few pics from the night out!!!!







Last night my friends Kate and Tasia invited me to a GNO to see "The Women" and then sushi afterwards. Movie was great and then we drove all the way out 144th and Maple (a good drive out there) to Blue Sushi.

Here are a few pics from the night out!!!!

Friday, September 12, 2008

My Heart Is Full Tonight!!!!

Tonight I called my friend Tasia, whom I met at water aerobics last month, and asked if she would like to go with me to the base gym tonight.

We did a lap around the gym and then worked awesomely on weights for a decent amount of time ~ Tasia you ROCKED and thanks for showing me the moves ;)

Friends get you through life, all the good stuff and the bad....through the pounds lost and gained. I've always felt lonely going the gym and tonight it was fun, thanks so much Tasia and I can't wait for our girls night out tomorrow night, yay!

XOXOXOXO
Amy

Thursday, September 11, 2008

208 and OVERWEIGHT!

OMG, a big moment tonight!!!! I went to the gym and weighed myself. The last time I was able to workout which was 8/22 my weight was 220.

Tonight I weighed 208 and I am no longer considered OBESE, only overweight!!! I still have a LONG way to go but I can officially say that I have conquered obesity!

3 more pounds puts me at a 70 pound loss, so I am super fueled to get there!

Let's gooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo!!!!!!!

Back To The Gym!

Hubby made it home tonight, yay! I am def going to the gym tonight to work out since I've missed water aerobics for 2 weeks straight and I need a break from my home workout routine, blah!

I can't wait to get there and feel the sweat, the bite of the movements....I am all giddy about it ~ call me crazy!!!!

The old me would! :)

Amy

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

I Heart Dr. Rice!




I saw my GYN for the last time before we PCS to Whiteman, Dr. Rice didn't know I had WLS and was just floored when I walked in. As always she and her staff bent over backwards to help me with the kids and make me feel like I was their only patient.

As I write this, Dr. Rice is meeting my friend Evvie to deliver her baby, brings back so many memories of my delivery...I am going to miss them so much!!!!

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Frustrated!

Well, water aerobics was cancelled yet again, arrrrggggggg! I had to hire a babysitter to go so I decided to make the best of my time (didn't bring gym clothes) and did some light shopping for myself.

Hubby is TDY again so I am solo on my exercise efforts but I do have Gilad and 10 Minute Solution thankfully but it can can dull after a few times, blah!

My weight has gone up to 210, booooooooo!!!! I did see 209 a few days ago but looks like I've hit another small stall and I have to remind myself "Am I eating to refuel my body" and that seems to be doing the trick.

This afternoon I weighed 211 so that tells me that I HOPEFULLY will be back down to 209 tomorrow, but if not I will just put back on my patience hat and just wait it out.

Tomorrow I see my GYN who I dearly love, she saw me through both of my pregnancies and delivered Edward (she was out of town for Della) and she doesn't know I had WLS, I can't wait to shock them! :P

Kids are keeping me busy this week, it about makes my head spin. Tomorrow is PT, GYN, Thursday is Colin's new Psychologist and Friday Edward at PT again, whew! I am hoping to catch up with my new friends Tasia and Michelle sometime this week so the kiddos can play together, it's hard to believe we will be leaving here in 2 months.

Alright, well need to go find Colin's spelling words so we can make it to reading and have dinner out at Fazoli's. Later! :)

Amy

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Size 14 Again

You know I gotta show this off!


Sunday Again..

Well the good part of today is that I was able to sleep in until 8:30, call someone and let them know! ;)

Woke up to 209 again today so I guess my body is going through an adjustment period again, patience...patience...patience. I want to hit onderland by the end of the month, so 23 days to go!!!

I bought a new workout video last night called the 10 Minute Solution and WOW what a workout it was!!!

The video has 5 ten minute segments:

ARM & SHOULDER SCULPT: Instructor Amy Bento designed this sequence of highly effective band exercises so your arms, shoulders and back can have that toned, defined look. The moves are simple but designed to give you fast results.

BUTT & THIGH BLASTER: Kick your largest muscle groups into high gear -- and great shape! You'll use the band in a series of exercises that will lift and tighten your butt while jiggle-proofing your thighs giving your lower body that smooth, firm look.

SLEEK & SEXY ABS: Love handles and ab flab don't stand a chance against this workout! Adding the body band brings you into a whole new realm of RESULTS. Sleek and sexy abs can be yours!

TOTAL BODY TONE ZONE: Compound movements will shape and sculpt all of the muscles in your body with maximum efficiency. This workout will have your heart pumping as well which means you'll burn away major calories.

10 MINUTE STRETCH: Improve your flexibility while your muscles relax and elongate. Using this segment, take time to breathe, reduce stress and center your energy. Your body will thank you


I highly recommend the video, the 10 minute segments fly by in a flash. I am going to give this routine 30 days and see where I am at, yee-haw!!!!

Amy

Friday, September 5, 2008

F-F-Finally Friday...

And I am wearing size 14 jeans, FREAKING AWESOME! I can't believe how the weight is biting the dust, I hope I can ride the gravy train for as long as possible.

I need to lose 1 more pound to hit 208 and I will no longer be considered obese just OVERWEIGHT! Very excited about this, I want to scream from the rooftops about how happy I am.

Happy Friday everyone, XOXO

Amy

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Goals....

Blinkie Maker

The pounds are melting off quick this week, I was up to 220 last week after my hospital visit, they pumped me full of fluids so in a week I've shed 5 pounds and 5 pounds of water weight too!

My new short goals are as follows:

Lose 2 more pounds = I will become OVERWEIGHT, no longer be considered obese (208)

Lose 5 more pounds = 70 pounds lost (205)

Lose 10 more pounds = 75 pounds lost (200)

Lose 11 more pounds = I will be under 200 pounds for the first time in 14 years!!! (199)

And my next major goal is to hit 100 pounds total loss by December 1st!!!!!!! def know that I can do this, so far I've lost an average of 20 pounds a month so I am going to dig my heels in and get the job done.

Once I hit 199 I am going to keep going. My ultimate goal is to be between 130-140 but I don't expect to be anywhere near that until sometime next year, patience, hard work and fierce determination fuels me!

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

So Much For That....

Well, water aerobics was cancelled yet again! I understand situations come up but why can't they call us?!?! Arrrggg!!!!

This time they didn't bother putting up a sign outside, the only sign up was on the door to the pool so I was already dressed out, luckily a few of us decided to work out....it was movement but not what I usually get out of it.

Tonight I am going to do my new Gilad workout once the kids hit the hay, I think that will get me moving, pumping and feeling good ~ I literally ran out out the door tonight to get there because hubby is going TDY starting tonight so he stayed with the kids while I squeezed it in, only for the class to be cx.

So, lessons learned ~ do my workout routine regardless before class so if it's cancelled I am done for the night.

Sigh.....

Water Aerobics Tonight!

Yay!!!!!! I have set up for my friend's daughter to watch the babies for the next 2 weeks since Bill will be TDY, I really don't want to miss my class and fun.

It's funny, before now I would feel like I was dying about 1/2 way through the class I feel like my arms/legs are going to fall off but while I was working out yesterday to my Gilad's Total Body Sculpt he said something.....

The burn I feel is muscle being forced to change, how about that?!? I hate the burn while in the process but afterwards I love it so I guess it's a love/hate relationship.

Today I am at 212, wow! 2 more pounds to hit 65 and 4 more pounds to be considered overweight, yay!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Overweight Not Obese....

5 more pounds, YES FIVE more pounds until I hit the standard set by the Natl Institute of Health. They have a BMI calculator, and when I hit 208 pounds my BMI will be 29.8 and I will not longer be considered obese but OVERWEIGHT.

I feel so good about that tonight and it makes me ever more determined to get there and I know that I will. ;)

2 Month Surgiversary

Today is my 2 month surgiversary and I've gone from 253 on the morning of surgery to 213 this morning. That is FORTY POUNDS!!!!

My next big accomplishment is to hit 210, that would put me at 65 pounds lost total, wow! Hope to see that this week, fingers crossed!

Amy

Tired but Pushing On!

After the weekend from hell (Della had rotovirus again and was in the hospital) I am back on track today! Of course the school just called and said that Colin is sick to his stomach so everyone will be home today.

My workout this morning so far has consisted of cleaning the living room, kitchen, picking up toys, mopping and starting the dishwasher, whew! I did all of that in about an hour, not shabby for me!

I am going to do my Gilad workout again today, I really like the routine and def feel my heart pumping but it's not too intense, just right!

My back is still hurting, wish it would just fix itself ~ I may have to see a chiropractor if it persists. :(

Sunday, August 31, 2008

Namaste Yoga



I've fallen in love! FitTV has become my new favorite channel to watch, I finished a 2nd helping of Shimmy last night and set up our DVR to record all epidodes of Namaste so I can do them on my own time especially since AF Year End is coming up and getting to the gym is going to be harder than usual.

If you haven't checked out, do so! www.fittv.discovery.com

Saturday, August 30, 2008

Check Out Those Collar Bones!

Today we went to the Arbor Day Farm It was sooo nice outside and I got a ton of pics of the kids but one really struck me when I saw it ~ I have collar bones again, check it out!!!!

Friday, August 29, 2008

Channeling My Inner Belly Dancer

Today I came across "Shimmy" on FitTV. WOW, I love this program, it is so fun and sensual.

Yeah, baby this is what it's all about ~ feeling great while exercising, loving what comes next and having the babies jumping all over because they feel good too.

I love life!

Amy

Friday!

Yay for Fridays!!! I am feeling better, still haven't exercised but I am regaining my strength ~ we have a 4 day weekend ahead of us so I am going to need it.

I am back down to 217 today, so the water weight from the IV's is coming off. I am back to drinking Celestial Seasonings Tea again, the coffee was just too much for me (as much as I love it) so I'm hoping that the tea will provide a lighter fare.

I made some delish muffins last night using the Heartsmart Bisquick and Blueberries, sooooo yummy!

1 1/2 Cups of HS Bisquick
1/2 cup of Skim Milk (plus 2 tablespoons for easier mixing)
3/4 of Blueberries (I used small ones)
3/4 of Splenda (I like my muffins sweet so you can decrease this amount)

Fold blueberries in last and then scoop into lined muffin tins. Bake at 425 for 12-15 minutes, let cool for 20 minutes and enjoy!

Yummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!!!! The kids snagged these up so fast that they are all gone except for the few that I hid away, LOL!

Amy

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Headache From Hell....

OMG! It's so bad today, I can't seem to shake it and I hope it finds a new home soon b/c I am serving an eviction notice.

Feeling miserable today, wish I felt better!

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

I'm Home From Hospital....

Ugggg, it was a rough 24 hours! I can't believe how sick I was and my pulse rate is still really low (in the 40's and low 50's) so they want me to monitor it from home.

Still feeling very weak and tired. They gave me 4 bags of fluids so naturally I am up bloated as all get out and weighed myself (220, how depressing).

So, lessons learned. No more hot stuff, not exactly sure that is what caused the episode but sure as hell don't want to repeat it. Learned from Dr. Sudan that if I do truly vomit again that I am to stop all food and liquids until vomitting subsides and stay on liquids for 24 hours.

Just when I think I am doing good something like this has to slap me in the face back to reality.

My new friend Michelle came to visit me in the hospital today, she is a REAL sweetheart and I am keeping my fingers crossed for her that she receives her approval letter ASAP.

Thanks to everyone that lifted me up in thoughts/prayers ~ they worked!!! I'm tired so that's all for now.

Amy

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Busy Days!

Going back to my PCM today to check on my knee which feels great and I also need to get a referral to my GYN for a 1 year checkup ~ I can't wait to see Dr. Rice, she doesn't know that I've had RNY and the last time I saw her was in February.

Water aerobics last night was TOUGH!!! We used the underwater weights and my arms have never felt so fatigued, but that is a good thing.

Woke up to 215 again today, guess my little ride is over for now but that's okay....as long as the scale MOVES I'm okay with it.

Had 1/4 cup of cereal and a mini string cheese and couldn't finish it all, wow! I remember the days when I could eat 3 eggs, 2 pieces of toast with butter/jelly and some bacon or sausage ~ I am so glad that I am able to make better choices, eat less and learn how to help myself.

Monday, August 25, 2008

60 Pounds!!!

Blinkie Maker
Blinkie Maker


Freaking awesome! I could just crawl out of my skin with excitement! The weight this week has been flying off, the last 2 days I've woken up 2 pounds lighter each day. That's a 8 pound loss in 8 days, woot!

Tonight is water aerobics, I can't wait to see my friends again. Afterwards I have to take Edward to get his first haircut. Wahhhh!!! :(

Lots of love to everyone today!

Sunday, August 24, 2008

New XL Sundress

First time in 10+ years I've been able to wear a size XL dress, wow!!!


Saturday, August 23, 2008

August 2007 - August 2008 Comparsion Pics

August 2007, I didn't feel this big!


August 2008, Feeling great and losing weight!

Nothing Fits Me!!!

For the first time in my life, all the clothes in my closet do not fit me...they are TOO BIG!!!!

I am in utter disbelief and shock that this mass amount of clothes, many that I haven't been able to wear for years need a new home. The clothes vary from sizes 18-24.

When we PCS this fall I am ONLY taking clothes that fit me and those I will buy in anticipation that will fit along with my weight loss. Thank you GOD for giving me this opportunity, thank you for my health and happiness back!

Today I am going to buy a new outfit for tonight's banquet we are attending for Hubby's Scouting achievements, I can't to show off how good I FEEL!

Friday, August 22, 2008

10 Years!!!

August 22nd, 1998 I became a blushing bride, wow! I was overweight then, in fact I weigh less now than when Bill and I married ~ amazing!

10 years have gone by slowly at time and zoomed by at others, filled with great moments and others that I would like to forget but we made it!

Tonight we are going to celebrate at Jack Binion's Steak House at the Horseshoe Casino and I'm not sure what I will be able to eat, but whatever it may be I hope it's good. Also we are going to see the Dark Knight on IMAX, yay!

Well, the day is beckoning, must answer its call.

OH YEAH, I've lost 55 POUNDS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! 275 - 220, RIP 55 Pounds!!!

Thursday, August 21, 2008

Wednesday, August 20, 2008

10 Miles!!!

OMG! Never before have I rode a bike for 10 miles! Water Aerobics was cancelled tonight, wish I would have received a phone call b/c I was in my regular day clothes with swimming suit in hand, so I turned around and went home and got my gym clothes on.

Did a few warm up laps around the gym and then hopped onto the bike, the last 2 miles were killer but I have faith that my body is going to show for it tomorrow!

I LOVE EXERCISE!

Monday, August 18, 2008

Friends...

I love making new friends and tonight I had a great time after water aerobics talking to Tiresa, Kate and Tasia. We all take the W.A. class together with Bettina, she rocks our world and we diligently work hard to push ourself further each night.

Yeah, I'm feeling it tonight....hoping the scale moves in the RIGHT direction tomorrow, yee-haw!

Potential

I have it, I want it! I am ready to kick things up a notch and burn baby burn! I am cleared this week to start back at my weights, yay! I feel like I melted a lot of weight off before surgery while working with weights so I'm hoping the same is true after surgery.

Last night Bill and I went to see Tropical Thunder, which was a GREAT movie by the way and I would love to get some of the tracks to add onto my MP3 player to workout to, nothing beats pumping away to great music.

Today I have a ton of running to do, once the kiddos are up and ready we need to return the wheelchair that I rented for my Dad, buy some new underwear for myself and find something for Hubby since we are celebrating our 10 year anniversary this Friday, wow! Then later this evening is water aerobics which reminds me that I need to wash my swimsuit, yikes!

Better go do that now!

Saturday, August 16, 2008

Sick

Ugggg, why am I sick....I HATE being sick! Raw sore throat, fever and all the misery that comes with it, that's me right now.

I haven't exercised since Wednesday and I'm also suffering from constipation so it's all around yuckiness ~ where is my ray of sunshine I need?

I havne't exercised since Wednesday although I have been running around busy as usual but today is the Air Show here at Offutt so I know that I wlll get at least 1-2 miles or more of walking in, plus we rented a wheelchair for my Dad (he had a major stroke last year and doesn't walk well) so that will be provide some strenghening for me, yee-haw!

My family (parents included) went out to dinner last night at LaMesa (local mex joint that we like) and I had the chicken quesdillas off the appetizer menu, wow amazing how BIG that portion was for just an appetizer! I was able to eat 1 of the 4 quesadilla's and was overly stuffed but it was good!

My parents were amazed at how different I looked in the 2 weeks since we left St. Louis, felt good and even better I went to the base to pick up Della's shot record yesterday and the technician was freaking out at how much weight I've lost, so I had a gaggle of women asking me about the surgery, how I felt and how life is after roux-en-y. That felt GREAT!

Well, need to cook breakfast for my family so we can get going to the Air Show, it's going to be so much fun!

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Swimming....

Water Aerobics last night, we used water noodles the whole time and I LOVED IT! It was fun and challenging, especially when we had to fold up our noodles like a pretzel and sit on them ~ then pretend we were riding on a bike.

Coordination is a key with this kind of activity and I surprised myself, I did really well. One of the hardest things we did was to stand on our noodle while in the water and walk back and forth on it, harder than it sounds.

Bettina (our instructor) also had us doing knee crunches while standing at the side of the pool, also with the noodles beneath us, that was the hardest exercise of the night but it was fun to watch everyone keep up because the noodles kept slipping out from under us and rocketing out of the water, LOL!

After class I started swimming laps (hence being extremely sore today) and to my surprise 18 laps (across and back again) is only 1/4 of a mile, I felt like I had gone 10 miles and was disappointed to learn that it wasn't very far.

Oh well, the longer I keep at this...the easier it will be and before I know it I will be swimming 1/2 a mile and then a mile but all in good time!

224 again today, I wish the scale would move more but I do know that I am losing despite what the scale says, I am officially in a size 16 and XL top so that's reassurance that things are going GREAT!

Toodle-loo!

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

A New Day!

Wow, I'm amazed at myself! I did 6 miles last night the gym, incredible! Of course non of this was possible without my RNY.

I started the Cool Runnings from Couch to Running program last night, I truly intend on being in the Omaha 10K next month so I've started my training to get myself ready. I may not be able to run all of it but by God I am going to complete it!

I am down another pound today, so that puts me at 224, another 25 pounds until I hit what is commonly referred to as "Onederland" I can't wait!

These next few days will be full of running to Doctor appointments for the kids and getting Edward's feet/legs fitted for braces, my poor little guy but after sleeping on the fact that he needs them I feel better. Now it's just a fact of dealing with nosey people out in public, when Della was in her pelvic harness I got all kinds of questions/comments that just seemed weird and uncalled for. Sheesh!

Ready for water aerobics tonight, I'm still sore from last night but I think it will only help build in my endurance. Water here I come!

Monday, August 11, 2008

Sooooo Happy!!!!



I did 3 miles today, awesome!!!!

I am thinking about doing my first marathon! Sunday, September 28th 10K

Friday, August 8, 2008

1 MORE POUND!!!!!

1 MORE POUND!!!!! 1 MORE POUND!!!!! 1 MORE POUND!!!!!

1 MORE POUND!!!!! 1 MORE POUND!!!!! 1 MORE POUND!!!!!

1 MORE POUND!!!!! 1 MORE POUND!!!!! 1 MORE POUND!!!!!

Until I hit 50 POUNDS LOST!!!!!!!!!!

May 2008 I was 275, Today I am 226, come on ~ let's drop this baby like it's hot!

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

4 Weeks Post-Op Comparsion Pics

Day Before Surgery Front View

4 Weeks Post-Op Front View



Day Before Surgery Side View



4 Weeks Post-Op Side View

4 Weeks!

I couldn't feel better! I'm running short on time so I will just have to add a pic for now but I will update later on today.

Monday, August 4, 2008

4 Pounds Away From.....

50 Pounds Lost!!!!!!!! Wow, I can't believe it! We traveled home last night and when I weighed myself this morning I am down to 229, yay!!!!! I am really going to do a happy dance when I hit 225, I plan to take the kids out and do something special with them to celebrate.

I am glad I am home so I can focus on exercise, exercise, exercise!!!!!!

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

Cut, Color and.....

I noticed today that I seem to have 1 less chin!!!! Yipppee!!! Had my hair done because my highlights were desperately outgrown, LOL! Love the color and love the slimmer highlights of my face, oh yeah!!!!


Sunday, July 27, 2008

Comparison Pics...

From This, May 24th, 2008





TO THIS!!! July 24th, 2008

Saturday, July 26, 2008

Back to Exercising and.....

Ahhhh, I feel GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Nothing hurts anymore, yippeee and I walked and did some light jogging this morning to the tune of 1 mile, alright!

It's the first time since surgery that I put a concentrated effort into exercising which I have been missing dearly. My Brother and SIL live 2 doors down from my parents and when I was on my cool down walk past their house apparently Holly (their Yorkshire Terrier) was going beserk.

My SIL called me and asked if she could walk with me tomorrow morning, alright!!! We have to get it in early because the heat is consuming here right now, in fact I got a light sunburn today just from my walk/jog.

Going to be a busy week! Today Mom and I looked at new furniture for my house once we PCS to Whiteman ~ it's a BEAUTIFUL dark leather sectional with recliners and a sofa pull out bed for $1799, not a bad price at all! Can't wait to get it!!!

Dad wants me help him have a yard sale this week to get rid of all his work tools at the old house but I think we are going to rent a U-Haul and bring the stuff up here to Collinsville b/c there is no limit on what day you can have a yard sale and such. I think there is some major $$$ in what he accumulated in the last 40 years!

Doing okay on the weight loss front. I lost 19 pounds in 13 days and now my body is playing catch up, I haven't lost any weight in the last few days due to the adjustment so I am putting extra effort into watching my sodium intake and also picked up some yummy organic SF snack items at Green Earth yesterday including a got-to-have Organic Vegan Hummas Dip that is extra spicy, oh yeah!

Going back to the Troy Homecoming tonight, we missed the parade last night but there is another one tonight at 6pm and I think we will try and catch the ferris wheel, missed it last night because it wasn't working, boo-hoo since it's the only thing I can safely ride.

Need to post some new pics of myself! Went out with some friends at Applebee's Thursday night (ordered the Weight Watchers French Onion Soup w/o cheese and only ate a few bites!) Felt good that people could see that I've lost weight, yeah, baby can't get better than that!

Might go the boat tonight with my SIL Lori and my Bill's cousin Shawnery who is a dear friend of mine (she introduced Bill and I ~ hard to believe that we will be married 10 YEARS next month, wow!!!!)

Well, he is calling me on the phone, gotta scoot!

Thursday, July 24, 2008

This Thing Called Food...

What I once loved and looked forward to is now becoming a dark force to me, it challenges me everyday and I am beginning to hate it ~ I *think* that is a good thing?

I do love my RNY but eating right now ~ I am on vacation here in St. Louis, is proving to be a challenge b/c I do not have the correct foods here (which is my fault) and I need to get out and get the foods that will aid in my proper nutrition.

I want to make a trip to Trader Joe's while I am here in St. Louis, it is the closest one to me here and in Nebraska. I've gotten a few leads on good food there and I becoming weary of being tempted by normal everyday food that my family is eating.

I did this to become a stronger woman and right now I don't feel that strong ~ I need to find my place back there, get the right foods and turn my brain off to temptation and on to salvation.

Monday, July 21, 2008

40 Pounds!

I'm having a WOW moment! As of today, I have lost 40 pounds since June 1st! 22 of those pounds I lost on my own and the other 18 lost since surgery 13 days ago.

Amazing, I've never lost so much weight before! It feels good, well, let me say that it feels DAMN good! I am starting to see the muscle in my legs and arms again and I am aching to get back into the gym but I need to heal for about another 2 weeks before that happens, hmmm, maybe I will be in the 220's?

Another big breakthrough (TMI ahead) is that I broke down and drank some prune juice to get "going" since it's been 5 miserable days since that happened. I'm amazed that it only took about an hour, yay!

Wanted to go swimming with some friends today but found out yesterday that I am not ready for the pool, at my Aunt's house last night I got in and to my surprise my incisions sites which are all but healed started itching like the dickens so no pool until the scabs are completely gone.

Loving vacation time with the folks, miss Hubby though. He flies in on August 1st and then we drive home to Nebraska, oh drudge.

Well, someone is at the door.....

Friday, July 18, 2008

Comparsion Slideshow

http://www.slide.com/r/sbnTl-xg7z_hNDQsM0xtXK6tDICFLy_t?previous_view=lt_embedded_url

35 Pounds!

Wow, amazing! I need to post a new pic of me, hope to get around to that in the morning!!!

Tuesday, July 15, 2008

Struggles....

It's been a week ago since my surgery and I have been feeling just okay ~ today has been the best day of them all since surgery however I noticed that I was developing a yeast infection and also thought I had thrush on my tongue.

Made an appointment today to be seen and what was discovered shocked my world! My Doctor found out I was severely dehydrated ~ so bad that a day or two more they would have begun shutting down. I knew things didn't look so hot when I turned my urine in and it was dark brown, yuck!

So immediately they started an IV (after 2 sticks, ouch) and gave me one bag after another for a total of 3 bags which equals almost 8 pounds of fluid. I was at the Hospital for about 3.5 hours which seemed to drag and I was already quite tired so that didn't help.

I think I have been so focused on getting the proper amount of protein in me (60 grams a day) that my fluid intake wasn't monitored as closely which is my fault and a costly lesson.

So, starting today I am measuring all my fluids and noting every bathroom trip to make sure that I am keeping myself properly hydrated, I don't want to the be in the hospital again!!!!

Also, my Doctor explained that it was my kidneys that have been causing the back pain all this time ~ the drain tube added to my misery as well but my poor kidneys were drying out and I've been miserable because of it...and I still am.

Tomorrow is a new day, I have to jump back on my horse and start all over again with a new found respect for my fluid intake. On a positive note my Nutritionist told me I may begin SugarFee yogurts, puddings, cream of wheat which seems like caviar, lobster and steak at this moment since I haven't had food in 9 days. Tolerated my Key Lime Yogurt just great and can't wait to start adding other foods!

Thank you GOD for taking care of me, thank you for loving me, thank you for another day!!!

Saturday, July 12, 2008

New Comparison Pics

Tell me what you think! Thanks!!!!


Final Pre-Surgery Pics












First Week Post Surgery Pics









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