Sunday, November 22, 2009

GOAL!!!!!!!



I can't believe it, finally I have accomplished my ultimate journey!!! I have now lost 100 pounds SINCE my surgery, I am now a 2nd time member of the century club with a total weight loss of 122 pounds, wow!

I hit the century club for the first time earlier this year on January 8th, it took until this morning for a terrible stomach virus to hit me to see my goal weight, there is always a silver lining right???????

Now that I am here I will maintain my constant vigilance and committment to a healthy life!!!!!

Sunday, November 1, 2009

Life Sucks Sometimes.....

1 freaking pound from my GOAL, 1 pound and i've never been sicker. Found out after a lengthy ER visit last night that I didn't have just a cold, it was a bacterial infection and my white blood cell out was really high.

How diappointing it was to find out all those stupid over the counter meds I was taking was to no avail, I knew there had to be a reason why I continued to get worse (after almost 2 weeks of already being sick).

So the regimine of drugs I have to take includes prednisone which always causes weight gain, just what I need when I am so close to my goal, grrrrrrr!!!

CRAP, come on....I want to be done!!!!!! In other news I found out this week I have to have surgery on my arm and I opted to have it done 30 December, not looking forward to it at ALL!!!!!!!!!!! This will make for the 3rd surgery this year alone, I am hoping that 2010 is a much better year and worry free!

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

TheDailyPlate.com

Every been there? If so, add me my username is: AirForceMom

I have been eating/tracking roughly 1200 calories a day, adds up fast let me tell ya but it's keeping me on track, I am back down to where I should be....now if I could just shed those final few pounds ~ how many months have I been saying this????

I am ready to see that magic number already!

Monday, September 21, 2009

Basics, Basics, Basics!!!!

I am sooo sick of getting *this* close to my goal only for my weight to fluxate again, ugggg!

So, starting today I am tracking EVERYTHING that goes into my mouth ~ going old school on this one (thedailyplate.com) and I WANT TO BE DONE so I can maintain my loss, I can handle the fluxations but I really, really, REALLY need to see 153 so I can declare my victory of my 2nd time hitting the century club.

Here I go.............

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Frustrated!!!!

So this is a clothing GRIPE!!!! From the outside people can say/think, wow it's must be GREAT to lose weight and buy new clothes, but in truth it can be an exhausting experience not to mention EXPENSIVE!!!!

Whenever I make a trip home to STL I try to hit up the local Goodwill store but the last few trips have been sooooo disappointing! They don't size their clothing which a HUGE inconvenience so you have to through countless racks looking for your size.

I tried on at least 15 pairs of jeans only to find 1 pair that fit perfectly and another that fits just "okay" but will fit better after another few pounds are gone. All of this for $9.00?!?

I would rather go to Kohl's and find my size and try it out, it's worth the $19.99 for a pair of jeans that fit and I don't spend an hour + looking for, ugggggh!!!!!

Nothing from last fall fits ~ I was in XL and currently I am hovering around a small/medium so once again I have to buy jeans/sweaters/shirts to get me through, I am thankful but it does hit the wallet hard. I also need to buy new pajamas b/c almost all the ones that I have do not fit, I have resorted to wearing hubby's t-shirts which are like drapes on me and my trusty flannel pj bottoms (I only have 2 of them), see what I mean?

Yeah, I am thrilled with my loss (119 pounds) but I do wish that when you have GBS you are given a years worth of clothes with it, LMAO!!!

Okay, done griping!!!!!!

Amy

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Just a few pounds from goal.....

I need to get around to posting new pics!!!! Things are going good, looking forward to fall, still need to find clothes though ~ last fall I was in 14's (XL or L) and now I am in 6's (S or M) so yet again I need a new wardrobe to get me through. I am set for next summer though, yipppeeeeee!!!!

I have the MRI for my arm on Wednesday and I am PRAYING that I do not have to have surgery again ~ but I will deal with whatever they say. I am still doing PT 3x a week and walking with the kids everyday, we all look forward to our mid-morning walks.

I feel really good right now, if only I could go back to exercising. :(

Saturday, August 22, 2009

22 Aug 2009 vs 22 Aug 2008

A year ago today I looked like this:



Today I look like this: (need to add pics, LOL!)

Friday, August 21, 2009

So......

It's been awhile since i've updated ~ life had thrown us a curveball. The kids and I were involved in a horrific car accident on 31 July ~ we were lucky to walk away from it but my oldest Daughter and I took the brunt of the accident.

I've been dealing with Physical Therapy 3x's a week and they think I may have a torn rotator cuff so I may be having surgery again (3rd time this year, uggggg!)

Weight has been crazy off the charts lately but i'm glad to say that I got my urges under control and I am back down to where I need to be ~ and also a new LOW!!!

I've found that gum and ice are my new best friends ~ I don't go anywhere w/o them, when I think I need to put food in my mouth (and I don't feel hungry) I turn to the gum and before I know it the urge is gone!!!

It's hard to fathom that I came from a size 24 and that my size 6's are fitting comfortably, maybe 4's are in my future?!? Wow, size 4???

Feeling great besides my accident injuries, looking forward to next year for sure ~ this year has been NO FUN!!!!

Saturday, July 25, 2009

Difference a Phone Call Makes....

Tonight my dear friend Tina (a military wife herself ~ Miss YOU!!!!) called to check in on me and it really helped me put things into perspective, sometimes when you think you have it bad...you really don't.

My weight has been fluxuating lately and we have some family drama going on (which I won't go into) AND summer slacking is here so i've noticed bad habits die hard. What a breath of fresh air to hear that Tina thinks I am an inpiration to her and others, WOW!!!!

That makes me want to work harder, exactly what I need to DO!!!!!! I normally have a happy-to-lucky cheery disposition but it's been missing lately.....let's fix that NOW!!!

Starting tomorrow my butt is back into the gym (yay) and no more staying inside the house to work around naps or housework ~ use it before you lose it!!!!!!!!

Yeaaaah!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Friday, July 24, 2009

Realignment

I need it in my mind, body and soul.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Dealing with Sadness....

There are so many things going on/around in my life right now and I feel a terrible blanket of sadness covering me.

Since I woke up this morning I can't shake this feeling of breaking down into tears over everything, I just want it to stop and feel normal.

I know how to make myself happy again but it will hurt the ones I love the most.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

A Year Ago Today.....

I woke up very nervous, worried that my life would end ~ but that part of my life DID end a a wonderful new one begun!!!!!!!!

Yes, I had Roux-En-Y Gastric Bypass surgery a year ago today, I did it to save my life. For the better part of 20 years I struggled with my weight, my highest (non-pregnant weight) was 275 but I ballooned up to 300 when I delivered Colin.

With that weight I also struggled with the verge of stroke complications which forced me to deliver our last baby (Edward) prematurely, it was the wake-up call I needed to change my life. I refused to be that obituary in the paper or the youngest patient in the nursing home.

I literally had no idea how much I was missing out on life, although I wore rose colored glasses most of the time I did not see myself as "that obese", really I was morbidly obese.....morbidly obese. I never imagined in my life that I would be that way, but who does?????

So a year later, I am at a NORMAL weight and a NORMAL BMI. All my co-morbidites are gone (stroke risk, diabetes etc). I've lost 115 pounds forever with those final pesky 5 pounds left to go, LOL!!!!

So is it easy now a year later???? Well, yes and no. I will forever have to watch what I eat ~ I have easily fallen into the trap of eating whatever I want and have had to pay the price ~ so many GBS patients do. I always have to remind myself that food is my fuel but along the way I have found delicious alternatives, i'm not missing out on anything.

Thanks to everyone that has supported me along the way, my family that has been my guinea pigs on new recipes (LMAO) and also my rock during some scary times this year (bowel obstruction surgery), I will never regret saving my life with this surgery, NEVER!

I will add some pics later today to share my journey!!!

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Relief but Reality....

Okay, so i'm back to where I was before vacation time....I always need that BIG dose of reality to kick my ass and keep it there but it waivers when i'm away from my regular routine.

You would think that after almost 11 months of the same routine that I would "get it" but I don't know why I do this to myself. I am riddled with guilt, I purposely torture and ridicle myself for not being more diligent ~ not a great feeling let me tell ya.

On a positive note I pulled out my Cooking Light cookbook which has a whole years worth of receipes in it; I highlighted recipes that were realitively easy to cook/prepare and that my family would enjoy.

We all need to tighten our belts, even though I don't make pasta/rice/bread dishes anymore I find that I am making the same old boring not exactly figure friendly dishes...no MORE! I bought 2 weeks worth of groceries to jumpstart us towards healthier living.

On the menu tonight was homemade beef and barley soup, homemade simple white bread and homemade fudgy mocha toffee brownies. It went well, everyone seemed happy and I am motivated to do more!

Amy

Monday, June 15, 2009

Seriously WTF!?!?!

Why is it everytime I go home I pig out? I don't know what it is about being there but I give myself an all access card to be baaaaaaaad and I have to pay the price when I get home and I am guilt ridden.

Today I called and made myself a mental health appointment to talk it over with a provider, I MUST STOP THIS...I will not become the STATISTIC and gain weight back!

I know what it takes to stay successful but something about being home triggers something inside me to gorge on CRAP and I have got to put a stop to it.

I feel really shitty right now, going back to liquids for as long as I can stand it so I can get back to where I was......FUCK......this is sooooo not necessary Amy what the HELL were you thinking ~ I wasn't!!!!!????!!!!!

God help me, I'm struggling here. Wahhhh!

Amy :(

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

A New Era....

I Almost Saw It!!!!

I weighed 160.0 this morning, 159 is sooo close. Fingers crossed it shows up today!!!

Amy

Monday, June 1, 2009

June 1st, 2009

Wow a year ago today I was 275!!! I was frenzied trying to get all the pre-op appointments done. How much life has changed since then, I love it.

I am down 115 pounds, still trying to lose those final 5 pounds but the gallbladder surgery and bowel obstruction has put a kink in those plans; as my energy level returns and summer kicks into full gear I suspect it won't be much longer until I hit that goal.

I am returning to basics, I plan from this point on to count all my calories/carbs...I have been doing a lot of emotional eating due to stress from all the events that have taken place. I need to get back to the eat to live mentality and STOP grazing!!!

Oh yeah, my Mom and I did some shopping when I was home in STL last month. I bought new shorts and to my amazement most of them were size SIX!!!!!! So in less than a year I have gone from a 24 to a 6, just mind blowing!

I'm not sure what size I will be in when I reach my final goal ~ it is such a relief to know that I am finally HEALTHY, I am doing my best to stay that way.

The countdown to my 1 year anniversary is ON: 37 days left to work on those final pesky pounds and then maintaining this loss FOREVER!!!!

Love everyone!

Amy

Monday, May 18, 2009

Emergency Surgery ~ Life Resumes.....

What an ordeal! Symptoms started Monday with some adbominal swelling, saw my Surgeon who did some blood tests and said that I was suffering from pancreatitis. Told me to go home and take it easy.

Thursday morning I woke up in excruiting pain, it was on the left side of my stomach, ran down to my pelvis and also ran down my back. After several hours of suffering I finally called the office back and told them that something was really wrong, they said that the Surgeon would call me back.

About 30 minutes later I started feeling like I was having a heart attack. Called the office back and said that I was afraid and was going to call 911. Called my Husband and he rushed home from work, we delegated the kids to our friends house and went to the hospital.

They took me straight back and did an EKG which was normal, did bloodwork (which still showed high amylayse levels but otherwise normal). They took me back for a CT scan which again didn't show anything.

The pain was sooooooooooo bad. Diladaid and morphine didn't touch it at all, I was out of my mind in pain. My Surgeon admitted me and said that he would do a barium swallow on me in the morning.

Here is the scary part: I did the swallow the next morning and immediately started throwing it up. No one told me anything, they did as much as they could do and sent me back to my room.

I was in my room for only 15 minutes when a Nurse came in gangbusters and said that I needed to be prepped for surgery ASAP. No one told me what they found and I was NOT happy!

Right before surgery my Surgeon came in and told me that he found an obstruction and he would try to take care of it via lap but he may have to open me wide up.

Did okay in recovery, surgery was about 1.5 hours long and I was amazed at what they told me when I got back to my room:

I had scar tissue (an adhesion) from my gallbladder surgery 3 weeks ago had formed itself around my bowel and sealed it shut tight ~ the reason why I was in such pain and couldn't drink or eat the day earlier. It also caused me to have severe reflux that masks that of a heart attack.

He removed the adhesion and checked me over to make sure everything was in working order ~ which it was and closed me up. Had a rough recovery b/c I had surgery 22 days earlier, YUCK!!!

I don't EVER want to go through that again. Dr. Wadley said that it was a fluke that it happened at all ~ I'm scared it might happen again,this was truly a frightening experience....there were times I really felt like I was going to die. :(

Really have to take it easy now, the babies are in St. Louis with my parents *cry* and I should be joining them in about a week and I can't wait!

Here is the obstruction:

Tuesday, May 5, 2009

A Year Ago Today....Approved!!!!

Wow, I can't believe how much my life has changed since that phone call! Bill had called me earlier in the day telling me that we had orders to Whiteman AFB, Missouri ~ I about flipped out!

Then only to get that phone call hours later saying that I was approved and that I needed to call Creighton and set up a date for surgery....seriously.....life changed as I knew it forever!

I blindly ate my way through May 2008, I knew that I was going to have this surgery but it wasn't until 1 June that I got my act together and lost 22 pounds before surgery ~ and now that total comes to 113 pounds!!!!

From a size 24 to a size 6/8 ~ unthinkable ~ even with that phone call I never imagined my life like this right here and right now. All of my co-morbidities are GONE, the first and foremost reason I did this!!!!!

Thank you RNY, you've given me more than I could have ever imagined and more!!!!!

Lots of love to everyone!

Amy

Thursday, April 30, 2009

7 Pounds From Goal!!!

Wow, just 7 pounds stands between me and the finish line, yippeeeee!!!! Feeling much better now that surgery is a week behind me, whew! Saw Dr. Hornbostel today who said that he expected the swelling and discomfort to last at least until June ~ wow?!?

The hematoma I acquired after surgery is the size of a softball which explains why my stomach was so swollen last week and this week too. I still appear to look pregnant (GASP) but at least the binder hides it some.

I hope to get the babies back soon, I miss them so!!! I am able to resume driving and lifting (within reason) and I'm ready for life to resume back to our craziness <3

Lots of love to everyone!

Amy

Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Almost Back To Pre-Op Weight....

165 today, amazed that the weight is coming off so fast....I was dreading that this would take weeks to accomplish.

Not able to eat, just not feeling hungry whatsoever ~ i've been downing water like crazy though, but I know that isn't enough. I feel so binded up, no b/m since last Wednesday, ugggh!

I'm amazed at how much energy it is taking to recover, when I had my c-section almost 2 years ago I was very motivated to recover ASAP to see my baby. The tonsillectomy later that year was very rough, probably the roughest recovery i've had, i've never slept so much in my life. The pain was TERRIBLE!

My RNY was typical, I was in pain ~ the most of it being from the drain tube which I swear was the devil but once it was removed I was on the road to recovery...and oh yeah....I had a UTI/Kidney infection to boot.

So, back to this recovery. I am thankful that my Mom was able to take the babies (Della and Edward) to St. Louis so I could recover ~ what a blessing this is because I truly would be unable to care for them due to my exhaustion.

I do wish she was here, I think she had my made all my recoveries go by faster, being here all alone is boring....and she also pushes me to do more things, be more active. etc.

So....my wish is that a week from now I am feeling more like my old self. All I have wanted out of this surgery was to be out of pain, well that pain is gone but this new one from recovery is here, blah!!!! I also want my energy back, I want to look forward to each day instead of dreading the pain and loneliness and just plain being miserable too.

I'm blabbing on......love everyone!

Amy

Saturday, April 25, 2009

Home Sweet Home!!!

Well, the worst is over!!! Checked in Wednesday night and Dr. Hornbostel did surgery at 10:30 Thursday morning ~ he found an area that had herniated which he repaired and also removed my gallbladder which he said was HOT.

I had terrible swelling due to hematoma which they orginally thought might be a
hernia but luckily (I guess) it's just ugly looking and I looked like I was a
few months pregnant (see pic below)



I also had problems urinating after surgery, they had to cath me 2x just to let
it out but my Surgeon didn't want to leave it in b/c he wanted me up and
walking....I finally was able to go on my own last night and what a RELIEF b/c
the at the last cath the nurse removed 1500cc's of urine, OUCH!!!!

I have to wear a binder on my stomach for the next 2 weeks, I have a followup on
Thursday and can't drive for a week and no lifting anything for 2 weeks ~ we
sent the babies to STL so I can rest up.

Feeling very tired but happy to be on the road to recovery!

Wednesday, April 22, 2009

-111 Pounds!!!!




9 more pounds until my final goal. I've hit my first post-op complication ~ my gallbladder is full of stones and sludge and it's been living hell trying to get the referral set up to have it taken out. Say a prayer for me, my appointment with the Surgeon is tomorrow afternoon. I think the process of having it removed will put me close my goal in no time, but feeling better takes priority.

XOX

Amy

Friday, April 17, 2009

Found out this morning that my gallbladder has to come out, I am not happy that I have to wait until the 28th for my consultation!!! Uggggh!
Test

Tuesday, April 14, 2009

10 Pounds to Go!!!!

Hit 165 today, woot! I am officially 10 pounds away from my final goal of 155 ~ once I reach my goal I am done with my loss...anything that comes after that is just icing on the cake! ;)

Amy

Monday, March 30, 2009

Swim Time....

Tonight I am taking the babies to the local community center and go swimming with some friends. Della gets the most out of swimming, she loves it however Edward has some room for growth in that department, LOL he is attached to my hip the whole time.

I bought a new swimsuit, my first new one in at least 4 years, which is a size 8 WOW! Although the Hubs says I look good in it (his exact words were, "You look DAMN GOOD", I feel very self conscience about it....I wish I "felt" that I looked as good as he says I do but again it's taking some time for my brain to catch up to my body.

Also something to work on.......I'm getting there. Oh yeah!!! My before/after pics are now profiled on Obesity Help, go here to see: http://www.obesityhelp.com/morbidobesity/members/before+and+after.php?Dir=Next&Time=1238397297&Count=1

I am sooo proud! :D

Amy

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Family Walk

What a NICE walk we had tonight, I think the last time we took a walk together as a family was back in Omaha before we moved.....what a breath of fresh air literally!

Starting up water aerobics again this week at the Burg's Community Center with a price that can't be beat, it was free while we were in Offutt but the times here are better so what's a girl to do?!?

XOX

Friday, March 27, 2009

Temptation......

Okay, Day 5 and then I'm done! Today is my MOPS meeting at church and wouldn't ya know it that they serve super sweet treats to us (i.e. donuts, cakes, brownies etc.) all the nasty little critters that I know I SHOULD NOT have.

I ate some oatmeal this morning and I am prepared mentally but I'm hoping not to lend temptation a little go-ahead card either.

I am STRONGER than anything that comes at ME!!!!!!!!!!

Thursday, March 26, 2009

SUCCESS!!!!!!!!

I am back baby!!!! This morning I weighed in at 168, a new low WOO-FREAKING-HOO!!!! So that is an 11 pound difference since Sunday (3/22), amazing!

I FINALLY GET IT! I was doing things *my way* and guess what......it doesn't work! Yes I can eat anything I want but I threw all moderation out the window while on vacation ~ this really opened my eyes to what I was doing to my body.

I was fooling myself thinking I could get the proper amount of nutrition and protein from food ~ I MUST HAVE protein supplements, the weight has never come off so fast before, and to think I could have been done with this journey A LOT SOONER if I could have realized this before, sheesh!

So.....13 more pounds to go! I can't wait to be done!!!!!

Amy

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

170 Again....

Okay so back to familiar territory ~ but the fear is still in me. Thanks everyone for your sweet comments, I guess I was being too hard on myself but knowing that failure could happen messed with me bigtime ~ I needed a little taste of that to get me back in line.

So, I am praying that I am 169 tomorrow and falling, maybe this is just what I needed to get to my goal weight?!?

Amy

Day 2 Going Well....

Okay, so when I came home Sunday night I weighed 179!!!!!!!!!!! Talk about a HUGE shock but I know that most of that weight was water retention from all the salt I had taken in over the prior week.

The weight is almost all gone, I have 2 pounds to go to get back to where I was (169) but I do NOT want to be here again EVER!!!!!

I love making these changes, I started tracking my intake at thedailyplate.com which I think is a HUGE help to get back to KNOWING exactly what I am putting into my body.....awareness is key!

I am glad that this happened, glad that I can make these changes and not feel defeated and just give up.....so different from a year ago when that would have been the only outcome.

Thank you GOD for giving me this tool and the trials that come along with it, I know I am becoming a stronger person because of it!

Amy

Monday, March 23, 2009

Stopping the Nonsense!!!!

I've found myself spiraling out of control with snacking lately. My metabolism is running so high these days so instead of fueling my body the RIGHT way I have been backsliding and putting TERRIBLE stuff into my body (chips, cookies, crackers).

Those terrible culprits are to blame for a SHOCK when I got onto the scale when I got home so I find in necessary to make immediate change and started an all protein liquid diet for 2 weeks to shock my system and myself back into healthier habits.

HOLY CRAP it's easy to fall off that horse, I've done sooooooo wonderfully well all this time but it didn't take much time to get out of control and lose the "eat to live" way of thinking, YIKES!!!!!

So, starting this morning I am only using my protein drinks as nourishment throughout the day.....I should be drinking them everyday so I don't have to rely on food as my only source of protein ~ this is the way that it should have been from the start, I was only kidding myself when I thought I could do it "my way"

WTF was I thinking?!? Seriously! I haven't been to the gym in FOREVER...it is becoming more challenging to get there these days so I need to give myself the "long talk" about what I excpect from myself, what I want for the rest of my life, why did I come on this journey only to sludge along. I know, I know....I've lost 100+ pounds and I am DAMN proud but to see myself deviating from the path that I know leads to success makes me feel like a failure.

So, back to liquids for me. I AM GOING TO MAKE THIS WORK!!! I do not need food to nourish my body right now, I need protein, protein protein and I plan on getting all that I need from the protein shakes. In this period of relection I am going to change the foods that I was using daily (beef jerky) as my main source of nourishment, wwwwaaaaaay too high in sodium and although it was a good source of protein I could have been eating healthier foods.

Okay, I guess I am done with my rant. I could really use some words of encouragement so if you are reading this give me a shout out with love or a good slap back into reality, LOL!

Love to everyone!

Amy

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

169!!!

I was in the 170's for the longest amount of time (December - March) so it was a JOYOUS moment when I saw this:



Goodbye 170's!!!!!!

New Weight Loss Goals:

14 More Pounds = Goal
16 More Pounds = Hitting Century Mark 2nd time (100 pounds lost after surgery)

I have been so down about my weight loss slowing down but all of a sudden it took off again, realistically it might be awhile before I lose weight again but I am loving this feeling.

I will lose another 14 pounds, it's just a matter of time

Saturday, March 7, 2009

170.9

Wow! I am getting so close now to my final goal of hitting my ideal weight of 155 which is now 15 pounds away, yippeeeee!!!!!!

Been extremely busy lately, I hope to be updating more soon! ;)

Amy

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Back On Track!

Thanks so MUCH to Carissa for talking me into the gym today. I think my cough is beginning to fade away (YAY!) so we hit the gym with a nice upbeat stroll which equaled 1 mile then we both biked and I stopped at 11 miles and walked another 1/2 mile around the gym.

Amazing that today I did 12 1/2 miles with more effort that I thought I would be able to give, hooray! I sooo wanted to run but I think it's too soon in the healing process, I was sure I would start coughing and wheezing, I still had a nice workout on the bike since I had it on level 7 on the random setting, whew!

Looking forward to going again on a steady basis, I need gym as it needs me.....

Amy

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Really Off.........

Blah!!!! I've been battling an upper respiratory infection now for over a week and now a sinus infection has taken hold and I feel downright miserable!

Does my endless coughing count towards exercise?!? My Doctor changed my inhaler last week and yesterday she gave me an antibiotic ~ she was concerned b/c it can cause loose bowels....I just laughed!!!! These day I WILL take it, LOL!

Looking forward to getting back to my old self, I need to get back into my routine and finish off the final 20 pounds I want to lose....seems so far away right now, I just want to be DONE and maintain my loss.

Fingers crossed for a better week with MUCH more energy and no more coughing!

Amy

Saturday, February 7, 2009

New Pics!

This dress I am wearing is size SMALL, can you believe it?!? I am fitting into some 8's and even bought a size medium dressy coat, WOW! Went to a comedy show on base with some friends tonight and we had a GREAT time!!!!




Sunday, February 1, 2009

Superbowl Fun!

Headed to a friend's house (Kristen) here in a bit to celebrate Superbowl, what fun! For the first time in TOO many years I will be able to celebrate and not over indulge on foods and gain a ton of weight and have a major pity party afterwards.

Feeling kinda off today, Hubby was complaining of flu like symptoms this morning and my body is telling me that it feels tired so no workouts today.

Made some homemade salsa and guacamole dip, not much on the protein front but I know that there will be meats there to eat and I've already hit 60g of protein for the day so whatever else I eat will just be bonus.

I am rooting for the AZ Cardinals, I can remember when they use to the St. Louis Cardinals....oops, I'm showing my age again!

Have a FUN and SAFE Superbowl everyone!!!!

Amy

Saturday, January 31, 2009

Spinning My Wheels......

In about an hour I will be heading towards my weekly spin class and I couldn't be more excited. I had to miss Wednesday's class (boo-hoo) so I am excited that I can partake in class this week.

I can't believe how defined my calf muscles look now, it's amazing! The spin class really tells me how hard I'm working, just when I think I can't handle any more I feel the adrenline rush to work harder, RAWRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!

Well, must get ready ~ have a GREAT day!

Amy

Monday, January 26, 2009

The Journey Continues.....

I am now determined more than ever to run the 5K here at Whiteman next month. I am working on getting the appropriate gear together, and will start running back here in our neighborhood to challenge myself more than what a treadmill can provide.

I'm on the lookout for good gear that won't cost too much but will aide in my run, it's so exciting to think I will be doing this. Talked to Mom again and it looks like she and Dad will take the kids for me so I can attend the run, then I will head towards St. Louis to be with them for a long weekend.

I want this soooooo bad, even if I can't run the whole thing I want to say that I did it good or bad!

Amy

Saturday, January 24, 2009

Seriously, Darkly Delish!!!!

Ran my 2 miles this morning at the base gym, that was a chore b/c I had to watch the kiddos and run at the same time, OMG! Only had to stop 1 time though and then it was off to the Commissary and such.

I bought some Zone Perfect Dark Chocolate Nutrition Bars and OMGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG they are soooooo good! I typically don't care for protein/nutrition bars b/c they either have the carboard factor or the protein tastes icky but let me tell you these ROCK!

I love that they have 12g of protein, how awesome is that?!? I am a dark chocolate HOUND, I could eat it everyday (and just might start), in my book they are HIGHLY recommended, really!

Even if you haven't had WLS but are trying to watch your intake, these are seriously the way to go, let me break it down for ya!

Zone Perfect Dark Chocolate Nutrition Bars http://www.thedailyplate.com/nutrition-calories/food/zone-perfect/zone-perfect-dark-chocolate-bar
Calories 190
Cal from fat 54
Total fat 6g
Potassium 180mg
Total Carbs 22g
Sugars 14g
Protein 12g

Enjoy and have a WONDERFUL day!

Amy

Friday, January 23, 2009

Drumroll Please.......................................................

Today I received a few packages from my Mom, she sent me some incentive capri's for next summer that were size eight and to my surprise they FIT!!!!!!!

Not only do they fit but I have wiggle room. Oh my GOSH, I never thought this was going to be possible!

I've been down and out lately about gaining weight but it's muscle mass weight, things are transitioning in my body ~ it has been messing with me to see the scale going in the wrong direction but as they say, "The proof is in the pudding!"

I will have Hubby take some pics (which are well overdue) and post later, I am sooo
excited about this milestone, thanks for coming on this journey with me!

Amy

Thursday, January 22, 2009

Feeling It!

Went to spin class last night, WOW that was an amazing class!!!! I love it when sweat drenches my shirt :)

Frankie was there last night and after class I ran 1/2 a mile which about killed me after spinning but it was fun.

I had planned on going to the gym tonight when Colin goes to basketball but we woke up to no cable or internet so I figured now was a good time as any, LOL!

Dropped off the kids at the daycare (they were so excited to be there) and started at a 4.2 place. 1st mile took 14:20 and 2nd mile was completed at 28:40, wow!!!! It's hard to think that it was taking me 34 minutes 2 weeks ago to run 2 miles and I have shaved off 6 minutes off that time, yay!

Today is a NICE day outside, the kids are currently laying down for a nap but I can't wait to get outside and enjoy the 60 degrees and sunshine, woot!!!!

I also found a protein bar that I LOVE! It's a dark chocolate bar with 15g of protein and was soooo yummy too. I found several great items last night at Walmart chock filled with protein so I hope to see the scale moving again although I am gaining muscle mass.

Have a wonderful day, I know I am!

Amy

Friday, January 16, 2009

Another 2 miles!

What a day it has been! I didn't get a good night's sleep and felt very tired this morning ~ wasn't sure if I was even going to make it to the gym or not.

After my cup of coffee this morning I "felt it". I love this feeling I get in the morning that I get that says MOVE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I become obsessed with making everything fall into place so I can make it to the gym.

So after a struggle to the get the kids fed and dressed (and a harrowing drive in the snow) we arrived! Kids happily went into daycare and I happily headed towards the dressing room.

I can't begin to tell you how DEFEATING it is to get there and find that all the machines are being used. :( I only have 90 minutes of childcare so I have to use it wisely. I signed up to use the treadmill and went to work on some weights when to my surprise a treadmill came open!!!!

I started out with a 3.9 pace and increased to 4.0 after 3 minutes and started to focus on my breathing and running. I was able complete my 2 mile run in 29.13 which is an improvement since last week it took me 33:50 to run 2 miles. So, I have decreased my running time by 4 minutes, yay!

My goals this month are to steadily work my running time down to 25:00 and increase my pace to 4.5mph. I felt sooo great after my run, I love this feeling...wish I could bottle it up without the work, LOL!

Amy

Thursday, January 15, 2009

15 Miles?!?

Can you believe that the average spinning class travels an average of 15 miles in an one hour class?!? That must be why I am soooooooo exhausted at the end, but it's a good thing!

Last night I was running late to class but was able to dig my heels in and catch up to everyone ~ Frankie and Sydney were there too!

Tonight I am looking forward to running again, I hope to increase my pace to 4.0 MPH and hopefully hit those 2 miles in under 30 minutes, woot!

One thing that has been bothering me is that I have put on some weight (3 pounds) but after some research and advice from good friends it appears that this gain is actually muscle mass gained. I think some of the best advice I got today from a friend was to start taping myself daily when the scale isn't moving, the tape will show the changes my body is making ~ what a GREAT idea!

On the protein front, I've already hit 60 grams of protein today, woot!!!! I am planning on having a protein shake before I hit the gym so my body will use it constructively.

Okay, well the babies are beckoning! Lots of love to everyone and just remember....if you are struggling with losing weight keep your spirits up and try *try* again, repetition and change lead towards success and I came across a motto today that I love:

Falling down is not failure....Failure is staying down.

Amy

Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Making Progress!

Did my run again today, what a GREAT feeling it is to say that. Dropped off the kiddos and to my relief Edward was a happy camper, yay!

My goal at this moment is to continue with 2 miles each day but to decrease my time it takes to run those 2 miles.

Today I increased my speed from 3.8 MPH to 3.9 MPH. Okay, that doesn't sound like much but let me you that I felt it the whole time! The last 10 minutes were the easiest but whew!

So, I decreased my run time from 33:10 to 30:59 today which shaved 3:11 off my previous time, wow! I double covered my blister which was a lifesaver, I was sooooo worried about it hurting.

So, you may be asking yourself: How does she feel? Well, I feel GREAT! I had so much more energy yesterday and today is the same but I also don't feel as hungry ~ not that I did before but I have caught myself snacking during the day when I shouldn't be....it's not totally off limits but can lead to problems in the longrun.

I'm glad that I am now able to identify these areas whereas before it was mindless, I often had my blinders on when it came to food....that's how I got up to 275 pounds in the blink of an eye.

So yeah, I've come a long way in a short amount of time. If 6 months ago you would have told me that I was going to be running 2 miles on a treadmill I would have laughed out loud in your face.........and I think to myself.....what will I be capable of 6 months from now?!?

Amy

Monday, January 12, 2009

2 Miles This Morning!!!!

I can't believe it, really I can't! Hit the gym this morning after I dropped off the kids at daycare although Edward wasn't happy to be there, poor baby!

It was CRAZY busy with NYR'ers (New Year Resolutioners) but I was able to find a treadmill and start. I started with a 1 minute brisk warm-up walk and then began my run.

I kept a consistent pace of 3.8 mph and after the "I'm gonna die" feeling wore off (which was around 7 minutes in) I began to feel very focused. Hit 1 mile in 16:05, 1.5 miles in 24:50 and 2 miles at 33:10 ~ all of this WITHOUT stopping!

I found my MP3 player and charged it today which really made a difference in my motivation and ability to wash out my thoughts and focus on my pace and rythym.

After I finished I went and cleaned myself off (I was covered in sweat). I had another 30 minutes left before I had to return to daycare ad just as I was approaching the machines one of the daycare workers came to get me b/c Edward was inconsolable, poor kid!

I feel so good right now except for the little blister I have on my right foot which I hope heals ASAP and I plan to go back to the gym tonight with Laura, I can't wait!!!!!!!

Amy

Sunday, January 11, 2009

The Miracle Mile!

This has been a week of firsts for sure! Today I ran (without stopping) for a WHOLE mile!!!!!! Took 17:50 and I feel GREAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I know that I could have gone longer but Colin was ready to move onto another area. My friend Laura has been giving me tips on running and I figured out a HUGE factor that helps me ~ no exercise before running, it tires me out!

Starting tomorrow, I am going to work on light stretching and then a 5 minute warm up walk and go gung-ho, what a GREAT feeling it is to run! I never thought in my lifetime this was possible, even a month ago it didn't seem possible yet here I am doing it.

I've noticed how people lately seem more willing to talk to me than before my surgery ~ this is kinda hard to talk about but it's true. I guess I was always constantly judging myself, thinking I wasn't worthy of conversation with anyone who was thinner than I was....always feeling like an outcast, seeing myself as the largest/fattest person in the room. I no longer compare myself to others but what a waste of time it was to do so!

For those of my readers (and thanks for always encouraging me!) if you are struggling like I was say no more and TAKE CONTROL. Even 1 minute of exercise is enough to change your life forever, take that first step of commitment, no matter how hard it seems and go with it, don't let excuses get in your way ~ I know before I always did and now it is NOT an option!

Okay, done for now. XOXOXO

Amy

Saturday, January 10, 2009

New To Me....

Went to the gym this morning and ran 1/2 of a mile and then walked 1.5 miles thereafter. Also did the weight machines but while I was working out a machine caught my eye ~ the rowing machine!!!!!!!!!

I saw a woman working it like a well oiled machine, I want to be like that!!!!!!!!!!!!! When she finally got off it (must have been around 10-15 minutes) i got on and found it easy to use to dialed it up to the highest level (level 10) and went to work.

I found that the rowing machine incorporated EVERY muscle in my body, I was able to complete 5 minutes on the machine (which felt like a lifetime) and boy oh boy am I feeling it but in the RIGHT WAY!

Today I can see new definintion in my arms, they are the slowly becoming ripped, WOW!!!!

I love trying new things, you never know where they make take you!

Amy

Thursday, January 8, 2009

I Can't Believe It!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I DID IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!



Today it has been exactly 6 months since my surgery!!!! It felt like that times I was never going to hit the 100 pound mark but I can proudly say that I have lost 101 POUNDS!!!!!!

I worked out this morning and came home to be blessed by a wonderful scale which sometimes I feel hates me, LOL! Thanks so much to everyone who has been my support, listen to me yack on and on about the surgery and what I've gone through to get here.

I have to lose another pound (173) to be a normal BMI but that is the highest end of normal and I plan to lose another 30 pounds after that, my goal is close and I know that I will not FAIL, it is not an option for me.

My new life is soooo wonderful, not like it wasn't before, but now it is filled with more love to give and more life to live. I love how I feel, love working out and will never return to my old habits, that part of me is gone forever!!!!

Love to everyone that reads this blog, you are MY inspiration to do right by myself!

Amy

Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Hell YES!!!!!!!!!!!

Okay, a MAJOR wow moment for me tonight. Went to my first cycle class tonight, I was a little intimiated when the instructor said that if it was a our first class we should only do the first 30 minutes due to the intensity.

I did the WHOLE 60 minutes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

It was challenging and fun, we did leans, jumps and runs and oh yeah I had sweat running all over my body tonight and now I feel like I could break a 2x4 over my knee while tap dancing, LOL!

This is what it is all about, the right here and right now.....looking forward to sweating and working hard ~ something I was NEVER able to accomplish before surgery.

Amy

Something NEW!

Tonight I start a cycling class! I've never cycled in a class before and if it's anything like water aerobics was I am in for a TREAT! Am I crazy or what????

I want to be challenged to my core, feel the burn that I desire each and every day. I feel a new person emerging from her shell. I called to check on the class this morning and was told that the class was for those that were moderely active, it felt so good to say that I WAS!!!!!

I have had so many WOW moments already this year. I am wearing size medium tops and size 10 jeans. SIZE 10!!!! When I was washing clothes this morning I was admiring the tags in my clothes and thinking of how little space they take up now to wash a load, superb!

I am still desperately trying to hit the 100 pound mark, holding steady at 99 pounds....my body is a tease but I know it's right around the corner!

Amy

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Living Up To My Expectations!!!

Hit the gym this morning with my friend Frankie, it was GREAT! Did 30 minutes on the treadmill with about 1/4 of that running, yay!

I feel re-energized again. We have plans to work outside today since it's sooo warm. We hope to put up the kids swingset and take down the remaining Christmas decor outside.

I love, love LOVE this feeling of energy I have ~ glad to have it again! My camera broke on all days, Christmas morning, right in the middle of taking pictures so I currently have no way to add pics but hope to post them soon.

Amy

Friday, January 2, 2009

It's Going to Happen SOON!

Arrrrrg! Well, I said previously I was going to hold my 100th post for 100 pounds lost but that seems to be taking longer than I thought.

I am currently hovering at 177.8 as of this morning, but my new years resolution I hope helps with this process.

My resolution is to up my protein count 100 FOLD! I finally found a protein powder I LOVE! I have been adding a scoop of Max Protein to my coffee in the mornings which is a heart helping of 22g of protein, yay!

Some mornings I am able to drink 2 cups worth which nets 44g but I am gradually trying to work myself towards 2 cups a day. I am now carrying the powder with me where ever I go, when I'm out I order a cofee and add it....I can't believe how good this stuff is. It is pricey but I'm willing to fork $$$ over for results.

I am into a size 10 now, amazing! I can't believe that my 6 month anniversary is coming up soooo fast. I want more than anything to be down 100 pounds but I'm not holding my breath, the more I seem to want something the harder it is to achieve these days, LOL!

Glad the holidays are over, I am focus on maxing out my cardio routine at the gym, since the move and the holidays I am all out of sync but NO MORE! I want to focus on losing the remaining 30 pounds I have to lose and enjoy 2009 with vigor and zest that I've never felt before.

Oh yeah....Made a new recipe this morning.

Baked Egg and Sausage Biscuit Cups

Preheat oven to 400 degees
Spray 6 ramekin cups with Pam

1 1/2 cups of Heartsmart Bisquik mix
1/2 cup of skim milk (I added a little more to help with mixing)

Knead dough until smooth, then press into ramekins (6)
Add meat (any kind will do, make sure it's cooked though)
Add 1 egg (I cracked and poured but you can scramble the egg too)
Sprinkle with salt and pepper
Sprinkle with parmesean cheese (any kind will do)

Bake at 400 degrees for 25-30 minutes or until done. Enjoy!

I got the idea from Eggface but wanted to add a bread component for the kids, who LOVED it! I am taking the leftovers and putting them in the fridge for breakfast tomorrow morning, I think they are going to be wonderful!

Well, I'm off!

Amy

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