Monday, December 17, 2012
Does Size Really Matter?
When you're fat no one really ever asks what size you are. When you start losing weight some folks get bolder and want to know things like what size you wearing. I'm thinking it doesn't really matter since rarely is anyone specific about which size...blouse, pants, shoes, underwear, or bra. So I think I'll go with my underwear size or maybe my shoe width. That should raise some eyebrows.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
Wide Widths
For as long as I can remember my feet, like my rear, have been a wide width. I often had to pass up cute shoes because they only came in medium widths. This past weekend, while Christmas shopping with Matt, I decided it was time to replace my poor worn out black Clark's clogs. Belk carries the Clark's brand and I have always found them to be very comfortable. Sadly, they didn't have my size. The next day, shopping again with Matt, at another Belk, I did come across a size 10, but only in a medium width. Thinking I would be disappointed, I tried them on anyway. My foot slipped right in like Cinderella and the glass slipper. While I am sure it was the Christmas music playing they had piped in the store, it sounded more like a chorus of angels singing "Ahhhh!" I was so happy. Better yet, they were on sale plus we had coupons for additional savings. I wore them to work on Monday, even ran some errands at lunch, then shopped after work, and when I arrived home I kept them on instead of swapping them for my oh so comfortable slippers. Not once during the day did my feet, knee or back hurt. Thank you shoe gods for blessing me!
Thursday, November 22, 2012
Black Friday
So it's Thanksgiving night and I am safely at home having conquered the "people of Walmart". It started with the traditional paper scan that has become a sacred ritual after the big Thanksgiving lunch. My Aunt Sandra and Aunt Becky are legendary shoppers on Black Friday. Each year, Sandra arrives with the papers, one for each of us and my cousins Jo and Heidi (they are not shoppers in store, they are shoppers in papers).
Jo's son, Kyle, made the mistake of trying to touch my Walmart paper, before I had even looked at it. Clearly the child had a death wish. Apparently he was unaware of the sacred paper and how it must not be touched or moved without permission. A hush fell over the room as I snarled, nostrils flared, and warned him it could not be touched until I had seen it first. I reminded him this was MY paper and if he wanted to look at something before me, he needed to scoot on over to his mother and check out her paper. Paper protocol established, we all began perusing our own individual papers and trying to decide who had been good enough to earn a valued 'Black Friday Deal'.
Walmart had deals on a TV for Matt, two games for Andrew, and some Rubbermaid storage containers I wanted. I knew Walmart was going to be risky, especially since they were starting the deals at 8 p.m., with the electronics going on sale at 10 p.m. I got to the store around 8:15 p.m. I had to drive around the entire store, not just the parking lot, the entire store, to find a parking spot. That took about 20 minutes. Once I finally parked, legally, I made my way inside. I entered on the food side only to find it full of customers. I thought to myself, is there a deal on milk or something? No, this was where the lines for the TVs and laptops started. Those things that aren't even on sale until 10 p.m. The line was literally wrapped all the way through each of the 10 food aisles. I decided then, Matt would not be getting the TV.
So, I headed for the games section. Sadly, the only games left were not the ones I wanted. If I had wanted a game from 1997 there was plenty of stock on those. Oddly enough, the Rubbermaid storage containers I wanted were stocked aplenty, so I got what I wanted, headed to the checkout and left Walmart having only spent $22. A rare occasion indeed.
As I headed to my car, I realized I was being stalked by several future customers. It's kind of eerie to be walking and having a car follow you at the same speed as you step. Just for fun, I decided to cut in and out of lanes to confuse folks. I thought about dropping off my packages and heading back into the store, just to see the disappointed driver who thought I would be leaving. But realizing that would really just be too mean, I threw my stuff in the back of the car and gave a knowing nod to the lucky stalker who had stopped when they realized I had reached my car and was leaving.
So now I have to decide if I want to stay up until midnight and head to Belk or if I should just order everything online and let UPS do the driving and parking. Sometimes, the fees for shipping are worth it.
Jo's son, Kyle, made the mistake of trying to touch my Walmart paper, before I had even looked at it. Clearly the child had a death wish. Apparently he was unaware of the sacred paper and how it must not be touched or moved without permission. A hush fell over the room as I snarled, nostrils flared, and warned him it could not be touched until I had seen it first. I reminded him this was MY paper and if he wanted to look at something before me, he needed to scoot on over to his mother and check out her paper. Paper protocol established, we all began perusing our own individual papers and trying to decide who had been good enough to earn a valued 'Black Friday Deal'.
Walmart had deals on a TV for Matt, two games for Andrew, and some Rubbermaid storage containers I wanted. I knew Walmart was going to be risky, especially since they were starting the deals at 8 p.m., with the electronics going on sale at 10 p.m. I got to the store around 8:15 p.m. I had to drive around the entire store, not just the parking lot, the entire store, to find a parking spot. That took about 20 minutes. Once I finally parked, legally, I made my way inside. I entered on the food side only to find it full of customers. I thought to myself, is there a deal on milk or something? No, this was where the lines for the TVs and laptops started. Those things that aren't even on sale until 10 p.m. The line was literally wrapped all the way through each of the 10 food aisles. I decided then, Matt would not be getting the TV.
So, I headed for the games section. Sadly, the only games left were not the ones I wanted. If I had wanted a game from 1997 there was plenty of stock on those. Oddly enough, the Rubbermaid storage containers I wanted were stocked aplenty, so I got what I wanted, headed to the checkout and left Walmart having only spent $22. A rare occasion indeed.
As I headed to my car, I realized I was being stalked by several future customers. It's kind of eerie to be walking and having a car follow you at the same speed as you step. Just for fun, I decided to cut in and out of lanes to confuse folks. I thought about dropping off my packages and heading back into the store, just to see the disappointed driver who thought I would be leaving. But realizing that would really just be too mean, I threw my stuff in the back of the car and gave a knowing nod to the lucky stalker who had stopped when they realized I had reached my car and was leaving.
So now I have to decide if I want to stay up until midnight and head to Belk or if I should just order everything online and let UPS do the driving and parking. Sometimes, the fees for shipping are worth it.
Sunday, October 21, 2012
Conquering the Rock
Back before my surgery I set 10 goals for myself once I had lost, or started losing weight. You can see the full list on my July 2011 post - Setting Goals. Anyway, I accomplished #1 when I visited my brother in London earlier this year. On Friday I took care of #6 - Walking up Stone Mountain.
I took the day off from work, slept in, then got dressed in the sports bra and sweats. I packed grapes, a banana and my trusty diet sweet tea from Publix and headed to the mountain. I got there just after noon, mustered my courage, fired up iTunes and started my climb.
The beginning is not too bad, but about a quarter of the way up you have to start making higher steps. My knee is still problematic, so where there was a way to skip a rock, even if a bit out of the way, I took it. So one mile journey to the top, was going to be more like one and a half miles for me to walk around what I couldn't step up. I rested when I needed too, took pictures when it suited me, and reflected often on how majestic the views were.
I couldn't help singing along to "The Climb", which although it's Miley Cyrus, it's a beautifully written song with wonderful lyrics. Here's a sample:
I took the day off from work, slept in, then got dressed in the sports bra and sweats. I packed grapes, a banana and my trusty diet sweet tea from Publix and headed to the mountain. I got there just after noon, mustered my courage, fired up iTunes and started my climb.
The beginning is not too bad, but about a quarter of the way up you have to start making higher steps. My knee is still problematic, so where there was a way to skip a rock, even if a bit out of the way, I took it. So one mile journey to the top, was going to be more like one and a half miles for me to walk around what I couldn't step up. I rested when I needed too, took pictures when it suited me, and reflected often on how majestic the views were.
I couldn't help singing along to "The Climb", which although it's Miley Cyrus, it's a beautifully written song with wonderful lyrics. Here's a sample:
Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb
There were times I thought I'd have to stop, especially when I realized that however far I went I would have to go back down just as much. It was clear that God was with me on this journey, from the random selections on my music to the breathtaking scenery and the people he placed in my path at just the right time. A friendly smile, a knowing nod, a wink of "you can do it", and others struggling like me all gave me the courage to power on.
Just after two I reach the top and as I turned around to be awed by the view, God gave me another great gift. As I looked out and spotted downtown Atlanta, "How Great Thou Art" began playing.
O Lord my God, When I in awesome wonder,
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made;
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
When through the woods, and forest glades I wander,
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees.
When I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur
And see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
Consider all the worlds Thy Hands have made;
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power throughout the universe displayed.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
When through the woods, and forest glades I wander,
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees.
When I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur
And see the brook, and feel the gentle breeze.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art.
Then sings my soul, My Saviour God, to Thee,
How great Thou art, How great Thou art!
It couldn't have been more perfect or fitting. God knows just what we need, when we need it. I don't know why I don't trust that more. He shows me everyday how awesome he is, I just need to be more aware.
So I spent about 30 minutes atop the rock, basking in my accomplishment and then headed down. About halfway down, the real pain started setting in. I knew I would be paying for it tomorrow. Still I managed to make it down in about 30 minutes, and while I might have stopped to ponder the best route, I never sat down to rest like I did going up. Probably because I knew I would never be able to get back up if I stopped. I have to wonder how many of the younger and more agile folks were secretly laughing at my timid steps and tree hugging as I cautiously carved my path.
I got into my car, smiling like the cat who swallowed the canary, ate my banana and headed home. I was so happy to have done it. I thought about doing it each year as a "renewal" of my commitment to better health and weight loss. Then I woke up Saturday morning, unable to move my legs, and decided that might have well have been my last climb!
Friday, October 19, 2012
Stalled but not Stopped
Nearly at the one year post-op mark...officially it will be October 27th and as predicted, the weight loss has significantly declined. I've lost 126 pounds so far, which is great, but I still have another 100 to go. I feel like I have stalled but I haven't given up! The boys continue to give me great support. A few weeks ago both of them said I was "rockin'" some denim capris I had gotten. Then this past weekend when Matt was home and we had an impromptu family gathering when my younger brother came to town, he gave me a great compliment. As we were driving he said, "Wow! I just realized how much weight you've lost by the amount of room between you and the steering wheel." Yes, it's true, I no longer have the steering wheel fighting with my belly for control of a turn. Those little things make a big difference in my confidence and excitement.
I've also taken other steps for life improvement. The Center for Surgical Weight Management offered a seminar titled "Building a Better Life From Your Complaints". That clearly was a seminar designed with me in mind! There were 8 participants along with the leader and that allowed for some fabulous conversation. We talked about how our choice of words, phrases, tone and inflections are a result of our thoughts, feelings, beliefs and emotions. It ended with us creating positive affirmations. Which totally took me back to the Saturday Night Live skit where Stuart (I think he name was Stuart Smalley) would say, "I'm a good person and dog gone it, people like me!" We had to create daily affirmations using only positive words. So for instance you couldn't say "I am not going to be mean" since both not and mean are negative words. You'd have to say "I am going to be nice". I wasn't ready for that level of commitment yet, so I started a bit more realistically. The leader says she has hers taped to her bedroom ceiling so she sees it when she wakes up, on her bathroom mirror and refrigerator. Yes, I too had to restrain from sarcasm when thinking where I "post" my daily affirmations throughout my house. Anyway, below are the four I wrote. I'll write more when I know these are really embedded in my brain.
"I am an awesome mom!" - This one is going over Andrew's bed too, ha ha!
"I am a hard worker doing quality work" - This one I need to post in the boss's office.
"I am important" - Necessary to remind me to take care of myself too.
"I am blessed" - This is my daily reminder of how much God has already done for me and how much more He has in store!
I'm off tomorrow and plan to do something special, just for me. I'll let you now how it goes, weather pending.
I've also taken other steps for life improvement. The Center for Surgical Weight Management offered a seminar titled "Building a Better Life From Your Complaints". That clearly was a seminar designed with me in mind! There were 8 participants along with the leader and that allowed for some fabulous conversation. We talked about how our choice of words, phrases, tone and inflections are a result of our thoughts, feelings, beliefs and emotions. It ended with us creating positive affirmations. Which totally took me back to the Saturday Night Live skit where Stuart (I think he name was Stuart Smalley) would say, "I'm a good person and dog gone it, people like me!" We had to create daily affirmations using only positive words. So for instance you couldn't say "I am not going to be mean" since both not and mean are negative words. You'd have to say "I am going to be nice". I wasn't ready for that level of commitment yet, so I started a bit more realistically. The leader says she has hers taped to her bedroom ceiling so she sees it when she wakes up, on her bathroom mirror and refrigerator. Yes, I too had to restrain from sarcasm when thinking where I "post" my daily affirmations throughout my house. Anyway, below are the four I wrote. I'll write more when I know these are really embedded in my brain.
"I am an awesome mom!" - This one is going over Andrew's bed too, ha ha!
"I am a hard worker doing quality work" - This one I need to post in the boss's office.
"I am important" - Necessary to remind me to take care of myself too.
"I am blessed" - This is my daily reminder of how much God has already done for me and how much more He has in store!
I'm off tomorrow and plan to do something special, just for me. I'll let you now how it goes, weather pending.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Wow - More Than A Month
Just realized it's been over a month since I have blogged. Sorry if anyone was expecting more!
I've been busy, work is driving me nuts, so busy and no real support from "management". Beyond work I have been working out with Starla and Edward - well, when one of the three of us doesn't have to cancel for whatever reason.
I've also returned to church. I forgot how much I love being there. I find myself not wanting to leave after the service, or even wanting the service to end. This week we start small group so I will get to go twice this week - pretty excited about that. The people at The Journey Church are really fantastic. It was like we never left. In fact one of the greatest people I know, Belinda, didn't say "welcome back", she said, "Welcome Home!". I can't express how grateful I was to see her and everyone else there.
I needed to get back to church to remember to be thankful to God for all he has done for me. In addition to all my blessings, children, family, friends, a job, a house, a car, etc. I really needed to praise him for my weight loss. Up to 123 pounds now at 10.5 months post-op. God is so good - in fact you can't spell Good without God. Good is really just an elongated praise of God.
Just to further give praise...I cleaned out my closet and bagged up all the clothes that are to big now. I had 4 bags plus a box full of shoes. I now have the clothes arranged from sizes 26 down to 14 so as I continue to lose I can easily move on to the next size. Thank goodness for my Aunt Sandra, who gave me the majority of the clothes I am wearing - well on the top at least. Too bad my ass (sorry but rear, bottom, or butt just doesn't work here) isn't shrinking at the same rate as my boobs or I might be able to wear her pants too. One day at a time!
I've been busy, work is driving me nuts, so busy and no real support from "management". Beyond work I have been working out with Starla and Edward - well, when one of the three of us doesn't have to cancel for whatever reason.
I've also returned to church. I forgot how much I love being there. I find myself not wanting to leave after the service, or even wanting the service to end. This week we start small group so I will get to go twice this week - pretty excited about that. The people at The Journey Church are really fantastic. It was like we never left. In fact one of the greatest people I know, Belinda, didn't say "welcome back", she said, "Welcome Home!". I can't express how grateful I was to see her and everyone else there.
I needed to get back to church to remember to be thankful to God for all he has done for me. In addition to all my blessings, children, family, friends, a job, a house, a car, etc. I really needed to praise him for my weight loss. Up to 123 pounds now at 10.5 months post-op. God is so good - in fact you can't spell Good without God. Good is really just an elongated praise of God.
Just to further give praise...I cleaned out my closet and bagged up all the clothes that are to big now. I had 4 bags plus a box full of shoes. I now have the clothes arranged from sizes 26 down to 14 so as I continue to lose I can easily move on to the next size. Thank goodness for my Aunt Sandra, who gave me the majority of the clothes I am wearing - well on the top at least. Too bad my ass (sorry but rear, bottom, or butt just doesn't work here) isn't shrinking at the same rate as my boobs or I might be able to wear her pants too. One day at a time!
Friday, July 6, 2012
Independence Day
America celebrates its independence this month so I thought I might reflect on my own. While I understand the true independence celebration is about freedom from persecution of gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, and the right to a democratic society, there are other forms of independence I appreciate.
- I have learned to appreciate independence from the comfort of food. Don't get me wrong, I still love food, but I no longer seek it out when I need comforting.
- I have learned to appreciate the independence of doing things for myself. I find I get up to refill my drink, get the mail, grab the remote, walk the dog, etc. instead of demanding one of the boys do it for me.
- I have learned to appreciate the independence of going grocery shopping or eating out and not having people stare at me and my thoughts jump to "oh great, the fat girl is here, soon all the food will be gone". People may still stare, but I don't immediately think it's because they think I am fat.
- I have learned to appreciate the independence of just getting in the car and going wherever, no longer worrying that I won't fit somewhere, like through a turn style, in a chair, in a booth, etc.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Personal trainers
Personal training is really a misnomer since nothing about it is personal as it's all done in public view. In my experience I really believe it should be called something more like public humiliation or public torture.
Just when you think it's about to end the trainer tells you "you've got one more suicide set". The name suicide said is also a misnomer because when you're done you really feel more like committing homicide.
So I have to believe the reason it's done in public is so that there are witnesses to your desire to kill your trainer. This keeps your trainer safe and you out of jail.
This is all I can post for now. Even my fingers are tired. Good thing I guess, this way I can't give anyone the finger, or the whole flock.
Just when you think it's about to end the trainer tells you "you've got one more suicide set". The name suicide said is also a misnomer because when you're done you really feel more like committing homicide.
So I have to believe the reason it's done in public is so that there are witnesses to your desire to kill your trainer. This keeps your trainer safe and you out of jail.
This is all I can post for now. Even my fingers are tired. Good thing I guess, this way I can't give anyone the finger, or the whole flock.
Monday, June 4, 2012
Mini Vacation
For the Memorial Day weekend I took off to Panama City Beach. Matt couldn't go because of work and Andrew didn't want to go...probably his fear of being disconnected from the Internet and his status on Call of Duty. Remembering him as a traveling partner to London I was totally fine with him not going. So Matt house/dog/Andrew sat for me and I took off. My sisters, brother-in-law and niece and nephew met me down there. Also my cousin, Brian, and his brood and both my mom's sisters and their husbands (my aunts and uncles) went too.
I had a complete blast hanging with all of them. As I mentioned to them if any one of them got on my nerves I could just leave them and go hang with another one of them. I really enjoyed spending time with Brian and Heide's kids - Tristan (16), Savanna (14), Hailey (12) and Ryan (9). I kidnapped them on Memorial Day and we went to breakfast then rented a golf-cart that nearly died before we could return it. Then we went bowling before heading back to rejoin the bigger group. What a great bunch of kids. So well behaved, the nicest manners, and they even mailed me a thank you card which I loved! I told my Aunt Becky I might not ever vacation with my boys again and just take her grandkids.
One note for anyone in Panama City - eat at Uncle Ernie's and order the crab cakes. Probably the best crab cakes I have ever eaten. I have no idea of caloric content and they probably aren't healthy since they are fried, but whatever, live a little! Do a Bo Derek run down the beach to work them off if needed, they are just that good!
I had a complete blast hanging with all of them. As I mentioned to them if any one of them got on my nerves I could just leave them and go hang with another one of them. I really enjoyed spending time with Brian and Heide's kids - Tristan (16), Savanna (14), Hailey (12) and Ryan (9). I kidnapped them on Memorial Day and we went to breakfast then rented a golf-cart that nearly died before we could return it. Then we went bowling before heading back to rejoin the bigger group. What a great bunch of kids. So well behaved, the nicest manners, and they even mailed me a thank you card which I loved! I told my Aunt Becky I might not ever vacation with my boys again and just take her grandkids.
One note for anyone in Panama City - eat at Uncle Ernie's and order the crab cakes. Probably the best crab cakes I have ever eaten. I have no idea of caloric content and they probably aren't healthy since they are fried, but whatever, live a little! Do a Bo Derek run down the beach to work them off if needed, they are just that good!
Monday, May 7, 2012
The Numbers Are In!
I had my 6-month post op visit today and wanted to share the exciting and not so exiciting news.
First the good:
Weight Loss = 91.2 pounds
Waist = Lost 3.3 inches
Hips = Lost 6.7 inches
BMI reduced by 12
Blood pressure down from 150/95 to 126/77
Now the bad (but manageable):
Vitamin D is low, so I have another prescription to take to get that up.
Iron is dangerously low. Should be around 20, mine was 8 so I am now considered anemic (as was my mom). I actually found this to be positive as it should help with my long desired and much wished for hysterectomy! Anyway, I have another prescription for iron to help that and will follow up with GYN to see about removing those unused (and unnecessary) parts.
So overall, a good checkup. Thanks to everyone for your support. I was cautioned heavily that the weight loss greatly slows at this point and not to lose focus or determination, so keep encouraging me please!
Hope you see less of me soon!
Friday, May 4, 2012
Sorry, but I have a life now!
Sorry I haven't blogged in a few weeks, but the truth is, I have a life now! I mean I actually enjoy going out and doing things because it's not as difficult as it used to be.
I've been to two Braves games already, and of course they won both of them for me. The best part, I fit in the seat so I could comfortably watch the whole game. Well comfortable except for the raging sunburn I got. But again, who cares, I fit in the seats!
I'm also no longer opposed to sitting in booths when we go out to eat. I used to always ask for a table because the booths were often too tight a fit, but now, I can slide right in.
I did have some lab work done as last Friday, April 27th, was the 6 month mark. Vitamin D was low but otherwise everything else was good to go. I've lost 78 pounds and I see the doctor on Monday so I'll let you know how that goes.
So, while I'm not blogging, don't be concerned, I'm just enjoying life again!
I've been to two Braves games already, and of course they won both of them for me. The best part, I fit in the seat so I could comfortably watch the whole game. Well comfortable except for the raging sunburn I got. But again, who cares, I fit in the seats!
I'm also no longer opposed to sitting in booths when we go out to eat. I used to always ask for a table because the booths were often too tight a fit, but now, I can slide right in.
I did have some lab work done as last Friday, April 27th, was the 6 month mark. Vitamin D was low but otherwise everything else was good to go. I've lost 78 pounds and I see the doctor on Monday so I'll let you know how that goes.
So, while I'm not blogging, don't be concerned, I'm just enjoying life again!
Sunday, April 15, 2012
London
So Andrew and I arrived in London on Thursday, March 29th. My brother picked us up at Gatwick, we landed about 7:30 a.m. London time. He took us to his house so we could nap until Caitriona came to collect us to pick up Harry from school. That was just after 3:00 p.m. Harry is completely adorable, completely British, and completely funny.
Once we got home, we played with Harry on his Wii and then I promptly fell asleep again while Andrew and Harry continued. Apparently the cat, Madam, and I were competing for loudest snorer. I think I won that round. Clearly I needed rest, which I got.
Friday, Harry had to go to school one last day before his Easter Break started. It was also sports day so we brought him a Braves jersey to wear, he looked fantastic. While he was at school, Caitriona and I went grocery shopping then back home to get Andrew then we went into downtime Guildford to shop. Andrew got two t-shirts and a new zip-up hoodie. I got nothing. That night we went to dinner at The Beijing, Harry's favorite restaurant. I had to go all the way to England to have some of the best Chinese food ever. If you are ever in Guildford, go to The Beijing and order the Crispy Duck - delicious!
Saturday, Chris and Andrew went to a football game, Fulham vs. Norwich, while Caitriona, Harry and I went to Bekonscot Model Village. A windy day for us and I was ready to get back indoors.
Sunday, Chris had to work so the rest of us when to Legoland UK. Upon entering Legoland I knew two things, Andrew was going to hate it and my legs were going to suffer. Imagine the most amazing place for children, built in a valley and you start at the top of the mountain. You must descend down to the rides and attractions, which is fine, but at the end of the day, when you are all tuckered out, you must then climb back to the top to reach your car. There are no elevators, no scooters, no muscled men with stretchers to carry you back up, you must walk. Shorter routes included stairs, but seriously, I thought I might actually die and have to be buried in a coffin made of legos. Other than the walking and climbing, it was a lot of fun for Harry. None of the rides were fast and certainly none appropriate for a teenage daredevil, but Andrew tolerated it for Harry. I'm not even sure what happened after we got home from Legoland, I somehow made it to the bed.
Monday morning, Andrew and I hit the train into London with Chris. We got off at Waterloo and took a ride on the Thames River Cruise. This was probably one of my favorite things we did, great history told on these cruises. Then we took a spin on the London Eye. It was fine, a nice sunny day, but not anything I would ever be compelled to HAVE to do again. We walked around a bit and then Andrew wanted to go back home. So we took the train back and Caitriona came to pick us up. Chris was off to Ireland on business. Caitriona made tacos that night, so I was happy as that is one of my favorite meals!
Tuesday, we went to Hampton Court Palace, one of the homes of King Henry VIII. We had to park at the train station, walk across the bridge, and then into the Palace. Then we had to walk around the palace. I was sensing a general theme in London, walking. I also felt like there was national plot against my knee. I told Andrew to keep reminding me how much weight I was going to lose with all this walking. Several hours later, after touring the great kitchens (Harry's favorite), the staterooms, part of the garden and the maze, we returned to the car...which meant, out of the castle, across the bridge to the train station. I kept checking my shoes because surely I must have put holes in the soles, but no, they were holding up fine, it was just my feet, legs and knee that were dying. Caitriona re-fortified me with Shepherd's Pie that night. It was really delicious.
Wednesday, Andrew slept in and the rest of us headed into a town called Haselmere for some furniture shopping and just general, yeah you guessed it, walking. I don't even know why my brother has a car, because all we did was drive somewhere to park so we could walk to whatever we were going to do. Fortunately I made it and we didn't end up walking too much. That night we had The Beijing again, only this time "take away" as the Brits call it.
Thursday, our final full day, and we were off to Windsor Castle. Now, at this point, my feet were saying things like "look bitch, if you make us walk much more we are going to collapse on you", but I ignored them. Chris did kindly drop us at the top of the hill where you enter the castle and then went to park at the bottom of the hill. This was all out of courtesy for me, but I feel certain Caitriona, Harry and Andrew were happy for the drop as well. We toured the castle, which is really quite amazing, saw the 60 photos for 60 years, celebrating the Queen's Diamond Anniversary of service, and visited St. George's Chapel. Andrew saw where King Henry VIII's was buried and Caitriona and I went in every shop within the castle. Fortunately we did manage to hang on to all of our money, except the 3 pounds we spent to get Andrew about two spoonfuls of the Queens "Luxury Ice Cream". Granted it was silky, but too expensive. We walked partially down the hill and into the Starbucks where we got some hot chocolate and waited for Chris to retrieve the car. I was officially done with touring England. We had dinner at a nice little pub, The Olive Tree, just down the street from there house. Caitriona took mercy on me and drove me down there.
We left the house Friday morning at 6:00 a.m. to get to the airport for our 9:00 a.m. flight home. Again our good friend Anne-Marie picked us up at the curb. The flight was smooth and fast, getting us in almost an hour earlier than expected. The food choices did not disappoint us this time, the movies were better, and no noisy teenagers. We did have a few screaming babies, and one seriously chatty woman behind us, but again who cares, I fit in the seat.
The best thing(s) about my visit, spending time with Caitriona and Harry, and benefiting from Caitriona's wonderful kitchen skills!
The worst thing about my visit, I arrived 72 pounds lighter and when I got home, I was still 72 pounds lighter. Apparently the weight you lose walking all over England stays in England!
Once we got home, we played with Harry on his Wii and then I promptly fell asleep again while Andrew and Harry continued. Apparently the cat, Madam, and I were competing for loudest snorer. I think I won that round. Clearly I needed rest, which I got.
Friday, Harry had to go to school one last day before his Easter Break started. It was also sports day so we brought him a Braves jersey to wear, he looked fantastic. While he was at school, Caitriona and I went grocery shopping then back home to get Andrew then we went into downtime Guildford to shop. Andrew got two t-shirts and a new zip-up hoodie. I got nothing. That night we went to dinner at The Beijing, Harry's favorite restaurant. I had to go all the way to England to have some of the best Chinese food ever. If you are ever in Guildford, go to The Beijing and order the Crispy Duck - delicious!
Saturday, Chris and Andrew went to a football game, Fulham vs. Norwich, while Caitriona, Harry and I went to Bekonscot Model Village. A windy day for us and I was ready to get back indoors.
Sunday, Chris had to work so the rest of us when to Legoland UK. Upon entering Legoland I knew two things, Andrew was going to hate it and my legs were going to suffer. Imagine the most amazing place for children, built in a valley and you start at the top of the mountain. You must descend down to the rides and attractions, which is fine, but at the end of the day, when you are all tuckered out, you must then climb back to the top to reach your car. There are no elevators, no scooters, no muscled men with stretchers to carry you back up, you must walk. Shorter routes included stairs, but seriously, I thought I might actually die and have to be buried in a coffin made of legos. Other than the walking and climbing, it was a lot of fun for Harry. None of the rides were fast and certainly none appropriate for a teenage daredevil, but Andrew tolerated it for Harry. I'm not even sure what happened after we got home from Legoland, I somehow made it to the bed.
Monday morning, Andrew and I hit the train into London with Chris. We got off at Waterloo and took a ride on the Thames River Cruise. This was probably one of my favorite things we did, great history told on these cruises. Then we took a spin on the London Eye. It was fine, a nice sunny day, but not anything I would ever be compelled to HAVE to do again. We walked around a bit and then Andrew wanted to go back home. So we took the train back and Caitriona came to pick us up. Chris was off to Ireland on business. Caitriona made tacos that night, so I was happy as that is one of my favorite meals!
Tuesday, we went to Hampton Court Palace, one of the homes of King Henry VIII. We had to park at the train station, walk across the bridge, and then into the Palace. Then we had to walk around the palace. I was sensing a general theme in London, walking. I also felt like there was national plot against my knee. I told Andrew to keep reminding me how much weight I was going to lose with all this walking. Several hours later, after touring the great kitchens (Harry's favorite), the staterooms, part of the garden and the maze, we returned to the car...which meant, out of the castle, across the bridge to the train station. I kept checking my shoes because surely I must have put holes in the soles, but no, they were holding up fine, it was just my feet, legs and knee that were dying. Caitriona re-fortified me with Shepherd's Pie that night. It was really delicious.
Wednesday, Andrew slept in and the rest of us headed into a town called Haselmere for some furniture shopping and just general, yeah you guessed it, walking. I don't even know why my brother has a car, because all we did was drive somewhere to park so we could walk to whatever we were going to do. Fortunately I made it and we didn't end up walking too much. That night we had The Beijing again, only this time "take away" as the Brits call it.
Thursday, our final full day, and we were off to Windsor Castle. Now, at this point, my feet were saying things like "look bitch, if you make us walk much more we are going to collapse on you", but I ignored them. Chris did kindly drop us at the top of the hill where you enter the castle and then went to park at the bottom of the hill. This was all out of courtesy for me, but I feel certain Caitriona, Harry and Andrew were happy for the drop as well. We toured the castle, which is really quite amazing, saw the 60 photos for 60 years, celebrating the Queen's Diamond Anniversary of service, and visited St. George's Chapel. Andrew saw where King Henry VIII's was buried and Caitriona and I went in every shop within the castle. Fortunately we did manage to hang on to all of our money, except the 3 pounds we spent to get Andrew about two spoonfuls of the Queens "Luxury Ice Cream". Granted it was silky, but too expensive. We walked partially down the hill and into the Starbucks where we got some hot chocolate and waited for Chris to retrieve the car. I was officially done with touring England. We had dinner at a nice little pub, The Olive Tree, just down the street from there house. Caitriona took mercy on me and drove me down there.
We left the house Friday morning at 6:00 a.m. to get to the airport for our 9:00 a.m. flight home. Again our good friend Anne-Marie picked us up at the curb. The flight was smooth and fast, getting us in almost an hour earlier than expected. The food choices did not disappoint us this time, the movies were better, and no noisy teenagers. We did have a few screaming babies, and one seriously chatty woman behind us, but again who cares, I fit in the seat.
The best thing(s) about my visit, spending time with Caitriona and Harry, and benefiting from Caitriona's wonderful kitchen skills!
The worst thing about my visit, I arrived 72 pounds lighter and when I got home, I was still 72 pounds lighter. Apparently the weight you lose walking all over England stays in England!
I fit!
My apologies for delays in updating my blog. I've been busy having a life! On March 28th Andrew and I flew to London to visit my brother, sister-in-law and nephew. I had fallen the night before and really twisted and banged my already bad knee. So you can imagine my delight knowing I had to navigate two large airports and a packed flight for 8 and a half hours.
Obviously I managed, thanks to Anne-Marie for dropping us at the curb and the Delta Sky Cap taking our bags right away, leaving me only a backpack to manage. The true test would come when boarding the plane and whether or not I could fit comfortably in the seat. When they called the first boarding for those who need "a little more time" I decided this was me. Andrew opted to wait until the last call to ensure the least amount of time on the plane. I preferred to get on, get in my seat, get the embarrassing seat belt extender in place and try to close my eyes before we took off.
Not sure if any of you heard me that Wednesday, March 28th, but I was giggling like a little school girl when I sat down in the seat and fit without having to raise the shared arm with the other passenger seat. It's the first time I can ever remember being on a plane and able to breathe after sitting down. Now I still had to have the seat belt extender, but only because I lacked about two inches on the regular one. It was so exhilarating knowing I am getting smaller and can do things more comfortably. The flight over was rough and I didn't sleep much, probably because my knee didn't allow me extended relaxation, it would stiffen quickly no matter what position I tried putting it in. The food was not great, they ran out of the two selections Andrew and I wanted before they got to our seats. There was a noisy group of 40 high schoolers on a field trip and one really nasty attendant, she was very rude to several passengers.
But who cares, I fit in the seat!
Obviously I managed, thanks to Anne-Marie for dropping us at the curb and the Delta Sky Cap taking our bags right away, leaving me only a backpack to manage. The true test would come when boarding the plane and whether or not I could fit comfortably in the seat. When they called the first boarding for those who need "a little more time" I decided this was me. Andrew opted to wait until the last call to ensure the least amount of time on the plane. I preferred to get on, get in my seat, get the embarrassing seat belt extender in place and try to close my eyes before we took off.
Not sure if any of you heard me that Wednesday, March 28th, but I was giggling like a little school girl when I sat down in the seat and fit without having to raise the shared arm with the other passenger seat. It's the first time I can ever remember being on a plane and able to breathe after sitting down. Now I still had to have the seat belt extender, but only because I lacked about two inches on the regular one. It was so exhilarating knowing I am getting smaller and can do things more comfortably. The flight over was rough and I didn't sleep much, probably because my knee didn't allow me extended relaxation, it would stiffen quickly no matter what position I tried putting it in. The food was not great, they ran out of the two selections Andrew and I wanted before they got to our seats. There was a noisy group of 40 high schoolers on a field trip and one really nasty attendant, she was very rude to several passengers.
But who cares, I fit in the seat!
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Does Your Cup Runneth Over?
I've hit 70 pounds finally and sadly I think 69 of those pounds were from my boobs. This meant I had to shop for new bras. That's always exciting, what girl doesn't love fun bras, right?
Well sadly and also happily I suppose, I did lose 4 inches in the circumference, but also I lost a cup size. Actually two cup sizes. So I no longer have that "muffin top" protruding over the top of my cup. Therefore, my cup no longer runneth over.
The best news, is that I am now in a bra size that is more commercially available, like Wal-Mart, and I don't have to order them from Lane Bryant anymore. So now I can get the leopard bra for $12.99 instead of the boring glamorise minimizer suck you in, make you miserable, available in one color for $34.99 plus shipping.
So what did I choose? The plain white lace, blue lace, coral lace. I don't think I'm ready for the leopard yet.
Well sadly and also happily I suppose, I did lose 4 inches in the circumference, but also I lost a cup size. Actually two cup sizes. So I no longer have that "muffin top" protruding over the top of my cup. Therefore, my cup no longer runneth over.
The best news, is that I am now in a bra size that is more commercially available, like Wal-Mart, and I don't have to order them from Lane Bryant anymore. So now I can get the leopard bra for $12.99 instead of the boring glamorise minimizer suck you in, make you miserable, available in one color for $34.99 plus shipping.
So what did I choose? The plain white lace, blue lace, coral lace. I don't think I'm ready for the leopard yet.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Avoiding the Camera
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Weight Loss Secret
Ok, this is probably not medically approved but it worked. I can't tell you how to recreate it, but just know that if you are trying to lose weight a stomach virus is not necessarily a bad thing. It set in Wednesday night and by Thursday I was having a rough time of it. Pine-Sol had become the air freshner of choice around my bathroom and bedroom.
I was finally able to keep down some crackers late Thursday with chicken and rice for dinner and by Saturday I had gained my strength back but lost 3 pounds. So, with that little stomach trouble I've brought my weight loss total to 67 pounds. I need to get 13 more gone by the end of March, that's the goal to keep me on track.
I was finally able to keep down some crackers late Thursday with chicken and rice for dinner and by Saturday I had gained my strength back but lost 3 pounds. So, with that little stomach trouble I've brought my weight loss total to 67 pounds. I need to get 13 more gone by the end of March, that's the goal to keep me on track.
Monday, February 20, 2012
Pure Evil
It happens every year at this time around the country. Evil comes knocking on your door, your cubicle, at the grocery store, in front of the bank, and although it usually only lasts for a few weeks, it's almost impossible to resist.
It comes in many forms, but for me, the worst is the Tag-A-Long. Yes, I am talking about Girl Scout Cookies. Those little bites of pleasure that are evil in disguise. Can't they be regulated and sold throughout the year thereby negating my overwhelming desire to buy 10 boxes in February because I might possibly run out before the next February? Do they even come with a warning label, that says "highly addictive" or "consuming too many will cause enlargement of the hips"? They should.
That said, I managed to control my urges this year...well mostly because eating too many make me sick, not because I possess a newly found sense of self-control. And despite their caloric content, I've managed to lose another pound, making my new total 61 pounds, which ironically is the average weight of a Girl Scout. So, take that you little peddlers of evil!
It comes in many forms, but for me, the worst is the Tag-A-Long. Yes, I am talking about Girl Scout Cookies. Those little bites of pleasure that are evil in disguise. Can't they be regulated and sold throughout the year thereby negating my overwhelming desire to buy 10 boxes in February because I might possibly run out before the next February? Do they even come with a warning label, that says "highly addictive" or "consuming too many will cause enlargement of the hips"? They should.
That said, I managed to control my urges this year...well mostly because eating too many make me sick, not because I possess a newly found sense of self-control. And despite their caloric content, I've managed to lose another pound, making my new total 61 pounds, which ironically is the average weight of a Girl Scout. So, take that you little peddlers of evil!
Sunday, February 5, 2012
Moves Like Jagger
Well, the first post for February has an exciting element. Today, after my shower and my step on the scale, I have hit 60 pounds exactly! Yeah!
I was so excited I started doing a happy dance. Rosco, my dog, looked at me like I had lost my mind to which I replied, "What's wrong, can't you tell I've got moves like Jagger?" For those of you who don't know Maroon 5, it's a song in tribute to Mick Jagger.
So my happy dance continued to the bedroom where I put on my clothes and yep, hooking the bra on that last clasp now, going to have buy new ones very soon. Plus, the "around the house pants" that I pulled on are way too big in the waist and if it wasn't for my hips they'd fall right down.
Maybe between the moves like Jagger and my clothes falling off I could explore a new career opportunity in the stripper business. Just kidding, I don't even like taking off my clothes in front of myself!
I was so excited I started doing a happy dance. Rosco, my dog, looked at me like I had lost my mind to which I replied, "What's wrong, can't you tell I've got moves like Jagger?" For those of you who don't know Maroon 5, it's a song in tribute to Mick Jagger.
So my happy dance continued to the bedroom where I put on my clothes and yep, hooking the bra on that last clasp now, going to have buy new ones very soon. Plus, the "around the house pants" that I pulled on are way too big in the waist and if it wasn't for my hips they'd fall right down.
Maybe between the moves like Jagger and my clothes falling off I could explore a new career opportunity in the stripper business. Just kidding, I don't even like taking off my clothes in front of myself!
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Finally Over the Hump
Today I saw my nutritionist. And when I weighed in, 59 pounds were gone. I was hoping to hit 60 by the end of January, but I am thrilled to be past 55. Seems I was stuck there forever. Now these last four pounds might have been due to the stomach bug I had over the weekend but I'll still take it.
Now let me tell you what I learned today. Prior to surgery and for those who are looking to lose weight, salad (without much dressing) was always a good option. Like a rice cake, you could high volume and have little calories. Post-surgery, a big salad is not the best choice. Because lettuce fills you up quickly, it also expands your stomach...something a bariatric patient doesn't want. Also, the nutrients in vegetables and fruit I can get from vitamins. For the protein, I can't just pop a pill, it's either eat it or drink it. So protein is always the first thing I should eat when eating a meal and it fills me up quickly.
Sometimes I wish my mom and grandmother were here so I could get up from the table, smile and honestly say..."I don't have to eat my vegetables!"
Now let me tell you what I learned today. Prior to surgery and for those who are looking to lose weight, salad (without much dressing) was always a good option. Like a rice cake, you could high volume and have little calories. Post-surgery, a big salad is not the best choice. Because lettuce fills you up quickly, it also expands your stomach...something a bariatric patient doesn't want. Also, the nutrients in vegetables and fruit I can get from vitamins. For the protein, I can't just pop a pill, it's either eat it or drink it. So protein is always the first thing I should eat when eating a meal and it fills me up quickly.
Sometimes I wish my mom and grandmother were here so I could get up from the table, smile and honestly say..."I don't have to eat my vegetables!"
Friday, January 20, 2012
Stuck
Well, here I am, still stuck on the number 55. I'd like to say I am okay with it, that I am staying positive and know that future weight loss is going to occur, but the truth is I am sick of 55. Even 56 would be a welcomed number at this point.
If I were forced to acknowledge a positive about this, it would be that clearly I can maintain a weight. But this isn't the weight I want to maintain. When I get to about 160, that's the weight I will want to maintain.
Okay, enough whining...I need to focus on something else. Oh yeah, I tried on some pants, two sizes smaller than my original pants, and they are still a bit tight in the waist, butt and thighs, but if I can ever get less than 55 maybe I can wear them. Wow, still whining, let me just stop posting here.
If I were forced to acknowledge a positive about this, it would be that clearly I can maintain a weight. But this isn't the weight I want to maintain. When I get to about 160, that's the weight I will want to maintain.
Okay, enough whining...I need to focus on something else. Oh yeah, I tried on some pants, two sizes smaller than my original pants, and they are still a bit tight in the waist, butt and thighs, but if I can ever get less than 55 maybe I can wear them. Wow, still whining, let me just stop posting here.
Friday, January 13, 2012
I Can't Drive 55, But I Can Lose It!
Speed is something I've mastered in driving, thinking and talking, but not so much in weight loss. Sadly, speed driving, thinking and talking have not served me well, so perhaps I should consider the slower weight loss a blessing in disguise.
I'm holding steady at 55 pounds gone this week, been there almost 7 days now. This weekend I have several activities planned so I should be out and about and hopefully not sitting home watching home and garden television and wishing I had more money to buy another house or renovate this one.
Thanks for comments - wasn't sure anyone except my Aunt Becky was reading this blog. She tried to comment and it got lost in cyberspace, so for those comments I got, THANKS! Knowing someone thinks my snippets are funny, makes me want to keep blogging and too keep blogging about weight loss, well I have to lose weight. So you all are helping me in my journey and I really appreciate it!
I'm holding steady at 55 pounds gone this week, been there almost 7 days now. This weekend I have several activities planned so I should be out and about and hopefully not sitting home watching home and garden television and wishing I had more money to buy another house or renovate this one.
Thanks for comments - wasn't sure anyone except my Aunt Becky was reading this blog. She tried to comment and it got lost in cyberspace, so for those comments I got, THANKS! Knowing someone thinks my snippets are funny, makes me want to keep blogging and too keep blogging about weight loss, well I have to lose weight. So you all are helping me in my journey and I really appreciate it!
Monday, January 2, 2012
A Day Late, A Pound More
Well, Jan 1st arrived and I weighed in only 49 pounds lighter, so I didn't hit the goal of 50. But to my surprise, this morning I was 51 pounds lighter...so I didn't get the day right, but I got an extra pound...I reckon I will be happy with that.
I am claiming 2012 as the year of 100 pound weight loss. So at the end of this year I should have lost a total of 150 pounds. I'm sure by Valentine's Day I will need some encouragement so hang in there with me!
Thanks for all the wonderful support, I truly appreciate it!
I am claiming 2012 as the year of 100 pound weight loss. So at the end of this year I should have lost a total of 150 pounds. I'm sure by Valentine's Day I will need some encouragement so hang in there with me!
Thanks for all the wonderful support, I truly appreciate it!
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