Quick note wishing all of you a Very Happy New Year with only good things in 2011!
Had a good day food-wise but am getting hungry! I guess my stomach is healing and not as swollen around the band.
7:00 am Protein shake
10:30 am Pureed cottage cheese with pinapple
12:30 pm Tomato soup
1:30 pm Egg salad
Did 1.75 miles on the treadmill :)
Going to have a small meal before we leave for Hibatchi since I can only have miso soup. Should be fun if all the kids somewhat behave. I invited 2 of my au pairs friends so that should keep them occupied - the pretty Swedish and one Icelandic girl.
I am absolutely going to miss having some drinks tonight but it will feel good to know I have the discipline.
So Cheers to all - here's to all of our dreams and wishing coming true!
xoxo Susan
Friday, December 31, 2010
Thursday, December 30, 2010
My first "workout" post surgery to a great motivating song "Let's Get Loud"
I did it! I got my butt on the treadmill and walked 1.5 miles. My favorite motivating song is Jennifer Lopez's "Let's Get Loud" and I copied the lyrics and bolded the best parts that get me going. I could have gone to 2 miles but was trying to keep it slow and didn't want to overdo it. Ladies - download this song to your ipods - it is a great one!
"Let's Get Loud"
[Chorus:]
Let's get loud, let's get loud
Turn the music up, let's do it
C'mon people let's get loud
Let's get loud
Turn the music up to hear that sound
Let's get loud, let's get loud
Ain't nobody gotta tell ya
What you gotta do
If you wanna live your life
Live it all the way and don't you waste it
Every feelin' every beat
Can be so very sweet you gotta taste it
You gotta do it, you gotta do it your way
You gotta prove it
You gotta mean what you say
Life's a party, make it hot
Dance don't ever stop, whatever rhythm
Every minute, every day
Take them all the way you gotta live 'em ('cause I'm going to live my life)
You gotta do it, you gotta do it your way
You gotta prove it
You gotta mean what you say
You gotta do it, you gotta do it your way
You gotta prove it
You gotta mean what you say [Chorus:]
Let's get loud, let's get loud
Turn the music up to hear that sound
Let's get loud, let's get loud
Ain't nobody gotta tell you
What you gotta do
[Break]
Life is meant to be big fun
You're not hurtin' anyone
Nobody loses
Let the music make you free
Be what you wanna be
Make no excuses
You gotta do it, you gotta do it your way
To gotta prove it
You gotta mean what you say
You gotta do it, you gotta do it your way
You gotta prove it
You gotta mean what you say
HOPEFUL. . .
Welcome new followers! It is so exciting! I hope I can help anyone new starting out with my experiences and welcome all the thoughts from experienced bandsters.
As many of you are posting your words for 2011 I have to say I agree with most of them. . . driven, determined, controlled, committed and a bunch of others that right now I can't remember. In thinking about how I feel as we begin the new year - I think HOPEFUL best describes it. I have not been hopeful about being able to lose weight in years. But now I am! :) I feel like I have a totally new outlook and it is beginning to show in everything I do - from dealing with my kids, friends, job, and family. And for the first time in so long I am beginning to look forward to things not just think "how am I going to get through it". It is just such an amazing feeling and I really hope it continues. And I am looking forward to what I will be able to wear and feeling good in clothes not just acceptable for someone my size.
Physically I feel pretty good. I have been getting some gas pains in my left shoulder which I have read is not uncommon following surgery. My stitches itch once in a while. And I do feel some port discomfort when I am lying down at times. I hope that goes away. I know I have to start exercising and plan to start walking on my treadmill at a slow pace.
Doing well on mushies and actually not getting bored yet. Since I didn't post yesterday here is what I ate. . .
7:00 am Protein shake (Vanilla with 1/2 banana and tsp of peanut butter) - so yummy!
12:30 pm Southwestern Chicken soup with refried beans and low fat cheese (loved this from the other day so finished it)
5:30 pm Pureed Chicken Marsala - the ready made Trader Joe's - took 1/2 a serving which would be 135 calories and pureed it and added some sauce. First bite not so great - tasted like tuna but then I got used to it. Not sure I would make it again BUT I was beyond full all night from just a little piece of chicken. This band really does work!
9:30 pm SF Jello and cup of decaf tea
This week I have been going to a lot of movies -- typically what we do the week between Christmas and New Year's when all the new movies come out. The movies are great because they don't revolve around eating and drinking - well if you can get past the popcorn, etc. which I don't have a hard time with if I go to the movies relatively full. I do love to go to restaurants but at this stage there really isn't much I can eat and I am going to stick to the surgeon rules of no drinks for 1 month. I have seen Little Fockers, The Tourist, Yogi Bear, How Do You Know (which was the worst - Reese Witherspoon who I usually love was in it. Just a very boring, slow, don't even know what it was really about type of movie). Still want to take the boys to see Gulliver Travels and I'd like to see The Black Swan.
Tomorrow night for New Year's Eve we are getting together with 2 other families and taking the kids for Hibatchi - if it seems like I go to Hibatchi a lot it is because it keeps my kids entertained. Trust me - I am not in love with the miso soup and green tea :) I was thinking of maybe trying some noodles but the thought of it getting stuck is just not worth it so I doubt I will. I can't think of anything "mushy" at a Japanese restaurant.
I hope everyone has a wonderful New Year - wishing you all great things in 2011.
xoxo Susan
As many of you are posting your words for 2011 I have to say I agree with most of them. . . driven, determined, controlled, committed and a bunch of others that right now I can't remember. In thinking about how I feel as we begin the new year - I think HOPEFUL best describes it. I have not been hopeful about being able to lose weight in years. But now I am! :) I feel like I have a totally new outlook and it is beginning to show in everything I do - from dealing with my kids, friends, job, and family. And for the first time in so long I am beginning to look forward to things not just think "how am I going to get through it". It is just such an amazing feeling and I really hope it continues. And I am looking forward to what I will be able to wear and feeling good in clothes not just acceptable for someone my size.
Physically I feel pretty good. I have been getting some gas pains in my left shoulder which I have read is not uncommon following surgery. My stitches itch once in a while. And I do feel some port discomfort when I am lying down at times. I hope that goes away. I know I have to start exercising and plan to start walking on my treadmill at a slow pace.
Doing well on mushies and actually not getting bored yet. Since I didn't post yesterday here is what I ate. . .
7:00 am Protein shake (Vanilla with 1/2 banana and tsp of peanut butter) - so yummy!
12:30 pm Southwestern Chicken soup with refried beans and low fat cheese (loved this from the other day so finished it)
5:30 pm Pureed Chicken Marsala - the ready made Trader Joe's - took 1/2 a serving which would be 135 calories and pureed it and added some sauce. First bite not so great - tasted like tuna but then I got used to it. Not sure I would make it again BUT I was beyond full all night from just a little piece of chicken. This band really does work!
9:30 pm SF Jello and cup of decaf tea
This week I have been going to a lot of movies -- typically what we do the week between Christmas and New Year's when all the new movies come out. The movies are great because they don't revolve around eating and drinking - well if you can get past the popcorn, etc. which I don't have a hard time with if I go to the movies relatively full. I do love to go to restaurants but at this stage there really isn't much I can eat and I am going to stick to the surgeon rules of no drinks for 1 month. I have seen Little Fockers, The Tourist, Yogi Bear, How Do You Know (which was the worst - Reese Witherspoon who I usually love was in it. Just a very boring, slow, don't even know what it was really about type of movie). Still want to take the boys to see Gulliver Travels and I'd like to see The Black Swan.
Tomorrow night for New Year's Eve we are getting together with 2 other families and taking the kids for Hibatchi - if it seems like I go to Hibatchi a lot it is because it keeps my kids entertained. Trust me - I am not in love with the miso soup and green tea :) I was thinking of maybe trying some noodles but the thought of it getting stuck is just not worth it so I doubt I will. I can't think of anything "mushy" at a Japanese restaurant.
I hope everyone has a wonderful New Year - wishing you all great things in 2011.
xoxo Susan
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
From Snowy Connecticut. . .
Not much to report but using the blog to track my daily menu.
Today's menu:
7:00 am Protein shake (Chocolate Myloplex Lite) made with skim milk and banana
10:00 am Chobani Vanilla yogurt
12:30 pm Southwest Chicken Tortilla soup pureed with FF refried beans and low fat cheese added
6:00 pm Turkey meatball (1 1/2) pureed with sprinkle of low fat mozzerella cheese
Love, love, love Trader Joe's!!!! The turkey meatball was from their prepared food. I pureed 2 with some sauce but left over about 1/4 of it because couldn't finish. Of course my very skinny Swedish au pair only ate 2 herself - but she did have some mashed potatoes with it! :)
Hope this isn't TMI - I finally went to the bathroom after 8 days. It was tough. I think that I am just not drinking enough water. Have been taking Miralax every day. Hopefully now that I am in the "land of mushies" as Ronnie termed it - it will be easier.
I had one NSV today - my housekeeper who comes once a week was here today and the first thing she said was "Did you lose weight?". It was the first person who didn't know about my surgery to comment on my weight loss. I know at my weight it takes a little longer for people to be able to tell so this felt good!
Until tomorrow. . . good night
Today's menu:
7:00 am Protein shake (Chocolate Myloplex Lite) made with skim milk and banana
10:00 am Chobani Vanilla yogurt
12:30 pm Southwest Chicken Tortilla soup pureed with FF refried beans and low fat cheese added
6:00 pm Turkey meatball (1 1/2) pureed with sprinkle of low fat mozzerella cheese
Love, love, love Trader Joe's!!!! The turkey meatball was from their prepared food. I pureed 2 with some sauce but left over about 1/4 of it because couldn't finish. Of course my very skinny Swedish au pair only ate 2 herself - but she did have some mashed potatoes with it! :)
Hope this isn't TMI - I finally went to the bathroom after 8 days. It was tough. I think that I am just not drinking enough water. Have been taking Miralax every day. Hopefully now that I am in the "land of mushies" as Ronnie termed it - it will be easier.
I had one NSV today - my housekeeper who comes once a week was here today and the first thing she said was "Did you lose weight?". It was the first person who didn't know about my surgery to comment on my weight loss. I know at my weight it takes a little longer for people to be able to tell so this felt good!
Until tomorrow. . . good night
Monday, December 27, 2010
1 week Bandiversary and down 17 lbs from my highest pre-surgery weight!!!
Hi everyone! Hope you all had a terrific holiday. Here in Connecticut we are digging ourselves out of 18 inches of snow.
I can't believe it was a week ago that I was almost being wheeled into the OR. What a week it has been! I was really having a rough time for the first couple of days and the recovery was definitely much harder than I anticipated. However you were all right and it definitely got better! Today was my first day of mushies - although I could have started earlier according to my surgeon's instructions and I dabbled with some sweet potatoes the other day. I actually like the protein shakes so I don't mind drinking them and it has been easier to just have those. Honestly I have been a little afraid to move on but I know that I needed to and so I did.
Today's menu:
7:00 am protein shake
10:00 am pureed cottage cheese with pineapple
1:00 pm fat free refried beans with low fat cheese
4:00 pm protein shake
7:00 pm pureed southwestern chicken soup with reduced fat cheddar
It feels like I ate so much but it was less than 1000 calories and full of protein. Those of you who were banded around the same time as me - what are you eating?
It just feels so great to know that I can do this! I am truly hopeful for the first time in such a long time. I keep thinking about how good I am going to feel as I hit each milestone - especially Onederland which I have not seen since July 2004. I have been reading so many of your blogs - catching up on your weight loss stories and each one is so inspirational. It is great to read about how you felt during my stage and then fast forward to see how wonderful you are doing now. Especially during the holidays because everyone tends to reflect where they were a year ago. You should all be so proud! In thinking about where I was last New Year's. . . it was on my mind that the following week we would need to have our pictures taken for my company's annual report. I was desperately trying to lose some "bloat" and remember being about 5 lbs heavier than where I am now. Little did I know that I would gain another 10 lbs as the year progressed. The prior year I got away with using a great picture from 2002 last year but they said everyone had to take updated ones. Thus - that horrible picture by my name - I will change it soon - it was just the first one that I found and didn't like it being blank.
On the home front has been pretty quiet - as quiet as it could be in our house. :) On Christmas Day we visited my nieces and took them for Hibatchi - miso soup and green tea for me. They are 11 and 13 and my sister and brother-in-law are pharmacists and both work on Christmas since it is not our holiday - giving others the time off. My cousin lives nearby and so she stopped by and it was nice to see her.
Yesterday it started snowing around noon here so we just hit the supermarket and then were home the rest of the day watching movies. I can't tell you how many times I have seen Toy Story 1, 2, and 3! Our Au Pair had 2 of her friends over and my husband cooked them a Spiral Ham for a post -Christmas dinner. It ended up to be a really nice night. The boys and my husband love having three pretty Swedish girls around :)
Today the gymnastics camp I signed my two older boys up for was cancelled so spent the morning being lazy and then late afternoon we all went to see Yogi Bear. Between the tickets and popcorn it was $86 for 3 adults and 3 kids. Totally ridiculous! I have to remember to look for the 2D version of movies because my kids don't even like 3D.
I am off from work this week and it is so relaxing. In my business - finance - not much happens the week between Christmas and New Year's and most people take off time to be with their families. It really was a great time for me to pick to get the band. Things will pick up again in January and I will be off to Bermuda again the week of the 10th for management meetings. I will need to be really careful as the meetings involve breakfast, lunch, dinner. I might just go the protein shake route and if anyone asks I am just trying a new diet. And I should be able to have soup. It will be tough not to have any wine.
Other random thoughts. . .
Jeans - I can't wait to wear jeans again. I refused to buy jeans in a size larger than 20. I have 2 pair of James Jeans plus size that my sister found at Off Saks for $40 each - they are regularly $200 in the store. I had her get me the 18 and 20 and am going to bring them in to get shortened tomorrow. I think the 20 fits and hope the 18 will soon.
Shoes - my total addiction. When I was thin in the late 1990's/early 2000's I was a huge shoe addict - my biggest weakness at the time was Manolo Blahniks (when not paying for childcare I was able to afford them). As my weight creeped up I really had difficulty wearing any kind of heal - let alone a skinny one. First Memphistos became my new friend, then Dankso, and for work when I can't wear my Dansko I wear Taryn Rose but they are so expensive. I just can't wait to be able to wear nice shoes again for longer than 5 minutes.
I guess that is all for now. Have a good night!
I can't believe it was a week ago that I was almost being wheeled into the OR. What a week it has been! I was really having a rough time for the first couple of days and the recovery was definitely much harder than I anticipated. However you were all right and it definitely got better! Today was my first day of mushies - although I could have started earlier according to my surgeon's instructions and I dabbled with some sweet potatoes the other day. I actually like the protein shakes so I don't mind drinking them and it has been easier to just have those. Honestly I have been a little afraid to move on but I know that I needed to and so I did.
Today's menu:
7:00 am protein shake
10:00 am pureed cottage cheese with pineapple
1:00 pm fat free refried beans with low fat cheese
4:00 pm protein shake
7:00 pm pureed southwestern chicken soup with reduced fat cheddar
It feels like I ate so much but it was less than 1000 calories and full of protein. Those of you who were banded around the same time as me - what are you eating?
It just feels so great to know that I can do this! I am truly hopeful for the first time in such a long time. I keep thinking about how good I am going to feel as I hit each milestone - especially Onederland which I have not seen since July 2004. I have been reading so many of your blogs - catching up on your weight loss stories and each one is so inspirational. It is great to read about how you felt during my stage and then fast forward to see how wonderful you are doing now. Especially during the holidays because everyone tends to reflect where they were a year ago. You should all be so proud! In thinking about where I was last New Year's. . . it was on my mind that the following week we would need to have our pictures taken for my company's annual report. I was desperately trying to lose some "bloat" and remember being about 5 lbs heavier than where I am now. Little did I know that I would gain another 10 lbs as the year progressed. The prior year I got away with using a great picture from 2002 last year but they said everyone had to take updated ones. Thus - that horrible picture by my name - I will change it soon - it was just the first one that I found and didn't like it being blank.
On the home front has been pretty quiet - as quiet as it could be in our house. :) On Christmas Day we visited my nieces and took them for Hibatchi - miso soup and green tea for me. They are 11 and 13 and my sister and brother-in-law are pharmacists and both work on Christmas since it is not our holiday - giving others the time off. My cousin lives nearby and so she stopped by and it was nice to see her.
Yesterday it started snowing around noon here so we just hit the supermarket and then were home the rest of the day watching movies. I can't tell you how many times I have seen Toy Story 1, 2, and 3! Our Au Pair had 2 of her friends over and my husband cooked them a Spiral Ham for a post -Christmas dinner. It ended up to be a really nice night. The boys and my husband love having three pretty Swedish girls around :)
Today the gymnastics camp I signed my two older boys up for was cancelled so spent the morning being lazy and then late afternoon we all went to see Yogi Bear. Between the tickets and popcorn it was $86 for 3 adults and 3 kids. Totally ridiculous! I have to remember to look for the 2D version of movies because my kids don't even like 3D.
I am off from work this week and it is so relaxing. In my business - finance - not much happens the week between Christmas and New Year's and most people take off time to be with their families. It really was a great time for me to pick to get the band. Things will pick up again in January and I will be off to Bermuda again the week of the 10th for management meetings. I will need to be really careful as the meetings involve breakfast, lunch, dinner. I might just go the protein shake route and if anyone asks I am just trying a new diet. And I should be able to have soup. It will be tough not to have any wine.
Other random thoughts. . .
Jeans - I can't wait to wear jeans again. I refused to buy jeans in a size larger than 20. I have 2 pair of James Jeans plus size that my sister found at Off Saks for $40 each - they are regularly $200 in the store. I had her get me the 18 and 20 and am going to bring them in to get shortened tomorrow. I think the 20 fits and hope the 18 will soon.
Shoes - my total addiction. When I was thin in the late 1990's/early 2000's I was a huge shoe addict - my biggest weakness at the time was Manolo Blahniks (when not paying for childcare I was able to afford them). As my weight creeped up I really had difficulty wearing any kind of heal - let alone a skinny one. First Memphistos became my new friend, then Dankso, and for work when I can't wear my Dansko I wear Taryn Rose but they are so expensive. I just can't wait to be able to wear nice shoes again for longer than 5 minutes.
I guess that is all for now. Have a good night!
Friday, December 24, 2010
Merry Christmas!!!
We celebrate Hanukkah but also celebrate Christmas with our Au Pair who is from Sweden. So the boys get more presents and they are quite happy about that. Feeling pretty good today but probably did too much. We took the boys to the Children's Museum and then ran a few errands.
I am able to get more liquids down but still very slowly. I had 3/4 of a protein shake this morning, some Tazo Passion tea. For lunch some broth and pureed carrots. I think I actually got hungry today - is that possible 4 days post - op? It didn't help that I went to pick up chocolates from the homemade chocolate store and then went food shopping at the gourmet grocery - Balducci's for the family. Everything in there looked so delicious and I love holiday celebrations. I can see how hard it will be for all of you at the Christmas celebrations over the next couple of days. I am going to try to puree chicken and see if I can eat it. Just seems so much better than buying baby food and I want to get my protein in.
Stitches are starting to itch. My husband says that means they are healing - I hope so.
Tonight we are going to the Japanese restaurant for Hibatchi - and all I will be able to do is sip some soup. I wanted to do something special for the Au Pair and not just stay in. Boys love watching them cook with the fire. I think I will be okay. Green tea and miso soup here I come!
Wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas!
xoxo Susan
I am able to get more liquids down but still very slowly. I had 3/4 of a protein shake this morning, some Tazo Passion tea. For lunch some broth and pureed carrots. I think I actually got hungry today - is that possible 4 days post - op? It didn't help that I went to pick up chocolates from the homemade chocolate store and then went food shopping at the gourmet grocery - Balducci's for the family. Everything in there looked so delicious and I love holiday celebrations. I can see how hard it will be for all of you at the Christmas celebrations over the next couple of days. I am going to try to puree chicken and see if I can eat it. Just seems so much better than buying baby food and I want to get my protein in.
Stitches are starting to itch. My husband says that means they are healing - I hope so.
Tonight we are going to the Japanese restaurant for Hibatchi - and all I will be able to do is sip some soup. I wanted to do something special for the Au Pair and not just stay in. Boys love watching them cook with the fire. I think I will be okay. Green tea and miso soup here I come!
Wishing everyone a Very Merry Christmas!
xoxo Susan
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Feeling Much Better!
Need to get some rest so just a quick one. I took a nap this afternoon and woke up feeling much better. I spent some time with the boys. They know not to go near mommy's tummy - and keep asking to see my boo-boo's. My au pair made cookies with them because tomorrow the Kindergarten class is doing a cookie exchange. I am looking forward to going.
While I am still only taking small sips I was able to drink most of a protein shake, more chicken broth, an ice pop, water, and one SF jello. It felt like I was eating all day.
I am about 1-2 lbs more than when I left for surgery but I know it is water weight and I haven't "gone to the bathroom" yet.
Gas pains seem to be going away. I am still taking the Loritab every 4 hours.
Sweet dreams bloggers :)
While I am still only taking small sips I was able to drink most of a protein shake, more chicken broth, an ice pop, water, and one SF jello. It felt like I was eating all day.
I am about 1-2 lbs more than when I left for surgery but I know it is water weight and I haven't "gone to the bathroom" yet.
Gas pains seem to be going away. I am still taking the Loritab every 4 hours.
Sweet dreams bloggers :)
Please tell me this gets easier. . .
Last night was kind of rough. My throat and glands hurt and I just realized it is likely from the hernia repair they had to do. So my husband said I am basically recovering from two surgeries which is making it more difficult. I can only drink small sips. Am alternating between water, chicken broth (so happy I made my own broth which is really good on Saturday and have 2 more quarts in the freezer).
I was not able to wear my CPAP last night and didn't sleep well. Bed at 10, up at 1, up at 2:30 and then again at 6. Each time I got up I tried to sip as much water as I could.
Please tell me this will get better soon! Anyone else have a large hernia repair? I know it is only day 3 (closer to 2 since the surgery was so late) and am just hoping I can go to my son's cookie exchange tomorrow morning.
Until later. . .
I was not able to wear my CPAP last night and didn't sleep well. Bed at 10, up at 1, up at 2:30 and then again at 6. Each time I got up I tried to sip as much water as I could.
Please tell me this will get better soon! Anyone else have a large hernia repair? I know it is only day 3 (closer to 2 since the surgery was so late) and am just hoping I can go to my son's cookie exchange tomorrow morning.
Until later. . .
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Home!!
Just a quick note - am home and all is fine. Ended up spending the night at the hospital because my surgery wasn't until 8:30 pm. A bit more uncomfortable than I expected - very different from C-sections. But most of all am happy to be over on the loser's bench!!!
Sipping my broth and going to rest. Thanks for all the well wishes and I will post more later.
xoxo Susan
Sipping my broth and going to rest. Thanks for all the well wishes and I will post more later.
xoxo Susan
Monday, December 20, 2010
Still waiting to be banded...
It has been a rough couple of hours waiting. Surgeon got delayed in the OR at a hospital an hour away. Gave me the choice to reschedule but I have come this far and just want it done. I have been so emotional. He should be here soon.
The good news/bad news is I likely have to spend the night. Part of me wants to but the other part thinks it would be nice to be home.
Thanks so much for all the support! It really means so much! Will post again as soon as I can.
The good news/bad news is I likely have to spend the night. Part of me wants to but the other part thinks it would be nice to be home.
Thanks so much for all the support! It really means so much! Will post again as soon as I can.
Here at the hospital....
Checked in and got dressed in my gown. Vitals checked. God that blood pressure machine kills me cutting off my circulation and they use it in recovery so not looking forward to that. Awaiting the IV and heparin shot. Sent my husband to eat so there is only one cranky one. I am starving!! Right now I am just looking forward to the pain meeds. Hope to feel well enough to post later. Hate the waiting but in the last stretch...
Sunday, December 19, 2010
Tomorrow!!
I can't believe it is almost here. Have to be at the hospital at 1:00 and it is a little over an hour away. Will likely leave at 11:00 to be safe. Going without anything to eat or drink is going to be tough. I wish that the surgery was in the morning but I think I would be even more nervous, rushed right now if it was.
I have 22 followers! Am so excited that you are reading and helping me through this. I really want to thank everyone for your encouragement and responses. I have spent every free moment reading past posts of your blogs. I just love all your stories and really is amazing to know that so many of you have gone through similar issues/feelings as me and are now doing so fantastic.
For the last 24 hours I have been worried that I would wake up sick and wouldn't be able to have the surgery which would be so tough mentally for me. But it is 6:00 pm and I am feeling pretty good!
Today was a hard day - have been inside all day except for a quick trip to Blockbuster. We saw the third of the Narnia series at the movies last week and the boys wanted to see the first one which wasn't available on demand. My oldest is still sick so I was with him most of the day - using Purell and Lysol and trying to not get too close. My husband took the other two to a birthday party and I thought he would go back to the host house since it is his good friend and when the garage door went up at 12:30 and they were home I was not happy! So a day of games, TV, and fighting. I swear if I leave them alone they will kill eachother with the hitting and biting. Right now I wouldn't mind a couple of nights in the hospital to recuperate :)
I rechecked my surgeon's instructions and there was no clear liquid only day - so I can still eat my protein and vegetables with small starch for dinner if I want. Trying to decide whether to do it or just have another shake. Surprisingly I am not getting sick of the shakes yet. Have been doing the Myloplex Lite shakes alternating between chocolate and vanilla cream. Sometimes I throw in a banana, a couple of frozen berries, or once in a while a teaspoon of peanut butter. I am down just about 10 lbs on the liquid diet and already feel so much better.
Am wishing right now that I had made plans to go out with my two best girlfriends for dinner but one is divorced and hard for her to get a sitter on Sunday night and the other also has 3 kids that are 5 and under.
I am hoping that when I take some of the weight off I will have more energy to deal with my boys. I hope that doesn't sound terrible - I love them to death but they are just a handful being so close in age, and so physical.
That's all for now. . .if I can't sleep will write some more.
xoxo Susan
I have 22 followers! Am so excited that you are reading and helping me through this. I really want to thank everyone for your encouragement and responses. I have spent every free moment reading past posts of your blogs. I just love all your stories and really is amazing to know that so many of you have gone through similar issues/feelings as me and are now doing so fantastic.
For the last 24 hours I have been worried that I would wake up sick and wouldn't be able to have the surgery which would be so tough mentally for me. But it is 6:00 pm and I am feeling pretty good!
Today was a hard day - have been inside all day except for a quick trip to Blockbuster. We saw the third of the Narnia series at the movies last week and the boys wanted to see the first one which wasn't available on demand. My oldest is still sick so I was with him most of the day - using Purell and Lysol and trying to not get too close. My husband took the other two to a birthday party and I thought he would go back to the host house since it is his good friend and when the garage door went up at 12:30 and they were home I was not happy! So a day of games, TV, and fighting. I swear if I leave them alone they will kill eachother with the hitting and biting. Right now I wouldn't mind a couple of nights in the hospital to recuperate :)
I rechecked my surgeon's instructions and there was no clear liquid only day - so I can still eat my protein and vegetables with small starch for dinner if I want. Trying to decide whether to do it or just have another shake. Surprisingly I am not getting sick of the shakes yet. Have been doing the Myloplex Lite shakes alternating between chocolate and vanilla cream. Sometimes I throw in a banana, a couple of frozen berries, or once in a while a teaspoon of peanut butter. I am down just about 10 lbs on the liquid diet and already feel so much better.
Am wishing right now that I had made plans to go out with my two best girlfriends for dinner but one is divorced and hard for her to get a sitter on Sunday night and the other also has 3 kids that are 5 and under.
I am hoping that when I take some of the weight off I will have more energy to deal with my boys. I hope that doesn't sound terrible - I love them to death but they are just a handful being so close in age, and so physical.
That's all for now. . .if I can't sleep will write some more.
xoxo Susan
Friday, December 17, 2010
Getting Scared. . . being banded on Monday
Now that I am only 3 days away I am starting to get nervous. Reading all of your blogs and especially the posts right after surgery are so helpful. The good part is that I really am hopeful and without having this I would have been so depressed that another holiday season and New Year is approaching and I haven't done anything about my weight gain. Instead I am really looking forward to the New Year. I even booked a trip in April for the whole family to visit my parents in Florida.
So I started to make a list of all the things that I am looking forward to and/or reasons I am having surgery. Here goes (not in any particular order). . .
1. Wearing colors - I am so sick of wearing black all the time. At this weight I just don't feel comfortable in colors.
2. I want my sons to be able to comfortably sit in my lap without my stomach getting in the way.
3. I want to enjoy getting dressed and wearing clothes again. I have a closet full of great designer clothes and suits that I used to wear to work (St. John, Armani, and even one favorite Chanel blazer!) They range from size 2-12. I am currently a size 20.
4. Want to be able to go skiing. One of my good friends from college just moved to Aspen and invited us but I am too heavy to ski. Skiing was a huge part of my life pre marriage and kids and I love it.
5. I don't want to be the biggest person in every room I am in.
6. I don't want to worry when I go to my son's school that some kid will tease him that his mommy is fat.
7. Cure my sleep apnea and not have to use the CPAP. It is such a hassle to travel with.
8. Wear some of my jewelry that doesn't even fit - necklaces, rings, bracelets.
9. Avoid health problems.
10. See people again and make plans instead of avoiding situations where I know I will see people who knew me 100 lbs ago.
11. Not to have to worry when I go to a restaurant, on an airplane, to the movies that I won't fit in the seat.
12. Not have people look at me and wonder why I let myself get this way and why I can't control the amount of food I eat.
Those are just the few that came to mind.
I have read that it helps to have a plan. I don't really have a detailed plan but I know that I will strive to:
1. Follow all the band rules.
2. Strictly follow up with my surgeon and support group.
3. Make at least 30 minutes on the treadmill a priority 4-5 days a week. (I can actually do 45 now)
4. Stick to the 900-1100 calories a day.
5. Have small near-term goals of 10 lb increments.
6. Blog and continue to read all of your posts to keep learning.
If anyone has any other suggestions, please let me know.
On to other stuff. . . I finished "Fighting Weight" by Khaliah Ali and really enjoyed reading it. It made me think I should have gone to Drs Ren and Fielding at NYU but I am happy so far with my choice of Dr. Marc Bessler at Columbia Medical. Any Dr. Bessler patients out there?
Spent the day doing errands preparing for Monday's surgery. I have clear soup, tomato soup, butternut squash soup, diet jello, protein shakes, greek yogurt, sugar free ice pops. I picked up my meds from CVS and stocked up on Gas-X and other things I might need. Now I just need to pack my bag b/c even though I am not suppose to be staying over at the hospital I just want to be prepared.
I think I am most scared of the recovery. Although I had 3 C-sections - I was in the hospital for 4 nights after each one. I don't know what it is going to be like to have to rest and recover at home with 3 kids. Luckily my husband and our au pair will be here to take care of them. I think I am going to set my youngest son's bedroom up into my "hospital room". He comes into our bed anyway during the night so this way I will have some peace without being interrupted and potentially jumped on.
Other than the errands had a fun day - met 2 girlfriends at an afternoon movie - Love and Other Drugs. Went for a manicure and did a little make up shopping. Stayed on the pre-op diet with 2 shakes for breakfast and lunch and then had a salad, salmon, and steamed broccoli for dinner. And okay - I will confess what is likely my last glass of red wine for a while.
Anyway - wishing everyone a good weekend - happy shopping!
Susan
So I started to make a list of all the things that I am looking forward to and/or reasons I am having surgery. Here goes (not in any particular order). . .
1. Wearing colors - I am so sick of wearing black all the time. At this weight I just don't feel comfortable in colors.
2. I want my sons to be able to comfortably sit in my lap without my stomach getting in the way.
3. I want to enjoy getting dressed and wearing clothes again. I have a closet full of great designer clothes and suits that I used to wear to work (St. John, Armani, and even one favorite Chanel blazer!) They range from size 2-12. I am currently a size 20.
4. Want to be able to go skiing. One of my good friends from college just moved to Aspen and invited us but I am too heavy to ski. Skiing was a huge part of my life pre marriage and kids and I love it.
5. I don't want to be the biggest person in every room I am in.
6. I don't want to worry when I go to my son's school that some kid will tease him that his mommy is fat.
7. Cure my sleep apnea and not have to use the CPAP. It is such a hassle to travel with.
8. Wear some of my jewelry that doesn't even fit - necklaces, rings, bracelets.
9. Avoid health problems.
10. See people again and make plans instead of avoiding situations where I know I will see people who knew me 100 lbs ago.
11. Not to have to worry when I go to a restaurant, on an airplane, to the movies that I won't fit in the seat.
12. Not have people look at me and wonder why I let myself get this way and why I can't control the amount of food I eat.
Those are just the few that came to mind.
I have read that it helps to have a plan. I don't really have a detailed plan but I know that I will strive to:
1. Follow all the band rules.
2. Strictly follow up with my surgeon and support group.
3. Make at least 30 minutes on the treadmill a priority 4-5 days a week. (I can actually do 45 now)
4. Stick to the 900-1100 calories a day.
5. Have small near-term goals of 10 lb increments.
6. Blog and continue to read all of your posts to keep learning.
If anyone has any other suggestions, please let me know.
On to other stuff. . . I finished "Fighting Weight" by Khaliah Ali and really enjoyed reading it. It made me think I should have gone to Drs Ren and Fielding at NYU but I am happy so far with my choice of Dr. Marc Bessler at Columbia Medical. Any Dr. Bessler patients out there?
Spent the day doing errands preparing for Monday's surgery. I have clear soup, tomato soup, butternut squash soup, diet jello, protein shakes, greek yogurt, sugar free ice pops. I picked up my meds from CVS and stocked up on Gas-X and other things I might need. Now I just need to pack my bag b/c even though I am not suppose to be staying over at the hospital I just want to be prepared.
I think I am most scared of the recovery. Although I had 3 C-sections - I was in the hospital for 4 nights after each one. I don't know what it is going to be like to have to rest and recover at home with 3 kids. Luckily my husband and our au pair will be here to take care of them. I think I am going to set my youngest son's bedroom up into my "hospital room". He comes into our bed anyway during the night so this way I will have some peace without being interrupted and potentially jumped on.
Other than the errands had a fun day - met 2 girlfriends at an afternoon movie - Love and Other Drugs. Went for a manicure and did a little make up shopping. Stayed on the pre-op diet with 2 shakes for breakfast and lunch and then had a salad, salmon, and steamed broccoli for dinner. And okay - I will confess what is likely my last glass of red wine for a while.
Anyway - wishing everyone a good weekend - happy shopping!
Susan
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Feeling better already - 6 day countdown
I think this Pre-op diet is finally kicking in and the scale was down this morning. Left on my business trip - and am in Sunny/Rainy/Sunny Bermuda. My company is actually based in Bermuda so I travel here quite often. It is a really great place to have to come for work :) And about 30 degrees warmer than in Connecticut right now. Plus I have made some good friends and it is always great to come down and spend time with them. In the past that has always involved drinks and dinner but we will adjust and it is just good to know from reading all of your posts - especially Catherine55 - that I will still be able to enjoy going out for drinks and great dinners. Will just be eating less.
There is a place down here that makes my protein shakes for me in the blender- I give them to packet to ensure I am getting the exact amount. Otherwise I just carry my shaker.
Thankfully I do not have a dinner meeting tonight and can just either have a shake or a 4-6 ounce lean protein and salad at the hotel. Looking forward to having the bed at the hotel to myself. Our 2 1/2 year old has become a permanent fixture in our bed at home -although luckily cuddles up to my husband and generally leaves me alone. He sneaks in anywhere between 12-2. I know. . .it is horrible but we have honestly done everything to try to stop it including locking his door. . .locking our door. . . nothing worked. They say he will grow out of it and let's just hope it happens soon. Last night the 4 year old joined us too so it was quite crowded.
Question - did you have a "last meal" before the surgery? I feel guilty when I am just getting going on the pre-op and don't think I will. However, having heard that lobster is a problem for bandsters I might have to have my last one. That technically wouldn't be cheating since I can have 4-6 ounces of protein for one meal a day.
There is a place down here that makes my protein shakes for me in the blender- I give them to packet to ensure I am getting the exact amount. Otherwise I just carry my shaker.
Thankfully I do not have a dinner meeting tonight and can just either have a shake or a 4-6 ounce lean protein and salad at the hotel. Looking forward to having the bed at the hotel to myself. Our 2 1/2 year old has become a permanent fixture in our bed at home -although luckily cuddles up to my husband and generally leaves me alone. He sneaks in anywhere between 12-2. I know. . .it is horrible but we have honestly done everything to try to stop it including locking his door. . .locking our door. . . nothing worked. They say he will grow out of it and let's just hope it happens soon. Last night the 4 year old joined us too so it was quite crowded.
Question - did you have a "last meal" before the surgery? I feel guilty when I am just getting going on the pre-op and don't think I will. However, having heard that lobster is a problem for bandsters I might have to have my last one. That technically wouldn't be cheating since I can have 4-6 ounces of protein for one meal a day.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Pre-op testing
My first post. . I can't believe my surgery is in one week! Today I went to Valley Hospital in Ridgewood, New Jersey for my pre-op testing. Though my doctor is at Columbia in NYC he also performs the surgery at Valley Hospital which I opted for b/c of lower fees.
I was pretty excited. Got a little scared as I walked up to the chest x-ray room and passed a number of sick people on beds. Thought to myself that every other time I have been a patient it was for such a happy reason - having my babies. But this time will be happy too because I am going to final have the tool to help me lose weight.
I am doing well on the pre-op diet. Today I didn't even have my one meal and stayed on just liquids and a protein bar.
On the way home I stopped at Nordstroms for what I hope will be one last shop in the plus department. I am going on a business trip tomorrow and am tired of the comments that all I wear is black. So I bought 2 sweaters - one mauve and one grey that will fit nicely for a while until I can start to wear all of the great clothes I have that are right now too small. I think if I did not have the surgery scheduled I would have been so upset in the dressing room - hate those 3 way mirrors. Wondering if I had that in my house would I have gained all this weight! :) Of course there was the "Plus size saleswoman" who when I mentioned that I was having lapband surgery made a face but quickly tried to correct it. I said "I know, you know people who had it done and haven't lost weight". I was ready for the negative attitude and I just explained I am fully aware that it doesn't do the work for you. . . The younger more eager salesgirl was so excited and said about five times that I just must go back and let her see the results. I will be back - but to go across the aisle to the petite section where I shopped most of my life!
Then home to pack for my trip. Will be gone for 2 nights/3 days. For the most part I love my business travel but lately it has gotten tough due to the lack of clothing, not being comfortable in the airplane seats, and just not feeling good about myself around people which has been hard for me because in general I am a real people person and my job is based around interaction with people.
My one week countdown begins!
I was pretty excited. Got a little scared as I walked up to the chest x-ray room and passed a number of sick people on beds. Thought to myself that every other time I have been a patient it was for such a happy reason - having my babies. But this time will be happy too because I am going to final have the tool to help me lose weight.
I am doing well on the pre-op diet. Today I didn't even have my one meal and stayed on just liquids and a protein bar.
On the way home I stopped at Nordstroms for what I hope will be one last shop in the plus department. I am going on a business trip tomorrow and am tired of the comments that all I wear is black. So I bought 2 sweaters - one mauve and one grey that will fit nicely for a while until I can start to wear all of the great clothes I have that are right now too small. I think if I did not have the surgery scheduled I would have been so upset in the dressing room - hate those 3 way mirrors. Wondering if I had that in my house would I have gained all this weight! :) Of course there was the "Plus size saleswoman" who when I mentioned that I was having lapband surgery made a face but quickly tried to correct it. I said "I know, you know people who had it done and haven't lost weight". I was ready for the negative attitude and I just explained I am fully aware that it doesn't do the work for you. . . The younger more eager salesgirl was so excited and said about five times that I just must go back and let her see the results. I will be back - but to go across the aisle to the petite section where I shopped most of my life!
Then home to pack for my trip. Will be gone for 2 nights/3 days. For the most part I love my business travel but lately it has gotten tough due to the lack of clothing, not being comfortable in the airplane seats, and just not feeling good about myself around people which has been hard for me because in general I am a real people person and my job is based around interaction with people.
My one week countdown begins!