Good morning bloggers! Hope everyone had a good weekend. This winter weather in Connecticut is getting really tough to deal with - makes everything difficult - even just taking my son to the bus at the end of the block or driving anywhere since we can only fit one car down our road so if someone is coming you need to pull into a driveway - totally nuts! And the forecast says more snow tomorrow - this will likely be here through April.
But I am not going to let it get me down BECAUSE. . . I saw a new recent low on the scale this morning and am now down 27 lbs! Very excited. I really wanted it to be 30 lbs by next Monday morning but it will be tough to lose 3 lbs in one week - going to try though!
The even better news and NSV for me is I was able to get through my son's birthday weekend (he is 6 today), have family and friends over for a party and still lose. I have also been out to dinner 3 times in the last week and just made band friendly healthy choices - although I need to be careful of that slider food called cheese. Way too easy to eat and I love it.
I think that walking on the treadmill every day is what has helped me so I really need to keep it up. I have been doing 40 minutes or about 2 miles. I have also started walking on an incline which burns so many more calories. As soon as I get to a more comfortable weight level I really want to start doing other activities like getting into a tennis game or even classes at the gym. I have to admit I have been a bit of a gym phobic my whole life because of the skinny-mini's. One of which is one of my best friends who is so into the Zumba, spinning, and all these great sounding classes. As soon as I feel confident enough I will try it. But for now I am happy with my home gym which is really quite nice. Thinking of treating myself to a Eliptical machine or something else for cardio other than the treadmill if I can fit it into our budget.
Speaking of which - it is so crazy how much we end up spending on kids birthday parties. Between renting the place, pizza, cake, party favors it really adds up. And I have 3 kids going through the whole birthday party thing. Today I am bringing cupcakes into my son's class (even though his whole class was at the party yesterday) and since I am not baking them and chancing the lick of the spoon, taste of the frosting, or worse yet - taste of the cupcake, it will be another birthday expense.
Back to my band, I don't really feel much restriction from my fill yet - am hoping the next one scheduled for February 14th - will do the trick.
I haven't forgotten my Stylish Blogger Award and will try to post later. But time to get back to work. Hope everyone has a great day!
xoxo Susan
Monday, January 31, 2011
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
40% off TODAY at Lands End - get your swimsuit ready. . . I love their suits
40% off the highest-priced item in your shopping bag
Savings reflected at checkout when you enter
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PIN: 2415
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Savings reflected at checkout when you enter
Promotion Code: SAVE40
PIN: 2415
Limited Time Offer — Save 40% on highest Regularly-Priced item (excludes monogramming, gift boxing, gift cards, shipping, taxes and duties). Discount will be applied at checkout. This offer has no cash value and is not redeemable for cash. Applies only to merchandise purchased from landsend.com and Lands’ End consumer catalogs. Excludes Lands’ End Business Outfitters purchases. Promotional savings may be deducted from returns. Offer valid through 11:59 p.m. Central, January 26, 2011. Not valid on previous purchases or when combined with any other promotional offers.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
First fill update
On the train home since my doctor is in NYC. It took her 3 times to find my port. It was uncomfortable but didn't really hurt. She had me do a crunch on the table to help find it. So I had nothing in there and she put 4 cc's in my 10 cc band.
Felt a bit of a difference when I drank the water. Starving!! Only liquids today. Have to stop at the deli for some chicken broth since I really don't like the box kind.
Thinking of Gen and her soup from Nordstroms (I have read so many blogs but Gen I think that was you) which would be delicious right now but they said only clear soup for me for the day. Still have ice pops and jello so will have that as well.
Bye for now. . .
Felt a bit of a difference when I drank the water. Starving!! Only liquids today. Have to stop at the deli for some chicken broth since I really don't like the box kind.
Thinking of Gen and her soup from Nordstroms (I have read so many blogs but Gen I think that was you) which would be delicious right now but they said only clear soup for me for the day. Still have ice pops and jello so will have that as well.
Bye for now. . .
Monday, January 24, 2011
Tomorrow's fill can't come quick enough. . . been picking and grazing all day - what is happening to me? Question on restriction after first fill.
Thanks for all the support posts. I was doing really well but definitely had an off day. Maybe because I know I am going for my fill tomorrow? I know I need to nip it in the bud.
Day started out normal - up early - made my protein shake even before I fed the boys at 7 (275 calories w/skim milk and half banana). Had a Pure Protein bar (200 calories) at 10:45 before I went on the treadmill. I walked briskly for 40 minutes and did a little over 2 miles.
Before my lunch I had 2 small bites of my son's Lasagna (75 calories - can't be more than that) Lunch was at 1:00 and I had one cup of Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup and about 5 ounces of Rotisserie chicken (130 + 200 calories). So far 875. Snacked in the afternoon on 1 cup of blueberries (85 calories).
Right before dinner I had 3 bagel chips and 1 oz of pepper jack cheese and 2 bites of a hot dog no bun (200 calories). Then I knew if I didn't eat I would continue grazing. This has not happened to me since surgery so I was getting scared. I sat down and had about 6 ounces of Rotisserie chicken (260 calories).
So my total for the day is ~ 1420. I think the most I have eaten since surgery!! I guess I burned about 250 walking so I am under 1200 for the day.
I am not going to be too hard on myself. Glad that I just blogged this so I am accountable!!
Question about fill - how many of you felt some restriction after the first one?
xoxo Susan
Day started out normal - up early - made my protein shake even before I fed the boys at 7 (275 calories w/skim milk and half banana). Had a Pure Protein bar (200 calories) at 10:45 before I went on the treadmill. I walked briskly for 40 minutes and did a little over 2 miles.
Before my lunch I had 2 small bites of my son's Lasagna (75 calories - can't be more than that) Lunch was at 1:00 and I had one cup of Southwest Chicken Tortilla Soup and about 5 ounces of Rotisserie chicken (130 + 200 calories). So far 875. Snacked in the afternoon on 1 cup of blueberries (85 calories).
Right before dinner I had 3 bagel chips and 1 oz of pepper jack cheese and 2 bites of a hot dog no bun (200 calories). Then I knew if I didn't eat I would continue grazing. This has not happened to me since surgery so I was getting scared. I sat down and had about 6 ounces of Rotisserie chicken (260 calories).
So my total for the day is ~ 1420. I think the most I have eaten since surgery!! I guess I burned about 250 walking so I am under 1200 for the day.
I am not going to be too hard on myself. Glad that I just blogged this so I am accountable!!
Question about fill - how many of you felt some restriction after the first one?
xoxo Susan
My First Award - 5 Guilty Pleasures - This is going to be tough to narrow down! :)
Thank you so much to Rachel at Rachel Thin Within for nominating me! This is going to be fun. I told my husband and he said - how are you ever going to narrow down all your guilty pleasures. Very funny - huh!!
Here goes. . .
1. Sex and the City. I have been addicted since it first came on the air in the late 90's. I remember I used to rush home from weekends in the Hampton's in 1999 to catch it - this was clearly before DVR's, HBO on Demand, and iTunes. I particularly related since I am basically the same age as the girls and was single and living in the city at the time. And I had my own "Mr. Big" like character who wouldn't commit but unlike Carrie he is not my current husband. Now whenever I need an uplift I just watch an old episode. I must have seen all of them no fewer than 10 times each - I can't believe I just admitted that. . .
2. iTunes. Everyone says how can she work, have 3 little kids, and watch so many TV shows. I use a combination of DVR and iTunes. I love to download series of shows that I missed when they were on like Damages - totally amazing. And Rescue Me - another favorite. And for all of you Sex and the City fans I found a show called Mistresses on BBC which was great and like the British version of SATC.
3. I am a Designer Shoe addict. Since having kids and having to pay for nannies, etc I have not been able to support my shoe (and purse) habit. Also gaining weight over the last 7 years has tamed me some since my feet hurt in heels and most shoes. So instead of Manolo's and Jimmy Choos I now wear Stuart Weitzman, Taryn Rose, Donald Pliner, and my comfy Dansko's everyday. However I have already been eyeing some cute Tory Burch wedge sandals for the Spring.
4. Hair and make-up products. I love good make up and shampoo. Laura Mercier is my favorite on the make-up and use Paul Mitchell, Pureology, or Fredric Fekaii for my hair.
5. Fine dining and wine. It wouldn't be a guilty pleasure list without something food related! I LOVE restaurants. Whenever I am going to a new city I check out the Zagat's guide for the best restaurants. I also love drinking wine although have cut back a lot even before my surgery and try to only drink when out.
Now to nominate three bloggers. I don't think I have the links right but are: Angie at This Banded Mom's Journey, Momto4redheads at Canadian Girl With a Band, and MLM at Banded to Lose.
Here goes. . .
1. Sex and the City. I have been addicted since it first came on the air in the late 90's. I remember I used to rush home from weekends in the Hampton's in 1999 to catch it - this was clearly before DVR's, HBO on Demand, and iTunes. I particularly related since I am basically the same age as the girls and was single and living in the city at the time. And I had my own "Mr. Big" like character who wouldn't commit but unlike Carrie he is not my current husband. Now whenever I need an uplift I just watch an old episode. I must have seen all of them no fewer than 10 times each - I can't believe I just admitted that. . .
2. iTunes. Everyone says how can she work, have 3 little kids, and watch so many TV shows. I use a combination of DVR and iTunes. I love to download series of shows that I missed when they were on like Damages - totally amazing. And Rescue Me - another favorite. And for all of you Sex and the City fans I found a show called Mistresses on BBC which was great and like the British version of SATC.
3. I am a Designer Shoe addict. Since having kids and having to pay for nannies, etc I have not been able to support my shoe (and purse) habit. Also gaining weight over the last 7 years has tamed me some since my feet hurt in heels and most shoes. So instead of Manolo's and Jimmy Choos I now wear Stuart Weitzman, Taryn Rose, Donald Pliner, and my comfy Dansko's everyday. However I have already been eyeing some cute Tory Burch wedge sandals for the Spring.
4. Hair and make-up products. I love good make up and shampoo. Laura Mercier is my favorite on the make-up and use Paul Mitchell, Pureology, or Fredric Fekaii for my hair.
5. Fine dining and wine. It wouldn't be a guilty pleasure list without something food related! I LOVE restaurants. Whenever I am going to a new city I check out the Zagat's guide for the best restaurants. I also love drinking wine although have cut back a lot even before my surgery and try to only drink when out.
Now to nominate three bloggers. I don't think I have the links right but are: Angie at This Banded Mom's Journey, Momto4redheads at Canadian Girl With a Band, and MLM at Banded to Lose.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Officially down 25 lbs from high! One Month Bandiversary
Has it really only been a month? It feels like so much longer since I began my new way of life. I honestly can not remember the last time I stuck to a program like this. And it really hasn't been that difficult. Well, maybe recently has gotten tougher but am hoping with my first fill on Tuesday that I won't be as hungry. And I am just enjoying blogging and meeting all of your through your blogs so much! I can't tell you how much the comments and support help.
I loved my time in NYC. I don't think I appreciated it enough when I lived there - all I wanted was a husband, kids, and house in Connecticut. Well - I have that now and wouldn't you know I miss my days in NYC. Luckily for my job I have to go in some but not too much. Commuting from where I live is at least an hour on the train and too much for everyday - although I used to do it.
This morning I weighed in and was down 0.5 lbs since Sunday - which I am very happy about since all of my meals since Monday have been out. And it brings me to my 25 lb total. My next short term goal is to lose another 5 lbs by February 7th when I leave on my next trip to Bermuda. I think if I stick to my treadmill walking and the liquids following my fill should help me get there.
On the home front - today is another snow day which is quite frustrating since I have a lot of errands to do. Our Au Pair is going to Hawaii for a week which will make it tough for me to get much done outside of work.
No major plans this weekend other than to watch the JETS game on Sunday. Would be so amazing for them to be in the Superbowl for the first time since 1969!
Off to get a couple of miles in on the treadmill - the best part about working from home. Take my blackberry down to our basement gym with me so I can answer e mails and if someone calls I am "in the bathroom" :) Would have been nice if I got on this program 2 years ago instead of gaining 30+ lbs but as they say better late than never. . .
Have a great day!
I loved my time in NYC. I don't think I appreciated it enough when I lived there - all I wanted was a husband, kids, and house in Connecticut. Well - I have that now and wouldn't you know I miss my days in NYC. Luckily for my job I have to go in some but not too much. Commuting from where I live is at least an hour on the train and too much for everyday - although I used to do it.
This morning I weighed in and was down 0.5 lbs since Sunday - which I am very happy about since all of my meals since Monday have been out. And it brings me to my 25 lb total. My next short term goal is to lose another 5 lbs by February 7th when I leave on my next trip to Bermuda. I think if I stick to my treadmill walking and the liquids following my fill should help me get there.
On the home front - today is another snow day which is quite frustrating since I have a lot of errands to do. Our Au Pair is going to Hawaii for a week which will make it tough for me to get much done outside of work.
No major plans this weekend other than to watch the JETS game on Sunday. Would be so amazing for them to be in the Superbowl for the first time since 1969!
Off to get a couple of miles in on the treadmill - the best part about working from home. Take my blackberry down to our basement gym with me so I can answer e mails and if someone calls I am "in the bathroom" :) Would have been nice if I got on this program 2 years ago instead of gaining 30+ lbs but as they say better late than never. . .
Have a great day!
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Discovering I can eat way too much. . . am definitely in Bandster Hell. Can't wait for my 1st fill!
First - welcome to my new followers! So happy to have you - if you have a blog please leave me a message with the link so I can make sure to follow you too.
As I have commented in previous posts I have been so careful and good about eating, almost afraid to push the limit. Well I am discovering I can eat more than I expected I could and not really feeling any restriction.
I left on a 3 day business trip yesterday to Baltimore and NYC. Had lunch with my husband before I got on the train at Capital Grille - so delicious and lunch is "relatively" reasonable. I ordered the sirloin salad which was basically a sliced steak with salad on the side. I was only able to eat 2 out of 8 pieces of the steak and most of the salad. I was very full on the train.
At night I had dinner with my boss and ordered crab appetizer (always good in Maryland) and rockfish for dinner that was amazing but I was only able to eat half of each. I feel so guilty eating food where I don't know what the calories are and I need to just get over it. Plus even eating half of each seems like a lot compared to the dinners I make myself at home where I can measure things.
I went to the hotel gym - my new thing :) this morning at 6:00 am and did 30 minutes on the treadmill so am doing well with my exercise. I had to be ready by 7:30 so it was all I could manage. I didn't have time to find someone to make my protein shake so was thrilled that at our breakfast meeting there was Chobani yogurt. Then took the train back to NYC and had cottage cheese and fruit. Met a friend for lunch at Bar Americain - another great meal and had some tuna tartare which has become one of my favorite band friendly things to order out since it is already cut into such small pieces and then we shared a cobb salad with no bacon - another thing I like to order out because I eat the chicken, egg white, and a bit of the avocado and cheese. Today I feel like I ate too much of the cheese.
I am meeting some friends for drinks and then out to dinner again. I feel like I am living my old single life in NYC and. . . I am loving it! But I know that on Thursday I have my husband and 3 delicious boys to go home to. And it is too hard to diet like this. The band is keeping me in check somewhat but I really can't wait to have the restriction and hope my first fill on Tuesday helps.
I saw a picture of myself from the baby shower I went to on Sunday and was not happy. And that was after losing 24 lbs. . .so hopefully that will help me make good decisions at dinner.
I don't know if I will be able to get to the gym in the morning since the car service is picking my up at 7:15 am. But considering I have walked at least 30 minutes on the treadmill for each of the last 7 days - I can take a one day break.
Off to Lavo, an chic relatively new restaurant off Madison Ave to meet some girlfriends before having dinner with another of my bosses.
xoxo Susan
As I have commented in previous posts I have been so careful and good about eating, almost afraid to push the limit. Well I am discovering I can eat more than I expected I could and not really feeling any restriction.
I left on a 3 day business trip yesterday to Baltimore and NYC. Had lunch with my husband before I got on the train at Capital Grille - so delicious and lunch is "relatively" reasonable. I ordered the sirloin salad which was basically a sliced steak with salad on the side. I was only able to eat 2 out of 8 pieces of the steak and most of the salad. I was very full on the train.
At night I had dinner with my boss and ordered crab appetizer (always good in Maryland) and rockfish for dinner that was amazing but I was only able to eat half of each. I feel so guilty eating food where I don't know what the calories are and I need to just get over it. Plus even eating half of each seems like a lot compared to the dinners I make myself at home where I can measure things.
I went to the hotel gym - my new thing :) this morning at 6:00 am and did 30 minutes on the treadmill so am doing well with my exercise. I had to be ready by 7:30 so it was all I could manage. I didn't have time to find someone to make my protein shake so was thrilled that at our breakfast meeting there was Chobani yogurt. Then took the train back to NYC and had cottage cheese and fruit. Met a friend for lunch at Bar Americain - another great meal and had some tuna tartare which has become one of my favorite band friendly things to order out since it is already cut into such small pieces and then we shared a cobb salad with no bacon - another thing I like to order out because I eat the chicken, egg white, and a bit of the avocado and cheese. Today I feel like I ate too much of the cheese.
I am meeting some friends for drinks and then out to dinner again. I feel like I am living my old single life in NYC and. . . I am loving it! But I know that on Thursday I have my husband and 3 delicious boys to go home to. And it is too hard to diet like this. The band is keeping me in check somewhat but I really can't wait to have the restriction and hope my first fill on Tuesday helps.
I saw a picture of myself from the baby shower I went to on Sunday and was not happy. And that was after losing 24 lbs. . .so hopefully that will help me make good decisions at dinner.
I don't know if I will be able to get to the gym in the morning since the car service is picking my up at 7:15 am. But considering I have walked at least 30 minutes on the treadmill for each of the last 7 days - I can take a one day break.
Off to Lavo, an chic relatively new restaurant off Madison Ave to meet some girlfriends before having dinner with another of my bosses.
xoxo Susan
Friday, January 14, 2011
Lapband mentioned on The View today
Did anyone see The View? They had a girl who is a food addict and someone who wrote a book about food addiction. She said she had Lapband surgery and gained weight because she ate all the slider food - milkshakes, etc. It was disappointing to hear the failure on TV although we all know it can happen. It gave me more motivation to prove that I will be successful and "failure is just not an option"!
I am feeling no restriction and am starting to eat more and more food rather than mushies but so far so good with portions. My willpower is holding! So now that I am not really sore anymore it feels like I am just on a diet and didn't even have the surgery. I can't wait to start getting filled on the 25th. 10 more days :) Let's hope I can hold out and kick this Bandster Hell's butt.
My business trip to Bermuda went really well. I had so much more confidence giving me presentation in front of everyone down only 22 lbs (now it is closer to 24!) and I know I am going to feel so much better every week. I have a pretty busy schedule for the next few months so I need to keep it up. I will be back in Bermuda in early February for our Board meeting, have a big Conference in NYC the following week. Early March another great Conference in Naples, Florida that rather than dreading as I have the last few years I will be looking forward to as I used to many years ago. And a trip to San Francisco in May.
I am really proud of myself for working out in the hotel gym. That is truly a first for me to do it consistently for 3 days. This next week will be tougher but I am going to try.
The best part of my Bermuda trip was the flight home. I got to fly on a G-4 plane - which I didn't really know what it was but is a private Gulfstream Jet. I flew with some senior execs from my company who fly on NetJets a few times a month. Their plane was upgraded and so we got to ride home in real luxury. We were having wine (I did indulge for the first time at 30,000 feet above and thankfully didn't get sick but I could feel the difference drinking wine with the band) and watching the sunset. It was pretty amazing!
The second best part was getting on the scale post trip and being 1.5 lbs lighter! Typically after 3 days of eating, drinking, and sitting in meetings I would come home up 5 lbs that would never come off.
Tonight my husband and I took the boys to see Gulliver's Travels (wait for it to come on DVD) and then out to a burger place for dinner. I had a Greek yogurt snack at the movies that I smuggled in and for dinner I ordered a cobb salad with no bacon. I ate the chicken, some avocado, and the egg whites.
Have a pretty busy weekend. Tomorrow taking the boys to see Mickey Mouse on Ice. Sunday a couples baby shower for one of the girls who used to work for me who is pregnant with twins. And Monday taking the train down to Baltimore and will have dinner with my boss before our roadshow of meetings on Tuesday and Wednesday. It should be interesting since I did not tell him about the band yet - not that I am embarrassed but I just don't want people to watch what I eat - and I want to make sure that I am successful.
Hope everyone has a terrific weekend and those of you in the Northeast - stay warm! It is freezing out!
xoxo Susan
I am feeling no restriction and am starting to eat more and more food rather than mushies but so far so good with portions. My willpower is holding! So now that I am not really sore anymore it feels like I am just on a diet and didn't even have the surgery. I can't wait to start getting filled on the 25th. 10 more days :) Let's hope I can hold out and kick this Bandster Hell's butt.
My business trip to Bermuda went really well. I had so much more confidence giving me presentation in front of everyone down only 22 lbs (now it is closer to 24!) and I know I am going to feel so much better every week. I have a pretty busy schedule for the next few months so I need to keep it up. I will be back in Bermuda in early February for our Board meeting, have a big Conference in NYC the following week. Early March another great Conference in Naples, Florida that rather than dreading as I have the last few years I will be looking forward to as I used to many years ago. And a trip to San Francisco in May.
I am really proud of myself for working out in the hotel gym. That is truly a first for me to do it consistently for 3 days. This next week will be tougher but I am going to try.
The best part of my Bermuda trip was the flight home. I got to fly on a G-4 plane - which I didn't really know what it was but is a private Gulfstream Jet. I flew with some senior execs from my company who fly on NetJets a few times a month. Their plane was upgraded and so we got to ride home in real luxury. We were having wine (I did indulge for the first time at 30,000 feet above and thankfully didn't get sick but I could feel the difference drinking wine with the band) and watching the sunset. It was pretty amazing!
The second best part was getting on the scale post trip and being 1.5 lbs lighter! Typically after 3 days of eating, drinking, and sitting in meetings I would come home up 5 lbs that would never come off.
Tonight my husband and I took the boys to see Gulliver's Travels (wait for it to come on DVD) and then out to a burger place for dinner. I had a Greek yogurt snack at the movies that I smuggled in and for dinner I ordered a cobb salad with no bacon. I ate the chicken, some avocado, and the egg whites.
Have a pretty busy weekend. Tomorrow taking the boys to see Mickey Mouse on Ice. Sunday a couples baby shower for one of the girls who used to work for me who is pregnant with twins. And Monday taking the train down to Baltimore and will have dinner with my boss before our roadshow of meetings on Tuesday and Wednesday. It should be interesting since I did not tell him about the band yet - not that I am embarrassed but I just don't want people to watch what I eat - and I want to make sure that I am successful.
Hope everyone has a terrific weekend and those of you in the Northeast - stay warm! It is freezing out!
xoxo Susan
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Major NSV for me!
I have been traveling on business for twenty years and can count on one hand the number of times I have gone to a hotel gym. This morning up at 5:30 am Bermuda time which is 4:30 EST and I hit the gym at my hotel to walk 40 minutes on the treadmill. I am really proud of myself for doing it and it felt great. I didn't let my usual fears of running into someone at the hotel or the gym and having them see me in workout clothes get to me. After all - they see me dressed and know what I look like so seeing me workout and adapt a healthier lifestyle would only be a plus!
Last night went out to a restaurant and had delicious Tuna Tartare and had no issues. I was full enough and willpower kept me from eating anything else that I knew would slide down.
I just hope I can keep it up. Blogging about it definitely helps.
In about an hour I have to give a presentation to our entire senior management team - I know that if I hadn't lost the 22 lbs I would definitely be self conscious and even though 22 is only a small amount compared to what I need to lose, I just have so much more confidence and feel better. Remember one of the things that pushed me to the surgery was that I felt my weight was going to hold me back professionally. Will let you know how it goes :)
Good-bye for now. . .hope everyone has a great day!
Last night went out to a restaurant and had delicious Tuna Tartare and had no issues. I was full enough and willpower kept me from eating anything else that I knew would slide down.
I just hope I can keep it up. Blogging about it definitely helps.
In about an hour I have to give a presentation to our entire senior management team - I know that if I hadn't lost the 22 lbs I would definitely be self conscious and even though 22 is only a small amount compared to what I need to lose, I just have so much more confidence and feel better. Remember one of the things that pushed me to the surgery was that I felt my weight was going to hold me back professionally. Will let you know how it goes :)
Good-bye for now. . .hope everyone has a great day!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
"Failure is not an option!!"
I read it on someone's blog and it is really helping me because I feel the same way. Tomorrow it will be 3 weeks since I was banded. I am down 22 lbs as of this morning and really feeling great. I am following all the rules - eating 4-5 small meals every 3 hours and while I don't really feel the restriction, I am full after a small amount. Drinking a lot of water, not drinking an hour after meals, and I have been walking on my treadmill for 40 minutes every day. I do have to use willpower a lot with foods that I know I wouldn't have any trouble with the band. But everytime I get tempted I just think about the extreme that I had to do to lose weight. Honestly I remember myself lying in pain in the recovery room and the couple of days after surgery. (For anyone not banded it was not terrible and I would do it again in an instant!) I am determined not to give in to the Bandster Hell.
Today we went to visit my cousin for her birthday and my sister stopped by. They hadn't seen me since 5 days out - when I was down about 8 lbs. They both totally saw the difference and that felt good. When we said good-bye I said "Next time you see me I will be smaller" and it felt great because I know it will be true. We live about an hour away and I likely won't see them until the end of the month at my son's birthday party.
Tomorrow I go on a business trip to Bermuda for our semi-annual senior management meetings. I will be with a group of 30 eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner for 3 days. I am actually not even nervous. Last time I was there (pre-op diet) I just told people I was doing a protein shake diet if I felt the need and will likely do the same. I have packed up some protein shakes. The person planning knows about my band and told me there will be soup at every meal so I will just stick to that. And I am sure there will be plenty of yogurt too. There is a store across from the hotel that sells Chobani.
I am really looking forward to being away. My boys are exhausting and since I work at home when I am not traveling I really look forward to these trips. I will actually be away a couple of days next week too but just in NYC and Baltimore. Luckily my husband is fantastic, we have our au pair that lives in, and a babysitter that helps out 3 mornings a week.
Hope everyone had a great weekend. Will post from Bermuda and maybe get a nice picture or two to put up.
xoxo Susan
Today we went to visit my cousin for her birthday and my sister stopped by. They hadn't seen me since 5 days out - when I was down about 8 lbs. They both totally saw the difference and that felt good. When we said good-bye I said "Next time you see me I will be smaller" and it felt great because I know it will be true. We live about an hour away and I likely won't see them until the end of the month at my son's birthday party.
Tomorrow I go on a business trip to Bermuda for our semi-annual senior management meetings. I will be with a group of 30 eating breakfast, lunch, and dinner for 3 days. I am actually not even nervous. Last time I was there (pre-op diet) I just told people I was doing a protein shake diet if I felt the need and will likely do the same. I have packed up some protein shakes. The person planning knows about my band and told me there will be soup at every meal so I will just stick to that. And I am sure there will be plenty of yogurt too. There is a store across from the hotel that sells Chobani.
I am really looking forward to being away. My boys are exhausting and since I work at home when I am not traveling I really look forward to these trips. I will actually be away a couple of days next week too but just in NYC and Baltimore. Luckily my husband is fantastic, we have our au pair that lives in, and a babysitter that helps out 3 mornings a week.
Hope everyone had a great weekend. Will post from Bermuda and maybe get a nice picture or two to put up.
xoxo Susan
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Catch up - been a busy week! Down 21 lbs!
It has been a hectic week but everything is going really well. I am now down 21 lbs and it feels terrific!!
On Tuesday I had my post-op follow up appointment and met with the nutritionist. They said I am doing great and put me on "soft solids". To be honest I am still kind of scared and more comfortable with my mushies! I know I need to move on and try and so I will. Yesterday I was also in NYC in the afternoon and I didn't want to chance it so I had pureed vegetable soup for lunch. By the time I took the train home at 8:00 pm I was STARVING. When I got off the train I met my two best girlfriends who were out to dinner at a restaurant nearby. It was one of those brick oven Italian places and I was able to order a side of meatballs with some extra sauce in case they were dry. They were so delicious! Really soft and moist. I had 1 1/2 and then had to stop. Now typically when I would go to this restaurant I would have pizza, cheese, fried calamari, pasta -and 2 glasses of wine. Italian food is definitely my favorite. The check would be about $50. Last night had my meatballs and was satisfied - I didn't even need the wine - and my check was $5.30! How amazing is that??? It felt really good to go out to a place that I went to prior to surgery and be able to eat something tasty. . . and cheap!
On the exercise front - I did 1.75 miles on the treadmill on Monday, missed Tuesday because in NYC most of the day, did 1.5 miles yesterday morning before I started working - totally one of the benefits from working from home. In fact I am going to sneak in today's walk shortly. . .
I am going to try having some scrambled eggs with cheese for lunch. I have really been focusing on my protein intake and not having anything that doesn't supply some protein. Except for my SF jello and pudding snack that I have at night.
I know I need to drink more water and will focus on that. On Monday I have my semi-annual management meetings in Bermuda and am hoping to be down another 4 lbs. I know a lot to ask and will be tough but would be great. 2 more lbs would be nice too. Am I getting greedy :)
Have a great day!
On Tuesday I had my post-op follow up appointment and met with the nutritionist. They said I am doing great and put me on "soft solids". To be honest I am still kind of scared and more comfortable with my mushies! I know I need to move on and try and so I will. Yesterday I was also in NYC in the afternoon and I didn't want to chance it so I had pureed vegetable soup for lunch. By the time I took the train home at 8:00 pm I was STARVING. When I got off the train I met my two best girlfriends who were out to dinner at a restaurant nearby. It was one of those brick oven Italian places and I was able to order a side of meatballs with some extra sauce in case they were dry. They were so delicious! Really soft and moist. I had 1 1/2 and then had to stop. Now typically when I would go to this restaurant I would have pizza, cheese, fried calamari, pasta -and 2 glasses of wine. Italian food is definitely my favorite. The check would be about $50. Last night had my meatballs and was satisfied - I didn't even need the wine - and my check was $5.30! How amazing is that??? It felt really good to go out to a place that I went to prior to surgery and be able to eat something tasty. . . and cheap!
On the exercise front - I did 1.75 miles on the treadmill on Monday, missed Tuesday because in NYC most of the day, did 1.5 miles yesterday morning before I started working - totally one of the benefits from working from home. In fact I am going to sneak in today's walk shortly. . .
I am going to try having some scrambled eggs with cheese for lunch. I have really been focusing on my protein intake and not having anything that doesn't supply some protein. Except for my SF jello and pudding snack that I have at night.
I know I need to drink more water and will focus on that. On Monday I have my semi-annual management meetings in Bermuda and am hoping to be down another 4 lbs. I know a lot to ask and will be tough but would be great. 2 more lbs would be nice too. Am I getting greedy :)
Have a great day!
Monday, January 3, 2011
Two Week Bandiversary
Okay - I know it must be annoying to some of you who don't like the word Bandiversary so I promise from now on I will only do 1 month, 3 month, 6 month, 1 year, etc. :)
Just so hard to believe it was only 2 weeks ago tonight that I had my surgery.
I am feeling really good :)
Still on mushies and eating mostly chili, soup and protein shakes. I did make some egg salad with low fat mayo which was great and tomorrow I might try chicken salad. To get more protein I have been adding pureed chicken to my chili and soups.
Tomorrow I have my first follow up with the doctor and the nutritionist - and a WEIGH IN! From my highest I am down about 19 lbs but I had lost about 5 before my first visit to the doctor right around Thanksgiving.
I do feel like I could eat more than I am so sheer willpower is what is driving me right now. I look forward to the fills and seeing what real restriction is like.
I have been great about exercising and walked for 1.5 miles on the treadmill today. Tomorrow I have to go to NYC to the doctor and then I have another appointment. Also want to visit a friend who is 26 weeks pregnant with twins and was just hospitalized and put on bed rest. I don't know anymore details but am praying she is okay. Something about her cervix being shorter than it should be at this stage.
I am really feeling so good and know that as the year progresses I am going to just feel better and better. I already have more energy and it is easier to get up in the morning. I can't wait to start fitting into some old clothes.
Until tomorrow. . .
Just so hard to believe it was only 2 weeks ago tonight that I had my surgery.
I am feeling really good :)
Still on mushies and eating mostly chili, soup and protein shakes. I did make some egg salad with low fat mayo which was great and tomorrow I might try chicken salad. To get more protein I have been adding pureed chicken to my chili and soups.
Tomorrow I have my first follow up with the doctor and the nutritionist - and a WEIGH IN! From my highest I am down about 19 lbs but I had lost about 5 before my first visit to the doctor right around Thanksgiving.
I do feel like I could eat more than I am so sheer willpower is what is driving me right now. I look forward to the fills and seeing what real restriction is like.
I have been great about exercising and walked for 1.5 miles on the treadmill today. Tomorrow I have to go to NYC to the doctor and then I have another appointment. Also want to visit a friend who is 26 weeks pregnant with twins and was just hospitalized and put on bed rest. I don't know anymore details but am praying she is okay. Something about her cervix being shorter than it should be at this stage.
I am really feeling so good and know that as the year progresses I am going to just feel better and better. I already have more energy and it is easier to get up in the morning. I can't wait to start fitting into some old clothes.
Until tomorrow. . .
Sunday, January 2, 2011
New Year's Eve Pictures
Me and two of my boys
I am learning how to post pictures and will get some good "before" ones up!
I am learning how to post pictures and will get some good "before" ones up!
I gotta feeling. . .
2011 is going to be a great year!!
My word is hopeful and I actually feel in control of my weight destiny. We had a great New Year's Eve - hibatchi with friends and kids and then went to see the fireworks display in our town which was really amazing. I was fine just having soup and tea and didn't even miss drinking. Our bill was so much cheaper too. Saving money on dining and drinking is going to be a huge plus of the band!
On New Year's Day we just relaxed. I have been diligent about my walking on the treadmill - yesterday walked 2 miles in 46 minutes but I do think I overdid it a bit b/c I had a mild cramp in my side all day and was freaking I did something to my stitches. Today it is fine though. My surgeon's instructions are to walk 30 minutes a day as long as you are comfortable. I think I better stick to the 30 minutes for now.
We went out for brunch yesterday and I thought the place we went to would have chili but they didn't so I just sipped water. I don't know where this amazing will power is coming from and I am praying that it lasts.
So still having my craving for chili - I picked up some Wendy's chili for dinner - pureed it with some low fat cheese and it was delicious! I also pureed a piece of baked potato with broccoli and just a bit of low fat sour cream to keep it most. I was very full but a really satisfying pureed dinner.
Looking forward to my first doctor appointment on Tuesday and official weigh in at the office. And tomorrow it is back to work. Have a great day!
My word is hopeful and I actually feel in control of my weight destiny. We had a great New Year's Eve - hibatchi with friends and kids and then went to see the fireworks display in our town which was really amazing. I was fine just having soup and tea and didn't even miss drinking. Our bill was so much cheaper too. Saving money on dining and drinking is going to be a huge plus of the band!
On New Year's Day we just relaxed. I have been diligent about my walking on the treadmill - yesterday walked 2 miles in 46 minutes but I do think I overdid it a bit b/c I had a mild cramp in my side all day and was freaking I did something to my stitches. Today it is fine though. My surgeon's instructions are to walk 30 minutes a day as long as you are comfortable. I think I better stick to the 30 minutes for now.
We went out for brunch yesterday and I thought the place we went to would have chili but they didn't so I just sipped water. I don't know where this amazing will power is coming from and I am praying that it lasts.
So still having my craving for chili - I picked up some Wendy's chili for dinner - pureed it with some low fat cheese and it was delicious! I also pureed a piece of baked potato with broccoli and just a bit of low fat sour cream to keep it most. I was very full but a really satisfying pureed dinner.
Looking forward to my first doctor appointment on Tuesday and official weigh in at the office. And tomorrow it is back to work. Have a great day!