tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28948593264175428572024-03-14T11:18:16.823-07:00Journey to a New MeThe journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.comBlogger109125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-64853128037715865022011-07-16T18:40:00.000-07:002011-07-16T18:41:24.335-07:00New size!Okay so I haven't lost any weight lately...but I have lost a few inches. I'm hovering between 156-163lbs, a medium top and as of today here is my new pant size:<br />
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Seriously!!! A size 11 JUNIORS!!! *No...I did not pay full price for them either*<br />
Apparently my Mom as well as a few of my co-workers have complained that all I wear is yoga pants, which is pretty much true. In my defense, yoga pants are comfy, stretchy and breathable. They have been the only pants in which the butt does NOT sag...nor is the waist too tight or too loose. It is so much easier for me to wear the yoga pants as opposed to find a pair of pants that actually fit me. <br />
Anyhow....during lunch at work the other day, the following commercial came on t.v....in which my co-workers all looked at me and started laughing saying "This is YOU!" This is sad...but yes....this is me..enjoy:<br />
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</div>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-77643936259680100742011-06-09T17:33:00.000-07:002011-06-09T17:33:36.416-07:00Oye...carbs...So about two weeks ago, I started adding in steel cut rolled oats into my diet.<br />
I figured that A) it's got plenty of fiber and B) I LOVE a cinnamony cup of oatmeal from time to time.<br />
Well...since then I have added Kashi cereal *aka 35 g CARB* as well as pb crackers *aka 20gCARB*<br />
What is the result of adding these carbs into my diet??? I will tell you...<u>MASSIVE CARB CRAVINGS</u>! <br />
It becomes more and more apparent everyday that I am a carb-junky. I cannot do just a little bit of carbs and be okay. *Carbs meaning any types of flour, wheat, pasta, bread, starchy veggies*<br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I wish I could be that RNY patient that can eat what they want in moderation...but I'm NOT. My body tends to lean towards the glucose intolerant side. I mean it when I say that I feel like a drug addict when it comes to carbs. Just a little...and it's ALL down hill from there!</div><br />
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Anyhow, to rectify the situation, I have gone through my pantry and gotten rid of all icky carby products.<br />
I did keep a few packs of s.f. oatmeal that only has 15 carbs a serving. If I do get a 'hankering' for carbs and <u>all</u> other backup plans fail....I will make this with half a scoop of protein powder and lots of cinnamon. This will A.) satisfy carb craving and B.) give me around 15 grams of protein. Most oatmeal has 20+ g carbs per serving, so this product is the lesser of the evils. Again...this is last resort only.<br />
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</div>Sadly, I have gained 2 lbs in the last two weeks....BUT onward and upward!! *And by upward I am not talking about the weight on the scale!!* LOL<br />
I know what to do now, and I intend to do it! <br />
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Does anyone else suffer from carb-sensitivity, like me?<br />
<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-79509265622613702002011-05-01T17:15:00.000-07:002011-05-01T17:56:29.812-07:00Oh, I have SO much to update!Well yes...I've been a slacker as far as updating this blog is concerned...BUT I do have good things to report!<br />
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1.) I have found an exercise that is fun, gets me energized and makes me feel amazing!! What is this amazing exercise??? ZUMBA!! I have seen all the ads and infomercials on ZUMBA and thought...yeah...it's dancing...whoopie.... Well, a girl I work with has been asking me to attend a local ZUMBA class for awhile..and I finally went this past Thursday. <br />
It was 60 minutes (though it only felt like 20) of high energy, motivating awesomeness! Naturally the girl that invited me is skinny, beautiful and use to do aerobics for many many years. I don't know how, but I kept up with her! <br />
It was the first time, in I cannot tell you how long, that I got lost in what I was doing and loved it. I have found my new stress/fun outlet!!<br />
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2.) I am currently hovering between 158-159 (no 160's!! yay!!) <br />
I'm hoping that with the ZUMBA I will get off the rest of the weight. Realistically...I will be quite content at 150. *even though BMI I am suppose to weigh between 135-145 lbs*<br />
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3.) Carb wise I am between 28-35 carbs per day, 6 days a week...on the 7th day I allow myself to indulge a little bit...to around 50 carbs.<br />
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4.) For awhile, I've been wanting to reward myself for losing 130+ lbs. Nothing sounded good: ie: clothes, day at the spa etc. Well after having a much needed 'girl's weekend' with some ladies I work with, it dawned on me...I want a tattoo! Naturally being a RNY patient that has lost weight, I love the whole concept of butterflies. I love butterflies anyways...but now they have more meaning to me. Okay, you may not know this about me...but I do NOT like pain. I'm a wuss...nay.. I am a despiser of pain lol<br />
How I got through even getting the tattoo is beyond me. I got a small pink/purple butterfly on the top of my foot-somewhere I could hide it if need be. This is a hug milestone for me and I wanted something meaningful as a reminder of this milestone. Will I get another tattoo...probably not! I did it though, and I have absolutely no regrets. :-)<br />
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I can tell that my body is changing still. My face is a lot thinner, as is my arms and legs. Sadly, the boobs have shrunk waaaay too much. The only 'flab-ish' parts I have are my upper back *around the bra area* and the belly. I can't help but wonder how much of this is just loose skin from me being so obese before. <br />
Sadly, I have already had thoughts of wanting plastic surgery one day. Nothing major like a tummy tuck *ouch! I have seen these done where I work and they look painful!* I was thinking more along the lines of a breast lift/augmentation...just to get the 'girls' looking normal again. I don't want Dolly Parton boobs, but I would like something better than deflated balloons.... Again...this is 'one day'...meaning no time soon. And who knows, maybe I will just grow to love every part of me and just forget the surgery idea! <br />
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I hope I do grow to love my imperfections. I think the world is so engrossed in the idea of 'perfection'. Yes I have stretch marks and excess skin and my body does not look very proportioned at present....but it's me. I feel a million times better NOW than I EVER have in my life! I feel like the inner me is finally lining up with the outer me. I can remember many, many times that I looked in the mirror and expected to see someone smaller, and healthier...only to see an obese/depressed girl looking back at me. In my mind's eye, I still see myself as the obese/depressed girl...but when I look in the mirror I see what I should've seen all along...a happy/healthy girl ready to take on the world!<br />
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I stumbled upon a photo the other day. It's a photo my Mom took while I was in the hospital, after I had my RNY surgery. *Side story before I show the pic*<br />
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My current boyfriend and I dated about 7 years ago. Although we dearly loved each other, we were both not ready to be in a relationship at that time, for many reasons. Over the course of 5 years, I would get an email from him from time to time just checking in on me-but nothing more.<br />
Fast forward to November 24th, 2009.........<br />
I'm laying in a hospital bed, looking quite disheveled-hooked up to IV lines and all that jazz. I had just gotten back from the recovery unit and somehow walked from the stretcher to my bed. I remember talking with my Mom...and then all of a sudden she looked out the door of the room and her jaw drops. She looked at me and said, "Amy, you'll never guess who's here..." Naturally, I'm all goofy from the Morphine and say, "Ha ha...that would be funny if it was 'C' ..." At that same moment, 'C' walked right into my room. <br />
It gets kind of foggy, but I remember him giving me a stuffed animal-bird and feeding me ice chips. <br />
We started dating only 2 months after he came back into my life that night in my hospital room. I was in love with him 5 years ago, and even more in love with him now. He told me that he thought I was beautiful laying in that hospital bed, even though I weighed 290lbs... I knew that if he could love the 'obese me', that he could love the 'healthy me'.<br />
And now the picture.....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhekbCaatGrtMo5wTdjbEZcLf-iqxw792BQq1KyIbJoR1ZgBNDPl_SGpfGZJURC1lR5GNwTyqCMGPeAT0TY37EzU5m_m76prguxIRJv2bU0Z55LpOgKg8mFwWyj61HOH03AAgyyioAzjCPp/s1600/craig+and+amy+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" j8="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhekbCaatGrtMo5wTdjbEZcLf-iqxw792BQq1KyIbJoR1ZgBNDPl_SGpfGZJURC1lR5GNwTyqCMGPeAT0TY37EzU5m_m76prguxIRJv2bU0Z55LpOgKg8mFwWyj61HOH03AAgyyioAzjCPp/s320/craig+and+amy+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-2353973826230957232011-03-17T02:55:00.000-07:002011-03-17T02:55:52.981-07:00Being honest with myself...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="379" src="http://dl7.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2029/2029357mx0k1azbl6.gif" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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So I've been batteling the +4 and -4 lbs...but why? I still have a ways to go to get to goal!<br />
Well, in a nutshell, I have NOT been honest with myself. <br />
Renegade thoughts like, "Oh, you're doing great...this little bit of carb won't hurt" or "it's a special occasion...it's okay"<br />
Get the picture??<br />
Well, I've been a member of Sparkpeople website for quite a few years. I log food entries, exercise etc. It's a free website with LOTS of excellent resources for a healthier lifestyle. <br />
Well, this morning I open my email and get this blog entry from a fellow member:<br />
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<em>Being Honest With Myself </em><em><br />
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<em>If I told you I found the secret to success and happiness; if I told you that you could wrap up all of your self-help books and sell them at the book and music exchange; if I told you that you never had to track your food or exercise, ever again you wouldn't believe me, would you? You'd be anticipating that now famous line "But wait there's more..." Well, friends I found it, quite by accident, but I found it and it's as plain as the nose on my face. It's called honesty, more specifically being honest with myself. I can be honest with and about you until the cows come home. I can be supportive and loving and all that cool stuff but until I am honest with myself about who and what I am and how far I need to travel, then it's just a really nice exercise.</em><em><br />
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<em>BTW: Honesty does not mean beating yourself up. It's why we are afraid to examine it. Some brilliant person many eons ago took the basic principle of physics and applied it to everything in God's creation: "For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction." We've taken that maxim and engraved it upon our souls altering it to mean "For every fault there should be an equal amount of guilt, pain and frustration and oh BTW I'll never into my dream outfit!!!"</em><br />
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<em>So let me be honest</em><br />
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<em>I abuse food. It's my drug of choice. Everything I have learned in the past fifty seven years tells me what is good for my body and what will ultimately harm it. I choose to ignore those warnings. I'd rather dwell on how difficult it is and give myself a pass. My grocery store has two entrances. The first leads you right into the produce and health food departments. That's where all the good stuff is. The second entrance barely allows you the opportunity to catch your breath when you are accosted by a display of cookies, cakes donuts, pies or candy, depending on the time of week or the season. I know when I walk through door two I am most likely going to grab something that isn't good for me. It may taste good. It may provide some gastric pleasure, but when I step on the scale every Thursday I really shouldn't be too surprised when the needle doesn't move, should I? If I walk through door number one I am more likely to get a more positive result. Door two tastes better but door one gives me a long term result... one I am looking for.</em><em><br />
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<em>Honesty drives everything about us. Only I know when I'm not telling you the truth but in short order it begins to show. When I am not honest with myself I get results because I can adjust the way I live to help me reach my goals and objectives. When I tell myself "it's okay to cheat," then as my trainer told me once when I wouldn't hold a plank correctly, "The only person you are cheating is yourself, John." Amen. </em><br />
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<em>You don't need to take a billboard out on the interstate and advertise your flaws. Find out what's holding you back and come up with a plan to deal with it. Pat yourself on the back for being brilliant enough to think of it. Honesty has nothing to do with guilt. It has everything to do with seeing how far you've come and realizing how far you have to go. We treat it as a sad occasion but really, isn't it a cause to celebrate? You've found the secret of your success.</em> <br />
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Click <a href="http://www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_journal_individual.asp?blog_id=4062740">here</a> to read his blog <br />
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I don't know about you, but I REALLY needed to read this. It's no wonder why I am not losing anymore weight! Instead of being strict like I should be, I've been allowing far too many things 'sneak' into my daily life that shouldn't be there. <br />
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Hmmm...food for thought...zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-16319194169468218522011-03-08T12:32:00.000-08:002011-03-08T12:32:50.460-08:00WOW...what a week...So my family and I experienced a tragedy last week, my oldest brother died in an accident...he was only 33 years old. We were devastated...needless to say, the last couple of days have sucked as far as my healthy high protein low carb eating goes. <br />
I promised myself that I would find a different 'outlet' for times like this. Sadly, what I've been doing the past 2 days is emotionally eat...nothing ridiculous, but still eating when I'm not hungry.<br />
I still feel numb from the situation...like my body and mind have been shot full of xylocaine. <br />
Anyhow, I'm thankful that I am realizing the situation and as of RIGHT NOW I will nip this in the bud! No more white carbs...my body cannot handle white carbs, potatoes, sweets, bread, rice nor noodles. The past 3 days I've had half of a slice of bread and today a few bites of cake. <br />
My body is really REALLY hating me right now and I want to get off these last 9 lbs!!!<br />
I am still exercising each day, which I'm thankful for...but I'm definitely not losing any weight. <br />
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Shew...how do you all handle stress?? What are some ways to deal with stress in your life that are healthy? I'm thinking reading, blogging, drawing, exercising, sleeping....<br />
Sleep is what I've been deprived of the past week....so my plan is to get to bed early tonight so I can feel better for work tomorrow. <br />
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Sorry that this post is a bit of a bummer, but I promise the next one will be better and more cheerful.<br />
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Until next time..zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-4858811081874883362011-02-27T10:35:00.000-08:002011-02-27T10:35:59.684-08:00Remembering where I came from...Some days, like today, I get a little down on myself. It's so easy to look at all of your imperfections...the things that are STILL not up to par.... <br />
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For example....the infarmous <a href="http://newzamy.blogspot.com/2010/08/happy-day.html">Bat Wing</a>, yes I'm working on this with weight training 2-3 days a week...and it is getting better. But it's hard not to get a little impatient about it.lol<br />
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Another example, even though I've been blessed to lose 128 lbs in 15 months *which is awesome!* I STILL have this nagging line in my head of, "you've STILL got 12 more pounds to lose! Why aren't they aren't off yet! Other people have reached their goal by now!"<br />
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What helps me during times like these are A.) looking at before and after photos B.) comparing my quality of life before RNY and now C.) focusing on the GOOD things that have happened and the good things that WILL happen:<br />
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<strong> Dec 2009</strong> <strong>Feb 2011</strong><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VU3LkOzmulg7VnbpeX7DqFZ8piwFJ1O5N2y8aIHgZ6j76cAhW95yCVvQK7T0IjuZvD4v_6UtRZZ2Ftmiws-hyACcar6PbW7uryLOto8PcXJJGLOUOL32sul574_zwZSVRgKyWRwW9res/s1600/afront1mo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; height: 310px; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; width: 227px;"><img border="0" height="320" l6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3VU3LkOzmulg7VnbpeX7DqFZ8piwFJ1O5N2y8aIHgZ6j76cAhW95yCVvQK7T0IjuZvD4v_6UtRZZ2Ftmiws-hyACcar6PbW7uryLOto8PcXJJGLOUOL32sul574_zwZSVRgKyWRwW9res/s320/afront1mo.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1royAn7S1oAulCCdUk3oZcGSFd-VuT1QJdjI1DubKUYmd4bnsbN8_uoQ3Gbo2s_kshSQD0sJP2i5bU9k8MQcHRRiDleUdUTqNLb7JIaQiSVCzgoHvvMm_GzMHxy-KYl9MQWO1OB5_JFJz/s1600/amy+163+lb+feb+17+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" l6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1royAn7S1oAulCCdUk3oZcGSFd-VuT1QJdjI1DubKUYmd4bnsbN8_uoQ3Gbo2s_kshSQD0sJP2i5bU9k8MQcHRRiDleUdUTqNLb7JIaQiSVCzgoHvvMm_GzMHxy-KYl9MQWO1OB5_JFJz/s400/amy+163+lb+feb+17+2011.jpg" width="145" /></a><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Well, a quote from a wonderfully inspiring lady, Joyce Meyer, hits home for me today,</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"> "I'm not where I need to be but THANK GOD I'm not where I use to be!"</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">AMEN!!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">**Take home message: Focus on the good, NOT the bad!!</div>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-3857034304874374852011-02-20T09:45:00.000-08:002011-02-20T09:45:31.200-08:00Happy Sunday!So today is pretty day #3 here in Tennessee. Everyone is enjoying the beautiful Spring-like weather! Today is suppose to get to 63 degrees *yay!*<br />
I've already gone for my mile walk outside today and got a nice dose of good ole' vitamin D. The birds are singing their praises this morning and there is a slight crisp breeze! <br />
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I am finally down to 162lbs *YAY!* I was at 163 waaaay too long lol So that makes my goal now 12 lbs away! <br />
In the exercise department, I am kicking butt and taking names! Mon/Wed/Fri 2 miles walking/aerobics and Tue/Thurs resistance band training w/ab workout.<br />
I feel awesome since I started working out. I feel more energized, not as achy in my joints and I feel as though I walk with more confidence now. <br />
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I'm getting more into the bariatric friendly cooking/baking now. Eggface rocks my world with her creative cooking ideas! Check the pic of my attempt of Eggface's recipe of <a href="http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/2008/06/truffles-and-herbs.html"><strong>Shelly's Protein Truffles</strong></a><strong>:</strong><br />
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They are currently chilling in the fridge, but I look forward to trying one later!<br />
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Anyhow, that's all I've got for now. I hope everyone is having a very blessed day. <br />
Have a great week everyone!zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-70677040805823695472011-02-14T12:06:00.000-08:002011-02-14T12:06:29.052-08:00Happy Valentine's Day everyone!!<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="429" src="http://dl10.glitter-graphics.net/pub/1931/1931410qhb7dtqckf.gif" width="443" /></a><br />
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ALSO, don't forget to check out Eggface's blog!! <a href="http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/2011/02/valentines-day-giveaway.html"><strong>She has a cool Valentine's Day Give Away!!</strong></a>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-40159280384836979042011-02-11T15:42:00.000-08:002011-02-11T15:45:13.851-08:00On fire with exercise!!!Sorry for the hiatus, work has been VERY busy lately and I've had MANY projects to do as well as the usual day-to-day stuff. <br />
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Anyhow...YES, by the grace of God, I have worked out 6 days this week!! *whoo whoo!!*<br />
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Mon/Wed/Fri I walked/jogged 2 miles a day and Sun/Tue/Thurs I did resistance band training for upper and lower body as well as ab work. <br />
What's my secret for ACTUALLY being able to do this you ask? Aside from praying, I set my alarm clock 20 min earlier and I do half of my day's workout as soon as I get up *before I drink my protein shake*.<br />
I can SERIOUSLY tell a difference in my energy level and my physique!!<br />
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I'm holding steady at 163 lbs right now...still have 13lbs left to lose but I know they will melt off eventually. I just need to keep on keeping on!!<br />
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As usual, <a href="http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/">Eggface</a> is my bariatric cooking hero!! I cannot tell you how many of her delicious protein shakes I've tried and LOVED!!<br />
My top favorite protein shakes by <a href="http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/">Eggface</a> :<br />
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</div><div align="left"><strong>Shelly's Pecan Pie Protein Shake</strong></div>1 cup Vanilla Soy Milk (or Regular Milk)<br />
1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder<br />
1 Tablespoon Sugar Free Vanilla Torani Syrup<br />
1 Tablespoon Pecans<br />
1 teaspoon Imitation Butter Extract (in the extract/seasoning section)<br />
2-3 cubes of Ice<br />
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Whiz in blender till smooth. Top with a squirt Sugar Free Land o Lakes Whipped Cream and a few more chopped Pecans, optional.<br />
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<strong><span style="background-color: magenta;">**Zamy's FAV Eggface shake below!!**</span></strong><br />
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<strong>Shelly's Tiramisu Protein Smoothie </strong><br />
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2 cups Soy Milk (you can use ANY milk)<br />
2 Tablespoons Sugar Free Kahlua Syrup <br />
1 Tablespoon Sugar Free Cheesecake Jello Pudding Mix, dry<br />
1 packet of Instant Coffee Granules (you know those Taster's Choice or Starbuck's Via tubes)<br />
1/4 cup Chocolate Protein Powder <br />
1 cup Ice<br />
Optional topping: Whipped Cream and Sugar Free Chocolate<br />
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Add liquids to blender first, then ice, then powders. Blend on high till smooth. Serve with optional squirt of Whipped Cream and dusting of shaved Sugar Free Chocolate.<br />
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OMG.....check out the newest protein shake recipes she added this week:<br />
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<a href="http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/2011/02/girl-scout-cookie-combat.html"><strong>GIRL SCOUT COOKIE COMBAT</strong></a><br />
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Check out Shelley's version of Caramel delites/Samoas!!<br />
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............Until next time!! Take care everyone!zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-22241930177628848432011-01-22T07:22:00.000-08:002011-01-22T07:22:46.464-08:00"Cheat meal" = bad idea!!While at work yesterday, I had the 'genius' idea of having a "cheat meal" for dinner lastnight. I thought to myself, 'I deserve this! I've been so good for weeks and one little meal couldn't hurt, especially since I cannot eat much at one time anyways.' So I was hell bent on having my "cheat meal" lastnight. I thought and thought about what I wanted ...and I just really couldn't figure it out. *this should've been my first clue*<br />
So I went to the store, walked down the 'forbidden aisles'....it was funny because the things I once thought were fabulous...just didn't sound appealing to me anymore. So after walking around forever, I decided I wanted some potato chips for salty/crunchy, a slice of cake for sweet....then I thought hmmmm I haven't had frosted mini wheats in awhile..that is both sweet AND crunchy!! <br />
So I get home and pour out a few mini wheats and soak them in milk *yes I know...not crunchy for long* so I take one bite...chew thoroughly get it good and mushy and swallow. I kid you not...about one minute later it feels as though my pouch has glass shards in it! I felt as though I just swallowed razor blades! I was doubled over in pain for a good 30 minutes...all for one lousy mushy bite of something that didn't even taste very good.<br />
So after the pain went away...I decided to try a couple potato chips...these DID go down well, only they just didn't taste as good as they use to. <br />
Another 15 minutes later I tried a few bites of cake....and needless to say it was soooo sweet that I flew to the bathroom with good ole' "dumping syndrome" shortly thereafter.<br />
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Basically my "cheat meal" was a joke...I ended up hurting myself over crap food that once held a place in my heart. When it was all said and done, I took some anti nausea medicine, threw all of the junk food away and passed out in bed. <br />
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Now this morning I feel as though I have a hangover! I seriously feel like crap! <br />
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Lesson learned: cheat meals are really not worth it...especially when you can't really find anything you REALLY want. I will stick to Atkins and be a happy girl.zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-91576034634865469352011-01-12T16:09:00.000-08:002011-01-12T16:50:28.675-08:00Ready to move forward!!!<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://dl8.glitter-graphics.net/pub/519/519058pshmlzluwx.gif" width="200" /></a><br />
As stated in a previous post, I was blessed not to gain weight during the holidays...seeing as I wasn't exactly an angel with my halthy low carb eating. <br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Well, as of last Monday I decided to get serious about losing my last 20 lbs! To assist in 'kick starting' my weightloss, I have opted to do an Atkin's-ish eating regimen. ie: very high protein low carb eating regimen *and by low carb I mean like 20 net carbs a day for 2 weeks* then of course adding 5 good carbs *complex carbs* each week until I reach my goal of 150lbs. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Also, I'm really making an effort to drink more water. I've been averaging 6-7 cups a day...almost the 8-8 oz cups I truly need each day.<br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Naturally I've started a regular cardio workout schedule for 20 min a day 3 days a week. Next week I'm adding 2 days of weight training in addition to the 3 days of cardio. I figure that if I can ease my way into a routine I'll be more apt to stick with it. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">So far I've lost 2 lbs and I am extatic about this!! I've noticed that as I get closer to goal weight, it gets harder to lose even just 1 lb a week! <br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Also, just found out this week that I've been honored to be a 'testimonial' for the weight loss surgery center where I had my RNY: (click pic to enlarge)</div><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We've had a LOT of cold weather and snow here in Tennessee this week. I can honestly say that I am READY for Spring!!!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://dl2.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2703/2703482byc8kxhnhv.gif" width="240" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"></div><br />
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Anyhow, that's all I've got for right now. Until next time!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-48829860275966278182010-12-28T13:24:00.000-08:002010-12-28T13:24:53.010-08:00Ulcer update and such<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://dl9.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2636/2636499k8kgtqkcg8.gif" width="240" /></a><br />
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Wow...I've been such a slacker with updating this past month! To be quite honest, not a whole lot has happened. <br />
Yesterday, I finally got to see my bariatric surgeon, 'Dr. H', to follow up on the EGD I had back in October concerning a possible ulcer. He said that there was a teeny tiny ulcer on the anastamosis that was made connecting the intestine to the new pouch. He also said that there were 2 staples and 1 retained suture from where he made the anastamosis back in Nov 2009..LOL He went ahead and took them out, and said that he is not worried about the ulcer whatsoever! Basically he wants me to take my proton pump inhibitor once a day for the rest of my life, and to follow up with him at least once a year after this!<br />
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As far as weight loss goes, I haven't really lost anymore weight, but again I haven't really tried to either. I've just wanted to successfully get through the holiday's with NO weight gain. I can happily say that I have not gained any weight this holiday season! *yippee!!*<br />
As soon as I woke up this morning, I was right back to the grind with my high protein, very low carb eating. I find that this works best for me as far as losing weight is concerned. <br />
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Also discovered that what was once fat on my tummy is just now skin...lol and I desperately need to to some toning up around my midsection. I can wear medium to small shirts now, and could probably fit into a size 10 jeans....if it weren't for the excess skin. I do want to see if I can tone my belly with some ab work over the next few months. <br />
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Anyhow, that's all I've got for now. Take care, and I will update later!<br />
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<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://dl7.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2918/2918997djasomqul4.gif" width="160" /></a>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-76504939578870017732010-11-28T12:57:00.000-08:002010-11-28T12:57:32.609-08:001 Year out and things I'm thankful for<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="324" src="http://dl2.glitter-graphics.net/pub/1693/1693232o3pyynb55x.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
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So as of last Wednesday I am now officially 1 year postop RNY surgery! I praise God for allowing me to have had this surgery. I cannot even begin to described the MANY ways in which my life has changed for the better!! Okay...maybe I can...<br />
-I've lost 118 lbs! That is the equivalent of the complete set of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Encyclopaedia-Britannica-2002-Complete-Print/dp/0852297874">Encyclopedia Britannica</a><br />
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-I have a crazy amount of energy on a daily basis, I rarely am able to stay at home and do nothing! I use to be the biggest hermit...not wanting to get out and do things b/c I was ashamed of myself.<br />
-I actually look forward to clothing shopping and just found out that I am now a size 12! That's a heck of a lot better than a size 26! I no longer have to shop at Lane Bryant!<br />
-I have a crazy desire to exercise now...and I like it! I actually am making a habit to hit the gym a couple of days a week. Love the elliptical/treadmill and bike. <br />
-My thyroid is finally regulated for the first time since high school! <br />
-I can very comfortably buckle my seat belt in my car...with lots of extra slack!<br />
-I am no longer prediabetic, my blood sugar is normal these days<br />
-No longer have high cholesterol, nor high triglycerides<br />
-I can ride a roller coaster!<br />
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I can honestly say that I've never been happier!<br />
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On a more serious note, I have noticed a rather annoying eating patter as of late: The munching on crunchy food when I get stressed. It is particularly bad when I am dealing with family or work related problems. Thankfully, I now see this habit and I am determined to nip it in the bud!<br />
I am CONSTANTLY keeping tabs to make sure I eat because it's time to eat or because I am TRULY physiologically hungery. Again, I cannot reiterate enough that this is a daily battle for me. Emotional eating has not left me....but again I am dealing with it one day at a time. <br />
It's especially hard around the holidays, with so much 'crap food' around. Nine times out of ten, I can refuse the unhealthy foods and feel absolutely fine about it. <br />
As far as calories and such goes, I am now allowing myself 1100-1200 calories a day along with 75-100 grams of carbs *in which I try to stay below 80* and 75-110 grams of protein. <br />
The big thing for me now is making sure that my carbs are NOT refined...but complex ie: natural from dairy, fruits and veggies. I finally figured out that I cannot have snack foods in the house ie: triscuits for the shear fact that when I get stressed I tend to eat them instead of healthier foods. <br />
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I'm currently stalled on my weight loss due most likely to the fact that I've had too many refined carbs and not enough good carbs. <br />
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I have been researching the <a href="http://www.5daypouchtest.com/">5 day pouch test</a> . I really do want to try this just to see if 1) I can wean myself off of simple carbs 2) increase my daily water intake 3) increase my non-starch fruit and veggies food intake and 4) get back to losing weight again...1 to 2 lbs per week. <br />
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That is all I've got for now! Have a great week everyone!zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-80282383031999625272010-11-14T16:45:00.000-08:002010-11-14T16:45:27.936-08:00Eggface recipe saves the day again!!Okay, have I ever told you how much I love <a href="http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/">Eggface</a>?? <br />
Just when I feel as though I get in a rut with eating bariatric friendly foods, she surprises me again with some awesome and easy to make foods!<br />
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My fav right now:<br />
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<strong>Shelly's Ricotta Bake Cups</strong><br />
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1/2 cup Ricotta Cheese<br />
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1 Tablespoon Parmesan, grated<br />
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1 Egg Yolk<br />
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1/2 teaspoon Italian Seasonings (Oregano, Basil, Garlic Blend)<br />
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a few twists of Black Pepper<br />
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Mozzarella Cheese, shredded<br />
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Large Pepperoni Slices (from deli department, not prepackaged)<br />
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Mix all ingredients together (except mozzarella cheese and pepperoni slices) till well blended.<br />
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Place a pepperoni slice in each hole of a mini muffin tin. Spoon a tablespoon of ricotta mixture into each pepperoni "cup" sprinkle top with a pinch of mozzarella cheese.<br />
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Bake at 375 for 10 minutes. Allow to cool slightly and remove from tin. Reheat in toaster oven or broiler.</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">**AMY NOTE** I actually didn't have any large pepperoni slices, so I used thinly sliced turkey breast meat instead and it still rocks!!!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">If you haven't visited <a href="http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/">Eggface's</a> page yet please do!</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-69952481341636908242010-11-13T08:25:00.000-08:002010-11-13T08:27:42.379-08:0011 Month Belated PhotosHello, everyone! Sorry it's been awhile since I've updated. I just got back from a much needed vacation to south Florida! Got to spend time with my amazing family as well as romp around Universal studios. <br />
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Of course I didn't lose any weight while I was on vacation, actually I believe I gained 2 lbs...but I'm pretty sure its because I was mostly sedentary while in FL. Anyhow, now I'm back and I'm back on track with my food journaling and exercise! I've found that food journaling keeps me honest...as well as help me see where I can subtract carb/calorie wise from my diet.<br />
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Anyhow, I do have new pics. They are of me at 174!! My one year surgiversary is Nov 24th and I cannot wait!<br />
It's crazy to think that in only a year, I've lost 116 lbs!! <br />
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Me before at 290lbs Oct 2009 Me now 174lbs Oct 2010<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxsjBuCBxKZqG8kfzXDkIk12N2MHzaIc6zqvHDRXP69icxZ5DxCxi19z4D91mBVBxkI3PxSn4XVpgBU5BTqv0cPshbR4ixN8fR4f0AjcFh2oQ5G323-e5kVRRepft0paXGxZ6AbSX8fnBN/s1600/amy+presurgery+front.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxsjBuCBxKZqG8kfzXDkIk12N2MHzaIc6zqvHDRXP69icxZ5DxCxi19z4D91mBVBxkI3PxSn4XVpgBU5BTqv0cPshbR4ixN8fR4f0AjcFh2oQ5G323-e5kVRRepft0paXGxZ6AbSX8fnBN/s1600/amy+presurgery+front.jpg" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZYbMDCGeNWQsaFruFbFSQqVCRz_V8xMBbrDdommz27Cq7cJBlcd8koBjSdhmkPEFaqwGtOKe17kWyN2-vkR3sK4F3MSjK8K-z7jqXk8O8qup4BVkyqZpLkIr191B519uvXWeAVrxfS2H/s1600/amy+174.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0ZYbMDCGeNWQsaFruFbFSQqVCRz_V8xMBbrDdommz27Cq7cJBlcd8koBjSdhmkPEFaqwGtOKe17kWyN2-vkR3sK4F3MSjK8K-z7jqXk8O8qup4BVkyqZpLkIr191B519uvXWeAVrxfS2H/s400/amy+174.JPG" width="193" /></a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gjxxV_LJv3xmNTdr0sng-GVAhu17QX6x1WqvAgfN6XFNQSZQ2eseY8RHSma4IJ1ZjAO-50WwrhZADmLzi-Tzk7KnifIKhR_-puQbtEKXk6u92lvTO0EjpgnR4UqVch8_5lg-bw_RMiFP/s1600/amy+presurgery+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gjxxV_LJv3xmNTdr0sng-GVAhu17QX6x1WqvAgfN6XFNQSZQ2eseY8RHSma4IJ1ZjAO-50WwrhZADmLzi-Tzk7KnifIKhR_-puQbtEKXk6u92lvTO0EjpgnR4UqVch8_5lg-bw_RMiFP/s1600/amy+presurgery+side.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93mkupNd3pcZ462TlvU4Lfh2EQ_ARLZJfIDsIZk9CPa4FgUmDsOGmnrwyphU_aX2_59od8lLGrzcJUiI3sD9y6eJABdGylY-e82TyZBq51biSqWg4EmECavT7psLRkdIRHmR1UScCn5Y1/s1600/100_4148.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi93mkupNd3pcZ462TlvU4Lfh2EQ_ARLZJfIDsIZk9CPa4FgUmDsOGmnrwyphU_aX2_59od8lLGrzcJUiI3sD9y6eJABdGylY-e82TyZBq51biSqWg4EmECavT7psLRkdIRHmR1UScCn5Y1/s400/100_4148.JPG" width="140" /></a></div>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-37625922824777007902010-10-31T14:00:00.000-07:002010-10-31T14:03:40.329-07:00EGD Results<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://dl2.glitter-graphics.net/pub/75/75412mbb001un0k.gif" width="225" /></a><br />
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Had my EGD on Friday, by my RNY surgeon, Dr. 'H'. Had yet another great experience at the outpatient surgery center I went to! Excellent staff-very friendly, great service! <br />
Anyhow, after I woke up from the procedure I was told that Dr. 'H' found one small ulcer. I'll have to call his office on Monday to figure out where the ulcer was. Anyways, I was told that he was not very worried about it. Dr. 'H' put me on a stronger proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and he really thinks this will take care of it!<br />
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I'm sure I will have another follow up EGD in a few months to check on it. <br />
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Thank you, Lord, that everything is going to be okay!<br />
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<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://dl6.glitter-graphics.net/pub/674/674226rkcxd60rl6.gif" width="250" /></a><br />
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*****Confession time*******<br />
So Friday night was a Halloween party that one of my fellow co-workers hosted. Needless to say...I consumed WAAY too many refined carbs.....and yes...as usual I feel like crap. On top of which I also now have a cold. *double joy* It's the usual bloated/gassy/lethargic feeling of carb overload.<br />
I know better, and it shall not happen again. I am quite happy eating low carb and high protein anyways. <br />
Anyhow, aside from the chicken and stars I'm sipping on now...it's back to protein Protein PROTEIN and low carb!! I feel sooo much better eating this way. I almost always have energy, feel satisfied and not guilty. lol <br />
Anyhow, that's all I've got for an update now. Check out the pretty fall photos I've taken over the past few weeks!<br />
<div><a href="http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=324832&id=505564895&l=a765d663a2">http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=324832&id=505564895&l=a765d663a2</a></div><div> </div>Happy Halloween everyone!<br />
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<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="344" src="http://dl10.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2511/2511580y09lsca39w.gif" width="400" /></a>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-75844655765765906922010-10-25T17:52:00.000-07:002010-10-25T17:52:10.427-07:00Possible road bump...again...<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://dl9.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2318/2318429rt3sngl2lb.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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So the past few weeks I've been having problems with 'heartburn'. I've woken up a couple of nights around 2 a.m. with NASTY heartburn and mild pain around my 'pouch area'. <br />
I take Prilosec OTC once a day, Tums 1000mg as needed *not exceeding 6 a day* drink milk and eat yogurt. By the grace of God, I have not had a problem whatsoever for the past 3 days. <br />
I did, however, schedule an appointment with my RNY surgeon, Dr. 'H' to see what course of action needs to take place. <br />
First of all, I am proud to say that he is VERY happy with my weight loss so far. 116 lbs in 11 months, and still losing 1-2 pounds per week! Now officially 14 lbs away from my first goal of 160 and 29 lbs away from my long term goal of 145 lbs. <br />
Anyhow, Dr. 'H' wants me to have an EGD ASAP to check for ulcers. He said that ulcers postop are common. He also said that if I do have an ulcer that he'll put me on Karafate for 90 days and do another EGD to see if they heal. If I do not have an ulcer he said it may be a hiatal hernia causing my heartburn. <br />
We shall see! <br />
I've scheduled my EGD for this Friday morning. Please pray that everything goes wonderfully. Dr. 'H' will be doing this EGD. <br />
I am thankful that my awesome boss at work has allowed me to take the day off to do this. Also, I am thankful that my wonderful boyfriend Craig, will be taking me, as I will not be allowed to drive home after the procedure due to anesthetic still being in my system. <br />
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Shew...that's a lot to update! Other than the possible ulcer stuff, all is going well here. <br />
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Take care everyone!zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-17049633530903321232010-10-12T14:19:00.000-07:002010-10-12T14:21:16.830-07:00EGGFACE IS MY RECIPE HERO!!!<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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<div align="left" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">Okay, for those of you who do not know, I follow a blogger who happens to be a RNY patient. She has a blog: <a href="http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/">THE WORLD ACCORDING TO EGGFACE</a> and it is awesome! She has a great perspective, positive thoughts and a killer talent for making everyday foods bariatric friendly! </div>Today I made a recipe of her's for the most <u>delicious</u> apple cinnamon protein muffins! I love these so much that I want to share the recipe. I hope you are willing to try this, you will thank me!!<br />
*also I added chopped pecans to the recipe for extra crunch*<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><strong>Shelly's Apple Cinnamon Protein Mini Muffins</strong></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">3 Tablespoons Milk</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">2 Tablespoons Sugar Free Vanilla Torani Syrup</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">2 Tablespoons No Sugar Added Apple Butter</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 Tablespoon Canola Oil</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">3 Tablespoons Multigrain Pancake Mix (I use this)</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">2 Tablespoons Almond Meal (aka Ground Almonds, aka Almond Flour)</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">1/2 teaspoon Apple Pie Spice</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
</div>Pinch salt<br />
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Optional topping:<br />
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1 teaspoon Xylitol<br />
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dash of Apple Pie Spice<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Mix egg, milk, syrup, apple butter and oil and combine thoroughly. In a separate bowl, mix pancake mix, almond meal, protein powder, pie spice and salt. Tip dry into wet and stir till combined. Pour into a non stick mini muffin pan that has been sprayed with Pam. Sprinkle with optional topping. </div><br />
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Bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes, until knife inserted comes out clean. Makes 12.zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-52999494037238161922010-10-11T12:13:00.000-07:002010-10-11T12:13:25.038-07:00STOP....look around....and proceed<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://dl5.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2321/2321335bd5sgzkc4w.gif" width="384" /></a><br />
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Strange post title eh? lol Well, allow me to explain....<br />
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This past week I've slowly been slipping back in to old habits...nothing earth shattering...just little things. But as we all know it's the little things that can turn into BIG things quickly!<br />
For example: I woke up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom, I then head to the kitchen to see what I could eat....*YES in the middle of the night*<br />
Another example: Sitting around being bored, waiting...then all of a sudden I notice 'snack foods' just hanging around....so I eat a few pieces. *And I'm not even hungry!!<br />
Thankfully, I stumbled upon an old book with excellent principles of healthy eating habits. I re-read this book in just the right areas to help me get back on track. <br />
Principles such as:<br />
-Do not be deceived, know why you eat!<br />
-Never eat when you are bored or tired<br />
-Drink water the moment you feel hungry to make sure it isn't just dehydration masking as hunger<br />
-Always write down what you eat (which I do)<br />
-Exercise is a great way to relieve stress AND fill time!<br />
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Anyhow, after my time of reflection, I now have a better understanding and handle on the way things are going now. This is and will remain a daily battle. I knew, going into this surgery that it would be difficult to maintain the proper eating regimen 100% of the time. I'm not perfect by ANY stretch of the imagination, but thank God that I can take this thing one day at a time. <br />
Things to do instead of snacking:<br />
-Read a book -Exercise: Pilates, Yoga or go for a walk -Crafts -Watch a movie -Netflix!! -Get together with a friend -Take a hot bath/shower -Sleep -Play a game -Play on Internet -Blog -Journal -Cross stitch -Draw/Paint -Clean -Organize bills etc -Paint nails ....and the list goes on!<br />
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Let me reiterate, this surgery is NOT the easy way out! It is a tool that is meant to be used properly. I do not want to be one of the hundreds of gastric bypass patients that gain weight back! I have a new way of living and I plan on keeping myself healthy and on the right track. <br />
I have 28 more pounds to lose for my personal goal of 150lbs and I will achieve this by next May. <br />
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Until next time, take care everyone!!<br />
<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://dl2.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2407/2407612cfe801q9cs.gif" width="240" /></a>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-22462974638459998232010-09-25T20:18:00.000-07:002010-09-25T20:18:02.157-07:00It's a "mental game"<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://dl8.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2361/2361768x1zma6fe9q.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
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After having gastric bypass, I knew I would have to change my habits forever. My eating habits, exercising habits, my thinking habits etc.<br />
Old habits die hard. Habits can be embedded into your mind for YEARS, whether it's drinking a cup of coffee every morning for 20 years or eating while watching t.v. Naturally, bad habits just don't go away overnight. <br />
It is a daily chore to make sure I put good 'nutritious fuel' into my body. Everything that passes my lips MUST be of good nutritious value...I have no leeway for anything else if I want my body to continue to work properly. Naturally, every once in awhile, I do partake of something very small and non-nutritious....but NOT often. This is a slippery slope and if I've learned nothing else, I've learned that it is easy to fall back into old habits. One Hershey kiss here....1/4 of a cookie there....and WHAM!!....you're doing it again!<br />
<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://dl3.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2556/2556863k594er9iyj.gif" width="150" /></a><br />
Anyhow, the reason for me posting this is simply for reflection sake. I NEVER want to go back to living the way I use to. This journey can be difficult at times...but boy is it well worth it! <br />
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6-7-08 9-22-10<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoyfd2woFIcI69h4wWCFIxEWDxPUT4GUo4-N-yHsHohATp61hTrDm1RvWgsF8kTg05YcbfUIqhIqgLe_eoG6uutJHMGo4_5gmq5DZFNRgbuLK6Qe8C-lsw7wCCrPF6YtSv09vJurx1KFu/s1600/mom+and+amy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJoyfd2woFIcI69h4wWCFIxEWDxPUT4GUo4-N-yHsHohATp61hTrDm1RvWgsF8kTg05YcbfUIqhIqgLe_eoG6uutJHMGo4_5gmq5DZFNRgbuLK6Qe8C-lsw7wCCrPF6YtSv09vJurx1KFu/s200/mom+and+amy.jpg" width="153" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinvlRgSAAZXddp5dd0jMt5FlgQEojDHD0n16a8yaK7xMUame3Ei96N7gUousm3tZF7T9kd2h4YjWbdQHwfgXUKTdqxK3LdQonTYKakVVY47qlmCraauGf6yKZMexggXYcNggG_QIBMwp88/s1600/zamy+10+mo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinvlRgSAAZXddp5dd0jMt5FlgQEojDHD0n16a8yaK7xMUame3Ei96N7gUousm3tZF7T9kd2h4YjWbdQHwfgXUKTdqxK3LdQonTYKakVVY47qlmCraauGf6yKZMexggXYcNggG_QIBMwp88/s200/zamy+10+mo.jpg" width="150" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://dl3.glitter-graphics.net/pub/1782/1782683degcxto0ol.gif" width="140" /></a>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-37282144469819009132010-09-23T17:07:00.000-07:002010-09-23T17:08:45.900-07:00Update<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://dl3.glitter-graphics.net/pub/653/653473jr1jehg0qu.gif" width="400" /></a></div><br />
Alrighty, well as of this week I have officially lost 110 lbs!<br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">As I wrote last week, I did do my two days of exercise and VERY much enjoyed them! One day I did Yoga/Pilates for 25 minutes and the other day I did my Wii fitness for 30+ minutes. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Also have been kicking butt with the low carbs, high protein and low fat eating. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="100" src="http://dl6.glitter-graphics.net/pub/1596/1596766nxfsxzxuep.gif" width="100" /></a><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">This week has been good, the two times I did indulge this week it has been very small (serving size the size of my thumb) and I very much savored every bite. </div>As far as my exercising for this week....I haven't done a darn thing...and I will explain why:<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Last Wednesday I sprained my ankle, I was on call for work of course. Basically, I was leaving a department store with my boyfriend, wasn't looking at where I was walking....tripped and fell off the sidewalk. I skinned by Rt knee *also ripped a hole in my jeans* and then landed sideways on my left ankle. Let's just say that there was a LOT of pain involved. I waited about an hour, elevated my ankle and my sweet boyfriend put ice on it. After I tried putting weight on it I about fell over again SO...I decided to go to the E.R. for an x-ray. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaoNQg_FkjMv06lQkVoykoFuMXnCUCGso1jGZeI3QAGGfbm-Aa9_x1YZkkJXRC5KiMGKpOARU_9uzEFYBdYodfd5RCpR9JqusXd1YlWB-VOIR0p2PcZ1npanz2YGmxgHu8CmWyHqtVppP5/s1600/xray.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" px="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaoNQg_FkjMv06lQkVoykoFuMXnCUCGso1jGZeI3QAGGfbm-Aa9_x1YZkkJXRC5KiMGKpOARU_9uzEFYBdYodfd5RCpR9JqusXd1YlWB-VOIR0p2PcZ1npanz2YGmxgHu8CmWyHqtVppP5/s200/xray.jpg" width="174" /></a></div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;"><br />
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</div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">To my surprise I got in and out of the E.R. rather quickly. The doctor said there was no fracture, just a few pulled/torn ligaments. Sweet boyfriend dropped me off at my apartment then went to pick up my pain/anti-inflammatory medicine. <br />
<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="88" src="http://dl10.glitter-graphics.net/pub/831/831560pz6n1r5m5p.gif" width="109" /></a><br />
By the grace of God, I was not called in at all during the night for work....the next day at work was fun...let me tell ya. I got to hobble around the O.R. for 7 hours...not in the best of moods to say the least. </div><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Although my ankle is not hurting like it did last week, it's still pretty sore. Still taking extra strength Tylenol when needed and ACE wrapping my ankle/foot for support.</div><br />
<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">I DO PROMISE to resume my exercising by at least the middle of next week. </div><br />
Anyhow, that's all I've got for an update. Will write next week and let you know what's going on!zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-44385932944741210472010-09-12T14:29:00.000-07:002010-09-12T14:29:36.050-07:00Stats<a href="http://www.glitter-graphics.com/"><img border="0" height="337" src="http://dl6.glitter-graphics.net/pub/2507/2507646ps6cr5d7h8.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
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<strong>Nov 21st: 282 lbs</strong> *8 lb lost from preop diet*<br />
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***SURGERY NOV 24th***<br />
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<strong>Dec 24th: 256 lbs</strong> *26 lb lost*<br />
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<strong>Jan 24th: 241 lbs</strong> *15 lb lost*<br />
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<strong>Feb 24th: 227 lbs</strong> *14 lb lost*<br />
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<strong>Mar 24th: 213 lbs</strong> *14 lb lost*<br />
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<strong>Apr 24th: 208 lbs</strong> *5 lb lost*<br />
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<strong>May 24th: 200 lbs</strong> *8 lb lost*<br />
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<strong>Jun 24th: 193 lbs</strong> *7 lb lost*<br />
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<strong>Jul 24th: 187 lbs</strong> *6 lb lost*<br />
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<strong>Aug 24th: 184 lbs</strong> *3 lb lost* <br />
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So apparently the weight loss has slowed significantly...granted that I'm only 21 lbs away from my first goal weight. I need to reevaluate my eating habits...which will be easy since I track everything on Sparkpeople.com. <br />
So far, I think I need to up my calories for right now. Protein is great. Carbs I can probably decrease by around 20grams. Also, I need to increase my fiber. <br />
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Then there is exercise.... <br />
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I know...I know...I NEED an exercise regimen...and I WANT an exercise regimen.... <br />
I know that I like Yoga...I know that I like Pilates....so....... <br />
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Okay, exercise goal #1: Exercise 2 days this week for 30 minutes a piece. <br />
I will be accountable by posting on sparkpeople.com my exercises. <br />
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Alright everyone, wish me luck!zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-68426324531791709102010-08-31T19:18:00.000-07:002010-08-31T19:18:44.033-07:00Angry with myselfSo for the past 3 weeks...I have not lost ANY weight. I have hovered around 184...and the scale won't move! I'm pretty sure I know why....<br />
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As far as nutrition goes....95% of everything I put in my body is nutritious high protein/low carb food.<br />
Calories range between 850-1200 daily...i like to keep my body guessing. Protein always 85-120grams a day. Carbs on the other hand....I believe I am overindulging in. Namely the snacks...instead of reaching for a string cheese or almonds...I've been reaching for the crunchy Triscuits or a handful of Cheezits. Most days I stay under 75 carbs but the past few days I've hit 100 grams and even today 120grams. <br />
I am ashamed of myself for even entertaining the carbs as I have. I mean really, I know my body LOVES protein...I know that it loves water...but when the 'time of the month' hits...I CRAVE carbs...it's unreal!<br />
So anyhow, basically I need to cut the starchy carbs out and increase my water intake THEN I should start losing again. <br />
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Anyone else have issues with carbs??zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-54851078768532719422010-08-14T06:56:00.000-07:002010-08-14T07:07:28.048-07:00Wow..stumbled upon some OLD photos...So I was looking through some older pics today....and it gave me some perspective....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDztGc8O5WD5fOm9vhCz2Fs-nQGsjkDkfv-xtMcXWt49RcyZKXjPBr81wcawEyAQgcU0lAIVvqGoSv9mimKCBGA90JeYH7gUuN6fMxOqJqHI6-rWp0sEIN34vk4_cUybLN_mQ9k02j-j-B/s1600/amy+fat+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDztGc8O5WD5fOm9vhCz2Fs-nQGsjkDkfv-xtMcXWt49RcyZKXjPBr81wcawEyAQgcU0lAIVvqGoSv9mimKCBGA90JeYH7gUuN6fMxOqJqHI6-rWp0sEIN34vk4_cUybLN_mQ9k02j-j-B/s320/amy+fat+1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">Me last Sept 2009 at 290lbs</div><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmFAxwY6g4tNpAMMU-PpBppG2pcQz4OdGSQG0P7lNll-m9nqF8Xax93ZqOtcwD65a9fVBByDgYk8CeO-gd1cMMuwCCeOyDmLlTlYN5u_7HStoNIOq3HYXAp2CToLO4g-xDZbzALIwEh5rJ/s1600/amy+fat+2" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmFAxwY6g4tNpAMMU-PpBppG2pcQz4OdGSQG0P7lNll-m9nqF8Xax93ZqOtcwD65a9fVBByDgYk8CeO-gd1cMMuwCCeOyDmLlTlYN5u_7HStoNIOq3HYXAp2CToLO4g-xDZbzALIwEh5rJ/s320/amy+fat+2" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Me at my all time largest: 296lb</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0HoL2Q1zqlLr07vfRv2uwnS4cudJBGR8-bdHqwySBiP9HJjWAmrDtYOoz-Kjro-xmUayadgw74iiwkTJO-8kwAfDnOok6GAP-tsaXC7CTbej4LI3a9ISbDaF_YjHbMYqdSwrQ5ol7qIw/s1600/amy+now.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ox="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0HoL2Q1zqlLr07vfRv2uwnS4cudJBGR8-bdHqwySBiP9HJjWAmrDtYOoz-Kjro-xmUayadgw74iiwkTJO-8kwAfDnOok6GAP-tsaXC7CTbej4LI3a9ISbDaF_YjHbMYqdSwrQ5ol7qIw/s320/amy+now.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Me now at 184lbs</div>zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2894859326417542857.post-5910360126273537852010-08-07T10:07:00.000-07:002010-08-07T10:08:27.714-07:00Happy day!This weekend, is our state's Tax-free weekend (tax free on clothes up to $100, books, computer stuff)<br />
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After rummaging around my closet, trying on outfit....after outfit....I realized that I have 2 maybe 3 articles of clothing that are not falling off of me. <br />
SO....I went to Kohl's and Old Navy (looooove old navy) and found some awesome sales! Got some cute 3/4 sleeve short cardigans, LOTS of cute tank tops trimmed in dainty lace, a few long sleeve shirts and 2 pairs of jeans....and guess what.. one of them is a size 14!! I think I was in 8th or 9th grade last time I wore a size 14. Here is one of my cute outfits:<br />
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Naturally I was on a shopping 'high' due to the awesome sales and my new found pant size...then all of a sudden raised my arms *an attempt to take this picture actually* and saw this:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLfAP26uf-uvo_NYm7YHqVe8LGqSBD6a0P8GRGbI-_O5pHPnhr-voaOF1qNu21mqv1Y1vfhusevZXiE4Rh6M9Y9-ueYhBBE_GSwGlH4tOQ_Pe-p312CRYNNJPqeG37tj-smnj0EAVfyxYj/s1600/batwing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" bx="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLfAP26uf-uvo_NYm7YHqVe8LGqSBD6a0P8GRGbI-_O5pHPnhr-voaOF1qNu21mqv1Y1vfhusevZXiE4Rh6M9Y9-ueYhBBE_GSwGlH4tOQ_Pe-p312CRYNNJPqeG37tj-smnj0EAVfyxYj/s320/batwing.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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Say hello to Myrtle...the bat wing...actually Myrtle is an identical twin, because her twin lives next door on my other upper arm. *sigh* I realize this is a cosmetic worry...something absolutely silly. I mean, God has allowed me to lose 104 lbs so far! My health hasn't been this amazing in YEARS! And I'm worrying about my flabby arms?! Yeah...(as I smack myself in the face) <br />
Anyhow...this just makes me want to do some crazy upper arm workouts! Now I realize that it all won't tone up...but I'm hoping within the next few months that it will look much better. <br />
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Anyone have any tips on good upper arm workouts? I'm all ears!<br />
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Life is still awesome, and I am thankful for all that God has blessed me with!zamyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05553425392146832052noreply@blogger.com2