Mysti's Weight Loss Surgery Adventure Blog

Organizing New Uses for Old Things | Real Simple

2011-09-23T05:30:00.000-06:00

Organizing New Uses for Old Things | Real Simple

9000.Needles.2011.DVDRip.XVID.avi | PutLocker

2011-08-19T07:49:00.000-06:00

9000.Needles.2011.DVDRip.XVID.avi | PutLocker

Weight

2009-02-27T08:31:00.000-07:00

Oh, and I'm up 5 lbs. today. Grrr...

Valuable Lessons Learned...

2009-02-27T08:19:00.002-07:00

First of all, never go swimsuit shopping in the morning, it will ruin your whole day. It's better to go at night so you can sleep off your anger and frustration.
Second, never go swimsuit shopping when you are PMSing...enough said.
Third, never pick up your cell phone over an open glass of water. Grrrr....
Fourth, no matter what happens throughout the day, so not, under any circumstances stuff your face to make yourself "feel better". You won't...you'll just have a stomach ache the rest of the day. :(

9 Months Post-Op Today!

2009-02-19T06:18:00.003-07:00

I can't believe it's been 9 months already. I don't even look like the same person now. Thank goodness! LOL

I bought some s/f Russell Stover chocolates yesterday thinking maybe I wouldn't have a problem with maltitol...I was wrong. Oh, they were so good...but, my body just doesn't do well with sugar alcohols. :(

The scales are up 2 lbs. today. I'm keeping my carbs fairy low (probably under 30-40 grams a day), and my protein is great (around 100 grams a day). So, I'm thinking I need to drink more water now.

Frustrated with Blogger

2009-02-17T10:05:00.000-07:00

Ugh! I just can't seem to get all my info placed where I want it on my blog. Any suggestions? LOL

I feel good today. I've had my breakfast (carbs-8g, protein 26g) and now just need to star cleaning the house. Yuck!

My husband sent me a photo of me in the hospital (post-op) from 9 months ago. Wow, what a difference. I was shocked when I saw it. It's a good reminder that the surgery did work and I'm so much healthier now. :)

Monday Morning

2009-02-16T08:48:00.000-07:00

I had a real gift this morning...my kid's slept in until 9am. :D No school today, so I needed a little peace and quiet before the day really began.

Things are going really well with my food. I'm trying to figure out a good snack for the evenings though. I seem to crave crunchy, salty type foods. Not every night, but often. So, I'm going to look into some alternatives today.

It's so nice not worrying about counting calories and fat grams again! And it's nice to be satisfied after I eat. The scales read 188 lbs. for me this morning. Yesterday they were 186 lbs. But, I know I didn't go off plan at all so I'm not worried about it. :)

Okay, so I have a week under my belt with low-carbing...time to start doing some cardio again. It's supposed to get up to 57 degrees today, so I'm probably going to take my Mini-Doxie for a walk today. That seems more appealing than the treadmill right now.

I'm going to try to start posting daily menus again. I'm still having trouble figuring out my blogger layout. Maybe I can find a tutorial somewhere today. LOL

Facebook | My Photos - Mysti's Cookbook

2009-02-15T08:17:00.000-07:00

Facebook | My Photos - Mysti's Cookbook

When Will I Learn?

2009-02-15T08:07:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I wanted a taco salad for dinner last night. I had iceberg in the indoor fridge and romaine in the garage fridge. I was feeling lazy so I grabbed the iceberg. The only problem is I don't tolerate iceberg. So, I totally got stomach cramps and passed it all. Bleck! [img]http://bestsmileys.com/sick/9.gif[/img]

Today I feel much better though. Since I started low-carbing again, I'm down 9 lbs. [img]http://bestsmileys.com/excited/3.gif[/img]

I'm starting my work-out program again tomorrow (Monday). Nothing major, just cardio for now.

My newest love are Oopsie Rolls. I LOVE THESE THINGS! LOL I made some chocolate chip ones yesterday. I'll up load a picture.

Facebook | Mysti Williams

2009-02-14T14:44:00.000-07:00

Facebook | Mysti Williams

Losing Again! :D

2009-02-13T07:07:00.000-07:00

I'm so happy...I finally hit rock bottom (so to speak) after gaining 5 lbs. and decided (again) that sugar is not my friend. Never has been, never will be. I was working out so hard for 3 weeks straight and I didn't lose 1 lb. And no inches. I was so ticked off and disappointed and upset! So, I decided to really look at my food. It was ugly.

I began low-carbing again this week (which really does work well for me being insulin resistant) and started feeling better almost immediately. I dropped the 5 lbs. I had gained, plus 2 more! In only 4 days...unbelievable. :D

So, there ya have it. I'm an idiot. ROFL

I now have to start working out consistently again. ;)

2009-02-13T07:06:00.000-07:00

Working out again

2009-01-21T08:22:00.000-07:00

I've been working out for 2 weeks straight now. It's going great! I feel a million times better now. Lots of energy...I feel stronger...it's a good thing.

I'm doing couch potato to 5K and body for life. I'm building up to 5 sets on BFL since I injured myself a few months ago jumping in too fast. I'm up to 3 sets right now.

I woke up with a bad headache this morning, but I put some peppermint oil on it and about 5 minutes later it was gone. I'm so glad since I can't take ibuprofen anymore!

34 Weeks Post-Op

2009-01-13T06:30:00.000-07:00

Wow, how time flies. :) I can't believe it's already been 34 weeks since my WLS. I really feel great most of the time...more energy...better self image...more confidence...more social...

After 8 weeks of no weight loss I FINALLY started working out again. :D The scale really hasn't moved much, just 1/2 a lb. or so, but I have so much energy now! I really do feel great. I'm keeping up with my house...cooking more...just being more active instead of laying around like a slug all day.

Water is improving also. I'm shooting for 70 oz. a day...I've been getting 32 to 70 each day this week which a big improvement over the 8 or LESS oz. I was getting...dang Diet Cokes!

My food is still hard, but I've been having my period all week, so I'm pretty sure I won't be grazing as much now. Chocolate cravings are so sucky.

I've started having quiet time again each morning. I'm doing a devotional by Leslie Sansone (Walk Away the Pounds Lady). It's so good! I get spiritual encouragement in the Word and get encouragement about my health each day.

Spending was a big problem so DH and I decided on a cash system. He gives me what I need each week and I don't carry any ATM or credit cards. It's working out great! :)

Well, that's my update. I really want to post more, but it's so hard when I'm struggling. But I know everyone needs to hear about those days too.

80 lbs. LOST!

2008-12-21T09:14:00.000-07:00

Yes...finally! I'm down 80 lbs. this morning. It took 7 months...

Actually, that's a pretty good Christmas gift to myself. ;)

Still going down...

2008-12-16T19:17:00.000-07:00

OMGosh! I went to Wal-Mart yesterday and bought size 14 jeans! :D I guess I'm still losing inches even though I'm not really losing weight.

2008-12-16T19:15:00.000-07:00

Twelve Days Before Christmas...

2008-12-13T07:20:00.000-07:00

I'm doing okay. Saw my surgeon this past week and he's very pleased with my weighloss. Still haven't hit the 80 lbs. lost mark.

Facebook | Photos of Dempsey Williams

2008-12-01T16:48:00.000-07:00

Facebook | Photos of Dempsey Williams

Saturday After Thanksgiving

2008-11-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

Well, I survived thanksgiving this year. I didn't even hurt myself with what I ate. LOL I did have a little of an upset stomach from a roll I ate. Throughout the day I ate...

*a couple bites of turkey
*a tiny taste of cranberry sauce
*mashed potatoes and gravy
*dinner roll
*3 green beans
*a bite of stuffing
*1/2 a deviled egg
*sliver of pumpkin pie
*sliver of cherry cheesecake
*coffee
*diet cokes
*water

I think that was it. LOL But yesterday (black Friday) my family and I went on an insane hike. We were dying by the end! LOL I'm so stinking sore today...especially my calves. The last 300 yards were straight uphill. OYE! I wish I could take some ibuprofen right now, but I'll have to settle for Tylenol and some essential oils massaged into my muscles.
We took some pictures yesterday, but I can't figure out how to upload them. I'll have to wait for hubby to do it later on today. I was reading Dr. Atkins' book last night to motivate me to eat low-carb again. So far today, I've had 3 slices of bacon and 1 fried egg. Coffee and a little crystal light. I'm not hungry, feel satisfied and ready to start in on my water. ;)

I know I can do this 'cause I can do ALL things through Christ who strengthens me. I just have to remember to ASK HIM for help each day. I'm way to independent for my own good.

So, each day will start with, "Jesus, HELP!" ;)

6 Months Post-Op

2008-11-21T08:50:00.000-07:00

I finally made it to my 6 month mark. Definitely haven't lost as much as I wanted. Oh well, what's new? LOL

My body fat is hanging on to me for dear life. I hate that my weightloss is so hard now. I can't figure out what's causing me to stall. I guess I'm just eating more calories than I'm burning. *sigh* TOM's here, so that's not helping. I'm not really hungry, but I feel pretty bad.
I ate a whole sandwich for the 1st time yesterday. It was a pb&j sandwich. I needed comfort food. LOL I'm trying to eat high protein, low carb again. It seems to be helping. But, I don't know, I've just been struggling with depression lately. I seem down most of the time. I was so energetic and felt so alive a couple of months ago. Now, I feel like I'm just existing again.
I knew this wasn't going to be a cake-walk, but I really didn't expect everything to be so hard. However, I am so grateful that I had the surgery, because without it, I would be stuffing my face non-stop and still weigh 270 lbs.

I voted! :)

2008-11-04T08:25:00.000-07:00

And I'm so glad it's over. LOL

I've been feeling down the past week about my weight...AGAIN. Man, I wish I wasn't so moody. LOL Some people drop all their weight with no problem...I'm not one of them. I need to come to terms with the fact that I'm going to have to work very hard to get to my goal weight. It's so hard to stay positive when your weightloss stops. I keep having thoughts that I'll never lose anymore and that I'll probably gain it all back. But, that's just the negative self-talk I've battled all my life. Your actions will always follow your beliefs. So, I need to start believing in my success. And, I've GOT to get on a regular exercise program. Why is it so hard to get started?
I'm actually feeling encouraged today...there will be times when I get down on myself, but I've got to learn to push through and keep going. There is a prize waiting for me at the end of this race.

Things are going better

2008-10-27T08:46:00.001-06:00

Whew! Glad it's a new week...last week was really tough. It's amazing what can happen in a day. My husband and I renewed our marriage vows on Saturday...it was amazing! I love him more today than I ever have. :)
I went to a street party yesterday and drank some hot apple cider before it even registered that it might have too much sugar. It did and I dumped last night. It was awful, as usual. :( I'm doing better today though.
I have so much housework to do today. SO MUCH.
My goals for today are...

*drink 32 oz. water
*20 minutes on treadmill
*eat 3 meals and 2 snacks today
*find some boxes so I can start de-cluttering my house...again
*laundry
*make meal plan for the week
*move bookcase upstairs
*cook dinner tonight

Whew - rough week!

2008-10-24T06:08:00.000-06:00

I was doing great with everything! Then, I started PMSing and on top of that found out that we might be moving. Talk about stress! It's been a bad week and I'm ready to say goodbye to it.

5 Months Post-Op!

2008-10-19T07:11:00.000-06:00

Okay, I've had my dates all mixed up. LOL I'm 5 months post-op today. :D And I'm at 197 lbs. I feel so much better about everything now. I hate being so moody. I measured myself yesterday and found out that I had lost about 11" off my waist. :D My measurements are 35/36/47. Can you say "pear-shaped"?!? LOL

I want to learn how to live each day with my head (and my spirit) and not my emotions. This is so hard! If I can master that, then I will have no problem getting fit and staying fit.

I have dumped about 4 times since surgery and I finally figured out why - peppermints! I love puffy peppermints. I remember checking the sugar count after my surgery. That bad taste in my mouth was driving me nuts. So, I'd have one. As time went by, I started eating more and more. I forgot what the sugar grams were and sometimes would eat 10 at a time...well, at least 4 times I did. I checked the sugar count the other day (after my latest dump) to see if that was the culprit. OMGosh!!! Ten peppermints have 45 GRAMS OF SUGAR!!! Mystery solved. *roll-eyes*

4 1/2 months - 199 lbs.!!! :D

2008-10-15T04:40:00.000-06:00

It sure felt good stepping on the scales this morning. LOL I can't say that very often. ;) I saw my nutritionist yesterday and she highlighted 3 areas I need to work on.
*Stop drinking with my meals.
*Take my vitamins (multi, vitamin d and calcium).
*Stop eating 1 cup of food per meal and back off to 1/2 a cup.
*Eat 14 grams of protein per meal and 7 per snack.

Those were the main things. So, I'm working on those things today.

Real low-point hit yesterday

2008-10-12T06:49:00.000-06:00

Okay, even though I barely ate anything yesterday and was totally depressed, I feel really great...and encouraged today. YES!!! I read over the "pouch rules" this morning and can see why I'm so hungry all the time. I can do this! God is so good. I'll be making some changes to how and when I eat. I'll let you know how it goes. :) Oh, and I'm down to 202 today! 68 lbs. gone. ;)

Crap!

2008-10-09T21:40:00.000-06:00

I'm just so discouraged about my weight-loss. This is hard...Ugh!

Trying to stay positive - almost 20 weeks post-op

2008-10-03T06:56:00.000-06:00

I'm up to 206 this morning. I'm so frustrated right now. But God reminded me of the reasons I had the surgery.
I wanted to be able to get my house in shape again. I've been working really hard on it the past couple of months.
I wanted to be more active with my kids. I've been playing ball and going for walks with them.
I wanted to feel good and not have constant tummy aches. I feel good most of the time now.
I wanted to be able to stand through the worship service at my church. I can do that now.
I wanted to be able to jog again. I'm up to 7 minutes during my workout.

So, I'm accomplishing my goals...but the fact remains that I still have a LOT of fat hanging off my body and that makes me mad. How could I have abused my body so horribly for so long?

I am grateful for my surgery. I do have a new life now. I just have to keep pushing forward and NEVER, EVER, EVER quit!

Finally a "Whoosh"!

2008-09-22T08:29:00.000-06:00

The scale read 205lbs. this morning. YES! Finally...it moved! :D
I worked in the yard for several hours yesterday, so I'm sure that helped.

I'll be doing more of the same today.

4 month post-op

2008-09-15T09:25:00.000-06:00

Great, I just lost my post. Grrr...

I'm down 62 lbs. in 4 months.
I'm struggling with snacking, not drinking enough water, and not exercising.

This week (today) I'm slapping myself back into reality. Health takes work...it's not just going to happen on its own.

So, today...
*no snacking
*drink 32 oz. of water
*walk on tready 20 minutes

And spend time in the Word.

3 month anniversary!

2008-08-18T06:13:00.000-06:00

Wow - I can't believe it's been 3 months already. :) I'm down 56lbs.! Doesn't seem possible. I feel great and I'm wearing an 18/20 on bottom and a 14/16 on top. I'm working out every day and keeping up with what I eat through Fitday.
My main struggles are with crackers...but I'm working on it. My water's been a little slack the past few days so I'll focus more on that today. I really feel good and I'm so happy that I had the surgery.

11 Week Update

2008-08-12T13:41:00.000-06:00

I went to see a personal trainer today. It went really well. I worked out on the weights and set up an exercise program. I've cleaned off my weight set at home and I'm ready to start working out each day. I walked on the tready for 20 minutes after I got home. I'm whooped. :D

I've started writing down my food each day. I think it'll help me see what I need to change. I've lost 53 lbs. so far...but it's time to get serious about getting fit.

8-Weeks Post-Op

2008-07-14T09:14:00.000-06:00

Wow - it's already mid-July! :) Well, I'm 8 weeks post-op today and I feel really good. :D I finally have some energy and have been done a lot more during the day. My weight-loss is slowing down, but I'm still going down in size and that makes me happy! :) I was in a size 26/28 8 weeks ago and now I'm wearing a loose size 22. Up top, I'm wearing a regular size XL. Very cool. :)

I'm eating more now which keeps me full longer. I'm going in to see my nutritionist tomorrow so I'll be curious to see what she says.

I got a new refrigerator with a water filter yesterday and the water goes down so easy! It tastes great! I still can't drink water from the tap...bleck!

I've started drinking coffee in the morning on days when I'm really dragging. It helps tremendously. I only have about 6oz. and I don't drink it every day, so I'm not too worried about it.

I haven't even looked at what I'm allowed to eat at 8 weeks...I pretty much just know what agrees with my body.

Here's my typical day....

Breakfast - pronut butter, or protein drink
Lunch - tuna or bean dip or pizza toppings
Dinner - meat, veggie

I'm going to start branching out a little more. :)

I'm decluttering my house right now...it feels good to get it back in shape and to have the energy to do it.

Found out the problem.

2008-07-01T07:14:00.001-06:00

I finally found out why sometimes I feel pukey when I eat. It has to do with sinus drainage blocking my stoma. Can you believe that? So, I have to take my expectorant every day. At least I know the problem now. :)

I'm STILL at 233 lbs. *sigh*

I'm still reeling over The Bachelorette from last night. I love the show!

6 Weeks Post-Op

2008-06-30T09:06:00.000-06:00

Seems like I should have lost more weight by now. I've lost 37 lbs. in 7 weeks. My gosh, I'm hardly eating anything...I would think more weight would've come off by now. Oh well, everyone's different.
I ate some salmon for breakfast and now I'm not feeling so good. Guess I ate too fast or something.
Hopefully with time I get better with all this. Right now...it sucks.

Food's Going Down Better

2008-06-27T07:05:00.000-06:00

No stricture - YES! I was just eating too fast and too big of bites. I've slowed down and started cutting up my food really small and things are going way better. :D I haven't lost any weight this week, but I was able to buy some 1x tops and my upper half looks so much smaller! :) My lower half...well, that's going to take awhile. LOL
I'm going with my fam to Bigg City today. An indoor fun park. No idea what I'll be eating...but I'll have plenty of water while I'm there. It's easy to drink a lot right now since it's so stinking dry. The humidity level is 24% right now.
I'm getting Guitar Hero: Aerosmith on Sunday, so that's when I'm starting my "official" work-outs. I'm getting a wireless guitar so I can walk on my tready while I play. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE guitar hero. [img]http://bestsmileys.com/music1/17.gif[/img]
I'm still tired alot, but I am able to do more. I helped a friend move yesterday...took about a zillion breaks, but at least I helped a little. LOL

Stricture?

2008-06-19T11:14:00.000-06:00

Oh, I hope not. I haven't been throwing up, but I'm having trouble eating drinking. I was doing great a week ago, but all of a sudden I can barely eat anything. :( Will this ever get easy?

This could have something to do with why I'm so tired too. I'm waiting to hear from the doc's office right now.

4 weeks and 2 days Post-op

2008-06-18T06:51:00.000-06:00

I think I maybe able to explain some of my recent fatigue. I quit taking my sleeping pills about a week ago because I was sleeping through the night without them. But, I have restless leg syndrome, so I was probably tossing and turning each night without realizing it. When I do that I'm very tired the next day. I took my pill last night so hopefully I'll feel better today.
I just drank a few gulps of my protein smoothie and it was apparently too much. My pouch hurts and I'm fighting off nausea. I just took all my morning meds so I really don't want to puke them back up. Not that I could puke even if I wanted to.
I need to set some goals for today.

*Laundry
*Ironing
*Dinner
*Carpets
*Medical Receipts

Okay, that's 5 things...that's plenty for today. :)

Out and About

2008-06-16T18:41:00.000-06:00

I went to the mall with some friends today. I really have no desire to leave my couch each day, but I know I need to walk so off the mall I went. I would walk to a store and then find a chair. I have no stamina. But, I'm only 4 weeks post-op, so I know it'll get better.
I tried on size 24 capri's today. They fit nicely. I'm pretty much just wearing stretchy 3x shorts and capris now. I don't want to spend any money on clothes until I have too. I know I will be going through sizes pretty fast the 1st six months.
I'm a 1x on top...well, down to my hips. ;) I'm glad I'm shrinking, but I'm not very excited yet. Still a long way to go.
I got all my fluids in today. So, hopefully, I'll have more energy tomorrow. My house needs to be cleaned.
I'm not even a little comfortable being around sugary-foods that I can't have. I just don't trust myself yet. I won't bring stuff like that into my home. My family doesn't need to be eating all that crap anyway.

Almost 4 weeks post-op

2008-06-15T12:44:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it's almost been 4 weeks. Wow, what a ride. LOL I am doing well. I've lost 32 lbs. and have enjoyed wearing loose clothes...finally! Right now I'm just wearing stretchy pants since my stomach area is still a little tender. I was wearing very tight 26s when I went in for surgery. Not sure what I am now.
It's a challenge finding other ways other than food to comfort myself. There's only been a few times that I really wanted to eat alot. Mentally, it's hard, but I have gotten through it. I probably should take some full-length pictures so I can see the difference. My daughter noticed that I was looking thinner last night. She said even my feet looked thinner. LOL Being a normal size still seems like a pipe-dream, but I just try and look at my journey in smaller stages.
I had a goal to be in the 230s by the 4-week mark. I was 238 this morning. YES! I know my weight-loss will begin slowing down soon. So my next goal will be to get down to 215 by my 8th week. Hopefully that's realistic. LOL

Facebook | My Photos - Mobile Uploads

2008-06-15T12:37:00.000-06:00

Facebook | My Photos - Mobile Uploads

FitDay - Online Diet & Fitness Manager

2008-06-11T07:37:00.000-06:00

FitDay - Online Diet & Fitness Manager

3-weeks Post-Op

2008-06-09T09:39:00.000-06:00

Crap! I wish I knew more about adding stuff to my blog. :( I'll have to sit down with dh later today.

I'm 244lbs. this morning. I've lost 20 lbs. since my surgery. I only lost 1 lb. this week which is a little frustrating since I'm drinking more fluids and I exercised 4 or 5 times this week.

I'm still trying different ways to get my water down. Will it ever be easy? I've noticed a little more snacking in the afternoon/evening so I'm going to work on not doing that this week...or at least eating s/f, f/f things like yogurt or jello.

I have got about 20 things on my "tasks" list. I have no idea how I'm going to get all this done this week. If my energy level matched my desire level then it would be a breeze.

Todays Menu
b-12 oz. protein drink (8oz. milk, 1 scoop thunder, 1 tsp. s/f raspberry syrup, 1/2 banana
l-spaghetti and a meatball, garlic bread
d-?
s-s/f yogurt

Stats

2008-06-06T17:40:00.000-06:00

Weekly Weigh-Ins

12-May-08 270lbs.
19-May-08 264lbs. -6 WLS Day
26-May-08 254lbs. -10
02-Jun-08 246lbs. -8
09-Jun-08 245lbs. -1

25 lbs. Gone! :D

Menu and Update

2008-05-31T10:25:00.000-06:00

Today's Menu for Me

Milk w/ protein powder - 8 oz.
Breakfast - 1 tbs. tuna w/ mayo, 1 saltine
Crystal Lite - 32 oz.
Lunch - 1 tbs. steak, 1 tbs. cherry tomato
Crystal Lite - 32 oz.
Dinner - 1 tbs. salmon pattie, 1 tbs. peas
Milk - 8 oz.
Snack - 1 oz. string cheese, melted

I started feeling pukey after drinking a protein shake this morning, so I won't do that again on an empty stomach. Lactose is not my friend.
I did come up and eat some tuna and a saltine and I feel better now.
Now, I'm working on my Crystal Lite. I'm going to try REALLY HARD to get in all my fluids today. Water just makes me nauseous, so I've switched to CL.

I'm down to 248 lbs. today. 22 lost in 12 days...not bad. :D

I'm still tired. I'm not sure if I'll ever have energy again.

10 days post-op

2008-05-29T08:43:00.000-06:00

I'm 10 days post-op and I'm down 21 lbs. I want to walk on my tready, but I get so tired. This is the fatigue my doc was telling me about. God-willing it won't last too much longer. I'm ready for some energy! :)

I can wear a 1x in shirts now...that's fun. I'm not sure about my bottoms. 26s are too big, but I haven't tried on any 24s yet. I have a yeast infection on each of my incisions. :( So, no tight pants yet. I never get yeast infections...ever...but for some reason I now have 5. :( I'm seeing my doc tomorrow, so I'm just waiting to see if he'll give me something for it.

I'm sleeping great...its hard to get around in the a.m. because I'm not drinking coffee anymore. Or any caffeine for that matter. But, I really feel like I need something to get my brain going. I'll be researching that today.

Ahhh, it's beautiful here today. 65 and sunny. :D Makes me happy. My Mom has been here for a week helping me out with everything...she's leaving tonight with 2 of my kiddo's. She'll take them back to Arkansas for a few weeks this summer. It's very bitter-sweet. It's been wonderful having her here. And I know I'm going to miss my kiddo's, but just having 1 kid to take care of will be nice.

I drove for the 1st time this morning. It went well. I hate driving though. It's been fun having my mom taxi me around. LOL

Guess I'd better get some breakfast. I'm never hungry in the morning, but it helps kind of jump start my pouch.

I'm alive!!!

2008-05-21T19:03:00.000-06:00

I had my wls on Monday and I'm doing much better today (Wednesday). I thought I was going to die of pain the first 48 hours, but I made it and am happy again that I decided to do this.
I weighed 264 lbs. Monday morning so I can't wait to see what I weigh tomorrow when I go home. :)

The doc said the surgery went well with no problems. My vitals have been excellent this whole time and I'm even getting in my 64 oz. of water. But, I am at the hospital so there's really nothing else to do. LOL I'm sure it'll be harder when I go home.

I'm a little tired so I'll post more tomorrow. I still haven't slept through the night. :(

2008-05-15T14:43:00.000-06:00

Saw the surgeon. Everything is set for Monday at 7:30am. :D All my tests looked really good.

Last Doctor's Visit before Surgery.

2008-05-15T08:59:00.000-06:00

My appointment is in a couple of hours so I'll be back to let you know how that went. I'm down 6 lbs., so hopefully my Dr. will be pleased. :) I haven't been working out because of my allergies. I just can't breathe when I'm done without my lungs hurting. I need to go get another inhaler...tis the season.

I got the worst haircut in history last night. I told her exactly what I wanted...even showed her a pix. And she just hacked it up...and hacked it up...and hacked it up. My hair is so short I can't do anything with it. But, at least it'll grow back out. :)

It's overcast and cold here today...around 32 degrees with the wind chill. Brrrr...when is Spring going to get here?

1 week from sugery

2008-05-12T08:44:00.000-06:00

I can't believe how well my pre-op diet is going. Only with the strength of Jesus! :) I'm down 3 lbs. which really motivates me to keep doing this. My bowel's are pretty loose right now...I feel like I'm really getting cleaned out.

Mary's coming home from the hospital today - YES! :) She made a great recovery over the weekend and is eating soft foods now.

It is so wonderful to have my best-friend going through this too. :)

9 Days to Go

2008-05-10T20:10:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it's almost time for my surgery. :)

My best friend isn't doing well and will probably have to go back in for more surgery tomorrow. :( Apparently she has a blood clot in her intestines and a leak in her pouch. :( Poor thing. She's so sick of feeling bad...I just hope and pray she'll start feeling better soon.

I've started my pre-op diet. Not a lot to say except that...just praying God will give me the strength to stay on it each day. I haven't been walking because of this stupid cold I have. I have this dry cough that is driving me insane. I really want to be 100 % healthy for my surgery.

My Best Friend had her surgery.

2008-05-08T08:57:00.000-06:00

My friend's surgery went well, but this is day 4 and she still can't eat and is vomiting blood. :( She's miserable. They are going to scope her today to see what's going on. She was in excruciating pain following surgery. They finally doubled her morphine and that allowed her to sleep. Me and her husband have been getting her up to walk as much as she can, but she's in too much pain right now. She has a lot of gas built up in her pouch and intestines that just won't move. She is miserable. I feel so bad for her. I really hope I don't have all these painful problems, but it maybe normal...I don't know.

11 days until my surgery. I have to start my pre-op diet tomorrow...yuck! LOL

MAY 19th!!! :-D

2008-05-02T09:11:00.000-06:00

I finally have my surgery date. Hallelujah!!! Not much more to say about that. LOL

Now, on to LOST. My mouth dropped open in the 1st 10 minutes last night! WOW...didn't see that coming. But, then again, I never see anything coming on LOST...that's why I love it! :)

Survivor was really good too. I hope Eric makes it to the end.

I'm heading to the tready to get my walking in for the day. I've been sooo tired after my workouts, but I know it'll pass in about 10 days. Well, then I'll be tired from my surgery! :D Maybe I'll feel normal again sometime in June. LOL

RNY Surgery is scheduled for...

2008-05-01T09:17:00.000-06:00

Okay, I don't know yet...BUT, I'm going in at 4:00pm today to find out! :) I'm very excited. My best friend is having her RNY on Monday, so we'll be going through all this together.

It's snowing here today. *sigh* My son's soccer game should be fun.

My next post will have a date!!! Wa-hoo!!!

Doctor's Appointment is Made!

2008-04-29T14:31:00.000-06:00

Finally...I'm going in to see my surgeon on Thursday! :) At that appointment I'll get to make a date for surgery. :-)

Slllooowwlllyyy, but surely.

And I just beat Guitar Hero III on Hard!!! It's a good day. ;-P

No letter from my insurance yet...

2008-04-26T12:45:00.000-06:00

How long does it take to send an approval letter? Don't answer that. LOL I'm calling my insurance on Monday to see if they've sent it. Geesh, I could've already had my surgery by now if all the paperwork didn't take so long.

My bruises are healing from my ATV accident. I'm still sore - especially my neck - but I'm alive and that makes me happy! :)

I'm heading off to an essential oils training class now. Should be fun. ;)

ATV Accident

2008-04-23T14:02:00.000-06:00

Oh boy, a couple of days ago I went ATV riding with my best friend up in the mountains. We had a blast...until I flipped my 4-wheeler over on top of me! :( God protected me and I am so grateful for that. I've got about 7 big purple, ugly bruises...and a dislocated jaw (which has moved back into place), but nothing else. The 4-wheeler came back and landed on my right jaw and right breast. I'm pretty sore, but I find the more I move the better I feel.

I'm waiting for my surgeon's office to call and set up my next doc's appointment.

The changes I've made so far are:

drinking 64 - 100 oz. of water each day
stopped drinking diet dr. pepper
i've started eating slower and chewing my food more
when I'm bored, instead of eating I do crossword puzzles
i try to park further from the stores i go to...unless it's super cold... ;)
i'm taking all vitamins and minerals that I need each day

I really believe I'm ready for this surgery - well, as ready as one can be.
My best friend's surgery is May 5th. I'm hoping mine will be that week or the week after.
I've been watching rny videos to see what exactly they'll be cutting and stapling.
I've watched and read a lot of info on all the phases.

I'm ready!!! I just need them to call.

Off to do more housework. LOL

I'M APPROVED!!!!

2008-04-18T12:54:00.000-06:00

Oh my gosh! I screamed after I got off the phone with Jodi! I'm absolutely beside myself right now. LOL Two weeks ... that's when I'll have my RNY. Then, life will change forever...thank the Lord!

So much to do and plan before then. Where do I begin?

They finally have it!

2008-04-17T08:45:00.000-06:00

I called my insurance company yesterday and they finally received my information. Now, I just have to wait for approval. I pray they approve me. I'd hate to have to appeal and go through all this again. So, my next blog will be with the news. :)

2-weeks...and still... nothing

2008-04-14T06:07:00.000-06:00

This pix is of me in the mountains a few weeks ago. The wind was a bit strong that day. ;)

My info STILL has not been faxed to my insurance. I don't know what else to do besides going to my doctor's office and faxing my information myself! I've left 3 messages in the past 14 days and I have had no return calls. My insurance hasn't heard anything either. This is very frustrating. I can't even read about weight-loss surgery right now because it all just upsets me. I'll do my normal routine today of calling my insurance company to see if they've received my info yet. Then when they say no, I'll call my surgeon's office and leave another message. *sigh*

I've been up since 2:30am. I couldn't sleep at all. I'm sure I'll crash around mid-afternoon.

Still waiting...

2008-04-09T11:18:00.000-06:00

I've called my insurance company every day since April 1st and they still haven't received my information. I've left Jodi two messages asking her to please re-fax my info...but I haven't heard back from her. *sigh*

The paperwork's in!

2008-04-01T15:55:00.000-06:00

I got a call from Jodi today (Dr. Fadorek's office assistant) and she said my insurance has received my paperwork. FINALLY! So, now I have to wait for their verdict. It's been about 3 weeks since I had any Diet dp. It's not as hard anymore. And I'm craving water all the time. :-)
I switched my Zoloft to nighttime and have felt a million times better during the day. I was so tired all the time. I'm so glad my pharmacist suggested the change.

My weight's the same. No motivation to workout again. Lord, please let the insurance company say yes.

Yummy Lunch!

2008-03-18T12:14:00.000-06:00

I just had a wonderful lunch. I made a salad with organic greens, broccoli, tomatoes, seasame seeds, sunflower seeds, almonds and clover sprouts...with a little ranch. Then I finished it off with some berries. I've drank about 60 oz. of water so far and I feel great! I think the diet dp monster has been slain. :)
I even want to exercise today...that tells how much better I feel. I don't even care if I have weight loss surgery or not...I know I'm getting healthy and that's all that matters.

I've been reading about water quality the past couple of days. Who knew there were so many things to consider. When I was a kid, you went to the sink and filled your cup. No worries at all. Now there's pesticides, chlorine, lead, etc. God, show me how to have pure, clean water without it costing a fortune!

Much to do...

1 Week - no aspartame!

2008-03-14T08:47:00.001-06:00

It's hard to believe that it's already been a week without diet dp. :) I feel 100% better already. I'm chugging more than enough water each day and I'm trying to cut out mindless eating. I'm stuck around 266 lbs. but at least I feel better. I'm taking vitamin b-12 and a b-complex vitamin daily. I hope to order some Frequensea soon. I'm way more active now...getting around 10 minutes of exercise a day. My house is looking better and better since I actually have energy to declutter.
Today my reports are all supposed to be delivered to my surgeon. All I can do is keep making small changes on my end while I wait.

I'm off to the dentist to get my daughter another retainer. *sigh*

Aspartame Free!

2008-03-11T12:37:00.000-06:00

I stopped diet dp about a day and a half ago. I, of course, feel better already. It's amazing how we continue to feed our bodies things that are poisoning us. I don't understand it...I'm just glad it's over.
I parked in the last parking space at DCC yesterday. I got 10 minutes of exercise. :) I love life too much to continue existing. Everyone needs me...my husband, my kids. What good will I be to anyone lethargic, depressed, apathetic?
I started taking some vitamins today. I'm still going to buy some Frequensea and Amplify, but it's just too pricey right now. So, I'm taking b-complex and b-12 pills. I hope they help.
Whether I get approved for the surgery or not, I have to exercise and eat healthier. And I'm taking the steps I need to do that.
coffee - splenda, capp., 1/2 and 1/2
b-2 eggs, 2 turkey, 2 bread, 1 tsp. mayo
Talking Rain drink
32 oz. water
s - plum
l - 2 string cheese, 2 turkey, 1 tsp. mayo, 1/2 cup cottage cheese

Now it's 1:00pm and I have to stay busy to keep from grazing. I usually want something sweet this time of day, but I know God will make me strong...He already has.

Back and forth...

2008-03-09T17:30:00.000-06:00

I didn't expect to have so many "head-battles" with the surgery. I keep thinking..."I'm going to blow it! I'll go through all this pain, money, etc. and in the end, I'll screw it all up." Then, I have the thought that my health depends on getting this weight off and keeping it off...so...I have to do it!" Back and forth...back and forth.... it's annoying.
I'm drinking more water now...probably up to about 32 oz. a day. It's a start! :) I walked yesterday on the tready for the 1st time in a loooonnnggg time. It felt good...go figure.

I hate being fat. That's what keeps pulling me back to the surgery. I hate having to find clothes to wear on Sunday morning...nothing I put on makes me look nice. I hate my butt being too big for the seats...any seat for that matter.
I live in the city ranked number 1 in the COUNTRY for fitness! Everyone here is fit! So, I even stick out worse than in other places. I want to be fit. I want to take my dog on walks or go hiking or jogging or cycling or WHATEVER. You know, I'd like to walk up my stairs without needing an oxygen tank!
I'm not getting any younger. So, I've got my age going against me too. Youth is wasted on the youth.

...well this was encouraging...not. ;-)

2008-03-07T16:31:00.000-07:00

Well, I've done everything I can...now I have to wait for the insurance company to make the decision.

I saw my nutritionist and psychologist today. They both said they would okay me for surgery.

It takes them a week to get my report back to my surgeon....then they have to right up a report and send it all to my insurance. I figure I'm looking at 3 or so weeks before I hear anything.

Now, I have to really start putting forth more effort into my health. Exercise...drinking more water...less sweets...less diet dp. Crap, this is going to be hard.

Long Meeting

2008-03-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

I hate meetings. I had to sit there 1 1/2 hours listening to the Nutritionist. She's very nice and seems like she'll be great to work with...I just want my insurance company to approve all this so I can get excited! :)
All I could think about the whole time I was talking to her was eating. Talking about all the pre and post-op stuff is a little stressful. I went straight to McDonald's after we were done.

I feel like a snail right now...slllooowwwlllyyy moving towards a surgery date.

Meeting with Nutritionist

2008-03-06T09:23:00.001-07:00

I have an appointment today at 10:30am with my nutritionist. I'm very excited about talking to her. We have so many "food issues" in my family. My husband has high cholesterol...my oldest son is about 30 lbs. overweight...my daughter has Celiac disease and my youngest son is very hyper. Oh, and of course, I'm morbidly obese. I've staying around 265 lbs. right now. That's my naked, morning weight. :)

I'm dealing with the whole process pretty good. Thanks to God. I mean, I could go to all these appointments and still get denied by my insurance. I'm just hoping and praying that won't be the case.
...more later when I get back home...

Weird dreams...

2008-03-04T08:58:00.000-07:00

I've started having dreams about this crazy surgery I'm trying to have. I dreamed I was schmoozing with the insurance lady trying to get on her good side. HA! That one may actually be prophetic. :)
I'm doing okay today, still trying to uncluttered my house.
...more later...I can't think right now...too early. ;)

Blah...it's snowing

2008-03-02T08:01:00.000-07:00

After enjoying 73 degrees yesterday, it's 25 and snowing today. This time of year is so fun. :(

My house is coming together as I continue to get rid of stuff. It's amazing how much junk I've accumulated over the past few years. I did set up my treadmill and weight set yesterday in the basement. Now...I just have to use them! :)

I am so looking forward to not being hungry all the time. There's so much to do without worrying about food all the time.

...time to get ready for church...

Gall Bladder test went well

2008-02-28T16:29:00.000-07:00

I had an ultrasound on my gall bladder today. No stones and everything looks good. Yeah! Mark that step off the list. :)

I stopped taking my sleeping pills a few days ago and I'm feeling so much better. More energy.

I'm doing a clean-sweep of my house and it feels great!

...more later...

Approximately 6 weeks Pre-0p

2008-02-26T13:45:00.001-07:00

Wow, this whole process has already been a little crazy.
Mid-January I started calling my insurance to see if WLS was a possibility. I saw my GP and had them fax over my records to a Bariatric Surgeon. There was a lot of phone tag, but I finally got put on the meeting list for the 5th of Feb.

February 5th, 2008 - I went to the 90 minute meeting at Penrose Main. It was very informative and the lady giving us the information was great. I left excited that this actually might be happening. :)

February 19, 2008 - My dh and I went to see my surgeon today. He was very thorough and answered all our questions. We've decided the best surgery for me is the Roux-en-y. I weighed 268 lbs. on his scale which was awesome. My BMI is at 41. Now I can start exercising and trying to lose about 10 lbs. before my surgery. My weight and bmi from my 1st visit will be what's sent into the insurance.

My next appointment will be on February 28th, 2008, at 9:00am. I'm having my gall bladder checked to make sure it looks okay.

I'm trying to cut down on Diet Dr. Pepper and sweets, but it's extremely hard.