Tuesday, March 18, 2014

A birthday weigh in without blowing out the cake candles first....

I'm sure you've all seen that today is muh birfday so here it goes:

Weight Loss from last week: 2 Pounds
Weight Loss Since Surgery: 2 Pounds
Overall Weight Loss: 79 Pounds

I think 79 pounds is a pretty good birthday present to myself. I really have worked very hard for this. It's not easy sitting back while others eat potatoes, cakes, donuts, muffins and other things that I want. But I've practiced pretty good self control!

So this week was my 6 week appointment. I always get a little nervous on doctor appointment days especially since I really had no idea what to expect. So of course I stuck with tradition and did not eat during the day because I wanted to weigh as little as possible. So, the first thing was first on weigh in day and that was that I was expected to lose between 20% and 30% of my excess body weight. I have lost 36%! I know I posted this on Facebook, but I'm excited about this and wanted to say it again.

After I weighed in, I met with exercise. I was a little nervous because I have not been to the gym as much as I would've liked. I've just been so tired that when I get home, I don't want to do anything much less 30 minutes of cardio at the Wellness Center. I was also very honest about my water aerobics fiasco fainting. While he understood my need to be competitive, he also stressed the need or me to take care of myself by taking steps with my exercise. While he doesn't want me not exercising, I also will not be running any 5Ks soon. So, I'm going to get back to walking and slowly add in water aerobics and the elipitical. If I'm doing well when I return in six more weeks, he will had some weight lifting and other rountines.

Next was with the dietician. I was nervous as all get out on this one. I knew I was going to get reamed for not drinking my 64-96 each day and for skipping breakfast. Skipping breakfast was one of the first habits that she got me to break. But all in all the only things I have to work on are those to things with the dietician. We also discussed my binder with all the menus, recipes, and grocery lists and she LOVED that. She did express some concern over the fatigue that I am still battling, the naseua, and the constipation. She has a plan for me for constipation that includes Miralax every night...yuck... The other two she wanted me to address with the physician. So her instructions with me are the Miralax, a protein bar for breakfast and doing my best to get my liquids in without excuses; however, she has no idea how busy I am during the day. So, I'm working on it. I I haven't been able to get it in today, but did really really well yesterday.

Finally I met with Dr. B who was so totally pumped about my weight loss! He couldn't be happier. He was concerned that with the nausea that only happens in the morning could be pregnancy. He's asked me to take a PG test. Have I? No. Why? I know I'm not pregnant. #1: I'm on the pill. His response to that is that since my body has undergone so much that it is still possible. #2: I just completed a cycle. #3: I'm not ready to start PG testing. It's this emotional let down for me that I'm not quite ready to take up again. Unless you have dealt with infertility, there is no possible way you can understand how one tiny little line on a stick with pee on it can be so devastating. I'm going through enough emotionally here...Let's not add another dimension just yet. After that convo, we started talking about these gosh darn leg cramps. Apparently, there is no known reason or cure. Just a few old wives tales...soooo...hooray for me I just get to live with them. We also looked at my scars. They are healing quite nicely and he doesn't think that they will be noticeable in the future. Then he wanted to look the binder and was super impressed with what I have. He did call me OCD which maybe I am a little. Lastly we discussed what he expects at the next visit in six more weeks. I asked this question because I want to exceed his expectations. For those of you who know me know this is just who I am. I want to be the best! He couldn't give me an answer? Why? Everyone is different. This is a concept that is hard for me to grasp. It's hard for me to not compete against others. I also stated I wanted to be down another 50 pounds or so before May 21st. He stated this might be a little outta my reach, but not impossible. While he loves my enthusiasim, he doesn't want me to bummed if I don't meet it. So, I'm just going to stick the diet, excercise and work my rear off for this big vacation and see if I can prove him wrong (back to being competetive and a little hard headed.)

This weekend was pretty good. My brother and I share a birthday, 3 years apart. We always go to Dallas for the weekend and just have a good time. I got new clothes. This is another psychological thing for me because I didn't want to be bummed about shopping for clothes but this was a whole new experience. I was able to fit clothes that I haven't be able to since high school. I was even kinda sad that Hot Topic didn't have my size so I bought a size smaller. I tried it on for what they hey and it fit. I almost starting crying. I did not anticipate that shopping would be this much fun at this point in the game, but I'm almost out of the 20s peeps. I haven't been out of a size 20 since junior year in high school. 12 years ago! 12! It's crazy to me and so freeing. I am almost a size where I won't always have to shop plus size. You have no idea how amazing this feels to me.

The only bad thing that happend was at Medieval Times. I love this place. Of course I would. I'm obesessed with kings and queens and courts and all of that era. Johnathan and I have quite the system when it comes to food where basically we switch plates and he finishes my meal. Well there is a ton of food at Medieval Times. I did overeat a little I think but I did not throw up, but started to feel a little blah. I sat back in my chair and I guess had this look of misery on my face because the server made a negative comment that alluded to my weight as he rubbed his belly and puffed up his cheeks. It was like a punch in the stomach. I've worked this hard and lost almost 80 pounds and still get treated this way even though I didn't eat the meal, my skinny hubby did. The more I think about it the madder I get because it was really offensive and very uncalled for. I've filled out the complaint form on the website twice and I didn't even get a confirmation email back. If I haven't heard from them by Friday, I'm calling. I just don't want anyone else no matter what size or reason to feel the way I felt. I know what acting is and I know that acting is a part of the server's job, but if a server was to speak to a Lord or Lady that way in that era, the outcome would be different.

Anyways, so for now the plan is to get my liquids in. So if you see me without a waterbottle, ask me where it is and if I've met my goal. I'm also fixing to clean out my closet and make a trip to a consignment shop. I think it's time.

So continue to pray for us as I continue to work hard. Pray for me to have strength and some emotional stress relief.

Happy Reading!!

Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Moments with the Mullers: Ready for my 6 week Post Op on Thursday!!!

Moments with the Mullers: Ready for my 6 week Post Op on Thursday!!!: We'll start with the usual: Loss from Last Week: 3 Pounds Loss since surgery: 35 Pounds Overall Loss: 77 Pounds According ...

Ready for my 6 week Post Op on Thursday!!!

We'll start with the usual:

Loss from Last Week: 3 Pounds
Loss since surgery: 35 Pounds
Overall Loss: 77 Pounds

According to my funny little meme about weight loss, I've lost a Gold Brick! So, if only my fat equated in gold I would be just over a half a million dollars richer! I'm pretty bummed that fat doesn't equate to the gold standards because at this rate, I'd be coming into some serious dough!

So, what I've realized this week is the fact that I have this need to be prepared. Some have said that it's a bit obessive that I came up with six weeks' worth of menus, grocery lists and recipes. I don't care if it's obessive. It keeps me prepared and organized for the weeks ahead. It's easier for me to balance not only my home, but my finances as well. I also take pride that I'm prepared for every meal even on Wednesdays that I make crockpot meals because I'm usually not at home until after 8 and it keeps me prepared. I've also noticed when it comes to trip planning, I'm pretty organized and prepared. My new biggest fear is when people say "Let's just go out." I get freaked out because I have such a limited diet that I legit worry about where someone is going to want to eat. I fear Italian resturants. There isn't much I can eat there and I know I will be tempted by the garlic bread. I know this sounds a little selfish, but I can't help it. If I know this is coming, I can help steer the restaurant choice into something a little more suitable to my fears and needs. This weekend I made healthy choices at Rainforest Cafe, a Mexican restaurant and Cheddars. Most places are accomodating, but every now and then, there's that place where everything is breaded, fried, creamed or sugared. Those are the places I fear.

Also this week, I've learned how to use new kitchen tools like this cool Pampered Chef slicer that cuts my veggies perfectly. I recently made some zucchini chips that this was perfect for! We've also used my tea maker more now that I found that decaf tea so I can have my sweet tea! PUMPED! LOVING IT! I've ordered some new stuff from Pampered Chef and cannot wait to use them. If you want some stuff, let me know, I have a connection!

Recipes that were pretty awesome last week that I used were the zucchini lasage and the baked parm pork chops. I'm learning from each recipe and found that things that I love can be made in a healthier way without losing any flavor. I've had several people say that they've always wanted to try to use ground turkey or turkey sausage but their hubs and kiddos would never allow it. Well sisters, I got a secret....they'll never know the difference. Think about it. We season hamburger meat to make it taste good. You season ground turkey the same way. Give it a try and see if they notice. Be sure to hide the wrapper!!

I've also recieved advice like "carbs won't kill you" "you should have a cheat day on your birthday" "You follow the rules too close." You're darn right I do! I am absolutely terrified of carbs right now. While I know it's unlikely that carbs will kill me but I make myself believe this so that I won't slide back down that slippery slope that is donuts, cakes, fried chicken, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese... you get the gist. So for now, I just stay in love with my zucchini chips and baked parm pork chops and continue to watch the scale and the inches melt away. :)

My complaint for this week is that the past two days every time I eat OR drink, I feel very nauseated like I am going to vomit. I don't know what is causing this but I did what I've been told NOT to do which is Google what it is. The top pick is gallstones. I know that some people develop gallstones after losing a vast amount of weight; however, I am praying this is just another Google illusion... I go to the doctor on Thursday for my first post-op and will definetly add this to my long list of items to discuss with him. I'll update you all when I know what it is. It's probably just my body going through another adjustment.

Once again, I really do want to thank everyone for all of your encouraging words, supportive attitudes, and compliments. While I know I'm not near "skinny," when someone calls me skinny or melting away, it makes me smile on the inside and out. It is truly what I need to hear to keep me going! Keep the encouraging coming because I need it know more than ever.

So for now, continue your prayers and your encouragement! Pray for great news on Thursday!

Happy Reading!

Wednesday, March 5, 2014

Moments with the Mullers: Skipped a week, but I only promised to try...

Moments with the Mullers: Skipped a week, but I only promised to try...: First Thing first: Weight Loss from last week: 2 pounds Weight loss since surgery: 32 pounds Overall Weight Loss: 74 pounds So also, o...

Skipped a week, but I only promised to try...

First Thing first:

Weight Loss from last week: 2 pounds
Weight loss since surgery: 32 pounds
Overall Weight Loss: 74 pounds

So also, officially, I am down 3 pant sizes and one shirt size! I'm pretty pumped about this! I'm gaining confidence! I'm feeling better! Life is good!

But it's not always this perfect weight loss perfection. I'm also learning. It is honestly hard to have to re-learn how to nourish your body and it's not always these easy choices. I've had two food adversions: Greek Yogurt and Beef. Beef hasn't made me upchuck, but it makes me sick to my stomach. I also one day was hungry so I ate, but it was snacky snacky food, well pistachios. And I ate while I was riding in the car with Johnathan and wasn't thinking about my pouch and overate. Again, I didn't get sick but I did feel pretty flipping horrible. It is a little crazy when I eat because my mind is telling me there is no way this small amount of food is filling you up but my pouch is screaming: NO MORE! NO MORE! It's a completley new experience that has taught me so much about myself and my willpower. Right now, popcorn is something that kills me. I would cut off my left pinky for some popcorn! But I'm scared of what it would to do me!

I've also discovered some pretty freaking good recipes and if you don't believe me you can ask both my husband AND my brother. I made some parmesean crusted pork chops that were pretty awesome! I've also made some zucchini lasagne (I made Michael "real" lasagne) and we "fried" some zucchini that was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! I've found TONS of recipes that are not only healthy but pretty good! And the no-dough pizza that the "crust" was made of cream cheese and eggs! It was like the real thing and was soooo good! Food can be healthy and good! Turkey meat also takes like hamburger and sausage or Italian sausage. Healthy is not bad!

The only two things that I'm not doing but need to start is exercising, but everyone knows that I had a rough couple of first weeks, so I'm trying to ease back into the exercise game. I know I sound like I'm making excuses but honestly I'm not at 100% of having battery charged! I need a little more time. I'm listening to my body and I can tell I'm not ready.

The other things I'm not doing is getting my 64-96oz of liquid in. God knows I try but I get so busy during the day that I really don't think about liquid until I'm parched or dizzy. I roughly get about 48oz in each day. It's not enough. Did you know that your kidneys cannot process the fat burning properly without the appropriate amount of liquid??? I didn't either and it's a motivator but I'm still not hitting that goal. I'm opening for suggestions other than setting a timer on my cellphone. I defintely don't have time for that :). I'm also about once a week being woke up in the middle of the night with severe leg cramps!! I'm going to be honest with the doctor over this and I'm prepared for the chewing I'm going to get over it, but I'm hoping he has answer to this leg cramp thing but it's getting old reallllll quick!

Anyways, back to being super pumped about being down 3 pant sizes.... I've not been this size since before Johnathan and I met and dated! It makes me smile! And pretty darn proud of myself!

So for now, just prayers for patience during this period of adjustment and for relief of the leg cramps and for my energy to return. I am so proud to call each and everyone of you friends and family and abosolutley am blessed by your support and prayers!

God Bless You!

Happy Reading!!

Tuesday, February 18, 2014

Moments with the Mullers: Soft Food Diet -- Week Three!

Moments with the Mullers: Soft Food Diet -- Week Three!: First things first: Weekly weight in: Loss of 4 pounds Since Surgery: Loss of 30 pounds Overall: Loss of 72 poun...

Soft Food Diet -- Week Three!

First things first:

Weekly weight in: Loss of 4 pounds
Since Surgery: Loss of 30 pounds
Overall: Loss of 72 pounds

4 pounds isn't much of a loss, but it is still a loss. This has been very sucessful. According to this meme I found on a weightloss site, I've lost an Irish Setter. That is sucess people!

This week I started the soft food diet. It's been an adventure. I started off the week with cheese. I bought the weight watchers Colby Jack cheese. On the first morning, I got about 2 bites in and was completely full. For lunch on that day, I also had cheese. I was almost half way through the stick. And for dinner I had cheese. I had about 75% of that cheese stick down. I felt full and satisfied.

My instructions were to add things each day. I held cheese down. Next, I tried yogurt. I loved Greek yogurt before and assumed I would be fine. But oh I was wrong. I didn't throw up or anything but I was so nauseated throughout the day. I had developed a food aversion. So, for lunch it was a cheese stick and for dinner, I joined a few colleagues at Pete's where I had, you guessed it, cheese. I also learned my lesson about trying things before I go to work before I am absolutely sure that I won't have an aversion to it.

So on Thursday, I had cheese for breakfast and lunch. Thank God I love cheese! Then for dinner I had scrambled eggs with a little 2% shredded cheese. It was delicious! And so satisfying!

Friday was a rough day. I woke up like any normal day. Had a little cheese, showered, and as I was in the shower I started to feel dizzy and to see black spots. I knew what was coming next. I was going to pass out. I made it out of the shower and barely to the bed. When I woke up it was after 8:00am and I was pretty scared. I didn't know what was wrong with me. Turns out, I am dehyrdated and I need to change my vitamins. I also need to slow down. Slow down? How? He said I can get back to normal...this life is normal to me! Anyways, I went into work and had cheese for lunch. Since it was Valentine's Day, I also got a very beautiful vase of flowers complete with Red Roses, and Lillies. Have I told ya'll that I have the best husband. It's okay to be jealous! So for Valentine's plans, we had decided that we wanted to go La Cabana which is our favorite Mexican restaurant here in McAlester. But, when I got home, I was so very tired. So we ordered from La Cabana. Johnathan got Carne Asada and I got refried beans and white queso. It was eating creme brulee. It was so very amazing! I ate about 1/3c of these refried beans!

Saturday, I decided to rest for the day. We had a valentine's party for the kids and that was a little difficult. I just focused on my liquids. I had cheese for breakfast, left over refried beans for lunch and the best thing I've eaten so far which is honestly just canned chicken and light Hellman's. It's amazingly good! I had a hard time because we bought pizza for the kids and Nana made this amazingly smelling Mexican casserole. It takes a lot of will power to turn down my Nana's cooking.... But I did and enjoyed my modified chicken salad.

Sunday, I skipped breakfast. I know we are not supposed to, but we are told that if we have to choose between food and liquids. Choose liquids and that's what I chose. For lunch, we ate at Nana's. I had refried beans. And you wanna guess what I had for dinner?? Modified Chicken Salad. The same for Monday.

This week, I get to add new things, but I'll blog about it next week.

Wanna know my pet peeve this week? Everyone giving me advice about what I should or should not be eating. I am eating exactly what my doctor and dietician has given to me. I am doing it in the exact order and I am eating until I am full. I had one person give me advice about I should add mashed potatoes in my diet. NO! NO! No! We are taught to not eat potatoes ever again. I know what I'm doing. I'm listening to my body and the very qualified professionals that deal with and serve this on a daily basis. So, please, unless I ask you, please do give me advice on what or how much I should be eating. I am fine and completely doing what is expected of me!

I am tired most of the time. I am promised that this will get better as I go foward and am able to eat more and have a little more the right vitamins in me to get me along. It will get better. I've seen people who are sucessful at this. This isn't just something to get me through. This is a lifestyle change. It's taking hard work and dedication and a fight in me that I really didn't know that I have. I'm discovering myself in this process. I am proud of myself and even though I've lost 4 pounds this week and not 8 or 18, I did lose and I also lost inches.

So prayers are always appreciated. Prayers for strength, patience, and dedication. You have no idea how much I appreciate your support and your prayers. It's easier to fight a battle with an army behind you.

Happy Reading!