Ten Things Thursday!

Hello loves! I love these blog themes...makes it so much easier to let my brain roam free.

1. I weighed in this morning at 226.4....up 1.4 from last week. Blah. I think I'll definitely be talking to my primary about trying TSH targeting...she suggested it at my physical, and I'm willing to give it a shot.

2. Today would have been my father's 60th birthday. I've been in a melancholy mood all day, and haven't left my apartment...did not want to deal with the world. Can't believe it's been 18 months...

3. Trainer's managers asked him to write up a profile of one of his clients, and he decided to choose me....yay? This led to an interesting conversation...he texted me to ask what my current weight was, and was shocked to find out that it's actually 3 lbs higher than at my initial assessment. So he called me and we talked for a while about the whole thing, and why it's so frustrating. I suppose it was an NSV or sorts...his shock stemmed from the fact that my body has changed so much in the 8 months that we've been working together, so I guess I look pretty good.

4. I'm leaving for Seattle/Alaska on Sunday, and let me tell you....I CAN NOT WAIT. Let's just hope I don't feel the need to toss my sister off the ship...

5. The Olympics definitely renewed my love for gymnastics...once my ankle fracture is healed (2.5-4.5 weeks until I can run again!!), I'm going to take an adult gymnastics class. A friend took it the other day and loved it...I used to do gymnastics as a kid, and always loved it.

6. It's 10:06, and I'm considering venturing out to S*tarbucks for a chai. No, I'm not an addict or anything...

7. I talked to Dr. K about my idea of trying to combine port revision with an arm lift. She was on board, so now I just need to find a PS who is willing to g along with the plan. I'm going to schedule a consultation or two for after I get back from vacay. Hopefully by the end of the year I'll have lost both the floppy port AND the floppy arms!

8. I'm running out of things to say...

9. Did I mention I'm excited for vacation? Yes? Well, just to reinforce the theme...here's some of the stuff we'll be doing: a day trip to Bainbridge Island...a 90 minute massage at the fancy spa at our hotel in Seattle...a catamaran that goes up close to the glaciers in Tracy Arm Fjord...playing with husky puppies (!!!)...a flightseeing tour over the Tongass National Park...whale watching....oh, and I'm flying first class and staying in a suite that has a balcony that wraps around the back of the ship. NICE!

10. OK, I'm going to get my chai. Can't resist anymore.

xoxoxo!

Five Things Friday!!!

Man, I stink. Every time I say I am going to blog more...it's another stupid month before I really do.

I'm stealing a page from Maria's book, and doing a slimmed-down version of Ten Things Thursday...that way I don't have to have a theme for this entry, and can just kinda freeform it.

1. I'M COMING TO BOOBS!!! Yay! I thought I missed the deadlines, etc...but the planners are wonderful and let me in...I'll be rooming with Jen (who I am super stoked to meet) and Kristin (who I met last year and she is adorable!) I'm so excited! Gotta book my flight!

2. I have a stress fracture in my tibia...from running. Who woulda thunk I would ever have a workout injury? I was really bummed about it at first...especially since I had just hit 3 miles for the first time, and signed up for a few races...but I've accepted it, and should be able to start running again in 3-5 weeks. Until then, I'll be biking up a storm.

3. I went and got an unfill last week...I was having a lot of stuck/slime episodes, and am going on vacation very soon, so I wanted to just take a little band break. I am now down to 7.0cc. I'll probably stay here for a few months.

4. I finally did an official weigh in yesterday, after not doing so since May. 225 on the nose...which is almost 10 lbs up from the low (I think my spreadsheet has 216.something..) Ironically...I look like I've lost another 20 lbs or so, not gained 10. Whatever. Stupid scale.. Trainer thinks I need to be eating more...apparently I am considered "very active", so I went and did research, and based on my current weight, height, and activity level...to lose 2 lbs a week, I need to be eating 2500 calories a day. Say what??? I compromised with him on 2000...now if only I could get back to tracking.

5. I am seeing Dr. K on Monday to discuss port revision. The more fat I lose from my stomach area, the more it seems to move around and get (and STAY) sore. The last time we discussed it, we decided to wait until I did plastics, and she would just fix it at that time. I think I am going to try for an arm lift in December, before I switch insurance to my new company's plan....so hopefully all of the hospital fees will be covered, etc...and I'll just have to pay for the PS's fee. We shall see what she says.

Have a great weekend everyone!

xoxo

I'm a Bad Blogger!!!

Hello all my little lovies! Well. I stink as a blogger lately. I've got the same old story. I'm reading...blahblahblah...haven't been commenting...blahblahblah...seems like blog-land overall has gotten quieter. I'm making it a commitment to not only start blogging more often myself, but actually post the comments that pop into my head when I read all of your blogs. With that said...what's new with me? Well, the biggest news is that I got a job!!! No more lounging on my couch all day. I'm working for a media company, supporting 2 sales teams, and basically helping run the office. They're paying me to be bossy and organize things. Perfect. It's been really good so far, everyone is really fun, and I like it a lot. There's a few paths I'm thinking about, to see what kind of advancement opportunities are possible...but that's all a bit down the road. Running is going really, really, really well. I'd have to go back and check to see where I was in C25k the last time I posted, but I finished it a few weeks ago. I was running the full 30 minutes, but not hitting the 5k distance (3.1 miles) because I was still running pretty slow. So, Trainer and I decided that before he got all happy with training plans, I'd work my way up to that. Tonight I did 3.01 miles...so I'd guess sometime this week I'll hit the official 5k mark (3 miles took me 40 minutes, 42 or so should get me to 3.1). I'm a real runner now, guys! Woo! Who would have thought even a few months ago that I'd be running?? Not me, that's for damn sure. The gym is also still going really well. I was a bit worried about how I was going to continue my very ambitious gym schedule once I started working, and while it's been a little bit of a challenge, for the most part, I'm keeping up with it. On average, I'm running 4x a week, lifting weights 1x a week with Trainer, doing Pilates 1x a week, and doing yoga 1-2x a week. I'd like to lift 2x, Pilates 2x, yoga 2x, and run 5x, but until I upgrade my gym membership to access all of the locations, that doesn't seem likely. I haven't weighed myself in weeks. Probably at least six. The last time I did, when my weight was stagnant at 222.1 for the umpteenth week in a row, and I almost Frisbee'd my scale out the window, I decided a break was in order. The break has been good, because I've been focusing on my fitness and just trying to eat well. In that time, I know for sure I've lost a lot of inches. I look slimmer and and feel better...so I've decided the break is over. Now, I just have to remember to weigh myself on Thursday, since I've gotten so out of the habit! My band is being finicky lately...no rhyme or reason to when it's going to act up. Pretty annoying. I'm going on vacation for 9 days in August, and haven't seen Dr K since March, so I decided to get an unfill for a bit. So next week I have an appt for that - not going to completely unfill, but I'm planning on taking out at least 1cc. I don't remember where I am right now, 7.7cc, maybe? Since I wasn't working, I didn't want to commit to BOOBS, and then possibly have to back out and screw someone else over. Now that I do have a job again, registration is closed :( I sent an email to the planners asking them to keep me in mind if anyone backs out...so hopefully I can make an appearance!!! That's all I've got for now...I promise to do a better job being active 'round these parts! xoxo

10 Things Thursday (on Saturday!)

I've been less bloggy lately - but I've been reading faithfully!!! I decided to do random bullet points today, since I don't have many cohesive thoughts. 1. I just finished Week 6 of Couch-2-5k. I was terrified of the 20 minute run at the end of Week 4, but Trainer and I came up with a plan, and I did it!!! Week 6 is the last of the intervals, and then the last day is a 22 minute run, which I'm happy to report I crushed yesterday. By crushed, I mean it was easy. At no point did I have doubts, unlike every other single run I've done. Onto Week 7, where it's a 25 minute run! 2. I GOT A JOB!!! Kinda fell into my lap and all happened very quickly, but Trainer set up a swim date for me and another one of his clients, and we were chatting, and her company was looking for someone. She emailed me the next day, I went in for an interview, the person they were looking for describes me to a tee (organized and bossy, um...have you been stalking me?!)...and so I start Monday. I'm excited! 3. I'm not going to make it to Chicago this year. I've kinda known for a while, as so hadn't put myself on the attendee list...but finally made the official decision. To all of my friends I met last year, I'll miss you! To everyone knew who is going, you'll have a blast!!! 4. Weight is still the same. Apparently my plan to focus on eating right and not the number on the scale is a big fail. Since my brain turned it into "we're not on a diet anymore, woo!" 5. As soon as I figure out the landscape of the new job (hours, kitchen space, lunch time, etc)...time for another re-commit. I tend to do better with this while I have structure, which is something I've not had too much of lately. This week, though, I plan on being easy with both diet and workouts. 6. I'm putting school on pause again. It's too much for me right now! 7. My mom's pool is open, and we went in the other night. 'Twas glorious. I plan on spending a lot of Sundays at Mom's house. 8. My apartment is thisclose to being fully decorated, after 20 months of living here. Just in time for my lease renewal, which is always a scary time. Ahh, NYC living. 9. I'm covered in bruises, and have no idea where any of them came from. I think someone is sneaking into my apartment and beating me in my sleep. Not cool. 10. I think I need an unfill. My band has been angry lately. Not sure when I can get in to see Dr K, though...with the new job. Sigh. xoxo, Liz

More Running and and a Recipe!

I've been reading faithfully, and even commenting...but haven't been writing much myself because I feel boring. In a good way, but boring nonetheless.

My life is currently revolving around the gym. Yep, that's right. I'm a gym rat. I'm only working a few nights a week (which requires no brainpower), and finally got a good handle on the demands of my schoolwork (current class requires very little!), so my brain is focused on my workouts. Being proud of myself for my last one, recovering from it physically, prepping for my next one, etc. When there are 7-8 workouts a week, that takes up a lot of time!

Running is still going really well. The way Trainer and I have been working it is that Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, I do the Couch25k program, and then Friday, he and I do something complementary to whatever is going on in the program before moving on to strength training. I mentioned a few weeks ago that I was terrified of the 20 minute run in Week 5...so I decided to repeat Week 4 in order build a better base and squeeze an extra session with him in. Well, it seemed to work - last week's repeat of Week 4 seemed much easier, and then on Friday, he had me run 15 minutes. FIFTEEN MINUTES STRAIGHT!!! We were going to follow that up with a 10 minute run (after a walk break, of course), but my knee was feeling wonky, and it was affecting my stride, so we nixed that idea after another few minutes.

Which means this Thursday is the dreaded 20 minute run. Except it's not as dreaded anymore, since we built up to it in a more logical way than the program. I'll be really excited when (please note usage of when, not if!) I complete it. The program just builds from there, but that was the big, scary hurdle I had to get over (get it? Hurdle? A running pun!!! Sorry...)

SINCE the running is going so well (a few injuries notwithstanding)...I've been playing with the idea of a few races this fall. I had already decided to sign up for a mud run near my mom's house in September (5k), but since that's trails, was going to run/walk that one. I think I'm also going to do a 1 miler down Fifth Avenue, and then contemplating a 4 miler in Central Park later in the fall. Have I lost my mind?! Yes probably.

On tap for today: yoga in a little bit (intense vinyasa flow - kicks my ass and I love it), then later tonight, Week 5/Day2 of C25k inserted into an hour on the t'mill, followed by about 35 minutes of strength training.

OK. Enough boring workout stuff. Let's move on to...FOOD! Last year, I bought an ice cream maker attachment for my beloved pink Kitchen Aid mixer. I spent too much time being overanalytical about the recipes I was looking at, and never ended up making anything. This year, I vowed that I was going to get out of my head, and just make something. After poking around a few recipes just to get an idea of proportions...I took the plunge and made Frozen Peach Greek Yogurt. And it's delicious!!!

Frozen Peach Greek Yogurt

Makes 8 servings (1/2 cup each)

Ingredients:
4 cups plain non-fat Greek yogurt (I used Chobani)
16 oz. frozen sliced peaches, thawed (I used Dole, you could probably also use fresh, but they're more expensive for me!)
1/2 cup Splenda for baking Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

In a food processor or blender, combine peaches, Splenda, lemon zest and lemon juice. Pulse until chunky (I wanted big chunks of peaches in mine, but this is up to you). In a large bowl, fold peach mixture into yogurt. Follow directions on your ice cream maker to freeze, then transfer into a container to ripen. Freeze for about 2 hours, or until desired firmness.

Nutrition (as per MFP):
Calories: 101
Carbs: 11
Fat: 0
Protein: 12

The next time I make it, I'll probably double the peaches. The lemon takes over (not in a bad way, I just wanted peach yogurt, not lemon yogurt). It tastes like a creamy lemon ice. I divvied it up into 1/2 cup containers as soon as it came out of the ice cream maker, so it's already portioned out. It's got a great balance of sweet and tangy. Yum!

Hope everyone is having a great week!

xoxo!

I Ran 10 Minutes Straight!

Just a quickie to report that. And actually, I ran 10 minutes, walked 5, then ran another 10. Oh, and then I got off the t'mill, and had a major case of the lightheads. Apparently watching me walk across the gym to the next set of torture devices was hilarious, since it looked like Trainer was going to pee himself, or at the very least strain something, he was laughing so hard. Evil, I tell ya.

As far as the "move on to Week 5 or repeat Week 4" dilemma, we decided I should repeat Week 4. He still thinks I can do the big scary 20 minte run at the end of Week 5, and I tend to agree, but I am not ready mentally. So we did the 10 minute run today...I'll do Week 4 again next week, and we'll probably do a 15 minute run or something like that next Friday, THEN I think I'll be ready for Week 5. Yikes.

Apparently, I'm allowed to call myself a runner now, since I ran for 20 minutes, run 4 times a week, and have had 2 running injuries (knees crapped out and a bruised toenail). So, uh...I'm a runner? OK, then...

I'm headed back to the gym for a stretch session. It's the only thing that makes him kicking my ass regularly worth it, I swear..!

Have a great weekend, everyone!

xoxo

Running Is Not Killing Me!

I finished Week 4 of C25k today. This week's runs were all the same: 5 min walk to warm up, run for 3 minutes, walk for 90 seconds, run for 5 minutes, walk for 2.5 minutes, run 3, walk 90, run 5, cool down for 5 minutes. On Day 1, I did the runs at the speed I've been doing all of the other weeks (~5.2mph)...and it was HARD. I had to double the walks just to catch my breath. On Day 2, my trainer happened to be at the gym when I was getting ready to start my workout, and I mentioned to him that I'd doubled the walks...and he urged me not to, and to follow the program. (Methinks he's just looking for another running buddy!) He suggested dropping the speed to about 4.7mph. Well, surprise, surprise...it was much easier, and I was able to do the prescribed run/walk intervals. Today I did Day 3, and it was wayyyy easier. I was pretty impressed with myself.

Which brings me to Week 5...with its dreaded 20 minute run. I'm so scared of this run that I'm considering repeating Week 4 to just get another week of base training before I try to tackle it. I'm going to run it by Trainer tomorrow during our session...but I know he's going to tell me to try it. What does he know, silly athlete?

In my last blog, I mentioned that I was going to not focus on the number on the scale for a while. I'm still weighing during this time...but not letting it get me down. Since I've shifted to focusing on making sure my input and output are on track...I'm hoping that it all falls into place from there.

Hope everyone is having a great week!

xoxo

Great Workout Week!!!

I totally kicked some major ass in the gym this week. I felt the need to post about it. Don't mind my bragging.

Sunday: C25k W3D1, as part of a 53 min t'mill workout (506 cal) Monday: T'mill 38 min (313 cal) Tuesday: Yoga 1 hour (285 cal), C25k W3D2, as part of 1 hour t'mill workout (693 cal), Strength Training 35 min (245 cal) Wednesday: Private Pilates session 55 min (226 cal) Thursday: C25k W3D3, as part of a 40 min t'mill workout (355 cal) Friday: Personal Training session, 125 min, included 1:45 cardio and 40 min of weights (1033 cal), Yoga 1 hour (376 cal)

Saturdays are always my day off, so my workout week goes Sunday to Friday. This week, I checked into the gym 8 times in 6 days. Yeah me! Next week's plan is the same (Week 4 of C25k), and adding a yoga class and Pilates mat class on Sunday.

Weight this week was up...I decided for the next few weeks, I'm going to not focus on the number on the scale, and focus on fueling my body properly and moving it a whole lot. I've definitely got the second part of that down...but need to work on the first a bit.

Running is going well, since a slight setback with my knees a few weeks ago. They still twinge, but not badly enough to stop me. I'm pretty stubborn! Luckily, my trainer is a runner, and keeps a close eye on me to make sure I don't go too far. Next week the runs get a little longer, and then in Week 5, I'm supposed to run 20 min straight. That seems bananas to me, so I sent the training schedule to my trainer, and he's going to play with it a little to build it to that gradually. I think I'll definitely be repeating a few weeks in the program. At this point, it's 50/50 physical/mental. The short runs are easy physically but I still have to pump myself up to do them. The longer runs are tougher, obviously...during a 5 minute run today I thought I'd die around minute 4...but pushed through and made it to the end. I'm not sure I like running yet...but I do like feeling accomplished afterward...so I'll at least get to the 5k, and then we'll see from there. Plus I think it'd break my trainer's heart if I quit on him...so I'll keep at it for now.

Other than that...not much else going on! Keeping busy with the gym, school and the few nights a week I'm working at the club. Looking for a day job hardcore, and hoping something happens soon.

Hope everyone is well...enjoy the holiday weekend!!!

xoxo Liz

I'm Not Dead!!!

Wow. Two months since I've posted or read blogs. BAD ME!!! I've been thinking of you all every day, but you know how it goes, the longer you go without doing something...the harder it is to get back to it. So where the hell have I been? Well, right here on my couch, I guess. Oh, and at the gym. Definitely not at work. School has been kicking my ass. And in turn, I'm kicking its ass right back. My grades for my first 2 classes, Business Communications & Critical Thinking and Conversational Spanish I, were A- and A respectively. I'm in my 3rd class, Business Computing Applications, and it's boring the shit out of me, so I'm losing focus. But today I have vowed to get back on track. The gym is still going really, really, really well. Who knew that once I got off my ass and actually started working out that I would grow to love it so damn much??? I'm still going to the gym 5-6 days per week, and even some days, getting in a 2-a-day. I've been doing Pilates, walking, lifting weights, and recently started running and doing yoga. I tweaked my knees running the other day, which means this week has been a waste for cardio, so yesterday my trainer introduced me to the rowing machine, and we decided to go to another location of the gym next week and he's going to give me a swim lesson (I know how to swim, but it's been years since I did laps, and have never done so for the purpose of exercise, which I would guess is a bit different than floating around a pool!) Running has been a slow curve, but my trainer is a running coach and marathon runner, so I'm in good hands with him. I am in love with yoga, I just started doing it a few weeks ago and I want to do it every day! Weight loss has been non existent. Logically I know that I'm putting on a lot of muscle, so that even while I look slimmer, I'm not necessarily burning as much fat. I'm hoping that will come soon - and that I'm establishing the foundation for that. I can't deny that my diet has been crap, as well. I got way off track with my "tracking" (no pun intended), and every time I try to get back on track, I lose focus pretty quickly. (See a recurring theme here?) I've been pretty checked out in lots of ways, I guess. Still looking for a job. Not getting anywhere with that. Well, that's it for this rant. I'm going to try to catch up on some blogs and see what I've missed. I'll be back soon, I promise, and maybe with some pictures! xoxo

Weigh In and a Swimsuit Poll!

Hello my lovelies! I hope everyone is doing well. I've actually had time to read blogs this week, since school is settling into a rhythm, and you folks are quieting down. What gives?! ;-)

Yesterday's weigh in was the first gain I've had since my re-commit at the beginning of January, but it was small (217.6, up from 217.2 last week). I know exactly why...I've gotten a little too relaxed and have been giving myself too many "off" days with the food planning and tracking, so I know what I need to do. Lots of dinners out coming up, so I am just going to have to work around that, and be "on" every time else.

I see Dr. K on Monday, and while I know she'll definitely be happy with my progress, we need to have the dreaded "floppy port" convo. I don't don't don't want surgery at this point (if at all possible, I want to wait until plastics, and fix it at the same time), but I really do feel a lot of discomfort from it, especially when I'm doing cardio (which I generally do 5 times a week!). Dropping an 18 lb bar directly onto it earlier during personal training didn't help...

I have a weird NSV to report...I was bummed out yesterday after my weigh in, so I went to the gym, and after 15 minutes on the treadmill, I decided I wasn't in the mood and left. I then went to the grocery store, bought a bag of potato chips (my Kryptonite) and proceeded to EAT THE ENTIRE THING. No, it wasn't a single serve size bag. It was a 9 oz bag. Then I was disgusted by myself, so I decided to get my shift covered, and took a nap. When I woke up at about 8:30, I felt incredibly guilty about blowing off my workout AND screwing my diet for the day. So I went back to the gym and did an hour on the treadmill, and somehow ended up under calories for the day.

The gym is still going really really well...I'm going an average of 5-6 times a week, and really enjoy it. My trainer is kicking my ass. I wish I could afford more than one session a week with him. He is a marathon runner, so he is trying to steer me towards running. I'm being resistant, but we're getting there, we did a bunch of sprints today, and other than it really making me winded, and being terrified that my boobs were going to pop out, it went better than I expected.

I needed a new bathing suit, so I ordered 2 from L.and's E.nd during their recent sale. I'm undecided...I think I know which way I'm leaning, but wanted to post some pics here to get some opinions.

Suit #1



front



back



close-up (not sure if you can see the color, it's "Wild Grape': http://www.landsend.com/pp/womens-grecian-one-piece-slender-suit~180862_593.html?bcc=y&action=order_more&sku_0=::GC2&CM_MERCH=IDX_swimwear-_-women-_-shop-by-collection-_-slender-suits&origin=index)

Suit #2



front



back



close-up (Kinda hard to see the detailing on this one, since it's black, but this is the suit: http://www.landsend.com/pp/womens-solid-carmela-one-piece-slender-suit~191482_593.html?bcc=y&action=order_more&sku_0=::KE5&CM_MERCH=IDX_swimwear-_-women-_-shop-by-collection-_-slender-suits&origin=index)

Thoughts? Opinions?

xoxo!

I Didn't Disappear!

OK, well maybe I sorta did. I started school again a few weeks ago, and between that and my 6 day a week gym schedule, I have barely had time to read blogs, much less post my own.

Things are going well - I'm still losing (although it's kinda slowed to a crawl - last week was 217.2). I'm still rocking the gym. I've loosened up with the tracking a bit, and need to crack back down on that. School is also going well so far but it's a lot of work!

I definitely am planning on coming to BOOBS but it looks like I need a roomie! Ronnie wasn't sure if Amanda and I were coming, so she is rooming with some other lovely ladies, and Amanda isn't sure if she can make it! So, if anyone is interested in rooming together, let me know! At this point, I am tentatively planning on being there Thurs-Sun.

Hope you're all well - as soon as this class is over in 2.5 weeks, I'll be able to catch my breath again and I will be back!

xoxo

What a Great Day!

I have had a wonderful day so far...let me tell you all about it!

First of all, Thursday is weigh in day...I was down 1 pound for a total of 56.4. I've been to the gym every day this week, so that could be why it's moving slowly...it could also be my 3000 calorie day on Monday (oops! At least I logged it, and got right back on the horse without skipping a beat.) As long as it keeps moving, I am ok with that.

Next, I was lucky enough to be able to go to the D.avid L.etterman show taping this evening. My favorite musician (B.utch W.alker) was playing it with his band, and I used some of my comedy world connections to get a seat in the green room. It felt great to be able to surprise him there. He's my fave person on the planet :) You should all tune in (or DVR) it tomorrow night!!! It was a great show!

Then, I busted it home, changed into my gym clothes and headed over to the gym immediately. I got in a good solid hour on the treadmill, and burned 689 calories! I've now earned some quality time with my couch and DVR.

Some NSV's from the day: B.utch told me I looked great, and then a few hours later, one of his bandmembers texted me to say the same thing :) I also wore the boots, and they're not as tight at the top, I'm it's partly that they stretched a bit, but my legs are also smaller, so I'll call it an NSV!

Now for some pictures!



Me in the green room at L.etterman. Not sure why I am standing so strangely...



Me and B.utch



Quick change into gym clothes!!!

Hope everyone is having a great week, I'm going to go crawl to the shower and pass out!

I've Been a Bit MIA...

But no worries, things are all good. I was in a bit of a funk for the few days around my dad's anniversary, but am feeling much better now. Thankfully, I didn't let my funk derail my newfound gym routine or my eating. I did skip logging for a few days while a friend was in town, but think I managed to keep it pretty much under control, even without the tracking.

So! Last week's weight was 219.6, down 1.4 from the week before. That's the 6th week in a row that I've had a loss - coincidentally, I've been tracking for 6 weeks. Hmm. I'll take it! The gym has been going really really well, too. I love Pilates, I love working with my trainer, and I've been working out on my own another 2 or 3 days a week. I am definitely noticing a difference and I feel fantastic. I haven't worked up the nerve to take a spin class yet, but I did take something called Barre Burn. I honestly thought it was going to be a bit different, but I did like it (the pace was much faster than I was expecting). I may try it with another instructor, and also with the same one next week (now that I know what to expect from him).

I bought a pair of skinny jeans, in a size 14. For the first time in my life, skinnies not only looked good, but I was able to get my new hottza boots on over them! Of course, I needed to take some pictures:





I also went and got a haircut today. I love it. I love my stylist. I guess that's appropriate since it's Valentine's Day.





I always end up with a silly face in these kinds of pics, so I actually made this one on purpose! :)

Hope everyone is having a great week!

xoxo

Bonus Workout and Some Shopping Pics!

I ended up not having to work last night, so I decided to get my butt over to the gym and do a bonus cardio workout. Since I got my handy dandy HRM, I wanted to also play with that and see how close the treadmill was estimating my burned calories. I did an hour on the treadmill, a fast walk at a pretty decent incline, and burned 709 calories!!! How bad ass is that! I ran into my trainer too, who was working a floor shift, and he kept me company for a while, which was nice. Thursday is not on my list of planned gym days, so I am excited...I think I'm starting to get a little addicted :)

Speaking of the HRM, I ordered that, a new pair of sneakers and a new water bottle together. All pink. I'm the most unlikely girly girl ever, but here are my new treasures..



Last night when I got home I had another surprise waiting for me - my wonderful black boots had gone on sale so I decided to get the other color (hey, they were only $70!) They were waiting outside my door. Here they are (a brownish greenish color).



Today was another personal training session. We're playing around with different exercises, and spent most of the session working on my legs and butt. When we were finished, he gave me a great stretch, which was apparently a workout for him because I'm really flexible :) I'm gonna be very sore tomorrow if tonight is any indication.

Tomorrow is a planned day off but I might do a beginner's yoga class. We'll see. Tonight I'm sitting on the couch wishing my bathroom was closer so I didn't have to walk ALLL THE WAY down the hall :)

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

All Over the Place, But Still Down!

It's Thursday, so that means it's weigh in day. The scale was all over the place today, ranging from 223.something (what tha!!! I did not pay this one any mind) all the way down to 220 (how I wish I had seen that twice..) It finally settled on 221. I'm still down 1.2 from last week, 54 overall, and a new low! I'll take it.

I don't have much to say today...I am not feeling rambly haha. I'm doing great with tracking and the gym. My heart rate monitor came last night and I can't wait to try it out tomorrow to see how accurately the treadmill has been calculating my calories out. I may even get to the gym tonight if I don't have to work, which will be a bonus workout :)

I'm a bit melancholy this week - the 1 year anniversary of my dad's passing is rapidly approaching (next Thursday) and he's been on my mind even moreso than usual. I've said it before, but am happy to repeat - thank God for anti-depressants!!!

Hope everyone is doing well!

xo

The (Revised) Gym Plan, and an NSV!

Everything is moving along quite nicely. When I left you on Thursday, I was stoked at my 3rd loss in a row. I did end up being able to get in all of the planned meals that day, but I did have to force myself to eat a bit, since I really wasn't feeling well.

I went to the doc on Friday, and thankfully got lotsa different meds, which have me feeling so much better. I feel HUMAN again. After my doc's appt, I met with my trainer for our first session. He warmed me up on the treadmill for a while, which I didn't really like (I feel like it's a waste of the session), then we went and did some strength work (triceps and glutes, both of which I'd really like to get toned). I decided to go ahead and buy a package of 12 sessions with him, and plan to meet once a week. Next week, I told him I'll come in a bit before our session and warm up on my own so we can spend the entire session on strength. He thought this was a great idea, which I was relieved by. I definitely want someone who is on the same page as I am. He's cute too, which doesn't hurt ;-)

I've refined my exercise plan a bit. Once I (hopefully) start working again, I'll probably need to shuffle it around, but this should be good for now.

Sunday - Pilates session (55 minutes) and Cardio (45 minutes)
Monday - Rest
Tuesday - Cardio (going to shoot for an hour, but 45 minutes at the minimum)
Wednesday - Pilates session (55 minutes)
Thursday - Rest
Friday - Cardio (30-45 minutes) and Personal Training (1 hour)
Saturday - Rest

I may try a few different classes out on Saturday afternoon if I'm in the mood (Zumba, etc). For right now, I'm still sticking with the treadmill for my cardio, but have started adding incline which ups the calorie burn pretty significantly (same pace/time as before, but working up to 5% incline brought me from 340 calories to 470 calories according to the machine). Once I've done this for a month or two, I'm going to try a spin class.

I also did a bit of shopping online tonight, and got myself lots of fun accessories - all in pink, my favorite color. I got a HRM finally, so I can accurately track the calories out (I went with the Polar FT4F), a new water bottle to replace the one my sister got me for Christmas that has already gotten ruined in the dishwasher, and a new pair of sneakers. I'll be all matchy matchy in th gym, and my OCD likes that for sure.

I have a really fun NSV last night - lots of people have been commenting that my face is looking really thin, which is nice....but I got a great compliment from a surprise person! As I've mentioned, I work at a comedy club. Last night, none other than C*h*r*i*s R*o*c*k came in. Now, I've known him for years, but haven't seen him in a while. It took him a few minutes to recognize me, and when he did, his face got all surprised and he said "Hi! Shit, I didn't realize that was you!" So I smiled and said hi back, and he came over and said to me quietly "You got so skinny! You look great!" It made me smile a whole lot :)

I'll leave you with 2 pics from Friday night. Went out with the BFF and decided to rock the new boots, along with a cute new denim miniskirt. I was trying to get a cute pic, but decided to take a goofy one first:



Doncha love how I look deformed? The way my shirt is falling, it looks like I have a pointy rib cage, and one leg looks way smaller than the other because of how I'm standing. The face is pretty silly, too..



This one is better :)

Have a great week, everyone!!!

xoxo

A Loss 3 Weeks in a Row!

Woo! This morning's weigh in was 222.2 - down 1.4 from last week, almost 8 from the start of my little re-commitment 3 weeks ago, and 52.8 overall. Yeah!!! Honestly, I was hoping for more, but I guess it's at the point where the dramatic weight loss settles down a bit to a comfy pace. Pus I've been faithfully going to the gym every other day, so I'm sure I'm gaining muscle/retaining water from muscle soreness...whatever that theory is, haha.

Speaking of the gym, I AM SO IN LOVE WITH PILATES. I went ahead and bought a package of 24 sessions. I originally had a comp session, and then I bought 2 more, so that brings me to 27. I'm planning on going twice a week, so that brings me to May. I found a quote that I love: "In ten sessions, you will feel the difference, in twenty you will see the difference, and in thirty you'll have a whole new body"(Joseph H. Pilates). Well, I am only 2 in, and I already notice a difference. I feel different, and I'm moving differently. My core is already getting stronger.

I also have a personal training session tomorrow - it was supposed to be Monday after my fitness assessment, but the trainer asked if we could reschedule so he could have time to design a program. I didn't mind, so the comp session is tomorrow. I'll decide after that if I want to buy a few sessions for that, to round out my fitness plan a bit more. All I need to do now is work up the nerve to try a spin class. I'm thinking 2 Pilates classes, 2 days of cardio, and 1 trainer session a week should be the major push I need.

After my trainer session tomorrow, I am treating myself to a massge, and adding on a paraffin hand/foot wrap. I can't wait - my body is definitely feeling the effects of all of my activity and it'll be a nice escape for a while.

I've got a lot going on for someone who isn't working a day job at the moment - between the gym, obsessing over my daily tracking, mounting a job search, and then my newest addition, prepping to go back to school...I'm a busy bee! I'm also still sick, which is getting pretty annoying that it's lingered for so long...finally going to the doctor tomorrow and hopefully I'll get some drugs.

Because of the sickies, my appetite hasn't been that great, but I AM trying to eat enough calories to keep my metabolism up and running, especially since I haven't cut out the gym (I've felt good enough to go). Here's a screenshot of my "plan" for today:



Unfortunately, as of 5:15PM, all I've made it through is the 2 cups of tea (that's what the half and half entry is - I only input the things that have calories) and the Kashi hot cereal. I have a lot to eat before this day is done!!! Oy.

Hope everyone is having a good week!

Lazy Sunday, Sickies and NYC Brunch!

Well, my cold from last week is hovering on the brink of full blown bronchitis (I describe it this way because last night I would have said full blown, but today I strangely feel better?) Either way, I'm feeling run down and crappy, so I slept until 3 this afternoon (!!!) and don't plan on taking off my PJ's at all today.

We had the NYC brunch yesterday, and it was great! A lot of people weren't able to make it because of the snow, so it was Catherine, Monika (a non-blogger), Jacquie and her adorable two girls, and myself. We had a lovely time just chatting about band issues, life, etc over a yummy yummy brunch for a few hours. I hope we didn't bore Jacquie's girls too much :) We somehow did not take any pictures, but hopefully we'll do another brunch again soon and we'll remedy that. Even though it was snowing, I was bound and determined to wear my boots, so I wore my snow boots to/from the restaurant, and changed once I got there into my new smokin' boots.

After brunch, Monika and I took a cab uptown, and since she sometimes goes to the gym I just joined, I may have a sometime gym buddy! It'd be nice to have someone to work out with every now and then. Since I was sick, and had had to go into work every night this week, I was really hoping I wouldn't have to do so last night. Luckily I got the call that I had the night off, and instead of taking a nap like I planned, I hauled my butt down the block to the gym for some quality treadmill time.

All is well on the tracking front. I had a planned no-track day yesterday, and went off the rails a bit, but I am back on my best behavior today (will probably come in way under calories/protein as I don't feel much like eating).

It's going to be a busy week - tomorrow I have my fitness assessment and complimentary personal training session in the morning, then an orientation for the outplacement company that my former employer provided access to as part of my severance package. Then I'll head to the Bronx for some hang time with mama, sister and the kitties. Tuesday I'll run some errands around the Bronx, then mama and I are going to get some spa pedicures (what a hardship, I know!) Wednesday is a planned gym day (most likely just treadmill) then work at night, Thursday is a work night, and then Friday I'm hoping to do another Pilates session, followed by some treadmill time, and I'm going to treat myself to some time in the sauna and a massage :) I also have tentative plans to go out with my BFF Friday night so it'll be another planned no-track day (I'm allowing myself one a week, as long as it's worth it!)

Hope everyone had a great weekend, and has a lovely week!

xo

3 More Gone, and My First Pilates Session!

Let's start with my happy news of the day: weigh in was 223.6, down 3 pounds from last week, and the lowest weight I've seen in more than 10 years! I'm down almost 6 pounds since I started tracking and working out 2 weeks ago. Coincidence? I think not. Less than 40 pounds to go before maintenance for a few months, then plastics.

Today at the gym, I went to my complimentary Pilates session. I FREAKING LOVED IT. It was a different type of workout than I've ever experienced. What I always tell trainers, gym people, etc is that I don't want to build any more muscle (except my core), just tone and define what I already have. Some of the ab work was really really hard, and I am already feeling sore, but such a good sore. I'm going to buy a package of sessions in a few weeks. My complimentary fitness assessment and personal training session is Monday, and while I don't anticipate purchasing any sessions of that, I'll see how it goes. Otherwise, I'm really enjoying my workouts. I want to buy a heart rate monitor - anyone have one they love that they can recommend?

I'm excited about the brunch on Saturday! I will indeed be wearing the boots, and during a successful shopping trip the other day, picked up a cute outfit to go with them. I also got another pair of workout pants and a dress for my friend's wedding in a few months.

Keeping It Up

I'm still on track with my tracking. I've successfully logged everything I've put in my mouth for the last 6 of 7 days (not including today and tomorrow, which are already built out on MFP). I went over calories one of those tracking days (Thursday), which was semi-planned - my goal there was to just track, whatever the outcome was.

I feel comfortable enough to stop listing everything out here (unless some people find it helpful to see what others are eating). I get into a groove and start eating the same things over and over, just because it's easy.

I also went to the gym yesterday. Did 45 minutes (not including warm up and cool down) at 3.8 mph. I attempted 4.0, and did so for the first 10 minutes or so, but it was too much to keep up for the entire time I wanted. So I knocked it back a little. It' still faster than my usual of 3.5mph. My butt is killing me today though!!! I guess it's been a while since my glutes got a workout - maybe it'll help lift them a little :)

Overall, I feel fantastic. Not only am I fueling my body properly (and am therefore never hungry), but I'm MOVING. While I'm walking on the treadmill, I'm enjoying feeling everything coming together. Yay me!

I also had some NSV's - a guy I was semi-involved with a few years ago was at the club on Friday night when I got there to start my shift, and when I took my coat off, his jaw literally dropped. He just kept repeating "You look great!" and talking about how we should hang out. He's generally full of talk, so I'm not expecting anything, but it was still nice to see his reaction. Later that night, my best friend's husband came in (he's a comic) and he hadn't seen me in a few weeks. He came over to say hello, and whispered in my ear "Lizzie, you are dropping so much weight!" Now, I haven't actually lost more than the 2 pounds from this past week since the last time I've seen him, but I guess things are starting to catch up.

I've also got some leads on day jobs - a friend works in HR at a company I'm interested in, and has promised to pass my resume onto the recruiter if I see any positions that interest me. I went onto their site last night and actually did find a few, so I'll be emailing him soon. My company is providing outplacement services, so I have an info session with them next week to get started. I definitely want to take advantage of that, because I need to generalize my resume (it's been geared toward the pharma industry for quite a few years now, so I need to change that up a bit). Hopefully something comes up soon!

That's all for me for now - back to my tracking (thank God for OCD). One more night of work for now, then off to Mom's (and my kittens!) for a few days. Gym again on Tuesday night.

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

<3

Whaddya Know??

Tracking works. Today's weigh in was.....*drum roll please*

226.6!

Down 2.4 lb from the last few weeks. YESSSSS!

I'll be a bit more relaxed today (aka, allowing myself some treats), but guess what? They're all getting tracked. Even if I go over on calories, don't meet my protein goal....it's all getting tracked. Then posted. Accountability seems to be working. So I ain't gonna mess with it.

Food Tracking 1/10 & 1/11, Gym and THE BOOTS!

I've had a really good few days, sticking to my plan and tracking everything that went into my mouth. I slipped up a little bit last night and had a snack after I'd eaten all of my planned calories for the day (finished eating a bit too early, so I was hungry later on) - but I tracked it, and it's all good.

Tuesday:

Breakfast
2 cups of tea with splenda and each ~2 tbsp half and half
Kashi hot cereal
Yogurt

Cal: 370
Carbs: 50
Fat: 8
Protein: 24

Lunch
McD's chicken McBites snack size (holy hell are these good)
2 string cheese

Cal: 429
Carbs: 16
Fat: 26
Protein: 27

Dinner
Turkey wrap w/pepper jack cheese and chipotle cheddar dressing

Cal: 400
Carbs: 26
Fat: 26
Protein: 26

Snacks
Edamame
Honey Nut Cheerios, dry
Kashi Golden Goodness, dry

Cal: 570
Carbs: 85
Fat: 12
Protein: 30

Total for Day
Cal: 1769
Carbs: 177
Fat: 72
Protein: 107

A bit higher in fat and calories than I would have liked but not too terrible. Good on carbs and great on protein.

Before I move on to today's food, lemme tell you about some new food finds (some you may find helpful, some you may bitch slap me for..)

OK, bad first. My sister and I were running errands yesterday and she wanted a coffee from McD's. I was going to be strong and not get anything since my day was planned out already. As soon as we walked in there, I saw a sign for Chicken McBites. Ladies and gents, McD's now has popcorn chicken. Holy shizzle. I love me some popcorn chicken. All willpower crumbled, and I ordered the smallest size. It was amazing. In fact, I planned on having it for dinner tonight but forgot to go get it after the gym. It's already in the MyFitnessPal db, so I whipped my phone out in line and changed around my day to accomodate it :) Now, I warned everyone...so please don't blame me once you taste this deliciousness and want it every day.

These others will hopefully be helpful. I had a Flat Out wrap yesterday (honey wheat). Low in cal (100), high in fiber and protein (9 and 8, respectively, I believe). YUMMY! A tiny bit thicker than a regular wrap, it's kinda like a thin pita. I also found some yummy Chipotle Cheddar dressing in my mom's fridge, made by Brianna's. SOOO GOOD. I don't have the nutritionals in front of me, but they weren't bad. I paired these with some deli turkey and pepper jack, and it made a yummy yummy wrap.

OK, onto today..

Breakfast
2 cups of tea with splenda and each ~2 tbsp half and half
Kashi hot cereal
Yogurt

Cal: 370
Carbs: 50
Fat: 8
Protein: 24
(Are you starting to see the pattern yet?)

Lunch
Turkey, provolone and roasted pepper roll ups

Cal: 270
Carbs: 1
Fat: 17
Protein: 26

Dinner
Chili w/sour cream and shredded cheddar

Cal: 477
Carbs: 19
Fat: 35
Protein: 21

Snacks
Sbux chai
Protein shake (CIB)

Cal: 515
Carbs: 100
Fat: 1
Protein: 34

Total for Day
Cal: 1632
Carbs: 170
Fat: 61
Protein: 105

I was under calories and carbs, just over fat, and great with protein. I got extra calories because I (dun dun dun...!) went to the gym! I started slow, and walked for 45 min on the treadmill at 3.5mph (not including warm up and cool down). I also set up my fitness assessment and free personal training sessions (Fri and Sun, respectively), and my free private Pilates class (next Thursday). For the first few weeks, I am shooting for every other day. Sometime next week, I'm going to start trying out classes. This is a fancy schmancy gym, and it has a lot to offer.

I'm hoping that my really good week reflects on the scale tomorrow morning. If not, I won't get discouraged, because I just FEEL GOOD.

Let's end on a high note...my boots came! Woo! Here's a silly pic of me wearing them (don't mind the cuffed sweats or the shitty quality, my phone was being wonky).



I will definitely be wearing them to the NYC brunch (that may be their inaugural outing, actually)...no decision on the black dress yet. Think it might be a bit much for daytime.

Hope everyone is having a great week!

Another Good Day, Gym, and NYC Brunch!

I'll start with the gym. As promised, I did go join the gym today. It's really expensive, but it's a gorgeous place, right down the block from my apartment, with a ton of classes, really nice facilities, and even an in house spa. I'm going to go tomorrow for my first workout, my fitness assessment on Friday, and my complimentary personal training session on Sunday. Hopefully between this and tracking my food, it'll give my weight loss the kick in the damn ass it needs!

Today's Food:

Breakfast:
2 cups of tea w/Splenda & 2 tbsp half and half each
Kashi hot cereal
Starbucks chai

Cal: 488
Carbs: 85
Fat: 9
Protein: 19

Lunch:
Turkey, provolone and roasted pepper roll-ups

Cal: 270
Carbs: 1
Fat: 17
Protein: 26

Dinner:
London broil, roasted potatoes and onions (teeny tiny portions of each, hence the really low numbers below)

Cal: 107
Carbs: 12
Fat: 3
Protein: 9

Snacks:
2 string cheese
Greek yogurt
Protein bar

Cal: 480
Carbs: 36
Fat: 13
Protein: 50

Total for Day:
Cal: 1345
Carbs: 134
Fat: 42
Protein: 104

Pretty good all around, yes? Under in every category except protein, which was right on point. Go me! :)

Finally, just wanted remind anyone in NYC or nearby that there's a brunch being planned for January 21st and we'd love to see all of your beautiful faces! Let me know if you're interested and I'll add you to the list!

The Wagon Done Run Me Over.

Interesting how I fell off so quickly...I think there was some kind of psychology involved...I had such a good day on Saturday, that I felt compelled to destroy it yesterday? Either that or trying to track the popcorn for the movie, and knowing there was no way I could actually do so accurately, I decided to blow the day. It led to eating half a bag of chips (the big bag to boot), popcorn at the movies and a bottle of wine later at home. If I added it all up, I'd probably find that the damage wasn't as bad as I am thinking but I'd rather move forward.

SO. Today is planned out for the most part, and healthy meals are prepared. I have to see about sides for dinner (I know what they'll be but have to figure out portions, etc). I'm heading to my mom's for the night and am bringing my lunch, snacks and food scale with me. Later tonight when the picture is more complete I'll post about it. It's looking like a good day.

On my way to mom's, I'm biting the bullet and joining the gym. More on that later as well.

Saturday was a Good Day

I decided to plan and track my foods for yesterday (using My.Fitness.Pal). The apps for the iPhone and iPad are really helpful (I'm always near the phone, tablet or my computer so I have no excuses).

Breakfast/Lunch:
2 cups of tea (each w/2 Splenda and ~2 tbsp half and half)
1 packet of Kashi Honey & Cinnamon hot cereal
1 Chobani peach yogurt

Cal: 370
Carbs: 48
Fat: 8
Protein: 24

Dinner:
1 bowl of chili
3 tbsp sour cream
1/4 cup shredded cheddar

Cal: 447
Carbs: 19
Fat: 31
Protein: 23

Snacks:
2 string cheese
Protein shake (1.5 cup Skim Plus milk, Instant Breakfast, protein powder)
~1/2 cup steamed edamame in pods

Cal: 575
Carbs: 57
Fat: 15
Protein: 69

Totals for Day:

Cal: 1392
Carbs: 124
Fat: 54
Protein: 116

I was under calories by a bit, way under carbs, a tiny bit over fat, and wayyy over protein (but the free membership doesn't allow you to customize specific nutritional values - otherwise I'd be officially aiming for 100g). I also drank just under 3 liters of water. At the end of the day, it felt great to know that I made a plan and stuck to it. At work, I'm surrounded by tempting things (nachos, fries, popcorn, chinese food, drinks, etc) and it felt good to make the conscious choice to JUST SAY NO.

I'm working on my plan for today and tomorrow. Gotta go food shopping, and pick up some groceries. I'm going to a movie with a friend tonight, so I have to either work my beloved movie theater popcorn into the plan for the day, go without (unlikely), or bring my own.

I'm also trying to decide how I am going to get fitness into my life. Since I'm not working during the day at the moment, I have PLENTY of time to add it in. I don't belong to a gym, though. Gyms around here are sooo expensive, and I don't really think it's the best time to add an extra monthly expense to the tune of $150....but I also think I just need to make the commitment to myself to find the $$. If it means an extra few shifts at the club, then that's what it means. So that's on my list for this week. I was planning on starting Bikram today, but I'm just not ready. If I bite the bullet and join the gym, and actually GO, then maybe in 2 months by the time my free month of Bikram voucher expires, I'll be ready to give it a try.

So that's my story for now. I'm probably going to post my "food diary" for a bit, just to have a measure of accountability. I'll either do a separate post for it, or put it at the bottom of my regular posts so if you don't want to read it, you can skip over :)

Hope everyone had a good weekend!

<3

NSVs Over the Past Few Months

Since I was absent from blog-world for a while, and have been acting like I didn't have a band, I thought to keep my head in the game I'd share some random NSVs over the past few months (and some pictures to boot!)

*In early October I went to Atlanta for a show (my fave musician who I've mentioned before). I have a lot of friends there who I hadn't seen in a year and a half. I decided to wear a dress, and when I got to the venue (our little group of crazies meets early in the day to all hang out before the show) - everyone freaked out, and no fewer than 10 people told me I looked incredible.

*Later that month, the afore-mentioned fave musician was doing a book signing. I had him sign my book, and after chatting for a few minutes, I started to scamper off. As I was running away, he called after me "Liz! Liz!" So I turned around, and he said "You look so great!" It made my night. It didn't hurt that my book was signed like this:



*I was out running a few errands in early December and was passing by H&M on my way home. I have never shopped there bc I always assumed their clothes were not made for us bigger gals. I realized that I could probably fit into something from there these days, and decided to go in to look for a dress for my night job's Christmas party. I ended up finding one. In a size L. For $20. And it was hot. (Ironically, I didn't go to the party. I do have an amazing dress hanging in my closet now.) Hard to tell from pic, but the dress has ruching down each side.



*Finally, on Wednesday night at the support group, the PS who presented was wearing a par of killer boots. They were tall boots, and she had skinny legs, but the boots looked loose enough around her calves that it caught my attention. I asked her later on what brand they were, and they were Nine West. I have one around the corner from my apartment, so I went in today, and THEY FIT MY CALVES!! Pull on knee high boots NOT designated as extended calf fit. (If I'm being completely honest they were a teeny bit tight at the top, but they're suede, so they'll stretch after one wearing or so.) How hot are these???



I'm thinking they'd look pretty damn good with my dress, mmm? Now if I only had somewhere to wear this outfit...sigh.

Happy Weekend, everyone!

Starting the Year Off Right...

Hello all of my lovies! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season, and Happy New Year to you all! There have been a lot of "re-committing" posts over the past few days, and I'm definitely no different.

I had my first appointment with Dr. K in a few months, and I was expecting a stern lecture (both for my absence and for my lack of weight loss in that absence). Last night, I also got an email reminder from the Patient Liason at my practice that there would be a plastic surgeon presenting at all of the different support groups this month. I hadn't attended one to date since they're always on Wednesdays, which is one of my nights to work. I figured it was fate that I already had an appt, so I decided to move it to later in the day and attend both.

I'm so glad I did! As anyone who's met other bandsters, it's so nice to have people who understand exactly what you're going through to talk to about everything. The plastic surgeon was also really great, and she specializes in recontouring after massive weight loss, so she has a great understanding of the unique challenges we face. I'll definitely be scheduling a consultation with her when I'm ready.

Dr. K did give me a small fill, because or told her I feel like I can eat huge quantities of food. I know I need to rely on self control to NOT eat as much as I can, but I was just looking for a tiny bit more help. I'm hoping it'll help me break the looong plateau I've been in.

I downloaded the Blogger app on my iPad, so I'll be able to blog on the go :) here's hoping it gets me writing more often!

<3