Anne was a little naughty; she hopes Santa doesn't put her on that list...
Well, actually I didn't dive totally into the deep end of the sugar plum fairy's pool. I waded in it just enough to get the carb induced hangover. It's not good.
It all started with that stupid cold that I caught two weeks ago; wasn't making the best choices - but not the worst choices either. Just sorta blah. Then the white chocolate covered popcorn found it's way into our house, then the truffles, then the M&M's, and the sugar cookies....
December 26, those treats either got polished off or sent to the trash... the 27th, the cravings started. Like overpowering, overwhelming cravings. Pictures of Coke on ice were flashing in front of my face and the thought of eating one more piece of succulent milk chocolate was making my mouth water! I had a massive headache! Oh, it's real. It's very real. I'm such a believer in food addictions now. Don't try to convince me that it's just in my head because the physical symptoms of sugar withdrawal are horrible.
I went to exercise last night for the first time in two weeks, and it felt good! Today I've been reading and re-reading my food bible (a collection of articles about why wheat is the devil) and have been inspired to do better for myself.
I am going to go wheat free starting Jan 1st (see my other post from today) and am contemplating a war against all refined sugars. Whatever sugar hangover I have left in my brain is protesting that one so strongly that it hurts to even think to much about it. I'm trying so hard to stay strong. Plans have been made to see Lisa and then a good walk with my dog. Gotta do positive things to stay occupied before I unconsciously drive over to Mickey D's and order up a large fry.
United we stand!!
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
I'm challenging YOU!
YES! YOU!
Anne here with an important announcement. As of January 1st, 2012 am taking the 4 week wheat free challenge. Not 99.9% wheat free either. 100% no wheat. That means I need to cook my meals and really watch what ingredients I'm using... did you you know that gliadins (wheat proteins) are snuck into already processed foods just to make them more addictive??
Now, this isn't the biggest challenge that I could take on as I really have cut out most breads, bagels, crackers and other crunchy snacks. But I do still eat them occasionally. So for four weeks, no pizza crust (but I have a no starch crust recipe to try - uses cauliflower! genius!), no breads, no cookies.... NADA!
Who is in with me??
(insert cricket sound)
OK... so maybe these articles will help convince you that it's worth trying... (A HUGE thanks to my Guru Lisa for all her research! So inspiring!!)
The first article is from a fellow blogger, The Defiant Dieter. She blogs for a newspaper in Vancouver, I think. She recently wrote a post about how eating more fat is making her thin. What? More fat = less fat?? Sounds too good to be true right? If someone told you that you could slather your food with butter and not feel guilty about it, you'd do it in a heartbeat right? Um, guess what? You can. You want to read more now, don't you?? Check her out at:
http://blogs.vancouversun.com/2011/12/18/fat/
You can also follow her on Facebook.
But wait! There's more!! I recently posted a blog about my new fave coconut milk. Even better than that is extra virgin coconut oil. You need this stuff! It's unbelievable. A natural treat chuck full of all things good AND an appetite suppressor. I swear it's true! Check this out:
http://hybridrastamama.blogspot.com/2011/06/80-uses-for-coconut-oil.html
Your welcome! I have a jar of coconut oil and it's almost gone already. It's in a solid form and can be found in the health food section of the grocery store or at GNC. It's great for your whole body, inside and out. I used it in place of butter in my honey apple crisp and it was great! I fry my eggs in it, put some in my hot coffee and tea, and just straight up on a spoon (try with a smidge of peanut butter). Go get some. NOW!
And if you need one more article to convince you that this is a doable challenge, just read:
http://boingboing.net/2011/10/26/triticum-fever-by-dr-william-davis-author-of-wheat-belly.html
I read articles like this and I'm all sorts of emotions.... angry and inspired to be a better and healthier me.
One last article, just in case you need more, google "The Oiling of North America". People! Wake up! Vegetable oils are killing you.
So, grocery store list: butter, and coconut oil! Lock up the crackers. Put away the pasta. NO MORE SODA. Take the leftover cookies and chocolates and give them to people that you don't like.
Anne here with an important announcement. As of January 1st, 2012 am taking the 4 week wheat free challenge. Not 99.9% wheat free either. 100% no wheat. That means I need to cook my meals and really watch what ingredients I'm using... did you you know that gliadins (wheat proteins) are snuck into already processed foods just to make them more addictive??
Now, this isn't the biggest challenge that I could take on as I really have cut out most breads, bagels, crackers and other crunchy snacks. But I do still eat them occasionally. So for four weeks, no pizza crust (but I have a no starch crust recipe to try - uses cauliflower! genius!), no breads, no cookies.... NADA!
Who is in with me??
(insert cricket sound)
OK... so maybe these articles will help convince you that it's worth trying... (A HUGE thanks to my Guru Lisa for all her research! So inspiring!!)
The first article is from a fellow blogger, The Defiant Dieter. She blogs for a newspaper in Vancouver, I think. She recently wrote a post about how eating more fat is making her thin. What? More fat = less fat?? Sounds too good to be true right? If someone told you that you could slather your food with butter and not feel guilty about it, you'd do it in a heartbeat right? Um, guess what? You can. You want to read more now, don't you?? Check her out at:
http://blogs.vancouversun.com/2011/12/18/fat/
You can also follow her on Facebook.
But wait! There's more!! I recently posted a blog about my new fave coconut milk. Even better than that is extra virgin coconut oil. You need this stuff! It's unbelievable. A natural treat chuck full of all things good AND an appetite suppressor. I swear it's true! Check this out:
http://hybridrastamama.blogspot.com/2011/06/80-uses-for-coconut-oil.html
Your welcome! I have a jar of coconut oil and it's almost gone already. It's in a solid form and can be found in the health food section of the grocery store or at GNC. It's great for your whole body, inside and out. I used it in place of butter in my honey apple crisp and it was great! I fry my eggs in it, put some in my hot coffee and tea, and just straight up on a spoon (try with a smidge of peanut butter). Go get some. NOW!
And if you need one more article to convince you that this is a doable challenge, just read:
http://boingboing.net/2011/10/26/triticum-fever-by-dr-william-davis-author-of-wheat-belly.html
I read articles like this and I'm all sorts of emotions.... angry and inspired to be a better and healthier me.
One last article, just in case you need more, google "The Oiling of North America". People! Wake up! Vegetable oils are killing you.
So, grocery store list: butter, and coconut oil! Lock up the crackers. Put away the pasta. NO MORE SODA. Take the leftover cookies and chocolates and give them to people that you don't like.
The Holidays = MOTIVATION KILLER!
UGH.
I'm having the toughest time getting back into the swing of healthy eating after the holidays. Is anyone else out there having this problem? Or am I the only chubby bloated pathetic loser out here?
I've eaten SO MUCH in the past three weeks. I've gained back SIX pounds. And my appetite is on over-drive, still! Totally carb-fueled, sugar-infused, pop-drenched, and salt-soaked. Chex Mix and Christmas cookies up the waazoo and cases of Coke Classic and Creme Soda and Dr. Pepper and cheesecake bars and Chex mix and maragritas and crackers and GOOD cheese and Cherry-Coconut-Powdered Sugar Balls and did I mention CHEX MIX?!
I'm starving today. My mother, sister and I technically started a "Christmas Detox" this Monday, with weekly weigh-ins and personal food journals and a private Facebook group (we're the "Shrinking Divas!") and daily reports of our progress and shared motivation. We're all struggling this week, as we're still surrounded by leftovers. But soon, they'll all be gone and we won't buy (or bake) any more, for a very VERY long time.
Wishing I could blink these ugly, itchy 6 pounds away. They SUCK.
My newest goal is to lose 30 by mid-March.
How's everyone doing?
I'm having the toughest time getting back into the swing of healthy eating after the holidays. Is anyone else out there having this problem? Or am I the only chubby bloated pathetic loser out here?
I've eaten SO MUCH in the past three weeks. I've gained back SIX pounds. And my appetite is on over-drive, still! Totally carb-fueled, sugar-infused, pop-drenched, and salt-soaked. Chex Mix and Christmas cookies up the waazoo and cases of Coke Classic and Creme Soda and Dr. Pepper and cheesecake bars and Chex mix and maragritas and crackers and GOOD cheese and Cherry-Coconut-Powdered Sugar Balls and did I mention CHEX MIX?!
I'm starving today. My mother, sister and I technically started a "Christmas Detox" this Monday, with weekly weigh-ins and personal food journals and a private Facebook group (we're the "Shrinking Divas!") and daily reports of our progress and shared motivation. We're all struggling this week, as we're still surrounded by leftovers. But soon, they'll all be gone and we won't buy (or bake) any more, for a very VERY long time.
Wishing I could blink these ugly, itchy 6 pounds away. They SUCK.
My newest goal is to lose 30 by mid-March.
How's everyone doing?
Friday, December 16, 2011
A new fave....
Oh yummy! Coconut milk (not to be confused with coconut water - ewww) is awesome. I get the creamer for my morning iced coffees, and recently tried the egg-free eggnog and mint chocolate milk. Dairy free, gluten free, and packed with the good stuff. (have to watch the added sugar, though) I just read that coconut milk is has anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties, so drink up!
And also, don't confuse the brand name "So Delicious" with "Soy Delicious" as that is obviously soy based - which I also like.
I've been fighting a wonderful cold, so I haven't been too active. However, I'm still on my plan and haven't gained any weight either. Looking forward to feeling better. Soon. Please!
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Push Restart
Hi! I'm Anne, have we met? I'm sorry, I must have blacked out there as I almost don't remember that meltdown that I had a week ago. We reconfigured my brain, and I have rebooted. All is well. VERY well, indeed.
I was embarrassed by my behavior after my "Thanksgiving Carb-a-Palooza" and was apologetic for getting so cry-babyish. But Lisa was sooo supportive and made me realize that sometime we need to have these episodes in order to get back on track. IT IS OK TO CRY.
It wasn't that I was feeling guilty for eating the tasty meal of bread and sugar. I'm OK with treating oneself. It just had a real effect on my thought process. It IS like a drug. That addiction monster was woken up and was telling me things that I didn't like. I got down and felt that helpless feeling of sinking into a dark abyss, and at that point EVERYTHING in the world is wrong. I was feeling like I had been back in August, and knew that I didn't want that again. I was sad because I had been feeling so damn good, then just like that it was gone. The sadness turned to worry that I had lost that good, good, good vibration for good and that it was only meant to be a short term thing.
WRONG!
With the help of Lisa's reassuring words, I regained my focus and got back into step with my eating program. Keepin' it simple. Back to 4 quarts of H2O a day. Measuring out my portions (that is where I was starting to slide). Protein, fruit, veggies, good fats (evoo and butter). I am LOVING my kettle bells classes and trying to just enjoy that hour. It's hard work, but the group of people that I am with are funny and good spirited. I get to laugh! I get to forget about all the other stuff in my day for that hour and just be a person in a room that makes fun of herself.
Whatever works, do it. I'm down 18 lbs, and 23.75 inches of my DNA is gone. All that fffffftttttt that I've lost is the bad part of me. I'm keeping the good stuff!
Keep on keepin' on!! Have a great weekend!
I was embarrassed by my behavior after my "Thanksgiving Carb-a-Palooza" and was apologetic for getting so cry-babyish. But Lisa was sooo supportive and made me realize that sometime we need to have these episodes in order to get back on track. IT IS OK TO CRY.
It wasn't that I was feeling guilty for eating the tasty meal of bread and sugar. I'm OK with treating oneself. It just had a real effect on my thought process. It IS like a drug. That addiction monster was woken up and was telling me things that I didn't like. I got down and felt that helpless feeling of sinking into a dark abyss, and at that point EVERYTHING in the world is wrong. I was feeling like I had been back in August, and knew that I didn't want that again. I was sad because I had been feeling so damn good, then just like that it was gone. The sadness turned to worry that I had lost that good, good, good vibration for good and that it was only meant to be a short term thing.
WRONG!
With the help of Lisa's reassuring words, I regained my focus and got back into step with my eating program. Keepin' it simple. Back to 4 quarts of H2O a day. Measuring out my portions (that is where I was starting to slide). Protein, fruit, veggies, good fats (evoo and butter). I am LOVING my kettle bells classes and trying to just enjoy that hour. It's hard work, but the group of people that I am with are funny and good spirited. I get to laugh! I get to forget about all the other stuff in my day for that hour and just be a person in a room that makes fun of herself.
Whatever works, do it. I'm down 18 lbs, and 23.75 inches of my DNA is gone. All that fffffftttttt that I've lost is the bad part of me. I'm keeping the good stuff!
Keep on keepin' on!! Have a great weekend!
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Craptastic Carb-fest... uuuugggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Anne, NO WORRIES!!! You and I traveled the same exact road on Thursday/Friday/Saturday. I've gained back SIX pounds since THURSDAY!!! And I had only dropped 10 since October 17th, which is when I started dextoxing the wheat from my system! I've been on a rampant eating binge since dinner on Thursday. I just ate ripple potato chips with Top the Taster dip and a can of Coke Classic for BREAKFAST. Need I say more? What could be more disgusting and unhealthy than that?! Arrrrrrgggggghhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
We had a wild game feed (venison and goose) at our house on Thursday, and then our actual "Thanksgiving" feast was on Friday at my Mom's. SO MUCH FOOD IT WAS RIDICULOUS. Turkey (drowning in gravy), stuffing (filled with hamburger and drowning in gravy), mashed potatoes (infused with butter AND sour cream and drowning in gravy), wild rice (with BACON mixed into it and drowning in gravy), squash from our garden (and swimming in butter and brown sugar), green bean casserole, pistachio-marshmallow salad, beer bread my sister baked (the ONLY thing I skipped...simply no room on my over-flowing plate...), jellied cranberries, pickles, olives, pecan AND apple pies with vanilla ice cream, and unlimited beverages - I somehow managed to only drink one Bartles & Jaymes Pomegranate-Raspberry wine cooler and ONE can of Coke Classic.
I was up ALL NIGHT after this Friday meal, my stomach so stretched out and so bloated that I chowed SEVEN Tums (where did I find room in my screaming stomach for THOSE?!) during the night to combat the HORRIBLE heartburn and acid-reflux I was experiencing. I vowed during that night that Saturday and Sunday would be perfect eating days, as the festivities were OVER, and I had ZERO desire to eat the leftover turkey/mashed potatoes/stuffing/wild rice/GRAVY that came home with us Friday night.
But what do you think I did instead?! Yep - I've experienced the same exact thing. INSANE cravings for bread/cereal/crackers/sugar/salt. I've been snarfing leftover Chex mix, all of our supposed deer-hunting snacks (Snickers bars, Reeses Peanut Butter Cups, granola bars, protein bars, packets of trail mix), bowls of Golden Grahams and Honey Nut Cheerios, corn chips and salsa, potato chips and Top the Tater dip, bowls of ice cream with chocolate chips AND Hershey's syrup, entire boxes of movie candy, and OMG, the COKE CLASSIC - I'll inhaled an entire 12-pack since Thursday!!!
The remorse is devastating. The guilt, the shame, the knowledge that now I have to literally start over. I'm almost back where I was on October 17th. I feel disgusting. I look worse. The ONLY advantage I have now over my initial starting point is the fact that I know what to do. I know how to get back on-track, and I just have to do it. I CANNOT wait until tomorrow to start - I have to do it NOW. That's what I was going to do. I had planned to eat whatever I felt like all day today, in retaliation for what the scale said this morning. I didn't care if it would mean adding another pound or two to the total gained. What did I really care? How much worse is 8 pounds than 6, REALLY?
Then I read your post today. I wasn't going to check this blog today, because I assumed nobody would post until after the holiday weekend. But I'm so glad I checked it! Your post is what has inspired me today. So I thank you. Motivation comes from the most unlikely places sometimes, yes? I'm here to tell you, you're still doing GREAT. You have had great success already, and you have the information and the ability to plug that knowledge back in now and keep fighting the good fight. I refuse to let myself be any more bummed-out by the past four days than I already am now. Earlier this week, when the festivities were still looming, I PROMISED myself that I wouldn't let this happen. I don't want to be one of those people who show up for the big family holiday feast with a baggie of celery sticks and a water bottle and tell everyone that I can't join in. That's BULLSHIT, yes? We have to LIVE. And no, that doesn't mean that we have to BINGE, but it does mean that if we allow ourselves to join in with family and friends and enjoy foods and beverages that we don't normally indulge in, it does NOT mean that we're failures - or that we're WEAK. IT DOES NOT. What it means is that we're HUMAN BEINGS. Food isn't just sustenance. Eating is a social activity for humans. It's togetherness, it's enjoying life, it's sharing favorite things, it's revelry. It's LIFE. (Jeez, I think my carb-addled brain is falling into too-deep territory here...LOL!)
What we need to do now is NOT "figure out where we lost our self-control," or "figure out where we went wrong." We didn't. We ate a few foods that were bad for us, which snowballed into eating a few more bad foods for a few more days. That is ALL we did. We didn't do any lasting, permanent damage to our weight - OR to our self-esteem or our motivation or our ability to lose the pounds again. We only do lasting damage if we can't figure out how to put the brakes on the speeding bullet-train now!
When I started to read your post, I had just finished my first can of Coke this morning. I was just about to go run to the fridge for a second one. Instead, I ran and made myself a cup of tea - thanks to you. I had also just eaten a pile of ripple potato chips slathered in Top the Tater dip. After reading your post, I ran downstairs and handed the bowl of chips to my toddler - who was very happy to get chips for breakfast along with her Greek yogurt - and I quickly thought, "What am I DOING?!" I rarely give the kids greasy, salty chips. This bag was leftover from sometime in September, LOL! So I let her eat a couple, grabbed the bag back, and gave her a dish of rice cakes and snap peas instead. She loved that even more!
I'm back on-track now. The rest of today will be a perfect food-choice day, despite my shaky beginning. So many times, I eat horribly ALL DAY, simply because the day started out badly. Changing this pattern is a huge challenge for me, and one that I've dealt with my entire life. I so often think, "Well, I've already blown it today - what difference will it really make if I just eat whatever I want today, and start over being good TOMORROW?"
NO!!!!!!! It DOES matter! Every meal matters. Every food choice matters. Holiday revelry and family gatherings aside, every time we choose good food over unhealthy food, it matters - and that one little choice inches us closer and closer to our final goals that much faster. The process is such a s-l-o-w one already. Why would I want to slow myself down even further by WASTING entire days?! I will not do it!
Keep it up, Anne...and the rest of the ladies checking in here! You can ALL do this!!!!!!!
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| Photographic proof of my Thanksgiving sins |
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Anne went on a carb binge....
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| Anne-xiety |
I went in for a visit with Lisa instead, then did a kettle bell workout with Dr. Pat and THEN came home and vented to Brian. I am OK.
Thanksgiving day was a glorious time...we spent the day at Wayne and Stacy's (my bro) and really had a nice time being together. I was concerned about dinner and was a little nervous about coming face to face with the big spread. My sis-in-law can COOK. OMG she's such a darn good cook!! It's not right!! So of course this was no small challenge of self control.
BUT then I convinced myself that the 16ish pounds that I've worked so hard to lose would not be regained after one meal and that I should just enjoy myself. I was going to make love to that stuffing!! (not in front of the kids of course...)
I had no idea the full Monty effect that ONE carb loaded meal would have on me. It took it's toll. Friday, I was craving the worst of the worst foods. I would have killed for a Pepsi with a Mountain Dew chaser and a side of Hershey's Kisses. I almost went to McD's and asked them for just a cup of deep fryer fat. I am NOT kidding. FOOD was all I could think about!!
Lisa texted all of her slimmers this morning something about how crappy food just sets up cravings for more. At that moment I realized how right that is and I was scared shitless. I did NOT like that feeling of getting off track and it spiraled into all kinds of crazy thoughts and depression and guilt. I felt like I was shrinking. SO not happy with myself. Not happy with anything around me, really. The guilt brings on resentment. Anger. Frustration. Then BAM! Uncontrollable tears. How could I have been so happy and clear in thought for so long then just like that *snap* be confused and sad.
hmmm....I am back on my regular plan. Back to my 3-4 qts of water a day. No bad carbs and starches. Good meat. Good veggies. Fresh fruit. Look in my fridge and you'd be so proud. It looks like a produce dream. I'm gonna detox this awful crap outta my body.
It's not just the food that brought me crazy down, but I do believe that it was the major factor. You know how the holidays are not always so easy to handle and there is just enough stress in our lives to make it that much more unbearable. I think that the stuffing and white bread that I had an affair with on Thursday afternoon was what set off the avalanche that buried me this morning.
It's not an easy journey sometimes.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Monday, November 14, 2011
Holding Steady...
Hi Ladies, Kristin here... I'm still holding steady at about 7 pounds down since October 17th, so what that means to me is that I have not yo-yo'd at all in almost a month! This is a huge accomplishment for me. I credit my new way of eating, 100%. I'm following the Four Basic Diet Rules RELIGIOUSLY, every day. I don't eat unless I'm TRULY hungry. That means, at the first sign of hunger, I don't stuff my face - I drink some ice water, a cup of tea, or I simply wait a little while before feeding myself. When I do this, a LOT of times, what I thought was hunger simply vanishes.
I now always eat consciously, never while driving, never in front of the computer or t.v., never while multi-tasking. I make every meal and snack an event all its own. I SIT DOWN, take a little time with meal prep and presentation, and eat as slowly as I can - enjoying every bite. I stick to single servings of single foods, and I've all but eliminated huge sit-down dinners with three courses, bread, and dessert. They're not even missed!
I eat whatever I want - not what I "think I should" - but within reason. I don't pig out anymore. I am limiting my sugar drastically, and not wolfing entire boxes of Lifesaver Gummies or Good & Plenty when we watch a movie at home anymore. I'm not snarfing ice cream with Hershey syrup every time my husband eats a little bowl. I'm not eating entire bags of buttery microwave popcorn. I'm not sucking down glasses of sangria whenever I feel like it. I'm not eating second helpings of ANYTHING, and I'm trying my absolute hardest to AVOID ALL WHEAT. I bought the "Wheat Belly Diet" book for my Nook. I haven't had time to start reading it yet - but I will ASAP. When I don't eat ANY wheat for a couple days straight, not only do I drop pounds, EVERY time, but I also end up having the most ridiculous energy I've ever experienced. Wheat CLOGS ME UP and slows me down!!!
And finally, I am putting down my fork as soon as I start feeling a little bit full. I am not clearing my plate every time I eat - I save my leftovers, and eat them for a snack later. I've NEVER done this! Now, when I'm full, I STOP - get up - and walk away. This is probably the most important new "tactic" I have. I feel empowered that I am able to do this now! I am re-training myself, one day at a time. I eat completely differently than I did just one month ago.
My biggest challenge continues to be restaurants. SO many of them just don't have anything on them that fits into my new plan! I mean, come on - I can only eat so many side salads and cups of vegetable soup! I have found a few places that are "me" friendly, though, and I will continue to go there when possible!
I'll share a couple of my new faves, too:
Keep fighting the good fight, ladies!
I now always eat consciously, never while driving, never in front of the computer or t.v., never while multi-tasking. I make every meal and snack an event all its own. I SIT DOWN, take a little time with meal prep and presentation, and eat as slowly as I can - enjoying every bite. I stick to single servings of single foods, and I've all but eliminated huge sit-down dinners with three courses, bread, and dessert. They're not even missed!
I eat whatever I want - not what I "think I should" - but within reason. I don't pig out anymore. I am limiting my sugar drastically, and not wolfing entire boxes of Lifesaver Gummies or Good & Plenty when we watch a movie at home anymore. I'm not snarfing ice cream with Hershey syrup every time my husband eats a little bowl. I'm not eating entire bags of buttery microwave popcorn. I'm not sucking down glasses of sangria whenever I feel like it. I'm not eating second helpings of ANYTHING, and I'm trying my absolute hardest to AVOID ALL WHEAT. I bought the "Wheat Belly Diet" book for my Nook. I haven't had time to start reading it yet - but I will ASAP. When I don't eat ANY wheat for a couple days straight, not only do I drop pounds, EVERY time, but I also end up having the most ridiculous energy I've ever experienced. Wheat CLOGS ME UP and slows me down!!!
And finally, I am putting down my fork as soon as I start feeling a little bit full. I am not clearing my plate every time I eat - I save my leftovers, and eat them for a snack later. I've NEVER done this! Now, when I'm full, I STOP - get up - and walk away. This is probably the most important new "tactic" I have. I feel empowered that I am able to do this now! I am re-training myself, one day at a time. I eat completely differently than I did just one month ago.
My biggest challenge continues to be restaurants. SO many of them just don't have anything on them that fits into my new plan! I mean, come on - I can only eat so many side salads and cups of vegetable soup! I have found a few places that are "me" friendly, though, and I will continue to go there when possible!
I'll share a couple of my new faves, too:
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| SO yummy!!! |
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| This grew on me after a couple times eating it! Now I'm addicted! |
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| Don't laugh - these are sweet, rice, and SO tasty! And FOUR of them only contain 35 calories! |
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| New fave flavor - key lime! Tastes like lime sherbet!!! |
More things to add to "Anne's Faves"
Another weigh-in and measurement day! I have lost 23 inches to date! That's a good way to start a Monday. I've been MIA, but for good reason. I went up north the weekend of November 4th, and brought my momma home with me for the week! We were so good, it's not even funny. We ate GOOD food and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Who'da thunk... sliced goat cheese (that was like the consistancy of cream cheese) on top of slices of heirloom tomatoes and sea salt was beyond yummy. We thought we were a couple of foodies.
Let's dish... some more new faves:
Ezekiel bread. What? How have I NOT known about this stuff?? (I suppose I should have read the bible) Whole wheat bread at it's finest... Bread, that's good for you???
These crackers are NUMMY - and only eaten in moderation. Again, if I'm gonna have a crunchy carb I'm going to make it a quasi-healthy choice.
100% shea butter. Not for eating, but for slathering on my skin. Total. Awesomeness.
I'm going to try to write a testamonial for Lisa to put in her special "Book of Slimmers" but I didn't want to just write the same thang that everyone else has already said. Today at our meeting, I had a light bulb moment. I'm going to testify that I have made the best investment of my entire life by just investing in myself. What could be more important than that?? I keep realizing what it means to "take care". I'm lovin' it!
Let's dish... some more new faves:
I'm going to try to write a testamonial for Lisa to put in her special "Book of Slimmers" but I didn't want to just write the same thang that everyone else has already said. Today at our meeting, I had a light bulb moment. I'm going to testify that I have made the best investment of my entire life by just investing in myself. What could be more important than that?? I keep realizing what it means to "take care". I'm lovin' it!
Monday, November 7, 2011
WHEAT = THE DEVIL!
OK folks, Kristin here. Still doing my best to keep any wheat at least 10 feet from my mouth at all times, and OMG is it ever hard!!! I am doing OK. I have moments of weakness. Like last night, when I inhaled not one, but TWO huge bowls of Fruity Pebbles with milk; leftovers from a sleepover my daughter had Saturday night.
But most of the time, the sacrifice is ABSOLUTELY worth it, and not impossible to do. My sister mentioned my "new way" to a friend of hers the other day, and that friend has been gluten-free for 10 years - and she emailed my sis a long list of GF products she loves! VERY helpful to me, so I'm sharing here. It's tough to know where to start, yes?
------------------------------------------
Kristin, I hear you've gone GF. Thought I'd pass on some tips to you.
Glorious GF items I cannot live without:
Pamela's Pancake Mix (not only can you make mmmm pancakes, but also muffins, cakes, scones, cookies!)
Tinkyada pasta (in a variety of shapes, plus lasagna). I think Tinkyada is the best, but Mrs. Leepers and Lundbergs isn't bad. Also, there's a place in Hayward (I think) that makes their own GF goods under the name of Grandma Ferdon.
The best GF bread is Udi's bread. It's pricey. Buy if for yourself (it's worth it) and give the rest of your fam regular bread. It's best toasted.
Pamela's brownie and cake mix. Ridiculously delicious!
Vicolo cornmeal pizza crusts (in the frozen food section at the Coop), I think, are very good.
The Coop also sells some GF desserty items. Their flourless chocolate cake is to die for. They also have muffins & other baked goods.
Diamond rice crackers - crispy and great with cheese or dipped in hummus.
There's a variety of other snacks that are GF too. They are really expensive. I usually only buy the when they are on sale. There's some yummy lentil crackers in different flavors too.
Bob's Red Mill Hot cereal - if'n yer missin' oatmeal.
You can also grind brown rice (in coffee or spice grinder) and make hot cereal with that.
eNergy (or something like that) makes bread. It's gawdawful! Don't buy it, however their pretzels (regular and sesame) are quite good. Glutino makes good pretzels too - but be prepared to pay!
If you haven't heard of the Gluten-free Goddess, you'll wanna check it out. Good luck! Have fun! It's a whole new world. You're going to discover things you would have never discovered otherwise.
---------------------------------------------
Hope this is helpful, ladies! Anyone still out there? How about Sarah? How are things? See you at Book Club Thursday? :o)
I also should mention that I did post a l-o-n-g, ranting post on my own blog about both the Wheat Belly stuff and also about the Four Basic Rules of Dieting, which is what I am following now and it's still TOTALLY working for me. I haven't gained anything back yet - and I'm SO motivated, and I have SO MUCH @#$%* energy with little to no wheat clogging up my system - that I know I'm going to hit my final goal by Christmas!!!
Anyone who wants to read my long rant can find it at: http://otherblatantlies.blogspot.com/
Soldier on, ladies! Anxious to hear how you're all doing! How many followers do we have?
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Some of Anne's new faves...
Hey y'all! I got measured today at the weight loss center and guess what?? To date, I have lost 19.5 inches of ffffffffaaaaaattttttt. I am one happy camper.
Thought I'd share some goodies with you:
My new favorite veggie...
That's right - kale. All that green leafy goodness. It's in the same family with broccoli and cabbage etc... I like it steamed, roasted, and sauteed in a little evoo and garlic. Flippin awesomeness! Try it, you'll like it!
Favorite new drink:
Kombucha. Google it. It's a fermented tea. Wow, what a zip! Find it in the refrigerated organic section in the grocery store. Nummy! Kristin - seriously check this stuff out! Or perhaps you already know about it and can teach me more!
Fave new workout:
Kettlebells. Whoa, Dude. It's weights and cardio all in one. ** If done properly!! Highly recommend being trained by someone who is really passionate and experienced with this technique.**
Snack food:
Thought I'd share some goodies with you:
My new favorite veggie...
That's right - kale. All that green leafy goodness. It's in the same family with broccoli and cabbage etc... I like it steamed, roasted, and sauteed in a little evoo and garlic. Flippin awesomeness! Try it, you'll like it!
Favorite new drink:
Kombucha. Google it. It's a fermented tea. Wow, what a zip! Find it in the refrigerated organic section in the grocery store. Nummy! Kristin - seriously check this stuff out! Or perhaps you already know about it and can teach me more!
Fave new workout:
Snack food:
Roasted pecans. I did some myself at home on Sunday during the Viking game... They turned out soooooo darn good. Super easy!
I had some of Corine's Halloween candy yesterday... whoa, instant headache followed by a massive sugar rush. I felt horrible! Not having any trouble avoiding that bowl of treats!
Have a great week!!
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Easy apple crisp with honey.
Yummy goodness!
Easy Apple Crisp with Honey:
Ingredients:
4 1/2 C peeled, cored and sliced apples
1/2 C honey (or less?*)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
**I also added more spices like ground cloves etc...**
1/2 C brown sugar (or less??*)
3/4 C ground rolled oats
3/4 C rolled oats (not ground up)
4 tbsp butter (or less?*)
*to your liking...
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Evenly spread the apple slices in the dish
Drizzle apples with honey
In a bowl, mix the spices, brown sugar, all of the oats, and butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbles. Sprinkle over the apples.
Bake 25 minutes until apples are tender and topping is lightly browned.
I ground the 3/4 cups of rolled oats up in my magic bullet blender until it looked like the same texture of flour. I like that by using the oats and honey, you avoid using so much refined sugar and flour. And I don't worry so much about using butter as this is a TREAT and not something I will eat everyday. Instead of topping it with ice cream or whipping cream, I put my serving over plain Greek yogurt. SO GOOD!
Make it! Right now!! If you have any other suggested substitutes or add ins, please let me know! Pecans would be awesome in there.
Easy Apple Crisp with Honey:
Ingredients:
4 1/2 C peeled, cored and sliced apples
1/2 C honey (or less?*)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
**I also added more spices like ground cloves etc...**
1/2 C brown sugar (or less??*)
3/4 C ground rolled oats
3/4 C rolled oats (not ground up)
4 tbsp butter (or less?*)
*to your liking...
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Evenly spread the apple slices in the dish
Drizzle apples with honey
In a bowl, mix the spices, brown sugar, all of the oats, and butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbles. Sprinkle over the apples.
Bake 25 minutes until apples are tender and topping is lightly browned.
I ground the 3/4 cups of rolled oats up in my magic bullet blender until it looked like the same texture of flour. I like that by using the oats and honey, you avoid using so much refined sugar and flour. And I don't worry so much about using butter as this is a TREAT and not something I will eat everyday. Instead of topping it with ice cream or whipping cream, I put my serving over plain Greek yogurt. SO GOOD!
Make it! Right now!! If you have any other suggested substitutes or add ins, please let me know! Pecans would be awesome in there.
Shocking but true. Awesome documentary.
Hi from Anne! I'm so pumped up about Kristin's revelation!! Woo-Hoo!! Let's celebrate with some roasted kale!!
If you have approximately an hour to kill, please, PLEASE watch the following documentary. Big Tobacco has nothing on Big Seed Companies.
http://www.thefutureoffood.com/onlinevideo.html
Oh. My. God. Ohmygodohmygodohmygaaaahhhddd!!! I've watched it about 4 times already. whoa.
If you have approximately an hour to kill, please, PLEASE watch the following documentary. Big Tobacco has nothing on Big Seed Companies.
http://www.thefutureoffood.com/onlinevideo.html
Oh. My. God. Ohmygodohmygodohmygaaaahhhddd!!! I've watched it about 4 times already. whoa.
WHEAT BELLY EPIPHANY!!!
Kristin here... OMG, Anne! I am reading every "Wheat Belly" article I can. The dude has it figured out. I am addicted. This works for me. I cut out 99% of the wheat I was eating after reading your post about this and I have lost 7 pounds in the last 11 days - all off my STOMACH FAT!!!
Um, YEAH. I'm loving it. And I haven't had any time to exercise in the past 11 days.
More soon...
Um, YEAH. I'm loving it. And I haven't had any time to exercise in the past 11 days.
More soon...
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Easy as apple pie...
and tasty, too. Greetings from Anne's world!
Need a sweet treat? You've maybe already tried this and I'm sitting here thinking I'm so awesome when really I'm not as genius as I think I am. Oh well!
Anyway, slice up an apple, simmer it in a pan with a little bit of water and some cinnamon until tender to your liking. (it smells heavenly) Let it cool, then pour it over your plain vanilla yogurt. Top with pecans (or not) and enjoy.
Flippin easy and it's so yummy.
I also made oatmeal and honey apple crisp (yes, I have a ton of apples to use up from our trip to the orchard) that was soooooo good. And relatively sorta almost totally healthy. I could post that recipe if anyone wants it.
Peace!
Need a sweet treat? You've maybe already tried this and I'm sitting here thinking I'm so awesome when really I'm not as genius as I think I am. Oh well!
Anyway, slice up an apple, simmer it in a pan with a little bit of water and some cinnamon until tender to your liking. (it smells heavenly) Let it cool, then pour it over your plain vanilla yogurt. Top with pecans (or not) and enjoy.
Flippin easy and it's so yummy.
I also made oatmeal and honey apple crisp (yes, I have a ton of apples to use up from our trip to the orchard) that was soooooo good. And relatively sorta almost totally healthy. I could post that recipe if anyone wants it.
Peace!
Friday, October 21, 2011
Hey, check this out...
Hi there! It's Anne with some good stuff (not bragging stuff). Coach Lisa shared with me some articles that she found on line that talk about what she's been preaching to all of her "slimmers" as she likes to call us. I hope I don't get in trouble by copying this article on to this blog post but I hope you find it interesting. I know that I did. (This doc is a cardiologist)
Do you have a wheat belly?
By Dr. William Davis
Low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides, small LDL particles: the most common triad of abnormalities today behind heart disease.
Along with this pattern comes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, diabetes and pre-diabetes, increased inflammation, increasingly blood clot-prone blood. This common collection that now afflicts over 50 million Americans goes by a number of names, including metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance syndrome, and syndrome X.
But I call it “wheat belly.” Let me explain.
You’ve heard of “beer bellies,” the protuberant, sagging abdomen of someone who drinks excessive quantities of beer.
Wheat belly is the same protuberant, sagging abdomen that develops when you overindulge in processed carbohydrates. It represents visceral fat that laces the intestines.
I thought so, too, 12 years ago when I followed a strict vegetarian, low-fat diet, rich with “healthy” whole grains. I gained 30 lbs, my HDL dropped to 27 mg/dl, triglycerides skyrocketed to 350 mg/dl, small LDL went crazy, my blood pressure was 150/90, and I developed diabetic blood sugars─while running 5 miles a day. It’s the wheat. I eliminated the wheat and promptly reversed the entire picture.
If you don’t believe it, try this experiment: Eliminate all forms of wheat for a 4 week period–no breakfast cereals, no breads of any sort, no pasta, no crackers, no pretzels, etc. Instead, increase your vegetables; healthy oils; lean proteins (lean red meats, chicken, fish, turkey, eggs, Egg Beaters, yogurt and cottage cheese); raw nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pecans; and fruit. Of course, avoid fruit drinks, candy, and other garbage foods, even if they’re wheat-free. (And don’t confuse this conversation with celiac disease or gluten enteropathy, an allergy to wheat gluten, an entirely different issue.)
Most people will report that a cloud has been lifted from their brain. Thinking is clearer, you have more energy, you don’t lose in the afternoon, you sleep more deeply. You will notice that hunger ratchets down substantially. Most people lose the insatiable hunger pangs that occur 2-3 hours after a wheat-containing meal. Instead, hunger is a soft signal that gently prods you that it’s time to consider eating again. You may even find that you miss meals, just because you forgot to eat. Very curious.
It’s unconventional, I know. The last 500 patients I’ve done this with also thought so─until they lost 15, 20 . . .70 lbs along with all the undesirable metabolic “baggage.”
While nearly everyone knows that candy bars and soft drinks aren’t good for health, most Americans have allowed processed carbohydrates, but especially wheat products like pretzels, crackers, breads, waffles, pancakes, breakfast cereals and pasta, to dominate diet. I blame the extreme over-reliance on these foods for the obesity and related abnormalities: wheat belly.
How did this all come about?
Back in the 1960s, we had sandwiches on white bread, hamburgers on white flour buns, spaghetti made with bleached, enriched flour. Data from the 1970s and 1980s, however, demonstrated conclusively that using whole grains, with the bran and B-vitamins left in, was better: better for bowel health, blood pressure, cholesterol values.
Fast-forward to the 1990s and the new century, and the mantra has evolved to “eat more whole grains, eat more whole grains,” repeated by “official” organizations and propagated by countless media conversations. And Americans have complied.
But while video games, unhealthy snacks, and vending machines have been roundly blamed for the nationwide epidemic of obesity and diabetes, it’s curious that increased weight has befallen even active people who eat “healthy”: yes, plenty of whole grains.
In my view, it is the grains that are largely behind the obesity and diabetes epidemic, at least among the frustrated health-conscious.
But not all grains. Oats and flaxseed, for instance, seem to not contribute to weight and the associated patterns like small LDL.
**********************************************************************
There is more to this article, but you get the picture. It's HARD to change. It's HARD to go against everything that is being pounded into our brains every time we watch TV, read a magazine, or see the labels on the packages while we food shop.
I had an interesting talk with a gal that runs the Fresh and Natural Food Store in town. I was asking her if she buys locally or what and she said, "Well I try to bring in as much local produce and products as I can but if I can't find what our customers want locally, then I have to expand my search out state." We went on to talk about how much we're going to miss the farmer's market now that the season is changing and she commented on how much good food is produced right here in our own city and county, but she can't really sell it because these farms aren't certified organic. She said, "I can't blame these mom and pop farms for not going thru with certification because it is SO much work to get that little piece of paper from the government." Why is big government making it so hard for us to get the real healthy foods that we actually need?? I can see making sure that there is a type of protocol in place to be considered organically grown, but why make it such a pain in the ass? Are the corporate farms that afraid of losing business??
Sorry, it sounds like I'm standing on my political soapbox here! I'm usually not this fired up about this. If you have any comments either agreeing or disagreeing with my schpeel, I'd love to hear it. I need to be open to both sides before I shoot my mouth off.
p.s. I'm down 16.25 inches and I WILL BE UNDER 170 LBS very soon (right Coach? right!). I've started doing some kettle bells training. Total. Awesomeness.
Do you have a wheat belly?
By Dr. William Davis
Low HDL cholesterol, high triglycerides, small LDL particles: the most common triad of abnormalities today behind heart disease.
Along with this pattern comes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, diabetes and pre-diabetes, increased inflammation, increasingly blood clot-prone blood. This common collection that now afflicts over 50 million Americans goes by a number of names, including metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance syndrome, and syndrome X.
But I call it “wheat belly.” Let me explain.
You’ve heard of “beer bellies,” the protuberant, sagging abdomen of someone who drinks excessive quantities of beer.
Wheat belly is the same protuberant, sagging abdomen that develops when you overindulge in processed carbohydrates. It represents visceral fat that laces the intestines.
I thought so, too, 12 years ago when I followed a strict vegetarian, low-fat diet, rich with “healthy” whole grains. I gained 30 lbs, my HDL dropped to 27 mg/dl, triglycerides skyrocketed to 350 mg/dl, small LDL went crazy, my blood pressure was 150/90, and I developed diabetic blood sugars─while running 5 miles a day. It’s the wheat. I eliminated the wheat and promptly reversed the entire picture.
If you don’t believe it, try this experiment: Eliminate all forms of wheat for a 4 week period–no breakfast cereals, no breads of any sort, no pasta, no crackers, no pretzels, etc. Instead, increase your vegetables; healthy oils; lean proteins (lean red meats, chicken, fish, turkey, eggs, Egg Beaters, yogurt and cottage cheese); raw nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pecans; and fruit. Of course, avoid fruit drinks, candy, and other garbage foods, even if they’re wheat-free. (And don’t confuse this conversation with celiac disease or gluten enteropathy, an allergy to wheat gluten, an entirely different issue.)
Most people will report that a cloud has been lifted from their brain. Thinking is clearer, you have more energy, you don’t lose in the afternoon, you sleep more deeply. You will notice that hunger ratchets down substantially. Most people lose the insatiable hunger pangs that occur 2-3 hours after a wheat-containing meal. Instead, hunger is a soft signal that gently prods you that it’s time to consider eating again. You may even find that you miss meals, just because you forgot to eat. Very curious.
It’s unconventional, I know. The last 500 patients I’ve done this with also thought so─until they lost 15, 20 . . .70 lbs along with all the undesirable metabolic “baggage.”
While nearly everyone knows that candy bars and soft drinks aren’t good for health, most Americans have allowed processed carbohydrates, but especially wheat products like pretzels, crackers, breads, waffles, pancakes, breakfast cereals and pasta, to dominate diet. I blame the extreme over-reliance on these foods for the obesity and related abnormalities: wheat belly.
How did this all come about?
Back in the 1960s, we had sandwiches on white bread, hamburgers on white flour buns, spaghetti made with bleached, enriched flour. Data from the 1970s and 1980s, however, demonstrated conclusively that using whole grains, with the bran and B-vitamins left in, was better: better for bowel health, blood pressure, cholesterol values.
Fast-forward to the 1990s and the new century, and the mantra has evolved to “eat more whole grains, eat more whole grains,” repeated by “official” organizations and propagated by countless media conversations. And Americans have complied.
But while video games, unhealthy snacks, and vending machines have been roundly blamed for the nationwide epidemic of obesity and diabetes, it’s curious that increased weight has befallen even active people who eat “healthy”: yes, plenty of whole grains.
In my view, it is the grains that are largely behind the obesity and diabetes epidemic, at least among the frustrated health-conscious.
But not all grains. Oats and flaxseed, for instance, seem to not contribute to weight and the associated patterns like small LDL.
**********************************************************************
There is more to this article, but you get the picture. It's HARD to change. It's HARD to go against everything that is being pounded into our brains every time we watch TV, read a magazine, or see the labels on the packages while we food shop.
I had an interesting talk with a gal that runs the Fresh and Natural Food Store in town. I was asking her if she buys locally or what and she said, "Well I try to bring in as much local produce and products as I can but if I can't find what our customers want locally, then I have to expand my search out state." We went on to talk about how much we're going to miss the farmer's market now that the season is changing and she commented on how much good food is produced right here in our own city and county, but she can't really sell it because these farms aren't certified organic. She said, "I can't blame these mom and pop farms for not going thru with certification because it is SO much work to get that little piece of paper from the government." Why is big government making it so hard for us to get the real healthy foods that we actually need?? I can see making sure that there is a type of protocol in place to be considered organically grown, but why make it such a pain in the ass? Are the corporate farms that afraid of losing business??
Sorry, it sounds like I'm standing on my political soapbox here! I'm usually not this fired up about this. If you have any comments either agreeing or disagreeing with my schpeel, I'd love to hear it. I need to be open to both sides before I shoot my mouth off.
p.s. I'm down 16.25 inches and I WILL BE UNDER 170 LBS very soon (right Coach? right!). I've started doing some kettle bells training. Total. Awesomeness.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Cheese is THE DEVIL
First of all, let me congratulate Anne on a fantastic job! You have a fantastic attitude - keep it up!!! You can do it - it's obvious you can; you already ARE!!! I applaud you. You even have the success to back up a clothes-updating trip; I haven't dropped a size since April. I've been stuck at the same weight since April. My attitude has sucked since April.
I had Book Club last night. I starved myself all day in anticipation of the inevitable carb-fest. Sarah was there; she witnessed this. I cannot hide from it. I ate my weight in cheese. Havarti cheese, Gorgonzola cheese, REAL CHEESE. I was puking sick all the way home, and all night. I didn't actually puke. I was just desperate to. The food was fabulous. I had a grilled cheese sandwich (an inch thick with 4 or 5 exotic cheese; no cheddar here, no sir-ee!), and I added tomato and homemade hummus to the mix. Top it off with homemade, dense, whole-foods-type bread, and you have ecstasy, ladies. I didn't really need TWO bottles of creme soda to wash it down. I could have stuck with one, and then ice water. And I didn't really need that piece of pecan pie after I was already so stuffed I couldn't MOVE. Or the glass of 2% milk.
UGH UGH UGH.
I am really uncomfortable today. I am still infused with cheese. I need a cleanse. But I won't do one, because I hate them more than I hate the feeling of being cheese-i-fied.
My attitude isn't really as poor as it sounds. I am only venting. THANKS! I am on-track to lose 15 pounds by Thanksgiving, apart from last night's binge. I'm slowly dropping. I need more exercise each week, and I need to start on my core/ab ball stuff, but food-wise I'm doing OK. I'm still counting calories. I'm eating around 1100-1300 daily. I'm still avoiding white flour, because it turns instantly to fat on me. That means I'm avoiding my favorite foods. Next to zero bagels, pasta, crackers, pretzels, bread (OMG, no TOAST!), muffins, etc. I'm eating a little bit of something every 2-3 hours. Lots of ice water, brewed hot and cold tea; I MIGHT drink one or two cans of real pop per week (no artificial sweeteners anymore for me; got rid of all my headaches...), and I'm loading up on veggies, salads, low-cal soups, whole grains like RyKrisp, Grape Nuts, Brad Buds, Wasa crackers, etc..., protein in Greek yogurt, eggs, raw almonds, and low-fat string cheese... It's all helping. I'm trying. I have my eyes on the prize. I have my goals set. I want to lose 15# by Thanksgiving, then eat a huge turkey dinner, then lose 10 more by New Year's. I'd LOVE to go into 2012 without having "LOSE WEIGHT" on my resolution list again!!!
Soldier on, ladies! Keep fighting the good fight. One day at a time! I cheat. But not often. I have a tough time at night, especially. I was rocking a perfect 1100-calorie day on Wednesday, and suddenly looked down and had consumed an entire bag of microwave popcorn, a can of Coke, AND a HUGE bag of Lifesaver Gummies! This was at LEAST a 1200-calorie binge. I barely even tasted it. So adding that to my cheese-a-thon last night, well... not the best week for me so far. But I won't give up. Today has been great. I'll eat a little more protein, a little more fiber later in the day to fight my evening cravings tonight. It'll be all good.
Great to hear your update, Anne! Keep writing - you always motivate me!!!
I had Book Club last night. I starved myself all day in anticipation of the inevitable carb-fest. Sarah was there; she witnessed this. I cannot hide from it. I ate my weight in cheese. Havarti cheese, Gorgonzola cheese, REAL CHEESE. I was puking sick all the way home, and all night. I didn't actually puke. I was just desperate to. The food was fabulous. I had a grilled cheese sandwich (an inch thick with 4 or 5 exotic cheese; no cheddar here, no sir-ee!), and I added tomato and homemade hummus to the mix. Top it off with homemade, dense, whole-foods-type bread, and you have ecstasy, ladies. I didn't really need TWO bottles of creme soda to wash it down. I could have stuck with one, and then ice water. And I didn't really need that piece of pecan pie after I was already so stuffed I couldn't MOVE. Or the glass of 2% milk.
UGH UGH UGH.
I am really uncomfortable today. I am still infused with cheese. I need a cleanse. But I won't do one, because I hate them more than I hate the feeling of being cheese-i-fied.
My attitude isn't really as poor as it sounds. I am only venting. THANKS! I am on-track to lose 15 pounds by Thanksgiving, apart from last night's binge. I'm slowly dropping. I need more exercise each week, and I need to start on my core/ab ball stuff, but food-wise I'm doing OK. I'm still counting calories. I'm eating around 1100-1300 daily. I'm still avoiding white flour, because it turns instantly to fat on me. That means I'm avoiding my favorite foods. Next to zero bagels, pasta, crackers, pretzels, bread (OMG, no TOAST!), muffins, etc. I'm eating a little bit of something every 2-3 hours. Lots of ice water, brewed hot and cold tea; I MIGHT drink one or two cans of real pop per week (no artificial sweeteners anymore for me; got rid of all my headaches...), and I'm loading up on veggies, salads, low-cal soups, whole grains like RyKrisp, Grape Nuts, Brad Buds, Wasa crackers, etc..., protein in Greek yogurt, eggs, raw almonds, and low-fat string cheese... It's all helping. I'm trying. I have my eyes on the prize. I have my goals set. I want to lose 15# by Thanksgiving, then eat a huge turkey dinner, then lose 10 more by New Year's. I'd LOVE to go into 2012 without having "LOSE WEIGHT" on my resolution list again!!!
Soldier on, ladies! Keep fighting the good fight. One day at a time! I cheat. But not often. I have a tough time at night, especially. I was rocking a perfect 1100-calorie day on Wednesday, and suddenly looked down and had consumed an entire bag of microwave popcorn, a can of Coke, AND a HUGE bag of Lifesaver Gummies! This was at LEAST a 1200-calorie binge. I barely even tasted it. So adding that to my cheese-a-thon last night, well... not the best week for me so far. But I won't give up. Today has been great. I'll eat a little more protein, a little more fiber later in the day to fight my evening cravings tonight. It'll be all good.
Great to hear your update, Anne! Keep writing - you always motivate me!!!
Anne doesn't mean to brag...
Oh, hell yes I do!!
Got an early start to my walk with Max this morning... it's a chilly one so I wore my LL Bean walking pants that haven't fit me in like 2 years (brag) and headed out. I came across a neighbor that I haven't seen much of since school started and he asked if he was seeing "less" of me?? How nice of him to notice! He told me that he saw Max and recognized him of course, but he saw me and thought "Anne must have hired a dog walker." It really made my day.
I wish that I had some sort of biological plug in that you could tap into just to feel how great I've been feeling. Aside from those first two weeks of starting this plan, it really doesn't feel like all that much work. Of course I have my hard days and lots of battles with temptation all around me, but it just keeps getting easier.
I'm sure that it has a lot to do with where I was at mentally when I first signed up for this new way of eating. I was VERY ready for it and I couldn't stand feeling so horrible for one more second. Mindset is so important. And if I didn't have Coach K on the sidelines cheering me on... well, who knows just how "easy" this would be for me.
I told Lisa that I'm amazed at how our paths crossed. She went through some tough times to finally get to a place in life that makes her happy. She has found her passion and is using it to help others which only leads to more happiness in her life... isn't that genius? Who knew that all those years of working in a job that drove her nutso would eventually lead her to this place. What is it about her sign in front of her business that kept calling out to me every time I drove by it on my way to Target? What finally made me call her? I'll tell you, the second I heard her voice, I knew. I knew I found what I needed before she even told me any details.
Speaking of driving to Target... I don't spend nearly as much time there anymore. In fact, my spending habits have really changed. Not on purpose, I just don't have as much time to waste, and I also don't need that "shopper's high" that I love so much as often since I already feel good. I'm finding that shopping is turning into an energy drainer. I'd rather spend my time doing other more productive things. Weird, huh?
Got an early start to my walk with Max this morning... it's a chilly one so I wore my LL Bean walking pants that haven't fit me in like 2 years (brag) and headed out. I came across a neighbor that I haven't seen much of since school started and he asked if he was seeing "less" of me?? How nice of him to notice! He told me that he saw Max and recognized him of course, but he saw me and thought "Anne must have hired a dog walker." It really made my day.
I wish that I had some sort of biological plug in that you could tap into just to feel how great I've been feeling. Aside from those first two weeks of starting this plan, it really doesn't feel like all that much work. Of course I have my hard days and lots of battles with temptation all around me, but it just keeps getting easier.
I'm sure that it has a lot to do with where I was at mentally when I first signed up for this new way of eating. I was VERY ready for it and I couldn't stand feeling so horrible for one more second. Mindset is so important. And if I didn't have Coach K on the sidelines cheering me on... well, who knows just how "easy" this would be for me.
I told Lisa that I'm amazed at how our paths crossed. She went through some tough times to finally get to a place in life that makes her happy. She has found her passion and is using it to help others which only leads to more happiness in her life... isn't that genius? Who knew that all those years of working in a job that drove her nutso would eventually lead her to this place. What is it about her sign in front of her business that kept calling out to me every time I drove by it on my way to Target? What finally made me call her? I'll tell you, the second I heard her voice, I knew. I knew I found what I needed before she even told me any details.
Speaking of driving to Target... I don't spend nearly as much time there anymore. In fact, my spending habits have really changed. Not on purpose, I just don't have as much time to waste, and I also don't need that "shopper's high" that I love so much as often since I already feel good. I'm finding that shopping is turning into an energy drainer. I'd rather spend my time doing other more productive things. Weird, huh?
Thursday, October 13, 2011
I'm back baby! WOO!!
I know... you're thinking "Oh great. ANOTHER post from Anne about how great she feels and how skinny she's getting."
THAT'S RIGHT!! I am friggen awesome!
First of all, I swear to you that chakra massage totally flipped on a switch in my brain and I'm still feeling so damn good from that. And trust me, we have some stress going on in our little world so for me to be sitting here feeling so good and so strong and so confident that everything is going to be OK... well, do the math.
Second of all, I found clothes today. At JCP of all places... I really had to dig, but I found just the simple wardrobe basics that I needed going into fall and winter. Age appropriate - check. Classic but not matronly - check. Most important, on sale - check!
I wasn't sure just what sizes to get so I had to take 2 of everything into the dressing rooms with me. For pants, before my new way of eating, I was pushing a size 16. Yes, it's true. So I tried on a 14 just to see what would happen... um, yeah I could pull them up without having to unzip or unbutton them first. The 12's fit good! I've always been a size 10/12 so it felt great even while standing there in that unflattering, flickering florescent lighting of the dressing room.
Tops though... that's still my flubby area. While my midsection no longer looks like a pregnant Michelin Man's, it still has a ways to go. I could do a large, but I'm too self conscious about that spare tire so I went with an XL. I'd rather the sweater look too big for me rather than me looking too big for that sweater.
My next step? Kettle bells. Coach Lisa's husband is also a kettle bells instructor, so I'm going to start taking those classes too. It evidently really works the core, which is my trouble zone. Wish you girls could come with me. I feel a little intimidated.
THAT'S RIGHT!! I am friggen awesome!
First of all, I swear to you that chakra massage totally flipped on a switch in my brain and I'm still feeling so damn good from that. And trust me, we have some stress going on in our little world so for me to be sitting here feeling so good and so strong and so confident that everything is going to be OK... well, do the math.
Second of all, I found clothes today. At JCP of all places... I really had to dig, but I found just the simple wardrobe basics that I needed going into fall and winter. Age appropriate - check. Classic but not matronly - check. Most important, on sale - check!
I wasn't sure just what sizes to get so I had to take 2 of everything into the dressing rooms with me. For pants, before my new way of eating, I was pushing a size 16. Yes, it's true. So I tried on a 14 just to see what would happen... um, yeah I could pull them up without having to unzip or unbutton them first. The 12's fit good! I've always been a size 10/12 so it felt great even while standing there in that unflattering, flickering florescent lighting of the dressing room.
Tops though... that's still my flubby area. While my midsection no longer looks like a pregnant Michelin Man's, it still has a ways to go. I could do a large, but I'm too self conscious about that spare tire so I went with an XL. I'd rather the sweater look too big for me rather than me looking too big for that sweater.
My next step? Kettle bells. Coach Lisa's husband is also a kettle bells instructor, so I'm going to start taking those classes too. It evidently really works the core, which is my trouble zone. Wish you girls could come with me. I feel a little intimidated.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
I just found an almond under my keyboard.
Mmmmmm....stale protein.
Hi, it's Anne. I've been off line for a little while and I'm glad you were all so worried about me! Oh, you weren't that worried? OK, that's cool.
My guru Lisa is on a little vacay - you know what they say: When the cat's away, the mice will play. Well, not this rodent. I've been diligently following the plan and doing well. The weight loss has slowed a bit, but according to the fancy-shmancy scale I'm losing fat and building muscle so I can handle the plateau that I seem to be riding. And HELLO! Last week I was remeasured and I have lost a total of 14 3/4 inches!! That's over a foot of blech, people!! Hey, I found another pair of pants that fit!! Nice! I need to wear a belt! Yes! (you gotta celebrate the little things)
I am missing my nutritionista extraordinaire though. That counseling part of this journey is a key part of my success. Yes, I can figure out my menu and stick to it just fine. But it's not nearly as fun on my own. I miss the pep talks and the overload of information and I even miss that fancy shmancy scale. I keep glancing at my crackberry waiting, just waiting for that text msg "Water? Protein snack??" but since they are in Jamaica, and the rate for texting would probably cost more than their vacation itself, no messages are there. AND she deserves to have a break from all of us tubbies. We are adults. We should be able to go a week without her.
It's harder than it sounds.
So, I'm trying not to self destruct by keeping myself very busy. (hence the lack of posts) I went to pick up some of my favorite long sleeved T's (the brand is Ruff Hewn - love 'em!) and I got to buy a smaller size. Hey, L is better than XL. (I have long limbs, right?) I also picked up a pair of pants, thought "hmm, these are cute", tried them on and they fit like they were made just for me - and in a smaller size. And I need a belt! (sorry, I'm a little excited about the belt thing)
Also cleaned out my closet. Got rid of the summer t-shirts with the pit stains etc... It's a good thing that I lost some weight as now those clothes that I kept in case I got thinner again are fitting. Why by new when slightly used will do? I have been shopping for some new things to add to the wardrobe, but other than the long sleeved T's, I haven't found crap. Where the hell are the normal clothes?? So disappointed.
Tomorrow is field trip day with the 2nd grade. That has to burn at least 1,000 calories an hour. And I'm treating myself to another massage on Friday. I cannot wait for that... the last one was heavenly.
Let's all take a deep breath in .... and let it out. Repeat. I need to stretch and then go to bed. Take care ladies!
Hi, it's Anne. I've been off line for a little while and I'm glad you were all so worried about me! Oh, you weren't that worried? OK, that's cool.
My guru Lisa is on a little vacay - you know what they say: When the cat's away, the mice will play. Well, not this rodent. I've been diligently following the plan and doing well. The weight loss has slowed a bit, but according to the fancy-shmancy scale I'm losing fat and building muscle so I can handle the plateau that I seem to be riding. And HELLO! Last week I was remeasured and I have lost a total of 14 3/4 inches!! That's over a foot of blech, people!! Hey, I found another pair of pants that fit!! Nice! I need to wear a belt! Yes! (you gotta celebrate the little things)
I am missing my nutritionista extraordinaire though. That counseling part of this journey is a key part of my success. Yes, I can figure out my menu and stick to it just fine. But it's not nearly as fun on my own. I miss the pep talks and the overload of information and I even miss that fancy shmancy scale. I keep glancing at my crackberry waiting, just waiting for that text msg "Water? Protein snack??" but since they are in Jamaica, and the rate for texting would probably cost more than their vacation itself, no messages are there. AND she deserves to have a break from all of us tubbies. We are adults. We should be able to go a week without her.
It's harder than it sounds.
So, I'm trying not to self destruct by keeping myself very busy. (hence the lack of posts) I went to pick up some of my favorite long sleeved T's (the brand is Ruff Hewn - love 'em!) and I got to buy a smaller size. Hey, L is better than XL. (I have long limbs, right?) I also picked up a pair of pants, thought "hmm, these are cute", tried them on and they fit like they were made just for me - and in a smaller size. And I need a belt! (sorry, I'm a little excited about the belt thing)
Also cleaned out my closet. Got rid of the summer t-shirts with the pit stains etc... It's a good thing that I lost some weight as now those clothes that I kept in case I got thinner again are fitting. Why by new when slightly used will do? I have been shopping for some new things to add to the wardrobe, but other than the long sleeved T's, I haven't found crap. Where the hell are the normal clothes?? So disappointed.
Tomorrow is field trip day with the 2nd grade. That has to burn at least 1,000 calories an hour. And I'm treating myself to another massage on Friday. I cannot wait for that... the last one was heavenly.
Let's all take a deep breath in .... and let it out. Repeat. I need to stretch and then go to bed. Take care ladies!
Monday, October 3, 2011
How Goes the Battle, Ladies???
Hi girls, Kristin here. How goes it?
Just so-so on my end. I've been the same weight since the last week of April, and a tiny part of me views that as some kind of semi-accomplishment...I tell myself, "At least I haven't GAINED!" Of course, if I was more real with myself, I'd admit that all this means is that I've sat on my well-padded ass for the past 5 months, eating, sleeping, and not exercising nearly enough.
I wish I could flip a magic switch and suddenly have whatever motivation I need to just lose the second half of my excess poundage. I'm stuck in the exact center of my initial goal - I've lost half of my 40 pounds, and now the last 20 needs to go - but won't.
I'm giving myself until the end of October to lose the next 10. My 4-year anniversary is on the 29th. That's my new-new-new goal. Ten pounds by the 29th. Baby steps...
How's everyone else doing? Would love an update! Sarah, how's everything? And Anne, how's the guru doing?
:o)
Just so-so on my end. I've been the same weight since the last week of April, and a tiny part of me views that as some kind of semi-accomplishment...I tell myself, "At least I haven't GAINED!" Of course, if I was more real with myself, I'd admit that all this means is that I've sat on my well-padded ass for the past 5 months, eating, sleeping, and not exercising nearly enough.
I wish I could flip a magic switch and suddenly have whatever motivation I need to just lose the second half of my excess poundage. I'm stuck in the exact center of my initial goal - I've lost half of my 40 pounds, and now the last 20 needs to go - but won't.
I'm giving myself until the end of October to lose the next 10. My 4-year anniversary is on the 29th. That's my new-new-new goal. Ten pounds by the 29th. Baby steps...
How's everyone else doing? Would love an update! Sarah, how's everything? And Anne, how's the guru doing?
:o)
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Let's talk about "energy".
All you dog owners out there have probably heard of the "Dog Whisperer" Cesar Millan. Love that show. Some people say that his methods are controversial?? but darnit they work! While watching his show, I realized that his approach to training your dog can be used for "food training" ourselves.
He always talks about your "energy". Dogs don't really understand our verbal language, but they definitely understand our body language and our energy that we have when we come into a room. He was helping some couple train their hyper boxer and after demonstrating the technique, he handed the dog over to his owner and said "You ready to try" (in that awesome Latino accent) and the owner said "Well, sure I think I can try..." oops. Cesar corrected him by saying "You bring a completely different energy to the situation by saying "well, I think I can" instead of "yes absolutely I can." It's all in our state of mind. Really it applies to everything in life. Food, exercise, learning a new skill, conquering a crazy goal... or just simple tasks like catching up on laundry.
I told my silly realization to Lisa and she didn't think I was crazy at all. In fact she added her two cents by saying, "Cesar doesn't believe the dog needs to change its behavior. They do what comes naturally. It's the owners habits and behaviors that need to change. No different than food... It won't change; WE have to change our habits."
Put that in your protein shake and drink it!
He always talks about your "energy". Dogs don't really understand our verbal language, but they definitely understand our body language and our energy that we have when we come into a room. He was helping some couple train their hyper boxer and after demonstrating the technique, he handed the dog over to his owner and said "You ready to try" (in that awesome Latino accent) and the owner said "Well, sure I think I can try..." oops. Cesar corrected him by saying "You bring a completely different energy to the situation by saying "well, I think I can" instead of "yes absolutely I can." It's all in our state of mind. Really it applies to everything in life. Food, exercise, learning a new skill, conquering a crazy goal... or just simple tasks like catching up on laundry.
I told my silly realization to Lisa and she didn't think I was crazy at all. In fact she added her two cents by saying, "Cesar doesn't believe the dog needs to change its behavior. They do what comes naturally. It's the owners habits and behaviors that need to change. No different than food... It won't change; WE have to change our habits."
Put that in your protein shake and drink it!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Eyes on the Prize
Hi girls, Kristin here. Today, I am looking ahead to Thanksgiving with one goal in mind: I am going to hit my goal weight by that day.
I'm out of excuses. I have all the information I need. I know how to do this. I know what I've done wrong, what I'm still doing wrong, what I need to change first, what I should eat, how much and how I should exercise, yadda yadda yadda. I HAVE THE INFORMATION.
What I have lacked to this point is the complete desire to DO SOMETHING with it all. Maybe I was a little over-whelmed...? Who knows. All I DO know is, I am sick and tired of feeling so sick and tired (and fat and flabby and squishy and pudgy and lazy and sluggish and undisciplined and unhappy and unmotivated and unhealthy and flaccid and jiggly and crabby and did I mention FAT???)
So here's the bottom line: My birthday carb-fest is a memory. It was fabulous. A yummy build-your-own taco buffet, healthy veggies and homemade cucumber dip, and in lieu of a cake, I requested a platter of little frozen mini-eclairs. I ate at least 7 of them. HEAVEN.
 |
| This is me, in heaven. |
Onward...
Saturday, September 17, 2011
Anne has an "A-Ha!" moment.
Yes, Oprah! It's for realz. Way back, a long long long time ago when Corine was a newbie, I was starting out my new "career" as a stay at home mommy and whoa! I discovered Dr. Phil. I can't stand that show anymore, but at the time it clicked for me and I was addicted to his show. "How's that workin' for ya??" He started his own "Biggest Loser" contest and really did offer a lot of good information about food from a psychology point of view. He preached about our addiction to sugar (much like Lisa does) and made promises to all of us faithful viewers that if we are diligent in our efforts and really stick to his eating advice, after a few weeks we wouldn't even crave that bad stuff.
Yeah, right. I wasn't gonna fall for that. Until now. A-Ha! Light bulb!
I've been doing this diet for 4 weeks now and it's true. I should re-word that actually as being human, yes I do still have those cravings for chocolate and french fries (yeah, at the same time) but I don't think about it obsessively to the point of not being able to think about anything else and the next thing you know, I'm in the Mickey D's drive thru screaming "GIVE IT TO ME!" at the box!
Last weekend, we treated ourselves to a little Culver's frozen custard. I just ordered one scoop of the flavor of the day and Brian inhaled a Lalapalooza. (not really, I just want to make an example of his bad habits to make me look better.) I finished my 1/2 cup of frozen goodness and thought..."ehhh, it wasn't really that great." I have this chocolate protein pudding mix from Lisa that I think is super yummy, esp when I mix in my fresh strawberries. OMG! Heavenly. Coulda had that instead and been happy.
Yesterday I had plans to meet a g-friend for lunch at a restaurant downtown. I was all excited for A.) lunch with a friend, B.) not having to cook, and C.) putting my menu planning skills to the test and being a good girl. I ordered a chicken taco salad. The menu claimed it was an abundant amount of fresh salad greens in a taco shell (that I wasn't planning on eating - never been a fave of mine) pico de gallo (sp?) black bean and corn salsa and seasoned shredded chicken. Sounds perfect. I asked for all the sour cream, guac, and dressing on the side. What a good girl!
The perfect sized salad arrives to the table, just as I ordered! I stuck my fork into the salad to sorta stir it up as all the chicken was on the top... I kept searching and searching... where the hell is the lettuce? It was almost all chicken...now most people wouldn't complain about not enough veggies, but I have to say that I was sorta disappointed. It was delicious! But, I knew I wasn't getting enough of everything I needed. Seriously, I don't think that a wild coyote could have eaten all that chicken. Then as I was digesting, I wanted to lay down and take a nap right there on the dirty bar floor. I felt horrible. Sluggish. Depressed. Unsatisfied. I wanted a plate of fruit and a gallon of water. I walked around the neighborhood later in the day with Max, and he was actually pulling me along instead of the other way around. I kept begging him to just stop and sniff and pee on something. I fell asleep on the couch at 9:00. Woke up at 10:30. Went to bed and didn't wake up until 7:30 this morning. I haven't done that since before I detoxed.
I don't want to do that to myself again, but what do I do when friends want to go out to lunch? I'm going to become even more antisocial! No worries; next time I will check with my guru for advice ahead of time.. she knows of good places to go and good things to order. She's got my back.
And another thing. When I was driving home from this two hour lunch, not only was I half asleep but my ears were ringing like the Carol of the Bells. What? That's usually a sign of my anxiety workin' itself up. What was I wound up about? I just had a nice lunch with an old friend. I got home and as I was getting out of the car, oh man my neck and shoulders were all tense.
Hmmm, was that really a nice lunch with an old friend? She's still the same even keeled girl as ever, but her lifestyle and mine are polar opposites. As I thought of the things that she was telling me about what's new in her world, I came to the realization that if I had just met her for the first time that day, I would never go out of my way to socialize with her again. Not that she's a bad person, or a negative Nellie, I just don't usually associate with 44 year old bar hoppers. Her kids are a mess, but she has this mentality that they decide their own destiny. There were just somethings that I didn't agree with, and I'm sure she listened to my boring life's tales and thinks I'm a prudish bitch. Whatever.
I only get so much "me" time each day, and I was upset with how I spent it yesterday. Meetings with friends should be an energy booster, not a drain. But I had a great session with Lisa this morning and today is a new day! I think that the counselling part of this life style change is even more important than the food coaching. Like she says, it's way deeper than just the food we eat.
Lisa said something like "Maybe you needed that lunch with her for a reason." Like to show me what my values really are; what my goals are... etc. So right. Perhaps it wasn't time wasted after all.
Yeah, right. I wasn't gonna fall for that. Until now. A-Ha! Light bulb!
I've been doing this diet for 4 weeks now and it's true. I should re-word that actually as being human, yes I do still have those cravings for chocolate and french fries (yeah, at the same time) but I don't think about it obsessively to the point of not being able to think about anything else and the next thing you know, I'm in the Mickey D's drive thru screaming "GIVE IT TO ME!" at the box!
Last weekend, we treated ourselves to a little Culver's frozen custard. I just ordered one scoop of the flavor of the day and Brian inhaled a Lalapalooza. (not really, I just want to make an example of his bad habits to make me look better.) I finished my 1/2 cup of frozen goodness and thought..."ehhh, it wasn't really that great." I have this chocolate protein pudding mix from Lisa that I think is super yummy, esp when I mix in my fresh strawberries. OMG! Heavenly. Coulda had that instead and been happy.
Yesterday I had plans to meet a g-friend for lunch at a restaurant downtown. I was all excited for A.) lunch with a friend, B.) not having to cook, and C.) putting my menu planning skills to the test and being a good girl. I ordered a chicken taco salad. The menu claimed it was an abundant amount of fresh salad greens in a taco shell (that I wasn't planning on eating - never been a fave of mine) pico de gallo (sp?) black bean and corn salsa and seasoned shredded chicken. Sounds perfect. I asked for all the sour cream, guac, and dressing on the side. What a good girl!
The perfect sized salad arrives to the table, just as I ordered! I stuck my fork into the salad to sorta stir it up as all the chicken was on the top... I kept searching and searching... where the hell is the lettuce? It was almost all chicken...now most people wouldn't complain about not enough veggies, but I have to say that I was sorta disappointed. It was delicious! But, I knew I wasn't getting enough of everything I needed. Seriously, I don't think that a wild coyote could have eaten all that chicken. Then as I was digesting, I wanted to lay down and take a nap right there on the dirty bar floor. I felt horrible. Sluggish. Depressed. Unsatisfied. I wanted a plate of fruit and a gallon of water. I walked around the neighborhood later in the day with Max, and he was actually pulling me along instead of the other way around. I kept begging him to just stop and sniff and pee on something. I fell asleep on the couch at 9:00. Woke up at 10:30. Went to bed and didn't wake up until 7:30 this morning. I haven't done that since before I detoxed.
I don't want to do that to myself again, but what do I do when friends want to go out to lunch? I'm going to become even more antisocial! No worries; next time I will check with my guru for advice ahead of time.. she knows of good places to go and good things to order. She's got my back.
And another thing. When I was driving home from this two hour lunch, not only was I half asleep but my ears were ringing like the Carol of the Bells. What? That's usually a sign of my anxiety workin' itself up. What was I wound up about? I just had a nice lunch with an old friend. I got home and as I was getting out of the car, oh man my neck and shoulders were all tense.
Hmmm, was that really a nice lunch with an old friend? She's still the same even keeled girl as ever, but her lifestyle and mine are polar opposites. As I thought of the things that she was telling me about what's new in her world, I came to the realization that if I had just met her for the first time that day, I would never go out of my way to socialize with her again. Not that she's a bad person, or a negative Nellie, I just don't usually associate with 44 year old bar hoppers. Her kids are a mess, but she has this mentality that they decide their own destiny. There were just somethings that I didn't agree with, and I'm sure she listened to my boring life's tales and thinks I'm a prudish bitch. Whatever.
I only get so much "me" time each day, and I was upset with how I spent it yesterday. Meetings with friends should be an energy booster, not a drain. But I had a great session with Lisa this morning and today is a new day! I think that the counselling part of this life style change is even more important than the food coaching. Like she says, it's way deeper than just the food we eat.
Lisa said something like "Maybe you needed that lunch with her for a reason." Like to show me what my values really are; what my goals are... etc. So right. Perhaps it wasn't time wasted after all.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
This is totally blog-worthy...
Lisa gave me this recipe titled "Gluten Free Protein Pancakes". Protein pancakes? What are they made outta... shredded steak?? It doesn't really sound too good, does it? She even acknowledged that fact and said she should change the name to "Super Awesome Delicious Pancakes".
Finally - FINALLY- I broke down today and made them.
O.M.G. ohhhmygawd!!! How can something this good be so good for you?? I will never make pancakes the old way again. No way.
Here's the recipe:
1/2 C Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free Rolled Oats
1 small banana or 1/2 C blueberries
3/4 C egg white substitutes or 4 egg whites
Blend in a Magic Bullet or blender until smooth. Cook on a griddle for 3-4 minutes/side. Top with fruit or real maple syrup.
Makes 1 serving - calories: 330 / 3 g. fat / 24 g. protein / 53g. carbs
OK, I used just regular rolled oats (Bob's Red Mill brand), and 2 whole eggs instead of the egg whites. (lovely cage free eggs) and I added just a smidge - a tiny smidge - of flour cuz I thought it seemed just a little too runny.
Flippin awesomeness! They are very dense and extremely filling. Unlike eating regular Bisquick pancakes which make my blood sugar jump thru the roof and a half hour later I need a 4 hour nap , I felt good all afternoon long. I wasn't even hungry for my afternoon snack. (although I didn't skip it...if I get the chance to eat, I'm eatin'!)
For the record, I just had my measurements taken again and there are 12.25 inches less of me to go around. That's a whole lotta flabby flabbines that is no longer there. She measures the circumference of my neck, shoulders, bust, waist, hips, thighs, knees, and ankles... they are all shrinking. I'm wearing clothes that I haven't worn in ages. I feel awesome. I have energy. I don't need 6 to 8 Advil a day to take away the soreness in my knees and back and neck and... I've been riding my bike 10 miles and I don't need ibuprofen just to be able to walk up the stairs??? What's different?? I think it's because I've cut out a lot of that inflammatory response inducing crap out of my diet. Don't need it!
Finally - FINALLY- I broke down today and made them.
O.M.G. ohhhmygawd!!! How can something this good be so good for you?? I will never make pancakes the old way again. No way.
Here's the recipe:
1/2 C Bob's Red Mill Gluten Free Rolled Oats
1 small banana or 1/2 C blueberries
3/4 C egg white substitutes or 4 egg whites
Blend in a Magic Bullet or blender until smooth. Cook on a griddle for 3-4 minutes/side. Top with fruit or real maple syrup.
Makes 1 serving - calories: 330 / 3 g. fat / 24 g. protein / 53g. carbs
OK, I used just regular rolled oats (Bob's Red Mill brand), and 2 whole eggs instead of the egg whites. (lovely cage free eggs) and I added just a smidge - a tiny smidge - of flour cuz I thought it seemed just a little too runny.
Flippin awesomeness! They are very dense and extremely filling. Unlike eating regular Bisquick pancakes which make my blood sugar jump thru the roof and a half hour later I need a 4 hour nap , I felt good all afternoon long. I wasn't even hungry for my afternoon snack. (although I didn't skip it...if I get the chance to eat, I'm eatin'!)
For the record, I just had my measurements taken again and there are 12.25 inches less of me to go around. That's a whole lotta flabby flabbines that is no longer there. She measures the circumference of my neck, shoulders, bust, waist, hips, thighs, knees, and ankles... they are all shrinking. I'm wearing clothes that I haven't worn in ages. I feel awesome. I have energy. I don't need 6 to 8 Advil a day to take away the soreness in my knees and back and neck and... I've been riding my bike 10 miles and I don't need ibuprofen just to be able to walk up the stairs??? What's different?? I think it's because I've cut out a lot of that inflammatory response inducing crap out of my diet. Don't need it!
Friday, September 9, 2011
I Think I Can I Think I Can I Think I Can
Hey girlie-Q's - Kristin here. A question: Have any of you ever seen the "Four Golden Rules of Dieting?" They're supposed to be the "no-brainer" approach to losing weight. They sound something like this:
1. When You Are Hungry, Eat
2. Eat What You Want, Not What You Think You Should
3. Eat Consciously And Enjoy Every Mouthful
4. When You Think You Are Full, Stop Eating
It sounds valid, yes? It doesn't dictate what to eat, or how much to eat; it doesn't make you weigh portions or count calories incessantly. It doesn't limit you to "diet-friendly foods; you're supposed to eat whatever you're craving! But it tells you to eat consciously, which means not while driving, not in front of the t.v. or laptop, and not while multi-tasking, period. You're supposed to sit, savor and drool over every mouthful, thereby eating slower and allowing yourself the chance to really notice when you're full. Supposedly, this stops you from eating too much, which is the theory behind eating whatever you want, but just a small portion of it. Then, to wrap it all up, it tells you to simply stop when you start to feel full. I think there is a general belief that a normal person wouldn't eat 52 smallish portions of Doritos and chocolate cake, in the absence of any "real" food, while following these rules too literally...!
I can do this. If I combine the above "rules" with my very long list of healthy, high-protein, high-fiber, low-carb, healthy-fat, and calorie-free beverages, how can I fail?
I do have to say one thing about the "Carb-Addict's Diet," which I have praised before... The "Reward Meal" still works for me. Even when I don't count every calorie during a day, if I eat dinner before 7:00 p.m., and if I keep that meal to within an hour, I can still eat anything I want during that hour - including dessert! - and the pounds still come off. This works even without regular workouts (for me), but it works even faster/better when I'm getting 3-4 hours of cardio in per week! (For me, cardio means elliptical or treadmill...)
The scientific claim behind why this works has to do with your body metabolizing foods together that are consumed together, or something like that. If I eat a chunk of cake with my vegetarian chili, and I eat them within a short period of time, they'll BOTH be metabolized when my fat-burners kick in to zap the chili - my metabolism isn't going to only burn off the chili ingredients and leave the cake bits behind to coagulate there; it's all mixed together. This makes huge amounts of sense to me! And the Carb-Addict's people say so, so... LOL.
I'm completely sick and tired of counting calories. I've been counting ALMOST EVERY DAY since 1999. That's a lot of frickin' little slips of paper with calorie lists on them. Something like 4380 lists. Which I have kept most of. They're scattered all over my office. For what?! I am not a hoarder.
I'm still writing down what and when I eat, to help me get through my days without eating too much or too often. I need to do this. It keeps me motivated, keeps me accountable, keeps me on-track. My only real danger time of day is after dinner time. I'm still REALLY fighting the urge to pig-out in the late evening, EVERY SINGLE NIGHT. I eat plenty (and sometimes too much) during the day, and I space out my mini-meals evenly, and I'm making sure to get enough protein and fiber, and I'm drinking lots of water. I don't feel I'm hungry in the evening because of any of those things being skipped or forgotten during the day. I'm still trying to figure this out. <sigh>
Have a great weekend, chicas!!! THANK GOD IT'S FRIDAY!!!!!!!
And now, my little weekend prezzie to you: While you're munching your snap peas, you can drool over Alcide! OMG, Joe Manganiello!!!
1. When You Are Hungry, Eat
2. Eat What You Want, Not What You Think You Should
3. Eat Consciously And Enjoy Every Mouthful
4. When You Think You Are Full, Stop Eating
It sounds valid, yes? It doesn't dictate what to eat, or how much to eat; it doesn't make you weigh portions or count calories incessantly. It doesn't limit you to "diet-friendly foods; you're supposed to eat whatever you're craving! But it tells you to eat consciously, which means not while driving, not in front of the t.v. or laptop, and not while multi-tasking, period. You're supposed to sit, savor and drool over every mouthful, thereby eating slower and allowing yourself the chance to really notice when you're full. Supposedly, this stops you from eating too much, which is the theory behind eating whatever you want, but just a small portion of it. Then, to wrap it all up, it tells you to simply stop when you start to feel full. I think there is a general belief that a normal person wouldn't eat 52 smallish portions of Doritos and chocolate cake, in the absence of any "real" food, while following these rules too literally...!
I can do this. If I combine the above "rules" with my very long list of healthy, high-protein, high-fiber, low-carb, healthy-fat, and calorie-free beverages, how can I fail?
I do have to say one thing about the "Carb-Addict's Diet," which I have praised before... The "Reward Meal" still works for me. Even when I don't count every calorie during a day, if I eat dinner before 7:00 p.m., and if I keep that meal to within an hour, I can still eat anything I want during that hour - including dessert! - and the pounds still come off. This works even without regular workouts (for me), but it works even faster/better when I'm getting 3-4 hours of cardio in per week! (For me, cardio means elliptical or treadmill...)
The scientific claim behind why this works has to do with your body metabolizing foods together that are consumed together, or something like that. If I eat a chunk of cake with my vegetarian chili, and I eat them within a short period of time, they'll BOTH be metabolized when my fat-burners kick in to zap the chili - my metabolism isn't going to only burn off the chili ingredients and leave the cake bits behind to coagulate there; it's all mixed together. This makes huge amounts of sense to me! And the Carb-Addict's people say so, so... LOL.
I'm completely sick and tired of counting calories. I've been counting ALMOST EVERY DAY since 1999. That's a lot of frickin' little slips of paper with calorie lists on them. Something like 4380 lists. Which I have kept most of. They're scattered all over my office. For what?! I am not a hoarder.
I'm still writing down what and when I eat, to help me get through my days without eating too much or too often. I need to do this. It keeps me motivated, keeps me accountable, keeps me on-track. My only real danger time of day is after dinner time. I'm still REALLY fighting the urge to pig-out in the late evening, EVERY SINGLE NIGHT. I eat plenty (and sometimes too much) during the day, and I space out my mini-meals evenly, and I'm making sure to get enough protein and fiber, and I'm drinking lots of water. I don't feel I'm hungry in the evening because of any of those things being skipped or forgotten during the day. I'm still trying to figure this out. <sigh>
Have a great weekend, chicas!!! THANK GOD IT'S FRIDAY!!!!!!!
And now, my little weekend prezzie to you: While you're munching your snap peas, you can drool over Alcide! OMG, Joe Manganiello!!!
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