jules_
MAY/JUNE 09
Jun 22, 2009
Well, summer is here (finally!) and I'm loving it for once! I'm sitting here this morning sipping on a home-made protein packed blueberry yogurt smoothie... it is DELICIOUS!! Mmm! A far cry from the 2 bowls of cereal or fat-filled pork/egg breakfast of my past. Currently I am down 95 lbs (down from 253 to 158). Only about 28 lbs to go til I hit my goal of 130. ONLY 28!!!! In the short-term... I only have 5 more to go til I get to 100!! So... don't get upset if I'm not updating this profile that much. I'm far busier than I used to be & simply don't make as much time to spend on the computer. I'm enjoying life more than I ever imagined! 
I think I mentioned in my last blog (Apr 09) that I tackled rollerskating for the first time with my 7 yr old? Well, I haven't stopped there. We have always wanted a large veggie garden in the summer, but I was always so out of shape I couldn't bear the thought of the effort that would go into it. The last time we planted was 10 yrs ago and I was about 190-200 lbs. I put as little effort into that one as I could so it became overrun with weeds & was very unkempt. BUT 2009 IS DIFFERENT!! I have a VERY LARGE GARDEN which I did mainly by myself. My husband tilled the ground for me, but I have done all the planting and maintaining. We have tomatoes, peppers, corn, 2 lettuces, 2 cabbages, onions, garlic, 3 types of potatoes, pumpkins, watermelons, eggplant, zucchini, cucumbers, squash, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, swiss chard and MORE!! I can't wait to harvest all that organic goodness!!! :)
Not sure if I mentioned our new doggie in my last post. He is a year old yellow lab-mix rescue from a local shelter. He loves to be outside with us... so this has helped me get out more as well! I have been taking him on LONG walks several times a day (when time allows). Rain or shine, we're out there walking! Prior to surgery, I would have put him out on a cable to get his daily 'exercise'. Just another way WLS is changing my life AND the life of a pooch who needed a home!
Later this month, I'm taking my older daughter to a giant amusement park here in Ohio. The last time I was there was in 2000 and I couldn't ride very many things at all. I tried to ride the coasters, but it was a very tight fit. I was too embarassed to admit to my friends & family that were with me that I might not fit, so I'd stand and wait for them to ride by saying I wasn't 'feeling well'. Man... I missed a lot being FAT. Today's a new day though.... and soon I will be riding EVERY COASTER at that park! Can't wait!!
OK... have I mentioned the sex?
My hubby & I have always had a great sex life. He is wonderful & always made me feel special & sexy despite my size for the majority of our marriage. But WOW... let me tell you... things have never been better!! This is a GREAT reason to stick to our goals and guidelines to maintain weight loss. Yes, I'm a bit flabby, but overall the change is SO MAJOR that it has made our initmacy & dare I say.... creativity MUCH HOTTER!! :)
Well, its time to take my Carson for a long walk at the reservior. Too nice of a day to stay inside & type on the PC. :) Get out & enjoy YOUR day!
0 comments
I think I mentioned in my last blog (Apr 09) that I tackled rollerskating for the first time with my 7 yr old? Well, I haven't stopped there. We have always wanted a large veggie garden in the summer, but I was always so out of shape I couldn't bear the thought of the effort that would go into it. The last time we planted was 10 yrs ago and I was about 190-200 lbs. I put as little effort into that one as I could so it became overrun with weeds & was very unkempt. BUT 2009 IS DIFFERENT!! I have a VERY LARGE GARDEN which I did mainly by myself. My husband tilled the ground for me, but I have done all the planting and maintaining. We have tomatoes, peppers, corn, 2 lettuces, 2 cabbages, onions, garlic, 3 types of potatoes, pumpkins, watermelons, eggplant, zucchini, cucumbers, squash, broccoli, cauliflower, celery, swiss chard and MORE!! I can't wait to harvest all that organic goodness!!! :)
Not sure if I mentioned our new doggie in my last post. He is a year old yellow lab-mix rescue from a local shelter. He loves to be outside with us... so this has helped me get out more as well! I have been taking him on LONG walks several times a day (when time allows). Rain or shine, we're out there walking! Prior to surgery, I would have put him out on a cable to get his daily 'exercise'. Just another way WLS is changing my life AND the life of a pooch who needed a home!
Later this month, I'm taking my older daughter to a giant amusement park here in Ohio. The last time I was there was in 2000 and I couldn't ride very many things at all. I tried to ride the coasters, but it was a very tight fit. I was too embarassed to admit to my friends & family that were with me that I might not fit, so I'd stand and wait for them to ride by saying I wasn't 'feeling well'. Man... I missed a lot being FAT. Today's a new day though.... and soon I will be riding EVERY COASTER at that park! Can't wait!!
OK... have I mentioned the sex?
My hubby & I have always had a great sex life. He is wonderful & always made me feel special & sexy despite my size for the majority of our marriage. But WOW... let me tell you... things have never been better!! This is a GREAT reason to stick to our goals and guidelines to maintain weight loss. Yes, I'm a bit flabby, but overall the change is SO MAJOR that it has made our initmacy & dare I say.... creativity MUCH HOTTER!! :) Well, its time to take my Carson for a long walk at the reservior. Too nice of a day to stay inside & type on the PC. :) Get out & enjoy YOUR day!
April 09
Mar 31, 2009
As I go into April... I feel different. Different inside & out. I am beginning to really feel the confidence my weight loss has brought me. Also I am finally beginning to see myself as a healthy person. As I uploaded & organized photos on my page tonight, I browsed the old ones. I cannot believe the difference! I knew I was large but I really comprehended the enormity of the CHANGE I have experienced over the last 6 months. Its quite profound & I am very pleased and proud of the direction my life is taking.
People ask me from time to time if I'd do it all again if I had to do over or if I 'miss' the old life... and the answers are YES! I'd do it all again .... and NO! I don't miss one thing about it. I jokingly say I miss bread, but honestly it doesn't bother me all that much at all. Missing certain foods was one of my biggest fears going into this... doesn't that say a lot? I was more worried about losing certain foods from my life than I was LOSING MY LIFE all together!! CRAZY!! Just shows how much things have changed. I am eating oatmeal or one egg & fruit for breakfast & I'm completely OK with that. No more waffles, pop-tarts, sugary cereal, or huge breakfasts...just simple, healthy, and filling. For lunch I'm happy with a bean salad or some protein rich soup/stew. No need for those foot long subs or slices of greasy pizza! At dinnertime, I am satisfied with a nice piece of meat along side a small salad & some veggies or potatoes. I no longer need that dinner roll or second helpings! Its amazing (the psychological effects of this surgery!) I am so happy, pleased, and thankful for the new opportunities that lie before me.
No, I do not regret any of the choices I have made concerning my surgery.
1 comment
People ask me from time to time if I'd do it all again if I had to do over or if I 'miss' the old life... and the answers are YES! I'd do it all again .... and NO! I don't miss one thing about it. I jokingly say I miss bread, but honestly it doesn't bother me all that much at all. Missing certain foods was one of my biggest fears going into this... doesn't that say a lot? I was more worried about losing certain foods from my life than I was LOSING MY LIFE all together!! CRAZY!! Just shows how much things have changed. I am eating oatmeal or one egg & fruit for breakfast & I'm completely OK with that. No more waffles, pop-tarts, sugary cereal, or huge breakfasts...just simple, healthy, and filling. For lunch I'm happy with a bean salad or some protein rich soup/stew. No need for those foot long subs or slices of greasy pizza! At dinnertime, I am satisfied with a nice piece of meat along side a small salad & some veggies or potatoes. I no longer need that dinner roll or second helpings! Its amazing (the psychological effects of this surgery!) I am so happy, pleased, and thankful for the new opportunities that lie before me.
No, I do not regret any of the choices I have made concerning my surgery.
March 09 update
Mar 05, 2009
Hello OH friends! I am happy to report that I am currently down 75 lbs since my surgery in September (08). I feel soooooo GOOD! People are starting to tell me "Stop losing now... you are getting too thin!" But in reality I have another 45 lbs or so to go. People were just soooo used to seeing me big, bloated, and 'full'. Now that I'm slimming down I guess it seems drastic to some people. At first I'd just laugh, but now that some people are persistent, I will take the time to explain that I still weigh over 175 lbs and that the average (ideal) weight for a woman my height (5' 2") is between 120-140. My goal is 130. I know I will look different, but wasn't that the point? Look different, Feel different, BE different - All for the BETTER!
Even though its only been 6months I am feeling so confident & ready to tackle anything that comes my way!
1 comment
Even though its only been 6months I am feeling so confident & ready to tackle anything that comes my way!
Monthly update - Jan '09
Jan 30, 2009
Its been too long since I've posted!
As of today, I'm down 68 lbs. I have only lost 8 lbs in the last month, but my doc said that this slow down was bound to come - so I'm not worried. I am working out every day. I walk/jog a mile (at least... if not more) on my treadmill everday. Then I do a 'ball workout' on my giant exercise ball. If you don't have one... GET ONE!! I love mine! It makes aerobic/pilates type exercises sooo much easier on your back & joints. I finally feel like I'm getting results too! I feel leaner and I have a TON more energy! ITs really amazing what 68 lbs can do for you physically, mentally, and spiritually. I couldn't be happier.
I started my own home business in December & stepped down from my volunteer leadership position at my church. I feel like I'm beginning a new chapter of my life. Church is still a LARGE part of my life, but I'm looking forward to being involved on a less stressful level. My home business is something I have loved for about 4 yrs now... Gold Canyon candles. I am having fun with it and enjoying the perks of the discounts! Seriously though, life gets better and better each day. I sometimes feel bad that my weight loss had to come through such a drastic step, but on the other hand... I DO NOT REGRET THIS DECISION AT ALL.
I will try to post some new pics tomorrow. I have changed even more since my last few pic posts. Thanks for reading ya'll. :)
0 comments
As of today, I'm down 68 lbs. I have only lost 8 lbs in the last month, but my doc said that this slow down was bound to come - so I'm not worried. I am working out every day. I walk/jog a mile (at least... if not more) on my treadmill everday. Then I do a 'ball workout' on my giant exercise ball. If you don't have one... GET ONE!! I love mine! It makes aerobic/pilates type exercises sooo much easier on your back & joints. I finally feel like I'm getting results too! I feel leaner and I have a TON more energy! ITs really amazing what 68 lbs can do for you physically, mentally, and spiritually. I couldn't be happier.
I started my own home business in December & stepped down from my volunteer leadership position at my church. I feel like I'm beginning a new chapter of my life. Church is still a LARGE part of my life, but I'm looking forward to being involved on a less stressful level. My home business is something I have loved for about 4 yrs now... Gold Canyon candles. I am having fun with it and enjoying the perks of the discounts! Seriously though, life gets better and better each day. I sometimes feel bad that my weight loss had to come through such a drastic step, but on the other hand... I DO NOT REGRET THIS DECISION AT ALL.
I will try to post some new pics tomorrow. I have changed even more since my last few pic posts. Thanks for reading ya'll. :)
adendum to "under 200" post
Dec 18, 2008
Well, ya know, scales can be a funny thing....
Something weird started happening a couple days ago. My scale was reading 163. Well I knew that wasn't possible, so I got off and back on again. Then it was 264. OK... I never even got that high before surgery so I surely knew something was up. I'm thinking battery, but no - wasn't quite that cut-n-dry.
Does anyone else out there have cats? Well one of my cats in particular is a bad seed. He must have gotten once of my beaded bracelets from my night stand and "played with it" all the way across my bedroom floor. Apparently it became lodged underneath the sleek glass top scale. HENCE the bad readings. I was like "CRAP!... this means my 196 from the other day may not be accurate. Well, it wasn't. I am hovering between 199 & 200 today. I was so bummed, but at the same time it sort of amused me.
You should see my poor Christmas tree. It too is a vicitm of the bad one. His punishment you ask? I keep a spray bottle full of water nearby so when he gets into something I give him a quick spray to make him run for the hills (or the laundry room - whichever's closer)
Hey ya'll, have a joyous Christmas & a safe New Year '09!!
0 comments
Something weird started happening a couple days ago. My scale was reading 163. Well I knew that wasn't possible, so I got off and back on again. Then it was 264. OK... I never even got that high before surgery so I surely knew something was up. I'm thinking battery, but no - wasn't quite that cut-n-dry.
Does anyone else out there have cats? Well one of my cats in particular is a bad seed. He must have gotten once of my beaded bracelets from my night stand and "played with it" all the way across my bedroom floor. Apparently it became lodged underneath the sleek glass top scale. HENCE the bad readings. I was like "CRAP!... this means my 196 from the other day may not be accurate. Well, it wasn't. I am hovering between 199 & 200 today. I was so bummed, but at the same time it sort of amused me.
You should see my poor Christmas tree. It too is a vicitm of the bad one. His punishment you ask? I keep a spray bottle full of water nearby so when he gets into something I give him a quick spray to make him run for the hills (or the laundry room - whichever's closer)
Hey ya'll, have a joyous Christmas & a safe New Year '09!!
UNDER 200!!!
Dec 15, 2008
Hey ya'll... I'm finally and officially UNDER the 200 mark!!! I am so excited! 
Today the scale read 196 - I can't believe it. I am still having a hard time actually seeing it in the mirror, but I know my clothes and the scale do not lie - so this must be real. Will see my primary doc again in early March for some required labs then I see my bariatric internist in late March to go over all my progress and results.
Last week I saw my bariatric doc & he said I'm doing well. I am at 38% of my excess weight lost!! Woo hoo!! He said the target percentage for my case was 33%, so I'm ahead of the game. I also was reminded that these early months after surgery are also known as the "Honeymoon Period" because you lose the weight so rapidly without much effort. This will end soon (spring probably). According to him, this is why it is soooo important for me to step up my exercise routine NOW. If I get into the habit now & build muscle mass (which burns calories more effectively) I'll maintain steady, healthy weight loss without a lot of stalls.
I'm going to begin working with my hand weights and may even join a gym - but not real sure bout that yet. ($$$ MONEY issue).
Other than that, all is well at the moment. No complaints at all. I'm still 100% thrilled and glad that I had this life changing surgery.
Today the scale read 196 - I can't believe it. I am still having a hard time actually seeing it in the mirror, but I know my clothes and the scale do not lie - so this must be real. Will see my primary doc again in early March for some required labs then I see my bariatric internist in late March to go over all my progress and results.
Last week I saw my bariatric doc & he said I'm doing well. I am at 38% of my excess weight lost!! Woo hoo!! He said the target percentage for my case was 33%, so I'm ahead of the game. I also was reminded that these early months after surgery are also known as the "Honeymoon Period" because you lose the weight so rapidly without much effort. This will end soon (spring probably). According to him, this is why it is soooo important for me to step up my exercise routine NOW. If I get into the habit now & build muscle mass (which burns calories more effectively) I'll maintain steady, healthy weight loss without a lot of stalls.
I'm going to begin working with my hand weights and may even join a gym - but not real sure bout that yet. ($$$ MONEY issue).Other than that, all is well at the moment. No complaints at all. I'm still 100% thrilled and glad that I had this life changing surgery.
progress
Nov 30, 2008
Been a few weeks since I posted any REAL info, so I thought I'd try to really quick here...
As of today I'm down 45 lbs. Feeling GREAT! LOTS of energy! OK, this is probably a repeat of my last post. Sometimes I feel like there's no change, but my clothes and family prove me wrong. I am a tad discouraged when it comes to the protein intake. I really need to start downing some shakes everyday consistenly. My hair is SERIOUSLY thinning out. I am not kidding here... I have never felt my hair like this EVER! We just had our family pic's done for Christmas cards and my hair is sooooo awful. It looks like a haystack. I'm so embarassed. I know that I need to up my protein bigtime if I want to see it regrow.
I feel very flabby. I think some of this skin sagginess will subside in time, but for now I'm flappin in the wind!! Dude.... my breasts were hangin so low a few weeks ago that I treated myself to a new bra! I actually fit into a Victoria's Secret "Body By Victoria" shaping bra! I was sooo excited. Now I have some lift, shape, and support. I have to be honest though.... I feel I may outgrow it really soon. OH well, I'll try to see that as a good thing. PLUS I got $10 off with a gift card so no biggie.
Tuesday I have to go in for a second breast exam. I had my yearly check up and mammogram a few weeks ago. They found a lump that needs another look. Tuesday will be an ultrasound on my right breast. I'm hoping they don't find anything worrysome, but at the same time I'm a bit nervous. My grandmother (mom's side) died from breast cancer in her 50's. If you're a prayin person... will you put in a good word for me with the Big Guy? Thanks :)
Well, I think that's all I got for now. Just got back today from my trip to Georgia (ATL) where I hardly ever took all my vitamins everyday and didn't eat nearly enough protein. Tomorrow its time to get seriously back on track.
As of today I'm down 45 lbs. Feeling GREAT! LOTS of energy! OK, this is probably a repeat of my last post. Sometimes I feel like there's no change, but my clothes and family prove me wrong. I am a tad discouraged when it comes to the protein intake. I really need to start downing some shakes everyday consistenly. My hair is SERIOUSLY thinning out. I am not kidding here... I have never felt my hair like this EVER! We just had our family pic's done for Christmas cards and my hair is sooooo awful. It looks like a haystack. I'm so embarassed. I know that I need to up my protein bigtime if I want to see it regrow.
I feel very flabby. I think some of this skin sagginess will subside in time, but for now I'm flappin in the wind!! Dude.... my breasts were hangin so low a few weeks ago that I treated myself to a new bra! I actually fit into a Victoria's Secret "Body By Victoria" shaping bra! I was sooo excited. Now I have some lift, shape, and support. I have to be honest though.... I feel I may outgrow it really soon. OH well, I'll try to see that as a good thing. PLUS I got $10 off with a gift card so no biggie.
Tuesday I have to go in for a second breast exam. I had my yearly check up and mammogram a few weeks ago. They found a lump that needs another look. Tuesday will be an ultrasound on my right breast. I'm hoping they don't find anything worrysome, but at the same time I'm a bit nervous. My grandmother (mom's side) died from breast cancer in her 50's. If you're a prayin person... will you put in a good word for me with the Big Guy? Thanks :)
Well, I think that's all I got for now. Just got back today from my trip to Georgia (ATL) where I hardly ever took all my vitamins everyday and didn't eat nearly enough protein. Tomorrow its time to get seriously back on track.
new pics
Nov 13, 2008
I added new pics on Nov 13, 2008. Go check 'em out... I'm feeling really great. Can't imagine how I'll feel 50 lbs from now!
ENJOYING LIFE
Nov 11, 2008
ORIGINALLY POSTED ON MYSPACE: Tuesday, November 11, 2008
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ENJOYING LIFE
Those of you who know me well know that I HATE chores of any kind. Any sort of physical work makes me want to vomit at the thought. At least... that's how I used to feel. I never realized that the extra weight may have been making my somewhat stubborn when it came to gettin off my butt and doin stuff. Yesterday I had a plan to begin cleaning out my attic. Now understand this... I have had this plan many many many many times during the past year. I have NEVER actually done anything with that plan.... UNTIL yesterday! My first goal was to get all the clothes downstairs and start sorting... 1 pile for garbage, 1 for Goodwill 1 to take to my friend's resale shop, and another that we'd keep for future use. I am happy to say that 10 bins and about 6 loads of laundry later, I accomplished that goal!!! I even went through about 6 boxes of old toys and odds-n-ends. I am so proud of myself. Just a few months ago, I would never have tackled such a feat on my own because I could barely get up and down the steps one or two times without getting so frustrated with myself that I'd finally give up. Yay!!! Its a different story now! Anyway, my plan was to continue today... but I need to run a few errands first. I WILL SAY that I got out and walked this morning despite the frigid temperatures! I just bundled up, got the dog & cat ready, and OFF WE WENT!! I really enjoyed it. Now I feel ready for the day even though its already going on 11:30. I'm trying not to worry too much about the clock. Now that I know what kind of energy and stamina I have, I know I can tackle these projects a little at a time without any problem! So my overall point? No regrets about this surgery. I may complain from time to time, but I am so glad I did this!! :)
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energetic 
I went right to work after the girls left for school. I was an organizing & sorting FOOL! Despite my hatred towards cleaning & other chores, I had always loved organizing. Trouble is, in the past I would tear everything apart and never finish- so I had a bigger mess than I started with! 
Yesterday was different though. 
It JUST HIT ME>>> I HAVE MORE ENERGY!!! 
update Nov 5, 2008
Nov 05, 2008
I'm at 37 lbs lost!! Its pretty exciting, but i don't think I'm getting all my protein in. I'm trying, but I think I really need to get in a protein shake each day to get my numbers up. I have found that for lunch I enjoy eating a meixcan style black-bean salad with a bit of chicken in it and some cheese over top. It fills me up and gives me a boost of protein. I am feeling so much better physically. I have enjoyed going for walks each day on our property. Its so peaceful and reminds me what is really important. I am so glad I made the decision to have this surgery. Along with my weight loss goal, my other goal is to NEVER EVER ruin the opportunities that this surgery has offered me. I want to cherish this and respect it. We all know people who have gone back to their former self (or at least regained PART of their former self.) I do not ever want to let that happen. I will take care of myself and continue to make my health a priority. :)
U gotta give props to Barak Obama for his successful campaign. I did not vote for him, but I do support him 100%. I will do my part as an American to get involved and stand up for what I believe. Even though he was not my candidate, I do feel that Obama will bring a new-found, rediscovered patriotism to our country. I was so moved seeing news footage of people rejoicing in the streets, brought to tears, and partying it up!! To me, that renewed excitement for our leadership is a much needed thing in the US. Lets all do our parts to support President-elect Obama - regardless of the way we voted.
About two weeks ago, one of our cars was stolen. The police told us not to get our hopes up. But what they did not know is that we completely trust the Lord for EVERYTHING! We have always prayed over our cars - asking the Lord for favor to keep them running strong, safe, and for protection from accidents or crime. After the theft, we continued to pray... and pray... and pray. A week passed and it didn't look too promising, but we knew no matter what the outcome - God was still in control. Well, 8 days after the incident we got a call that our car was FOUND and that it was completely in tact and DRIVEABLE!! Other than having to put gas in it - all was well. We drove to the lot where they towed it, started it up, and brought it home safe and sound. I know it was only a car... not very important in the scheme of things, but we know it was a miracle that this had a happy ending. I give praise to God, my savior for taking care of EVERY detail!
U gotta give props to Barak Obama for his successful campaign. I did not vote for him, but I do support him 100%. I will do my part as an American to get involved and stand up for what I believe. Even though he was not my candidate, I do feel that Obama will bring a new-found, rediscovered patriotism to our country. I was so moved seeing news footage of people rejoicing in the streets, brought to tears, and partying it up!! To me, that renewed excitement for our leadership is a much needed thing in the US. Lets all do our parts to support President-elect Obama - regardless of the way we voted.
About two weeks ago, one of our cars was stolen. The police told us not to get our hopes up. But what they did not know is that we completely trust the Lord for EVERYTHING! We have always prayed over our cars - asking the Lord for favor to keep them running strong, safe, and for protection from accidents or crime. After the theft, we continued to pray... and pray... and pray. A week passed and it didn't look too promising, but we knew no matter what the outcome - God was still in control. Well, 8 days after the incident we got a call that our car was FOUND and that it was completely in tact and DRIVEABLE!! Other than having to put gas in it - all was well. We drove to the lot where they towed it, started it up, and brought it home safe and sound. I know it was only a car... not very important in the scheme of things, but we know it was a miracle that this had a happy ending. I give praise to God, my savior for taking care of EVERY detail!
About Me
Ashland, OH
Location
28.9
BMI
Surgery
09/04/2008
Surgery Date
Mar 24, 2008
Member Since
