Need some suggestions....

As I sit here, getting whiffs of the beef stew I have in the crockpot, I have been trying to research some essential workout items.  So, I am going to ask for advice here my friends.  All comments and suggestions are welcomed and appreciated.

First, I desperately need a new pair of workout shoes.  Now, I have been goggling workout shoes and I am guessing cross trainers are what I need.  I say that because I do cardio, weights, etc in my workouts.  Almost all the sites I have looked researched keep mentioning the ASICS Women's Gel-160TR Training Shoe.  Does anyone know if this is a good shoe or not?  Also, I know I am going to have to spend some money for a good pair of shoes.  What is the average price range I should be looking for here?  I don't want to spend a ton of money on a crappy shoe.  I want something that is going to give me support (especially in my ankles) and not make my feet feel horrible when I am done.

Second, I am going to be purchasing the Mari Winsor pilates video in a few weeks.  Here are my questions about that: 1) I have looked at her site and she offers bands, mat, etc with the videos.  Do I need the bands, mat, and the extras to do the workouts?  Is that something I should invest in since I am just starting or wait?  2) She has several different DVDs available.  Which one would be the best one to start with for a beginner? 

And two final questions dealing with working out (and I am only asking because I know some of you have WAY more knowledge than me when it comes to this stuff).  Since I am going to gym after work, what is the max I should be walking on El Diablo (the name I gave my treadmill) on in the morning?  Also, in the same line of questioning, does any one know of a good free weight/isometric workout I can do at home?  I am currently doing 30 minutes of cardio between the NuStep and treadmill and 20 minutes of weights while at the gym.  I want to start working out at home on the days the gym is closed or I can not get there. 

Thank you in advance for any advice.  I know I probably sound silly asking these questions.  However, some of you who read my blog are again more knowledgeable than me when it comes to all of this.  I hope to have it all figured out one day.  But until then, I look to you for some guidance.

Here is a pic of the ASCIS shoe I was talking about earlier.  It looks comfy but I still need assistance!

Again, thanks for any and all suggestions!   I truly appreciate everything!!



Ah....Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving was really great this year.  There was alot to be thankful for this year.  Johnny, JJ and I got to spend some great quality time with both sides of the family.  We got to see all of the nieces and nephew.  I was also thankful that Johnny is doing so well through this first holiday season after surgery.  Also, I was thankful that I did not over eat but still got to enjoy some of my favorites at this time of year. 

Yes, low carb was not exactly the order of business for me, but I did not go completely crazy as in years pass.  In years pass, I would have ate to I felt like I was going to bust.  Then in a couple of hours, eat again.  I tried hard to watch portion control this year and skipped certain things.  Example - since I knew I had to have some of my dad's dressing (it is not the holidays without dad's dressing), I skipped the mashed potatoes at dinner.  Honestly, I really did not even miss the potatoes.  It is still a learning process most days, but I am trying.

One thing has occurred since my last post, I did have to put JJ on a hiatus with the weight management program.  However, the hiatus had to be placed not because of wrestling practice but because JJ broke his foot.  UGH!!  I guess the ironic thing is that actually wrestling is what did put him out because he broke his foot in wrestling practice.  Luckily, it did not have to be put in a cast, he got rid of the crutches after seeing the orthopedic doctor, and he only has to wear a walking shoe until we got back to the doctor on December 19th.  Dr. Scott states that after the 19th, he should be fine to go back to everything.  I am thinking though I think wrestling is still over for the season.  I just don't want to take anymore chances.

As for me, it is back to the gym three days this week and then I have to weigh in on Wednesday.  Hopefully, I am going to see good things on those scales.  I worked out on Tuesday and Wednesday and was really upset when I found out I could not go back until Monday.  I NEVER thought I would ever speak these words but I miss working out.  LOL!!

Have a great Sunday everyone!

Hello! Guess who is back?

Man, I can't belive it has been so long since I last wrote anything.  It has been crazy around this house for the last couple of weeks.  Honestly, it has been plain NUTS!  But that is life sometimes and I just need to learn to deal and go on.

Anyway, I finally got back on the scales the other day.  I was a little terrified because the last time I weighed myself, I had gained 2.5 lbs.  I was furious.  However, I had no one to blame but myself.  I have not been eating the best in the last couple of weeks and I have not been drinking my water as I should.  However, I am slowly getting back in to the groove.  So, I was a little scared when I stepped on those scales.  Luckily, I had lost the 2.5 lbs I had gained plus another 1/2 lb.  Therefore, my current weight is 250.5 lbs.  Just .5 lbs from seeing 250 pounds or under.  I have not been this weight in YEARS!!!  I just have to stay focused and remember that I am doing this for a reason!!

Some other good news is that I went and had an MRI on my knee.  I saw the doctor last Thursday and there is not tear.  There is some bad arthritis but I will not need surgery.  He gave me a cortisone shot and it feels wonderful right now.  Sadly, I will have to get another injection in about 3 to 4 months.  Dr. Tai did tell us about another treatment option; however, I am still debating the pros and cons.  It is a gel that he would inject into my knee.  It is three shots over three weeks.  It lasts much, much longer than the cortisone injections and gives more relief.  However, it cost $800-$1000 dollars and we don't know if the insurance would cover the procedure.  I think after the first of the year, I am going to have his office pre-auth the procedure just to see what PEIA would pay.  However, if it will not be covered at least a little bit, I will stick with the cortisone injections.

Sadly I do have some bad news.  I am having to put JJ on a hiatus from the weight loss program until the end of wrestling season.  With the way that practice runs and the hours the gym is open, it make it impossible to get him up there.  Thankfully though I can put him on hiatus and restart him in February.  I told him though that will not release him from his exercises.  He and I will be doing things out home to keep him active.  I will still be active in the program during his hiatus.  I can go to the gym on my way to pick him up from practice and then get him.  I was afraid if we both went on this hiatus that we would not start back again.  But if one of us is still active in the program, then we can pull the other one back in when their time is done.

Now, here it is - The Johnny update!

Johnny is doing very well.  He returned to work on Monday and is doing good.  He is a little tired but I know that is from not being able to do a whole lot while he was off work.  He did give me a really good scare on November 6th though. 

He started having chest pains.  Chest pains severe enough that he was in tears.  I rushed him to the ER afraid that it could be a PE.  Luckily, a PE was ruled out quickly.  However, they kept saying that they though it was his heart.  Now, after they ruled out the PE, I immediately went to the next logical conclusion that it was his gallbladder.  However, nobody wants to listen to me.  So, they end up admitting him over night and decide to do a stress test on the morning of the 7th. 

Believe me people when I say I could write a book on what happened in those two days.  It was enough to drive a sane person crazy.  But the short of all this is this:  His heart is fine.  It was probably his gallbladder though Dr. Rossi believes it may be a little too early for that but not impossible.  Also, we will hold off on further testing until it happens again.  I personally am praying it does not happen again because he scared me to death.  I have never seen him in so much pain.

Through all of this though, Johnny has transitioned back into regular food.  There is still alot of limitations on what he can eat; however, that will be lifelong.  We did find out though he can have beef starting now.  His other dietian told him not for a year, but this one said no, it was fine as long as he chewed thoroughly and it was very tender.

Johnny has also lost a total of 67 pounds as of last week.  I don't think he has weighed himself since last Tuesday.  However, that is 50 pounds since surgery and 17 before surgery.  Pretty good if you ask me.  Again, I am have always been proud of my husband but I am so proud of him and the changes he has made lately.  And again I will say - He is stronger than me!!

Here are some new pics as I leave you. 

Come along for the ride.  The adventure is far from over.....

Again, this is what he looked like 2 days before surgery

This was last night (7 weeks post op) - Look at the difference - WOW

This is the uniform shirt that he was wearing exactly 2 days before surgery.

Thankfully, he had the next size down in the closet!  He is swimming in it!!

1.5 pounds until....

I will be under 250 pounds for the first time in over 10 years.  Yes, you read that right - TEN YEARS!!!  That is a lot of years of being completely unhappy with myself.  That is a lot of years trying to hide the bulges and ugly fat.  Yes, I still have a long way to go until I met my goal of 180 (or lower).  However, I can do this!  And do you know why I say that?  Because I have some of the most amazing friends a girl could ever ask for that are very encouraging!  Saying that, I want to say something to two very special people. 

Donna C., I just want to say THANK YOU!!  Your words of encouragement are a bigger help than you know.  On days I feel the most discouraged, you always say something that lift my spirits and make me want to push on.  I have always thought of you as the older sister that I never had and I just wanted to say thank you and I love you!

Laura C., Sweetie I don't know what I would have done without you thus far.  You have been there for me when I have had question after question concering everything going on with Johnny.  You even lent an ear so I could vent the day of his surgery when I know you were busy with your own family.  You have been a true blessing and I love you very much! 

Well, since the last time I wrote, alot has been going on.  Yikes, has it ever been crazy around here.  On Thursday (Oct. 27), as I was walking out of my office, my right knee gave and it has been hurting like you know what since then.  I have had trouble with this knee FOREVER.  I went to Dr. Tao (orthopedic doctor in Huntington) yesterday.  *Side note - A special THANK YOU to Rick S. for referring Dr. Tao to us.*  Sadly, I did not get the news I was hoping to hear.  We are currently going forth like I have a torn medial menscius.  I am scheduled to have a MRI on November 4th (this Friday at 8:15 PM - yes, I said PM - geesh!).  I will then return to see him again on November 10th to find out the results.  I am praying that this is just a stretched ligament and not a tear.  Honestly, I can not afford to be off any more work.  I will be missing two days on this check alone because of this stupid knee.  However, whatever must be done will have to be done because this pain is horrible.  Through all of this though, there is a bright spot.

Thankfully Dr. Tao cleared me (with some limitations) to begin the weight loss program yesterday.  JJ and I went to our initial assessment and initial workout yesterday.  It is a good feeling to know that we have FINALLY began this program.  It is also a good feeling to see how JJ is responding to this already.  Yesterday, I was going to leave after the assessment because my knee was killing me from being poked on by Dr. Tao.  However, JJ was like "No, I want to stay and workout."  So, we stayed and I felt great afterwards.  Then today, I really just wanted to come home and sit down.  However, there is my son dressed and ready to go.  I thought I was doing this with him to keep him motivated.  However, I think it is JJ that is going to keep my motivated.

Now, for the segment everyone loves, the Johnny update -- LOL!!!

Johnny is doing very well.  He goes back to see Dr. Rossi on Monday and should be released to return to work on Tuesday.  I am not for sure how much he has lost since the last time he was at the office, but I know it has been a significant amount.  He got sick on me for the first time a couple of Sundays ago.  Luckily he did not vomit but he became as white as ghost.  We decided it was from the Honey BBQ sauce he ate.  He had ate BBQ sauce since surgery, but it was regular.  I honestly believe it was the sugar in the Honey BBQ that got him.  Thankfully, no further episodes and he has been tolerating food very well.

Here are some new pics of my handsome man and some progress pics of both of us.  Enjoy!

Come along for the ride.  The adventure sometimes hurts but is worth it in the end.....

Last week (10/25/11)

This week (11/02/11) - His clothes are so BIG on him!

Looking a little better

This was Johnny on New Year's Eve 2011

This was Johnny at the Halloween Party 2011

The difference is amazing!

Doesn't he look AMAZING?  I am so proud of him!!

Confessions (Part 2)

It has been over a week since I last hit the treadmill.  I was really afraid this was going to happen.  Thank goodness I start at the Weight Loss Center next Tuesday so I will be held accountable!

I have done this all my life.  I will start working out and then BOOM, something happens and I just stop.  I know I should do it and I feel so much better when I do exercise.  However, I honestly believe the health stuff I am going through right now is making this so much harder.  No, I am not making excuses some I can skip out on responsibility. 

For those who may not know it, I had a hysterectomy in March.  So, I don't get too graphic here, it was not a complete one, so I still have some minor parts left (I know you are all scratching your head right now going huh?).  Anyway, about two to three weeks ago, I started experiencing horrible hot flashes.  Ask my fellow employees at work, I will all of sudden just break into one soaking sweat.  And then, the night times are worse.  I will wake up two or three times a night just burning up.  That is why I am typing this at 4:55 am.  I have actually been up since around 4 am.

I did call my doctor's office concerning this situation.  However, I need to go in and have a blood test ran.  Okay, major hurdles here to accomplish this request.  I have to be at work at 8 and they don't open until 8.  I take lunch from 12 to 1 and so do they.  And they close at noon on Friday, my half day.  So, I am going to have to eventually take at least a 1/2 day off of work to get a five minute test done.  Honestly, I have taken off so much lately due to Johnny's surgery and appointments, it is hard to ask for another day.

So since this has been happening, when I get up early like this morning or end up oversleeping because I can not getting up with the alarm clock, I don't feel like working out.  Yes, I know - why don't I just do it in the evening?  Well, quite frankly, I don't want to and I do my housework in the evenings.  Again, not excuses, just truth.

I am loving the way I am feeling and looking since losing the 23 pounds I have lost.  Yes, I am still watching my diet.  However, I need supreme motivation for the exercise portion.

Has any one else felt like this?  Am I the only person who does this and then feels extreme guilt?  Thoughts and opinions are appreciated.

A special note about...

My son JJ!  So far, I have wrote alot about Johnny and I.  However, JJ needs some mentioning here also!  I am so proud of him.  To be 13 and thrusted into this is a lot for any kid.  However, his journey thus far has been filled with many twists and turns!

About 3 years ago, JJ was enrolled into the Healthy Kids program at CAMC.  He did wonderfully on the program by losing around 50 pounds or more.  However, I felt horrible.  Here was my son having to eat all this stuff while Johnny and I still were eating "normal."  I so hated that for him.  I know what you thinking, why did we not do it with him?  Honestly, I don't know!  Looking back, we should have and maybe the changes would have stuck.  But we did not and I have felt horrible since then.

Through the last couple of years, the weight came back on.  Then sometime in the last year and a half, JJ's lab work come back bad.  His fasting insulin was high and some other numbers were not good.  So, we were referred to Dr. Bendre, a pediatric endocronologist.  Sadly, JJ was diagnosed with Insulin Resistance and Hypothyrodism.  I was devasted.  To help with the weight gain, we tried to get him back into the Healthy Kids program.  However, that did not pan out.  We tried to start limiting things; however, that did not work out either.

So, about a year ago, Dr. Bendre prescribed Synthroid (because his thyroid numbers kept getting worse) and Metformin (1000 mg a day to help protect his pancreas).  Then about six months ago, the Metformin was increased to 2000mg a day.  I was devasted all over again.  I needed to find a way to help JJ!

That is when I contacted the PEIA Weight Management program in June.  I decided that instead of trying the Healthy Kids program again, JJ and I would BOTH enroll in the Weight Management program and do it together.  That way, he would not feel alone and have someone along with him on the journey this time.  We got all the paperwork submitted; however, then we hit a road block.  The only facility that would take JJ is the CAMC Weight Loss Center (FYI - this is where Dr. Rossi is, Johnny's doctor).  However, their exercise physiologist had quit and they had not found a replacement.  So, we had to be put on a waiting list.  UGH!!!

JJ was scheduled to see Dr. Bendre on August 22.  Honestly, I was dreading this appointment.  I knew JJ and I would get another lecture about his weight.  Now, I need to say something.  If any of you know JJ, you all know this kid is always doing something.  Yes, there are days he plays is video games, etc.  But honestly, JJ is a very active kid.  I got tired of hearing the doctor always telling him to do more when honestly, he was doing more.  Therefore, during the appointment, we got the news he had gained weight again and Dr. Bendre wanted him in a program now.  I informed him that we had been placed on a waiting list and were waiting to hear from the facility.  That is when he dropped his bombshell. 

We were told to give up all refined sugars, most carbohydrates.  No pasta, rice, corn (yikes, JJ's favorite vegetable), peas (double yikes, JJ's other favorite vegetable), and all the other good stuff we all love.  However, I decided, if this was going to help until we started the Weight Management program, then we would do it.  I came home and cleaned out all the cabinets of the bad stuff (sadly, we had just went huge grocery shopping - half the stuff I bought went away).  I talked with friends and got great advice.  A BIG thank you to Amy Steirwalt - you have been my life saver in all of this.  Thank you for all the assistance and listening to all my questions.  I truly appreciate you very much.  Also, a BIG thank you to Brooke Sigman for working around my son's diet during this football season.  You cooked different things for him when you did not have to.  I truly appreciate you very much as well.  You two have been great and I will never forget all you have done!

Now, two months later, JJ is doing GREAT!  He has lost probably around 30 pounds.  Yes, he sometimes fights me about things, but all and all, he is really good about everything.  And yes, I "let" him slip sometimes.  Every once in a while, he gets french fries and a Tudor's biscuit, but it is not all the time like it was back before August 22nd. 

Now, you know the story!  Again, I am SO PROUD of JJ!  He truly is great kid.  I am proud of him and love seeing the look in his eyes when something is getting to big now or really loose.  He is just so proud!

Come along for the ride!  The adventure is even better because of my wonderful son.....

A shout out to....

Some of my favorite low carb foods.  As you all know, low carb can sometimes get tedious (in my opinion).  Reading labels and everything else just gets too much sometimes.  However, I do it to make sure the right choices are being made.  Also, the funny thing is JJ has even started reading labels. 

So, what are some of my favs?  Well, here is a little picture collage of some of my favorites!

The first protein powder we tried.  Liked it but honestly, kinda of expensive.  Loved the banana flavor!

We tried this one this morning.  Really good flavor and cheaper than the first one.  Strawberry rocks!

Found these at Drug Emporium tonight.  Can not wait to try in the morning.  New flavors beside the standards chocolate, strawberry, vanilla, etc.

I LOVE THIS CUP!!  The blender cup from GNC.  Has a wire whisk ball in the bottle.

Mixes the protein powder wonderfully!!!

A great little snack to throw in the purse.  Around 13g carbs - not to bad in my opinion. 

Tastes good too!

MIO is AWESOME!!!  Like Crystal Light but alot BETTER!!  Great taste!

The package says it all - it does make great pizzas!  And only 6 net carbs - YUM!

Another great low carb wrap!  Only 5 net carbs!  JJ loves these.

Finally found this at Drug Emporium.  JJ and I love spaghetti and now we can still have some!

Laughing Cow cheese is the bomb!!  So many great flavors and wonderful to cook with!

I am so thankful that Kroger makes this product.  I love yogurt and I still can have it while

watching the carbs.

Love the ease of the chicken and turkey burgers.  Cook quickly for those really busy nights!

Though I have been buying a lot of fresh vegetables, I love the frozen kind as well. 

Especially great for vegetables that are out of season.

Come along for the ride.  The adventure is yummy...

The numbers are....

Getting better and better!  I have lost another 3 pounds!!  WOO HOO!!  23 down and another 100 to go.  However, that is okay because each day it is getting easier and easier.  Also, due to an emergency trip to the doctor today (side note - everything is okay with Johnny.  I just worry to much), Johnny got to weigh himself again today.  He has lost another 24 pounds!  That means since surgery three weeks ago he has lost 34 pounds and since the beginning of the liquid diet phase he has lost about 54 pounds.  I am so proud of him.

Today was also his last day on his blood thinners!  Double WOO HOO!!  I know he is extremely happy about this turn of events.  However, I know that soon he will be shaving off his beard.  So, in tribute to his beard, here is my baby with his "fluffy" beard:

Tomorrow it is back on the treadmill for me.  I haven't walked on it all week; however, believe me I have walked enough the last several days (especially Sunday and Monday) that I did not need to use the treadmill.  I miss it though.  It is like it is just staring at me, shaking it's head.  Shame, shame.  It knows your name.  LOL!  (I think I should start worrying about myself.  First, rice is calling my name and now the treadmill is shaking it's head.  Over active imagination?  I would say yes!)

Come along for the ride.  The adventure is bright and sunny!!

Sometimes you just have to....

Eat something that is not good for you.  And yes people, I have ate stuff in the past two days that have not been anywhere NEAR low carb.  Also, I have not done so great about drinking my water the last two days.  Yes, I feel guilty.  Yes, I know better.  However, I wanted to eat it, stop the cravings, and move on with my diet.

Now, here is the thing, I could have made dinner the last two nights low carb.  We had Chinese (leftover Chinese tonight).  If I could have stayed away from the rice, the pepper steak would have been an okay choice.  However, that rice was calling my name.  It was going Sissy, Sissy.  So, I just had to listen.  Oh, I have had Chinese since going low carb and I have been a really good girl.  I always ordered and said hold the rice.  But I was craving it so bad last night.  So, I decided to give in and stop the craving. 

And because of those cravings, that is why I gave into the double cheeseburger yesterday for lunch.  Could have been better without the bun.  But gosh, it tasted so good. 

So, my question is this, did I do the right thing?  Or did I just completely blow my entire diet?  I am going back full tilt tomorrow, but I feel horrible.  Oh well, tomorrow is another day!

Now for a Johnny update.  He is still doing well.  He hasn't weighed himself lately but I know he is doing well.  I just can't believe it has been three weeks since his surgery! Here is a new photo:

My biggest fear is he is not getting his protein like he is suppose to be getting right now.  I am also worried because he is not eating like he is suppose too.  He should be eating about 4oz at a time of various things during a meal.  However, he is still eating only one item at most meals.  He states he doesn't feel hungry or feel like eating that much.  I am just worried!  And if you know me at all, I worry about everything!

I do have pics of his first semi-real meal.  Check out the look on his face.  It is priceless!

This was breakfast on Sunday.  It was a 1/2 of scambled egg, 2 Tbsp cottage cheese, and 2 oz baby food peaches.  He ate most of it but not all.  I was proud of him!

Come along for the ride.  The adventure is sometimes not very healthy but yummy none the less...

20 lbs and counting.....

Yes folks, you read that correctly!  I am now down 20 pounds since August 22!  I am VERY happy!  As I wrote before, I only really want to weigh myself once a month.  However, beginning Monday, I am going to have to be weighed weekly, so I decided to get accustomed to the idea.  Also, by seeing the change on the scale, it makes me even more willing to get on that treadmill every morning and continue to eat correctly.

Johnny is doing well also.  We are going to try baked fish tonight for his dinner.  I pray he can tolerate it well.  He and I took a really nice walk this afternoon.  I need to call his physician's office and see when he can begin using the treadmill.  I want him to start getting up and doing more.  I am worried because I am afraid he is sitting too much.

On the other front of becoming a new me, things are looking up there as well.  I went to choir practice for the first time in forever Tuesday night and I started back to Wednesday classes.  Now, I am trying to play catch up this weekend on the booking we have being reading.  Oh well, if I don't catch completely up, at least I will be further ahead than I was last week.  We are studying a very interesting book by J. I. Packer entitled "Knowing God".  I would highly recommend it to everyone.  It is very thought stirring and is pretty easy to read. 

Today as I was re-reading the first chapter, I found a passage that really spoke to me.  "Disregard the study of God, and you sentence yourself to stumble and blunder through life blindfolded, as it were, with no sense of direction and no understanding of what surrounds you.  This way you can waste your life and lose your soul."  Very profound words and very true.  That is honestly how I have felt over the course of the past couple of weeks - stumbling and blundering.  But I am trying to get back to the straight path.  It is hard, but so worth it in the end!

Come along for the ride.  The adventure is something else....

Updated pic of my progress.  I really need to find something to help with the abdominal section!  But progress none the less (I think anyway).

Good music makes....

Workouts on a treadmill much better!  Since I did not get a chance to workout this morning, after church this evening, I came home and decided to do my walk.  Tonight though I decided to walk to some music instead of the TV.  Let me just tell ya, it made it SO MUCH BETTER!  The twenty minutes just flew by and I was done before I knew it.  Of course, I was making JJ laugh though as I was shaking my head and singing certain phrases.  Oh well, it was fun!

Yesterday I was asked about Johnny, so I wanted to give everyone an update.  Johnny is doing very well.  He has started eating eggs, blendered chicken, and other items.  Though I do not know exactly how much he has lost, I figure it to be around 40 pounds.  And tonight, he put on jeans he had not wore in several years!  YEA JOHNNY!!  Here is a new weekly pic of his progress..

Big change from the first pic (in my opinion)

Come along for the ride.  The adventure is rocking.....

Confessions....

First - I am just too tired to get on the treadmill this morning.  Yes, instead of playing around on the computer, I should just go workout.  However, I am just drained and need a one day break.  Actually, I will workout tonight after work.  I promise.

Second, the other part of this NEW me is suppose to be me growing more closer to our gracious and saving Lord.  I wish I could say that journey is going as well as the weight loss; however, that would be telling a lie.  Oh, I am definitely praying more and praying at times I would not usually pray.  However, I have not been to church in two weeks and I have not reading my Bible like I should. 

Yes, I realize the last two weeks have been very hectic around this house.  I also know that my place has been with Johnny while he mends.  However, I miss church.  I miss the fellowship.

Also, when I first went back to church several years ago, I was hungry to learn.  Hungry to learn all I could.  I read the bible every morning.  I had my quiet relfection time every evening.  I felt so much stronger then.  And then, I don't know what happened. 

So now, when I want to start building that relationship again, I feel broken.  I feel like my prayers are not being heard.  I feel that I have turned my back maybe one to many times and He is finished with me.  I feel like the devil is always there putting some obstacle in my way to prevent me from getting back to that feeling I use to have and devotation I use to have.   I honestly hate feeling like this!  I feel like a spirtual nothing!

Guess I am just asking for prayers right now that I get back on the right path ASAP.  Also, prayers that HE is not finished with me and that I can save the relationship I need with HIM!

Come along for the ride.  The adventure is sometimes not all sunny.....

Actually...Low Carb eating can be tasty!

When I started this journey back in August, I was thinking great, no taste food!!  However, I have found some GREAT recipes so far in my journey.  I have been quite surprised on what a person can eat while trying to follow a low carb diet.  Now, remember what I have said before, I am not going strict low carb.  I am averaging around 40 to 45 a day.  But again, considering the daily recommended carbohydrate intake is 180-270 (OMG!), I think 40/45 is awesome!!

So tonight, I wanted to share some of the great recipes I have found thus far! 

On the menu tonight was a lemon pepper pork chop.  It was very yummy!

These pork chops were very easy to make.  You can find the recipe right here.  And yes, you see corn on my plate.  Believe it or not, but it is true, that is the first corn I have had since August 21.  And quite honestly, I really haven't missed it.  However, since I was cooking for only myself tonight and needed something simple, I used the very last frozen corn we had in the freezer.

Last night, I tried something completely new in our household.  I cooked turkey breast cutlets.  I did not even know they sold stuff like this in stores.  So, after browsing the internet yesterday, I found the recipe that gave me this:

These are Dijon Turkey Cutlets.  And I can say oh my goodness, these were great!  So moist and tender.  And quick - 7 minutes total cooking time.  I have always loved turkey and now that I can get turkey like this, you better believe I will be getting some more.  The recipe for this can be found right here.  I served this with one of JJ's favorites - broccoli with cheese.  Thank goodness for Green Giant frozen vegetables.  Fast and easy!

Another one of JJ's favorites is a recipe I started making a while ago.  And guess what it is?

Yep, more broccoli.  However, I make this so he does not ask for cheese.  The recipe is so simple, it is not funny.  Take two bunches of broccoli and cut into florets.  Place in baking dish, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil, and sprinkle with montreal steak seasoning.  Bake for 20 minutes at 375.  Delicious!!  I have actually followed that recipe to do other vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, and squash.  All very good.

Here are a couple of other pictures of some other items I have made recently. 

Crab cake (lightly breaded and baked), shrimp, and broccoli

Low Carb Pizza

Egg Bake with ham, mushrooms, and cheddar cheese

Round Steak, squash, sauted onions, and salad

Just a quick note, the pizza is made on a low carb (5g) flat bread then topped with pizza ingredients.  Very yummy and JJ loves them.  It also tastes like a thin crust pizza once baked.  Also, the sauce on the baked egg is not ketchup.  It is Frank's Hot Sauce.  I love, Love, LOVE Frank's Hot Sauce.  I use it alot and keep it beside my stove at all times.  It is my go to seasoning!!

Quick and funny story about the squash in the last picture.  When I went and purchased the squash from Walmart, the sales clerk actually looked at me and said the following when trying to look it up.  "Is this zucchini or squash?  I can't tell the difference because I don't eat vegetables."  It was hard not to look up and say "What?"  Oh well, maybe she will start eating vegetables one day!

Come along for the ride.  The adventure is becoming tasty....

Maybe the scales are my friend

Well, probably not.  However, I really liked the scales yesterday.  I decided to weigh myself since it has been over a month since JJ and I started the low carb adventure.  Since August 22, I have lost 17 pounds!!  WOO HOO!!  I was shocked but loving it at the same time.  Yesterday was definitely a happy, happy day! 

Like I have said before, I hate scales.  I think they actually jinx me.  However, I have decided if I weigh myself once a month, that that should give me accurate measurements. 

I also acquired something else to assist in my weight loss efforts:

Yep, I got a treadmill!!  I know this going to sound crazy, but I love working out on a treadmill.  I feel so much better after I workout.  I just now have to make myself get up in the morning and do it!

Also, JJ and I will be starting our medical weight loss program on the 17th of this month.  I am excited in some ways but I am leary in others.  I know the dietian is going to say we can add back the bread, pasta, rice, etc in moderation.  However, we are doing so well without those foods that I don't want to put that temptation back in front of either one of us.  I hope the dietian can respect my wishes concerning this matter.  Any one know if there are guidelines about this?

Lastly, for those who might be wondering, Johnny is doing very well.  We returned to the doctor today for his one week follow up.  His JP drain was removed (Thank you for answered prayers).  And he has lost 10 pounds thus far (since surgery I should say).  Pretty amazing if you ask me.  I am so proud of him!  He has one more week of full liquids and then it is on to soft/puree diet.  And guess what comes with that phase?  Baby food meats!  Poor man.

With his permission, I am going to post some pictures of Johnny as he has started this journey.  I can see a change already.  Again, I am just so proud of him!!!

September 18 - The night when he started his liquid diet.

September 27 - Morning of his surgery

October 4 - One week post surgery (check out the beard -- doesn't it look so cute?)

Come along for the ride.  The adventure is shaping up great right now.....

Eating and everything that goes with it

As I was sitting here trying to think of a snappy title for this entry, I drew a complete blank.  So, sadly you received that cheesy title -- LOL!!  Actually, this post is about food and the difference Johnny and I are going through right now.

First, I have to say I am still so PROUD of Johnny.  He is doing very well with eating (the 2oz he can) and has not been sick.  However, what is worrying me is he is STILL in a lot of pain in his back.  And today, I noticed a very deep bruise where he is stating all the pain is located.  I don't know if something in the hospital made a bruise or what.  I guess I will just keep an eye on it for now.

Now, when I say he can have 2oz of food, I am not kidding.  Never did I think I would have to buy baby food again, but guess what...

 However, those containers are awesome to help me measure out other things for him.  I never thought I would say these words, but I pureed cottage cheese yesterday.  Yes, I said pureed cottage cheese.  Ever wondered what something like that would like?  Well here you go.....
 

 Honestly to me it looks like the paste we use to have in elementary school.  Remember the kids that would eat that stuff?  Maybe the reason they ate paste is because their mom made them pureed cottage cheese -- LOL!!  Johnny stated it tasted pretty good.  He said it needed salt though.  So sorry charlie - no salt for you for awhile.  I feel like the soup nazi from Seinfield when I have to say "No salt for you."

So, how does it make me feel when my sweet, loveable husband is having to eat that stuff and I am getting to eat this?
 

 Not very good!!  I hate eating in front of him right now.  I feel so bad when he eats the above and I am eating this stuff.  Now, I know it is healthy and everything.  But wouldn't you want to have that grilled chicken salad than pureed cottage cheese?  UGH!!  And every time I say something about eating in a different room or something, he gets upset.  I don't want to upset him, I just am trying to be respectful!

However, through all of this, I can not say I have been eating perfect.  I would HATE to think what my carbs have been lately.  Especially since this is what I ate for lunch today.
 

 Not good, I know!  But I was craving it.  Oh well, cravings are going to have to be squelished.  I need to start doing better again since we are back home.  Until next time...

Come along for the ride.  What an adventure it is right now!

We are HOME!!

There is nothing like home sweet home!  After several tears, a couple of sleepless nights, many trips around the halls of the hospital, and almost getting into a fight with the recovery room nurse, we are HOME!

Thanks to the many prayers that went up for Johnny, his doing wonderfully.  He is adjusting very well to his new lifestyle.  On the way home, we stopped by the grocery store to pick up some items for him.  I never thought, that with my son being 13, I would ever have to buy baby food again.  Well, I guessed wrong.  And let me just say people, it does not look any better than it did when my son was little.  I could not IMAGINE having to eat that stuff again.  Also, I am on the hunt for sippy cups for Johnny to use at home.  Dang, I knew I should have kept JJ's old ones -- LOL!!  However, if he needs them, I will find them!

As far as me, well I have come to find out that I am definitely a stress drinker.  Now, I don't mean alcohol because I gave that up for Johnny since he is not allowed to drink any type of alcohol for at least a year.  What I am talking about is POP (you say soda, I say pop - either way it is GOOD)!!!  I really did not eat that much.  I actually had to MAKE myself eat.  But I craved the pop and that is not a good thing.  However, I am proud to say that I have had nothing but water since 9 am the morning, so I am trying to get out of my system again.  You may want to run and hide now because it could be a bumpy ride!

Again, to everyone who has been reading this crazy thing I call a blog and sent up a prayer for my hubby -- Thank You!!  I appreciate it very much.  And now I am off to awake sleeping beauty (aka Johnny) to get him to drink something.

Come along for the ride!  The adventure is now in full swing....

Prayers for Johnny

It is 5:19 am on September 27th and we are getting ready to head to the hospital.  I can not begin to tell you how PROUD I am of Johnny right now!  To take a step like this is HUGE.  He definitely has more courage and willpower than I could ever possess.  The road he is getting ready to face is going to be ALOT harder than the road I am beginning to travel.  However, he does not realize that he will be one of my biggest motiviations throughout my journey.

I was trying to find a scripture this morning to help put my worries/fears aside this morning.  I think this one is perfect: 
John 14:27  Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither let them be afraid.

I love you Johnny!!  I know everything will be just fine!!

The Good and the YIKES (really.....)

Let us begin with the GOOD shall we!  I have been blessed with many wonderful friends in my life.  Luckily, one of the friends God has blessed me with is going to go through weight loss with me.  I personally think she looks beautiful but I completely understand where she is coming from in her quest.  Meet Melinda:

I told you she was pretty.  Yeah, you got a picture with us an our wonderful husbands.  The Halloween picture would have been good but I looked...well you know.

Anyway, last week Melinda was telling that she had decided to go on a journey like me.  She told me she was looking for a book called "Made To Crave" by Lysa Terkeurst.  After she told me about that I was thinking that wouldn't it be great if we could read it to together.  Bascially, help each other with the struggles this journey brings and learn also how to call on the Lord together when we get those cravings.  So, I called the local bookstore, purchased two copies, and gave Melinda her's on Friday.  We are going to go through it slowly and discuss it as we read.  It's our own very initimate book club -- LOL!!

There is a another reason I am excited to have Melinda on this journey with me.  Melinda is a very faithful steward of God.  I am hoping that she can help me in that part of the journey as well.  I love her caring spirit and her willingness to talk about God.  She is very confident and reassuring.  I am hoping I can become the kind of person she is and be an example like she is everyday.

And now, with the YIKES of the matter (I feel like Casey K when he is announcing the countdown.  Man, I am showing my age).  I wish I could tell you exactly what I weigh at this point in the game.  I am even afraid to let Johnny do my measurements because I know it would probably make small children cry.  Ok - well maybe not small children, but I am sure I would shed a tear or two.  I know that before JJ and I started low carb, my weight was around 278!  There is the first YIKES!!  The second YIKES come from the pictures below.  I am warning you, they are not pretty!

I wanred you!!  Ok, ignore the terrible fashion statement I am making in these pictures.  Hey, it was late at night and I was getting ready to settle in bed.  Anyway, the point of the matter is I look TERRIBLE!!  Not until you see yourself on camera like this do you realize - YIKES!!

Anyway, hopefully you did not get scared away to bad.  My point though is this.  I have always had a love/hate relationship with the scales.  I loathe them if you want to be honest.  So, I have decided for this journey two things are going to happen.  1. I am not going to rely on the scales. I am going to try and get myself weighed today.  However, I am only going to weight myself once a month afterwards.  2. I am going to go by inches.  I know that means I will have to break down and measure myself (I feel the tears starting).  However, I have to have a starting point.

Come along for the ride.  The adventure is in full swing.  And I promise, I will keep the scary pictures to a minimum -- LOL!!