Coming Clean - Week 6

originally posted at my Medifast blog

3.2 lbs gone - 31 lbs total.

I'm a blogger. I've been blogging since November 2005. I blog about my life, my kid, my hobbies, but until recently I didn't blog about my weight. I am careful about privacy. My husband and my son both have nicknames, Suferman and Grom (a young sufer). I try not to provide information about where I live. I did a good job of concealing things I didn't want to share. My weight was one of those things. I didn't bring it up.

Recently I came clean. I posted about my struggles and admitted my denial. I asked for prayer and encouragement. I started sharing my MF blog entries and my MF successes. I'm glad I did. Losing this weight and getting healthy isn't going to happen overnight. I'm glad to have my friends on my side for the long haul.

I found myself getting a little free and easy with the condiments (and fats... yikes) this week. My goal for next week is to measure and account for these "extras" more diligently. The scale keeps going down. I have passed the 30 pound mark. Yippee!

For my birthday, my parents gave me a Pandora bracelet that I'm going to add beads to celebrate my weight loss. I'm thinking a bead for every 10 pounds. I'll be shopping for it and THREE beads this week. My favorite color is orange. Do you think I should get all different orange beads or just all different beads? I'm trying to decide.

We're going to Disneyland with family on Monday. Surferman, Grom and I will be traveling quite a bit next week. Staying on plan through it all will be my challenge. I know I can do it.

My discovery of the week: I shared my water drinking strategy a couple of weeks ago. This week I discovered that if I add a little hot water to my cold water it's nicer to drink on these cold mornings. I just take the chill off.

Pray for me.

gratitude community - december 14

96. supportive friends who I know will be praying for me.

97. Fish of the Day

98. Phoenix and Dragon - hold the sauce = steamed broccoli, mushrooms and snow peas with chicken breast and shrimp. A delicious way to do Chinese food.

99. a supportive friend who helped me out when I couldn't get internet on my phone.

100. an evening out at the Melodrama instead of dinner out for my birthday.

101. The Reindeer Rap - this year they let Rudolph join in the reindeer games

102. rain


103. rain puddles

105. boy who loves to play in the rain.

106. appreciating how the rain washes away the filth reminding me of my Savior's blood that washes away my filth - over and over again

107. having a real reason to wear hats and scarves

108. a new orange rain jacket

Want to live the shortest, surest rule to Happiness? Become a Joy Finder? Consider joining the Gratitude Community! Just jump in with your own counting!

How to begin your own 1000 Gift List ::: How Gratitude Can Change your Life

Daybook December 14, 2009

FOR TODAY... Monday December 14, 2009

Outside my window... it's getting to be dusk. I'm at gymnastics with Grom.

I am thinking... about Simon and his family and their trip to Boston for yet another surgery. Lord protect them, heal him, bless them.

I am hearing... the thud thud of girls jumping on a trampoline.

I am thankful for... this season when we celebrate the birth of my Savior.

I am wearing... black pants, sage green top, black shoes... boring. We were in the middle of a laundry back up this morning. I was running late and I just grabbed whatever.

I am remembering... that I need to stop and get some cough syrup. Both Surferman and Grom have a pretty nasty cough. It gets worse at night.

I am going... to Disneyland next Monday. Surferman's family is in California for Christmas so they decided a trip to see the mouse was in order. We are tagging along. I'm afraid it will be one of the busiest days of the year.

I am reading... I finally finished that last book. I have the next Elm Creek Quilters book from the library. I think I'll try to rip through it quick.

I am hoping... we have a great visit with Surferman's mom and step-dad. They arrive on Thursday.

On my mind... coffee. I haven't been drinking as much coffee as I'd like. I had planned to get a cup at Starbucks before gymnastics, but we didn't have enough time. I may have to stop and buy one for the way home. I miss my coffee.

From the learning rooms... we are reading books about Christmas. It's a marvelous "m" week at school. Hmmm... Mickey Mouse. Now we only have to come up with 5 or so more M words.

Noticing that... Grom is almost ready for a haircut and Surferman is overdue.

Pondering these words... "Are you listening? Are YOU listening? ARE YOU LISTENING?" Grom doesn't listen and I end up screaming. It's not attractive and I'm frustrated with both of us.

From the kitchen... lots of yummy food from the freezer. My sister and her husband are out of town this week. They left the girlies with us. I'm trying to keep dinner simple.

Around the house... presents to be wrapped, piles of stuff everywhere and a miserable Surferman.

A few plans for this week... I'm teaching at Kids Club on Wednesday. On Thursday, Surferman's parents arrive and we have Grom's school concert. The Kinders are singing. Friday night we have the High Schoolers stopping by for appetizers for their progressive dinner. Sunday we leave for SoCal. Disneyland on Monday!

One of my favorite things... Sparkling water with lime. I can drink it all day long. It gives me great belches... excuse me.

A picture to share...
from our last trip to Disney in September '08.

How you can pray for me and mine... that illness would leave our home (and stay away).... that Grom would listen better and that I wouldn't yell... that everything that needs to be done for Christmas would get done... that we would be patient and full of grace with each other.

Read other Daybook's at Peggy's Blog, The Simple Woman.

What's for Dinner - December 13, 2009

So here's what my family is eating this week...

Monday
Arroz Con Pollo
Salad

Tuesday
Sesame Ginger Salmon
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Green Beans

Wednesday
~Everybody Pitch-In 4 Dinner~

Thursday
~Surferman's parents here~
Crockpot Beef Fajitas
Salad

Friday
~Appetizers for High School Progressive Dinner~
Fish and a Movie Night
Salmon
Baked Potatoes
Salad

Saturday
???

Sunday
~on the road to DISNEYLAND!~

Grom's Bookbag - Christmas

Here are the books were reading this week. Happy reading!

Almost a pound a day! - Week 5

6.8 lbs gone - 27.8 lbs total!

I was really hungry this week. I think it was related to my time of the month. I looked for bulky foods and I'll admit to eating a few more pickles than I'm supposed to. I made it through and am thinking about ways to prepare myself better next month. Good news... my face didn't break out as bad as it usually does.

I'm stoked that I had such a nice loss this week. It is encouraging to see results. I have noticed that my energy level is higher and that bending over and getting things off the ground is easier. I tried on a sweatshirt top that was too small. I can wear it now, even though I think it will look better when I lose a few more pounds.

My discovery of the week: vanilla pudding made with 1/2 cup iced decaf espresso... it's like tiramisu in a cup.

average weekly weight loss: 5.5 lbs

Pray for me.

An easy way to make someone's day

Found on my windshield outside Trader Joe's... a love note from a dear friend.

Grom decided the note was for me and the candy for him.

Dear Fast Food,

originally posted on 10/15/09 at "Less Robin"

1. Not available, 2. 11/365 - Taco Bell is a fickle mistress., 3. Jack in the box 2, 4. Burger King, 5. Carl's Jr., 6. Amye and Mark got KFC

Dear Fast Food,

We're through.

Ours has always been an unhealthy relationship. I turn to you when I'm busy, when I'm alone and when I'm stressed. You don't satisfy me. You don't nourish me. You make me sick.

I love myself and my family too much.

Don't call. I won't answer.

~Robin

Numi Dry Desert Lime

a new favorite thing...

If you like lime and Thai food... I predict you'll enjoy this tea. It's delicious and warms my tummy. It's spendy compared to grocery store teas, but what else can I spend my allowance on?

I'm looking for great decaf teas. Do you have a recommendation?

November 1, 2009

originally posted on 11/1/09 at "Less Robin"

photo by Memotions

No picture update this month. I haven't lost an ounce. I've even gained a little bit.

I just can't get it together.

I'm trying something new. I've ordered Medifast "food" and am actually anxiously waiting for it to arrive. I am very hopeful.

I think I'll be starting on Thursday. I had to do something and late one night last week, I decided that this was it.

I did Medifast back when I was in college and was actually very successful. Back then, there wasn't a lot of variety in the program. It was basically shakes and soup and that was it. I liked the simplicity.

Now it has more choices and you eat a "lean and green" meal once a day. I'll be tracking the number of carbs I consume each day (with online tools). There are a few other things to think about. I'm hoping I can keep it simple.

I'm committed to staying totally on program through the holidays. It won't be easy, but without choices, it will be easier.

Watch for weekly weight updates.

And pray for me.

October 1, 2009

originally posted on 10/3/09 at "Less Robin"

I can't believe I'm posting these photos. I'm trying to come clean... mostly with myself.

It CAN'T get worse than this.

Passing my first milestone - Week 4

originally posted on 12/04/09 at my Medifast blog
I am happy to be able to say that I stayed on plan through Thanksgiving and I lost 4 pounds! I know I've never lost weight over Thanksgiving before. I did more walking over the weekend then usual. It felt good.

I'm settling into the plan and have noticed my tastes changing. It's becoming easier - almost routine. I still have trouble with the oatmeal, but I keep trying.

My discovery of the week: Start the day with a big glass of water. I have those big plastic cups that hold 4 cups of water. First thing, I grab one of those and finish it before making my MF breakfast. It's like a head start with my water goal.

Average weekly weight loss: 5.25 lbs.

Pray for me.

This is Better - Week 3

originally posted on 11/25/09 at my Medifast blog

4.2 lbs gone! 17 lbs total!

I paid more attention to drinking water. I now start my day with one of those big plastic "summer" cups full of water. After it's down, I move on to breakfast. I've also been drinking more tea. Caffeine is an issue for me. I try to avoid it. I found a nice vanilla red tea (rooibos) that has no caffeine. It's really yummy.

I've been moving more just because I have more energy. It seems to be a busy season in my life right now, so the thought of purposefully making exercise happen is a bit overwhelming. I'm going to keep looking for ways to move more in my daily routine. Walks will come soon enough.

I weighed a day early this week, because we are traveling today for Thanksgiving and I didn't want to haul the scale along. I'm going to stay on plan. I made zucchini squash to take as my contribution to the feast. Add some turkey and my lean & green is good to go. I have a bag packed with my favorites - hot cocoa, puffs, pretzels, shakes and a couple of bars. I know I can do this. So can you... weight loss is so much better than pumpkin pie.

Oh... and tomorrow is my birthday! I've given myself the best present ever... the pursuit of health.

My discovery of the week: mini Babybel light cheese. One is a very portable and satisfying snack. I love removing the wax cover. I'm a little confused about how they count... actually the condiment, fat, healthy fat stuff kinda elludes me. But I believe they count as a fat.

Pray for me.

Not Discouraged - Week 2

originally posted on 11/20/09 at my Medifast blog

.8 lbs gone! I can't say I'm not disappointed. I thought I'd lose more.

Maybe my slump has come early?

All I know is that I have been on plan 100% and that there is no reason that I didn't lose more weight. And I know the weight will come off.

My discovery of the week: Soups with Salsa. I have found that 1-2 T of salsa in the Tomato, Cream of Chicken, Chicken Noodle and even Beef Stew is delicious. 1 T of salsa counts as a condiment.

Average weekly weight loss: 6.4 lbs

Pray for me.

Losin' It - Week 1

originally posted on 11/12/09 at my Medifast Blog
12 pounds gone! I am rejoicing that my efforts have paid off.

The last time I did a "program diet" I lost a few pounds the first week and then actually gained the second week... all while following the directions. That failure really messed with me.

Success is sweet. 100% on plan works.

Following the program has been easier than I anticipated. A couple of rough moments... they passed, and a crabby day.

I can do this. I will do this.

My discovery of the week: Hot Chocolate Mochas. Make hot chocolate hot in a bullet blender and then add 2 shots of decaf espresso. For me it's the perfect breakfast.

Pray for me.

So it begins...

originally posted on 10/3/09 at "Less Robin"

photo by digitalcat

It didn't all begin today.

I remember being "fat" forever.

I started Weight Watchers for the first time when I was in 3rd grade. I don't get it when I look at photographs. I don't look as fat as I thought I was.

I went to Fat Camp the summer between jr high and high school and was finally normal. It didn't last. By the time I graduated from high school I was a small fat girl.
By the time I graduated from college I was a medium fat girl.

Now I'm a huge fat woman. Morbidly Obese. Wow, that's hard to type...

Until recently I was always a "healthy" fat person. My weight has caught up with me. In the last year, I've had an episode of atrial fibrillation, been diagnosed with moderate obstructive sleep apnea, been prescribed a cpap machine and mask for sleeping (way better than anything Victoria's Secret has for feeling sexy), been diagnosed with high blood pressure... the list goes on.

I considered weight loss surgery, but it's not an option for me at the present time. I have to get some medical stuff cleared before I can pursue it. I'm not sure I want to pursue it.

Losing weight is no longer something I want to do... it's something I have to do.

I don't want to die, or worse yet... have a stroke.

I want to see my boy grow up. I want to grow old with my husband.

I'm hoping that blogging my struggles and journey will help.

Less Robin

If you know me in real life, you know that I need to lose weight.

If you only know me through my blog, you might not realize how fat (there is no pretty word - my other choice would be morbidly obese) I am. I've been pretty good at not talking about it. It's laughable, but I've been in denial. I hope you understand and can forgive me.

A while back, I started another blog. It was called "Less Robin" and it was going to be about my pursuit of weight loss. I was careful to remove any link between here and there. I planned to blog for accountability, but then did my best to keep anyone from finding me. Like I said... denial.

Well... "Less Robin" is history. I'll be reposting most of what I wrote here over the next few days. You all can be my accountability and my cheerleaders and my prayer partners.

In other news, I started Medifast on November 5, 2009. It has a supportive online community that includes blogs. I've been blogging over there once a week on the day I weigh. I'll be double posting that blog here too.

I don't plan for this to turn into a weight loss blog. I'll just be adding another pursuit... health through weight loss and exercise.

Daybook December 7, 2009

FOR TODAY... Monday December 7, 2009

Outside my window... it's dark and very cold. Too cold for California. My computer tells me it's 41F. brrr.

I am thinking... that people in colder climates are probably laughing and thinking me a giant wuss for thinking that 41F is freezing.

I am hearing... the quiet woosh of the heater.

I am thankful for... so many things. Did you see that last post?

I am wearing... jeans, brown long sleeved tee, brown beanie (Grom let me borrow it) and my new sneakers.

I am remembering... that I have forgotten to get out our Jesse Tree and the Advent Calendar my Aunt gave Grom. Better get both of those going quick!

I am going... to go get a cup of tea. Maybe it will take the chill off.

I am reading... I am just about done with "The Memory Keepers Daughter". I can't wait. I'm looking forward to the next Jennifer Chiaverini book.

I am hoping... Surferman and I love the luggage we bought. And that we take lots of trips with it.

On my mind... Christmas. Christmas cards. Christmas presents. Christmas music. Christmas.

From the learning rooms... It's "L" week at school. I'm sure it will be lovely and loaded with laughs. We have a bunch of books about Christmas that we are reading together.

Noticing that... I need a manicure. I bite my cuticles and with this dry winter weather, my hands are rough.

Pondering these words...

Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you completely; and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, who also will do it. 1 Thessalonians 5:23-34 NKJV

I get an email with a Bible verse everyday. This was the verse today.

From the kitchen... homemade Turkey soup from the bird I roasted when we got home from Thanksgiving. Ripe bananas in the fruit bowl will be transformed into banana bread. Anyone have a great (and easy) recipe? I don't want to sift.

Around the house... it's beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Our tree is up. The stockings are hung. We just need to get the Christmas music going.

One of my favorite things... shopping at Trader Joe's. I can get most everything I want/need and it's affordable. I love their rBST free dairy products.

A picture to share...We've had some beautiful sunsets lately. I took this one from church.

Read other Daybook's at Peggy's Blog, The Simple Woman.

gratitude community - december 7

Some of these are a bit old, but I'm thankful for these things regardless.

82. A done (yep done!) to do list. This was from a foray into a pretty to do list. I'm back to my brain book and autofocus.

83. Grom has discovered that letters make words. He hasn't figured out that spaces in the letters need to come at very certain places, but he's writing. Here's a Bible verse from Kids Club that he wrote out. If you read carefully, you'll find John 1:1.

84. Colorful trees a picture of God's majesty.

85. Did you know that the beautiful colors in the leaves are there all the time? It just takes fall for the leaves to lose the green and reveal the other colors. It reminds me of the way God refines us. If the green represents ME, prayerfully it is dying away and fading to reveal the hidden qualities that please my Lord. Maybe a gentle and quiet spirit?

86. I hope me as a tree would have orange leaves.

87. A wonderful Thanksgiving with close and extended family that wasn't about food.

88. Coffee at Starbucks. I'm always grateful for a good cup of coffee.

87. Grom and a Girlie. He loves his cousins. And they think he's pretty cool too.

88. A fun day of riding public transportation (BART and Muni) with a boy who in enthralled by trains and how things work.

89. Wondering if we'll see fishes when we travel under San Francisco Bay.

90. Going into The City for Black Friday.

91. Watching the shoppers rush home with their packages.

92. Visiting... not living... in San Franciso. It's good to go home.

93. Pastor Jack and his wife Jinell. (We don't belong to some weird cult where we all dress the same. It just happens to them every now and then.) We love to go to their home for dinner.

94. This precious little guy is home. He has more tests, surgery and other yucky things ahead. For now Simon is home and we rejoince. Pray for his healing.

95. A chair full of boys. Lord let them all become men after your own heart.

Want to live the shortest, surest rule to Happiness? Become a Joy Finder? Consider joining the Gratitude Community! Just jump in with your own counting!

How to begin your own 1000 Gift List ::: How Gratitude Can Change your Life

What's for Dinner - December 7, 2009

Monday
LO Turkey Soup
Biscuits
Salad

Tuesday
Pork Chops
Sweet Potatoes
Green Beans

Wednesday
~Everybody Pitch-in 4 Dinner~
red sauce for pasta

Thursday
~QBs Christmas Dinner~
CORD

Friday
~Melodrama Birthday Celebration~
~Night In Bethlehem~
????
we'll eat somewhere

Saturday
~Pottenger Open House~
take Aunt Theos Potatoes

Sunday
~Family Dinner~
my folks cook