Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Day Thirteen - Cycle Three (Day 47) Wednesday

I'M GOING TO KEEP ON GOING!  TODAY IS DAY THREE WITH NO MORE SWEETS AND CHEATS!

      I am feeling good after two successful days or eating right.  I have had a perfect day today too.  I feel full because I ate meatball soup until I had enough!  I love it when there is enough to keep eating so you can get filled up.  Thank you Diana for such a great soup recipe!  We all love it over here!

  I woke up this morning and had my usual lemon water, green tea, yogurt, and an apple.  I had a grilled chicken salad for lunch and 2 waters.  I had 1/2 pound of turkey for a protein snack because there was very little grilled chicken on my salad.  Then I had 2 more waters.  I had homemade meatball soup which is always a delight, along with two more waters.   The warm weather always has me drinking more water.  I am feeling more full too.

TODAY'S STATS

     Green Tea = 2 (so far); Water = 8 (so far); Yogurt = 1 (so far); Fruit = 1 apple; Proteins = Chicken breast, turkey breast, hamburger; Veggies = lettuce, red cabbage, carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, cabbage, green peppers, onions, sour kraut.  Friendly fats = 0; Dessert = NO THANK YOU!

Day Twelve - Cycle Three (Day 46) Tuesday

ANOTHER GREAT DAY ON THE NEW PROGRAM

     Well, today marks the second day in a row that I have been a good girl.  I am back on track and I am not looking back again.  I am moving forward.  I have five more days until weigh in, and I am hoping for something better than I saw on the scale the other day.
    I have Diana to thank for this new surge in my routine.  She told me yesterday, if I started all over again in the morning, I would be able to take some weight off by weigh in day.  I am determined to do that.  I don't remember if I mentioned that I got on the scale the other day to shock myself into stopping this ridiculous behavior of cheating because it's NOT OK.  I was up three pounds from last weigh in.  I actually thought to myself, well that isn't too bad.  it could have been a lot worse.  Then I realized that I am nearly two weeks in to cycle three and I should have lost at least half of what I lost last cycle, so that was bad.
    I believe those three pounds are already gone.  I am hoping I can get some more off by the deadline.  I have been a good girl, and I want to see some kind of reward for it.  Even if just a token, after all I have been through this cycle.  I still have emotional struggles I am working my way through, but I am not doing it with food this time.  I have been going to bed with hunger pains.
     My friend Dawn asked me what was it that made me say F*** It!  After being so good for so long, and I told her I actually could not stand the pain.  I feel like I am in physical pain with my stomach gnawing at me and growling an burning and that evil whisperer talking in my ear.   I just couldn't take it anymore, and I finally said to myself, just do it and get it over with so you can refocus.  The problem with that is that once you have broken that barrier, once you have fallen off that proverbial wagon, its hard to reseal it or jump back on and act like nothing happened.
     It makes it easier for you to talk yourself into doing it again.  You did it once and it didn't hurt you that much.  One small amount won't matter.  Just eat it and move on!  Well, I am not falling for those tricks again (I hope - God Willing, I will be alright).  I do realize that I am human and therefore subject to imperfections and weaknesses, that is why I have to just keep asking God to stay with me and provide me with strength to prevail.  My pleas actually worked.  God is standing strong with me again.  I got some words of wisdom from a friend named Kristi, and they meant a lot to me and really got me plugged back in too.
     THANK YOU GOD!


Today I had a play date with my friend Dawn and her family.  We all went to Chuck E Cheeses.  That's our favorite place to let the kids run crazy and have a good time, while we visit, and yes..... eat.  I still ate, but this time I only ate salad.  I had two plates for lunch and when we were still there over an hour later I had another plate, which became my dinner by default.  I wasn't hungry after that when I got home, and I was so tired I went to bed early.  So I didn't have the usual torturous hunger pangs last night.

TODAY'S STATS

Green tea = 2; Water = 3 (yikes that hurts); Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Fruits = 2 apple and grapefruit; Protein = boiled eggs; Veggies = iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, red cabbage; Friendly fats = 0; Salad Dressing that was not fat free = 5 Tbs. yikes!  Cheese = 2 tsp.

Day Eleven - Cycle Three (Day 45) Monday

FEELING GOOD AFTER A WHOLE DAY OF SUCCESSFUL EATING

         Well, I made it through a perfect day of eating today..  That's not to say I am not suffering because I am.  However, I am more willing to suffer this kind of hunger, pain, and torture than to suffer how I feel after eating stuff I shouldn't be eating.  I definitely feel more successful and worthy when I am not cheating.  I pray that God will stay with me on this journey and keep the devil away from me.

     Thanks to all of you who have chimed in and given me your opinions, advice, encouragement and support.  I really need it and it means a lot.

    I got up and had my usual lemon water, yogurt, apple, and green tea.  Went to pick u baby girl from school - which means walking & exercise!  Yes I did!  Then we walked up to Chili's for some chicken breast grilled with broccoli, onions and mushrooms!

     After that we walked to the bus terminal at the city park to bus over to the college to see Diana.  I didn't want to go home and sit ad think about food and fail today.  I needed some human contact for support and Di is always good for that.  She got me blogging again today, so I can release all of these feelings and hopefully find some peace.  It's working so far.
     When I got home, I made chicken breast fajitas with all fresh veggies and I wrapped them in cabbage leaves.  They tasted good and it was a good way of eating them since I couldn't have a tortilla, but I definitely missed the tortilla today!

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 2; Water = 3 (wow - I need to get those up!) Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Proteins = grilled chicken breast, stir fry chicken beast, tilapia fish fillet; Veggies = broccoli, onions, mushrooms, carrots, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, yellow onion, tomatoes; Friendly Fats = 1 12 Tbs. Olive Oil

Monday, March 28, 2011

Day Ten -Cycle Three (Day 44) Sunday

WHILE FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION, IT SURE HAS BEEN ON MY MENU A LOT LATELY.....

   I AM STILL IN THIS FIGHT.  I AM STILL DETERMINED TO WIN.  I STILL GET UP EVERYDAY AND EAT BREAKFAST JUST LIKE ITS ANY OTHER HEALTHY EATING DAY FOR ME.  LUNCH ROLLS ALONG AND I ROLL WITH IT.  THEN THE HUNGER AND CRAVINGS HIT ME BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER DINNER. 

    ALL OF MY SMALL BATTLE LOSSES WILL NOT KEEP ME FROM TRYING TO SUCCEED.  I WILL KEEP GOING UNTIL I BEAT THIS THING ONCE AND FOR ALL.


Around ten pm I lost another battle with chocolate chips!  yep!  I just sat there and ate them from the bag.  The cravings were too strong and I was too weak.  I will try again tomorrow.

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 2; Water = 3 (I am a bad girl - something has just occurred to me, if I drank more water, I might be fuller like I used to be, and then I wouldn't suffer so much from hunger pangs); Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Fruits = 1 apple; Proteins = Turkey bacon, grilled chicken; Veggies = iceberg lettuce, red cabbage, carrots; Friendly Fats = 0; Bad Salad Dressing that tastes so wonderful = 1 Tbs.  (I have given myself this vice to have with my salads - so I don't count it as a cheat!  I also use very little of it)

Day Nine - Cycle Three (Day 43) Saturday

GOD PLEASE HELP ME.  GIVE ME STRENGTH TO RESIST THESE URGES AND SAY NO TO UNHEALTHY AND BAD FOR ME FOODS.  STAY WITH ME.   GRANT ME PEACE FROM THESE CRAVINGS AND HUNGER PANGS.  I AM IN A STRUGGLE WITH THE DEVIL AND I WANT TO WIN.  I NEED YOUR ASSISTANCE GOD.  PLEASE....

      Woke up with lemon water, green tea, yogurt, and an apple.  Everyday, I try to regroup and start anew from the blunders of the day before.  I refuse to give up or give in.  I may be losing some battles here and there, but I am not going to lose the overall war.  It is clear that I am not going to be able to do this alone.  I need help.  I have to call in the big guns again.  I need to start everyday asking God for assistance.

     If anyone out there has an idea of how I can redirect this bad energy to something positive, I am listening.

     I don't have my stats with me right now, and its hard to remember what I ate today, except the one thing that sticks out in my mind most - another piece of chocolate cake (well half of it - that makes me feel a little better than if I ate a whole piece!)  I might as well have eaten the whole piece the day before because I went back for the rest of it today.  Unbelievable.  I had a fairly good eating day until then - again.
    AAARRGGGHHH

     DELIVER ME FROM EVIL!

     I had a taco salad for breakfast, and a yogurt with grapes and three slices of turkey bacon for lunch with 2 teas.  I had grilled chicken shish kabobs and a chicken Cesar salad for dinner.  all was good until that dratted chocolate cake spoke to me again!!!  GO AWAY!

TODAY'S STATS

     Green Tea = 3; Water = 4; Probiotics = 1 yogurt; Fruit = 1 grapes; Proteins = hamburger; grilled chicken; Veggies = bell peppers, onion, tomatoes, romaine lettuce, iceberg lettuce, potato, garlic; Friendly Fats = 0; Other = salsa and fat free sour cream

Day Eight - Cycle Three (Day 42) Friday

SOMEBODY PLEASE HELP ME!!!!!

     Make the hunger pangs stop!  Take these unwanted and unsolicited craving away from me.  Release me! 


    How am I supposed to win this battle?  Why did it have to start again?  It is getting to hard to say no.  I don't have the will power.  I have the desire, but the cravings and pangs are stronger than my desire to say NO!

     Lemon water, green tea, yogurt and an apple for breakfast.  No lunch today. Went to the dollar movies with Diana and was waiting to eat with Dawn, but we couldn't hook up  so we made a play date for Tuesday.  No lunch for me means bad eating habits are still hanging on to me.  I am feeling famished for dinner.
     I made taco salad for dinner for me, and got the family some chinese food - which I sampled the fried rice to the tune of a small bowl!  Argh!  then I ate the taco salad when it was ready.  Afterwards, dessert - yes that's right, I said dessert - that filthy word that adds calories, pounds, and guilt to you - was had of a slice of chocolate cake !  It was so fantastic, and yet so horrible at the same time.  I feel like a failure.  I had a fairly great eating day, and I spoiled it with cake!  ARRGGGHHHH!!
Help me stop the insanity.  With every little indiscretion, it becomes easier to talk myself into eating the wrong things. 
    This is unacceptable!  I need some help people... what have you got for me?  Tell me something.  trying to move on isn't really working any more as I add more and more faux pas!
GOD PLEASE GIVE ME STRENGTH AGAIN.  GIVE ME WILL POWER.  LET ME LEAN ON YOU FOR HELP.  DELIVER ME FROM THESE CRAVINGS AND HUNGER PANGS. PLEASE!

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 1; Water = 2; Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Fruits = 1 apple; Proteins = hamburger; Veggies = iceberg lettuce; Friendly Fats = 0; Other = Salsa, Chocolate cake, fried rice!

Day Seven - Cycle Three (Day 41) Thursday

TRYING TO BE GOOD AFTER A COUPLE OF DAYS AWAY FROM HOME

     My first day home after having room service and long days.  I started it with lemon water, green tea, yogurt, and an apple.
    Met Dawn at Olive Garden for lunch - an eye opening experience.  It's our favorite restaurant and I was amazed at just how little is available to eat with calories under 300 for the meal.  There was actually only ONE offering that was 260 calories.  It was their apricot citrus chicken breast with asparagus and broccoli.  I ordered that and ate their salad too.  I asked how many calories were in one bread stick because I was seriously contemplating have just one - but when the waiter came back and told me they had 180 calories in one stick!  I passed!  What!!???  Yikes was I seriously eating wrong and badly.  I asked them to put the apricot citrus sauce on the side to see if I like it and to control the portion.  I didn't like it and didn't eat it.  
     Today was the hardest day yet.  My eye has started twitching, and some symptoms of depression are trying to creep back in.  i have insomnia again, and anxiety from a culmination of my loved ones careless words, my therapist closing my case, and other personal things that I have been struggling with and fighting my way through the red tape on.
      I made grilled chicken breast with steamed broccoli and carrots for dinner. Felt hungry after eating lunch and dinner.  So, I had an extra yogurt to try and soothe some of the cravings and hunger after lunch and dinner for a total of 3 today!.
     Was sore and tired from two days of walking around every where - which by the way, was another reason I figured the fajitas would be alright because I haven't had so much exercise in years!
     I basically chilled at home and caught up on some things left neglected for a few days - housework and laundry being at the top of the list.
  Wondering how I am going to beat these cravings and hunger pangs.  I sat up watching movies until 3 am and suffered with my stomach churning and growling and basically just telling me it is miserable and wants to eat.  I was able to get through it without eating anything.  Another day down.....

TODAY'S STATS

     Green Tea = 2; Water = 3; Probiotics = 3 yogurts; Fruit = 1 apple; Proteins = grilled chicken breasts; Veggies = broccoli, asparagus, carrots, tomatoes,; Friendly Fats = 1 Tbs Olive Oil.

Day Six - Cycle Three ( Day 40) Wednesday

ANOTHER DIFFICULT  AND BUSY DAY

     It's now Wednesday, March 23, 2011.  I ended up staying the night in Santa Monica, which wasn't the original plan.  I spent another grueling day working and helping.  I started my day with lemon water from room service, a yogurt that included strawberries, blueberries, granola, and yogurt, which was fantastic, but definitely not something I can have everyday because of the granola.  I also drank my green tea and ate an apple (because I did not expect fruit with my yogurt), so I did begin good again - even being in a hotel away from home.
     Worked all morning.  Stopped for lunch around 1.  Ordered the same Chicken Cesar salad and fruit for lunch, with water and iced tea.    Good and sensible.  I was hoping for an equally sensible dinner, but that did not work out so well.  I ended up grabbing Jack In the Box while waiting for over an hour on Santa Monica Blvd.  I was hoping to make it closer to home before eating, but it was already 8 pm.  I did not go for the salad either.  I ordered the Jumbo Jack with Cheese and onion rings, with a chocolate Shake.
     So, for my first real plunge from the pedestal, I decided not to let it get me down or to harp on it because that would only make things worse.  I could just give up the diet all together.  I decided that I would call it well deserved, but climb right back up on that horse and continue my ride.
     I know it sounds like I am being so cavalier with this news and my actions, but in truth, I have really been having a super hard time.  I typically eat my emotions, and I have been fighting serious urges and cravings since this whole thing started with my loved one.  It sounds like an excuse - even to my own ears, but this is the reality of a person addicted to food who is starting to spin out of control again.  Those who have never been here are quick to judge and to tell me to just don't do it.  It just isn't that easy.  I try to get them to understand its and addiction, and not always easy to deny.  I know it is still my choice, and I should choose other things, but I can't seem to find a replacement for the eating to soothe me yet.  Anyone got a hug available???
       I truly hope you will all stay with me through this roller coaster of my life.  Knowing I have to write and report what I have done has helped me more than not having this mode of accountability for myself.  Without my therapist, I am out here trying to figure out how or what to do with myself to make me feel worthy and worthwhile.  Isn't it an ethical issue when your therapist just drops you for forgetting an appointment when you have memory issues tied to anxiety? Hmmmm.

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 1; Water = 3; Probiotics = 1 yogurt; Fruit = 2 apple, strawberries, blueberries; Protein = grilled chicken breast, hamburger; Veggies = onion, romaine lettuce, tomatoes; Friendly Fats = 0; Other = granola, burger/buns, cheese, fried onion rings, chocolate shake.

Day Five - Cycle Three (Day 39) Tuesday

STRUGGLING TO MAINTAIN CONTROL...

     I have unfinished business with my loved one that is haunting me.  I have tried to push it aside after writing the letter - hoping I can calm down enough to edit it but still be authentic and true to myself.  Ignoring it, while trying to get to that point has been manifesting in other ways for me.  For instance, being hungry right after eating.  Craving things with a fierceness.  Allowing myself to talk me into eating things I should say no to.

     Today finds me down in Santa Monica helping friends do some important tasks.  I worked with them for 12 hours straight.  We broke for lunch around 2 for an hour.  This schedule made it difficult to follow my diet.  I did have my lemon water, yogurt and apple this morning.  I also brought an apple with me so I could have a snack when I got hungry, which I did, and which I ate.  Then for lunch, we ate at the hotel restaurant.  I ordered a Cesar chicken salad, no croutons.  I drank 2 waters and a green tea.  All good up to that point.
     No more food until around 9 pm.  Two big mistakes, waiting so long in between meals, and eating at such a late hour.  Then, everyone decided Mexican was going to be for dinner, which is my favorite, but not the easiest to eat healthy with.  I decided to eat the chicken fajitas because at Chili's their chicken fajitas were 350 calories, which isn't bad, but I always opt for the grilled chicken and broccoli when at chili's because that is only 150 calories.  I felt the fajitas was as good as I was going to get there.  I also allowed myself to eat chips and guacamole.  That was a big mistake because they were so delicious I just kept going until the food arrived.  So, fajitas and iced tea for dinner.  I didn't feel bad about that.  I enjoyed it and figured I would control the rest of the cycle better, so it wouldn't make a difference on my bottom line.
    I ended the evening with an aching body and feet, but satisfied tummy. 

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 2; Water = 5; Probiotics = 1 yogurt; Fruit = 2 apples; Proteins = Grilled chicken breast; Veggies = romaine lettuce, tomatoes, green bell peppers, onions, mushrooms; Friendly Fats = 0; Other = tortilla chips, guacamole

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Day Two - Cycle Three (Day 36)

STILL FLYING HIGH AND FEELING GREAT

     Just another average day - - - after a great results weigh in!  Lounged around and caught up on farmville and movies today.  Spent time with the little bit, and really enjoyed it.

     Had my typical breakfast of lemon water, green tea, yogurt and grapes.  An apple for a snack.  Lunch was a salad with ice berg lettuce, carrots, soy cheese, turkey, and that fabulous jalapeno ranch by Litehouse.  Yum Yum.  I love that salads can be different or the same, as you wish on a day by day basis.

     Dinner was grilled chicken breast, green beans with onions and mushrooms.  Oh yes, I did try that jalapeno ranch for dipping sauce to make my chicken taste like buffalo chicken.  It was fantastic!  I highly recommend that - but only in measured portions.  I used one of those little sauce cups they bring you in a restaurant, not filled to the top, but a quarter inch down.  And when I say dip, I mean a light tap, just enough to get the flavor without having tons of calories with each bite.  I also tap off extra - this is not a dunking technique.  Do not saturate, or you're missing the point.

   

Friday, March 18, 2011

Day One - Cycle Three (Day 35)

DRUM ROLL PLEASE................

     Ratta Tat Tat......

     Well, Today is the day.  I woke up with excitement and trepidation.  I felt lighter, but when I see myself in the mirror, I am not noticing the changes.  I strip down to my undies (because I don't want anything adding ANY extra ounces), and I step on that scale.  This time, I feel like I am prepared to handle what it has to say to me, based upon the last couple of unofficial weigh-ins.  I WAS WRONG!!!!
    I was in no-way ready for what that scale had to say today.  I even got on twice to make sure I didn't move or misread that number.  It said, since the last weigh-in 17 days ago,  I am down 21 pounds!!!!
    DID YOU HEAR ME???  TWENTY ONE POUNDS!!!!  DOWN!!!! In Seventeen Days!!!
NOW THAT IS HOW YOU ROCK THIS CHANGE IN LIFE STYLE PLAN!.  That is what I expected at the first weigh in (and I am sure I was somewhere close to this because I felt the difference).  I haven't been able to measure myself yet because Diana has her measuring tape.  However, I am sure that I am down another dress size.  I know I lost one last time too because my clothes are sliding off me and ill-filled in - if you know what I mean!
    WOW - I AM WALKING ON SUNSHINE!   NOW I KNOW WHAT THAT SONG MEANS!!!  I am too hot to touch!  Whoooo Hoooo!!!!!  Don't worry, I am not going to lose my focus.  I have shopped and prepared to go back to cycle one today, so no more beef, rice, potatoes and beans for me. 


   Wow!  I have things to do.  How do I calm down and go about my day?  I know, I won't!  I will just carry this smile and this feeling with me for as long as I can.  And I will enjoy it!  Thank you all for your support and encouragement.  I truly could not do this without it!

wah wah wah

     Not an hour later, there I was flying high, feeling good, when someone else comes along via the telephone to ruin my good spirits.  It was my therapist, and I missed my appointment.  I thought it was Thursday.  She said she has to close my case because I missed 5 appointments this year.    What??!!  Really???  Is this how you help the people who need it? Arrgh!  More bureaucratic garbage to deal with - that's right lady, make my life more of a living hell.  That's the reason so many people have gone crazy!  Shame on you!

On to brighter things....

     For breakfast, I had the usual lemon water, yogurt, and grapes.  I had an apple for snack, and a salad for lunch with tuna, fat free feta sprinkled in, and Jalapeno Ranch dressing by Lite House - are you listening - this dressing is fabulous. I had it at my dad's last weekend and fell in love, even though it isn't fat free or low fat.  I use the dipping and shaking technique when using it.  It's fantastic!  Go get some!  It would be great as a veggie dip too or on your chicken breast (kind of like your own spicy buffalo chicken -ooh, I am going to try that soon).
     For dinner I had a chicken Cesar salad, with carrots and 4 grape tomatoes.  Water, water, water in between  I really have to drink more tea.
     Remember when I said above that I was going to stay focused and not go crazy with the news of my success?  Well, I changed my mind.  I felt like I deserved a treat for all of that hard work, so I got wreckless and threw caution to the wind and treated myself!  That's right, I earned it!  I sat down and enjoyed a third yogurt today!  I was hungry because my dinner salad was smaller than usual.  What can I say, I am a wild and crazy girl!  smiles...

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 1 (dang, I was gonna do better today); Water = 6; Fruit = 2 - apple and grapes; Probiotics = 3 yogurts; Proteins = tuna, grilled chicken breast, and turkey; Veggies = romaine lettuce, carrots, tomatoes; Friendly Fats = 0; Outlook = Super Charged and Ready to do this thing again! 
    

Thursday, March 17, 2011

Day Seventeen - Cycle Two (Day 34)

LAST DAY OF CYCLE TWO!!1

I hope you are all paying attention!  I weighed myself today and was back down - I sure hope that doesn't mean tomorrow will be an up day. I have been retaining a lot of water.  I have swelling in my feet, ankles, legs, and hands (probably all over, but I notice these places more because I an feel my hands and toes feel like wrapped sausages.  My ankles swell up to the size of baseballs some days, and softballs others.  I started taking my water pills yesterday to drain off some of it, and it seemed to work (with the swelling, and the weight).  However, it is back again today.  I did the unthinkable and took my water pill at 9 o'clock tonight because I want to get rid of the excess, but that means I won't be getting a lot of sleep, and let's all hope I don't have an accident in my sleep.  (Thank goodness, I am not yet at that age!  But I know it will be coming down the road for me sometime....)  argh!

Today, was a weird day, busy again.  So much so, that I forgot to eat!  Now THAT'S busy!  I had my lemon water this morning.  I ate a yogurt around 11.  I had an apple around 4, and dinner wasn't until 8:30!  That wasn't such a great day!  I hope that doesn't hurt me too much tomorrow.  I had a really light dinner too - I made salmon packets with veggies in the oven.  They were fantastic.  There is nothing like some fresh salmon cooked like that!  mmmm mmmm good!

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 1 (Yikes!); Water = 5 (Oh, man!); Fruit = 1 apple; Probiotic = 1 yogurt; Proteins = salmon; Veggies = onion, garlic, bell pepper, tomatoes, broccoli, cabbage shredded, snap peas; Friendly Fats = 1 Tbs Olive Oil; Friendly Starches = 0; Legumes = 0; Natural Starches = 0; Outlook = back on my game!

God Bless...

Day Sixteen - Cycle Two (Day 33)

Well, here we are, two days before weigh in.  I didn't weigh myself today.  However, I have had some serious conversations with my friend Diana,who is also doing this diet and started her own blog at LadyDi-et-17daydiet.blogspot.com,  and is doing very well with the program, but having some other health issues that are complicating things for her.  We are trying to figure out why I am not losing more than I have.  s big as I am, it should be melting off of me!  Or so I would hope!  Alas, it looks like it's going to come off at its own pace.  I am hopeful though...

Been staying busy,and haven't had much time for blogging or farmville, but I would like to!  I will try to get to this more often.  I am excited for cycle two to end tomorrow because I am going to go back to basis with cycle one - instead of progressing into cycle three where they give me even more food and temptations!  No thank you!  Give me just the basics for another 17 days!  I am determined to get this weight off.  This 17 days seemed to fly by compared to the last 17 (or should I say the first 17)?  Anyway, it really has become habit for me already.  it is a lifestyle change and it just keeps getting easier every day.  I am just taking this one day at a time, and look!  It's gotten me through 2 cycles already.  Maybe it helps thinking of it in terms of lasting only 17 days.  It's a great brain trick!  It really makes it feel like you have these little mini goals, and you are achieving them because they are doable!

If you haven't started yet, what are you waiting for?  If you have, I want to hear about your successes and failures, so I can share in your joys and sorrows too.  We can uplift each other.  I do appreciate everyone that reads me and sends prayers and encouragement my way.  I need all of it to get me through the next 17!

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 2; Water = 7; Fruit = 1 apple; Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Proteins = shrimp; Veggies = romaine lettuce, onion, mushrooms, bell pepper, tomatoes; Friendly Fats = 1 Tbs. Olive Oil; Legumes = 0; natural starches = 2 basmati rice

Trying to keep my eating simple for a few days to have a positive affect on that scale.  I had another salad identical to yesterday. I made shrimp fajitas for dinner - which were delicious!  I ate it with rice.
God Bless.....

Day Fifteen - Cycle Two (Day 32)

Hello Everyone

     I am sorry I haven't blogged in a couple of days.  I have been busy working on a plan for myself.  Big changes are going on all around me.  I am looking forward to some of them!  Exited even.
    Today, I weighed myself as a pre-weigh in preview because I didn't want to be surprised on Friday when it was time to do the official weigh in.  I shouldn't have looked. I got really upset again because after coming down the other day, I was back up and it's frustrating.   I have been fighting with myself not to give in after I had someone I love hurt me deeply. 
     I moved the loaf of Poviticia bread to my son's room because it was just tooooo tempting.  The shiny foil just kept catching my eye.  It seemed to be speaking to me.  I wanted it to stop.  I even started lifting it up and feeling it and then moving in for the dreaded smell.  Once I did that, it was impossible to ignore it, so I moved it to my son's room.  However, as my luck would have it, my son moved it back in the kitchen today, and left it right in front of my computer!  What??!!  Oh No!  And that filthy scale was being mean to me again after I have been doing so good for over a month!  It was too much. My emotions are in turmoil.  I eat when I am upset or lonely - well emotional.  So, there I was, cutting it, trying to talk myself out of it, while at the same time, talking myself into it.  I was telling myself not to mess up what I have done so far.  I don't need it.  I don't really want it.  While the devil on the other shoulder was saying, just one small piece won't hurt.  You have been doing so well.  go ahead, you deserve it.  I am sure most of you know by now that the devil one that one!  More's the pity...
   

Monday, March 14, 2011

Day Fourteen - Cycle Two (Day 31)

S . O . S . - I'M SENDING UP THE SMOKE SIGNAL - I NEED ENCOURAGEMENT

So, somebody that I love has said some very hurtful things to me.  I am very upset.  I have been struggling and fighting the urge to just give in and eat something NOT on my life change plan.  It has been so hard for three days now.  I fear I may be losing the fight.  If I don't get some encouragement and support to keep me focused, I may resort to my old bad habits of eating to ease my emotions.
    I don't want to.  I have been so good, considering just how much I am hurting right now.  I have been flying high.  Feeling good.  Making progress.  Feeling proud of myself for maintaining this plan and my resolve.  I once again have to give myself over to GOD and let him be strong for me because I am weakening, but I DON'T want to.  Why do people always have to harsh some one's high?   Can't we all just love and support each other, and be happy for their successes?  


     It has taken me all weekend to realize and convince myself to stay the path and remain strong because I am doing this for myself, so I feel worthy all on my own - not because someone else validates me.  I will make it through this.  I will lose this weight.  It would be nice if I didn't care what people said or thought about me, but I do.  I am human, you know.  I have all the emotions of a skinny person.  Even if society finds my obesity unacceptable, I am a person with all the rights and feelings everyone else has.  Watch the way you talk to me! I am not having it anymore!
     I made 2 loaves of Poviticia (Sweet nut roll bread) for my sister yesterday, and she left one here for the kids.  I wish she had taken them both.  My little bit doesn't like it because of the nuts, and my son said he would eat some, but hasn't yet.   That loaf of bread keeps catching my eye and seems to be calling me to eat it.  I shouldn't even be feeling this kind of pressure.  Three days ago, it would not have bothered me.  Today, I am fighting against some ingrained instincts to stay away from it.  I have decided that when my son gets home that he needs to take it to his room, so I don't see it any more!  Out of sight - out of mind.  Remove the temptation, so I can win this battle!  Hey, sometimes, you need to run and hide, or in this case hide the enemy and run away, to live o fight another day.  It's not fair that someone else can have such a disastrous affect on me.  Send encouragement and prayers for me, so that I can prevail!

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 1; Water = 7; Fruit = 1 grapefruit; Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Proteins = ground beef, chicken breast; Vegetables = cabbage, onions, mushrooms, green beans; Friendly Fats = 2 Tbs. Olive Oil; Legumes - basmati rice; Friendly starches = baked potato; Outlook = In God's hands right now...

Day Thirteen - Cycle Two (Day 30)

CELEBRATE GOOD TIMES!  COME ON!

WHOOO HOOO!  I MADE IT THROUGH THIRTY (30) WHOLE DAYS OF HEALTHY EATING!  I AM SUPPER JAZZED TODAY.  FEELING THE BEST I HAVE IN SUCH A LONG TIME.  I HAVE HAD A FEW DISAPPOINTING THINGS HAPPEN TO ME TODAY, THAT I REFUSE TO LET TAKE ME DOWN OR OFF MY COURSE.  I REMAIN STEADFAST AND WILL SUCCEED AT THIS LIFESTYLE CHANGE.  I am doing this for me and not for anyone else.  Although, doing this for me, will have the added benefit of making the people who love me not have to worry about me so much.

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Day Twelve - Cycle Two (Day 29)

Off to Dad's for the night, so we can spend time with them , while they spend time with sis and bro-bee.  Had a great day.

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 2; Water = 9; Fruit = 3 - apple, orange, grapes;  Probiotics = 2- yogurts; Proteins - chicken breast, egg; Veggies = lettuce, cabbage, carrots, cucumber, tomatoes, onion, broccoli, onion, celery; Friendly Fats = 2 Tbs Olive Oil; Legumes = 0; Friendly Starches = 0; Outlook = positive

Day Eleven - Cycle Two (Day 28)

TODAY'S STATS:

Green Tea = 2; Water = 7; Fruit = 0; Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Protein = Chicken Breast, Chicken Breast; Veggies = onions, mushrooms, broccoli, cauliflower; Friendly Fats = 2 Tbs. Olive Oil; Friendly Starches = 0; Legumes = 0; Outlook - positive.

Day Ten - Cycle Two ( Day 27)

TODAY'S POSTING

     Still really busy with my family in town and funeral services to attend.  Everyone is trying to squeeze all the time out of the family members that are visiting from out of state.   It's been fun and hectic.  Not quite the vacation we had planned for May, that is now cancelled due to this impromptu trip. boo hoo.  However, it's so great to see everyone, some people I haven't seen or talked to in over 20 years.  good to have sis and bro-bee home (for the moment anyway.

TODAY'S STATS:

Green Tea = 2; Water = 7; Fruit = 1 - grapefruit; Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Proteins = Eggs, Chicken breast; Veggies = romaine lettuce broccoli, ; Friendly Fat = Fat Free Feta Cheese; Tbs. Olive Oil

Friday, March 11, 2011

Day Nine - Cycle Two (Day 26)

WHO SAID THIS CAN'T BE DONE?

     I used to think that!  I have always wanted to lose the weight, but I have failed so many times.  I really feel like I am in the right place to do this now.  I think you really have to have your mind in the game before you can succeed.  For some reason, God granted my prayers to give me strength to get this thing done, so my family and I can stop worrying about my health.  Thank you, God!
     I have spent the greater part of the last year in therapy, trying to work on my issues, so that I can lay them to rest and have a peaceful and successful life going forward.  I recommend it to anybody who is really struggling with issues that keep haunting you.  I know there used to be such a stigma associated with seeking assistence for mental health, but now a days, its almost criminal not to.  Do yourself and the world a favor and see a therapist for your issues.  I have made such progress this year.  One of my hardest and deepest issues was the passing of y mother - 14 years ago!  I really had a hard time letting go of her.  I refused to believe she was so ill, that she would die, so it was a shock to me when she did.  Then, instead of going through the cycle of grief, I got stuck in denial.  I felt guilt and pain for her loss that lasted all of those years.  I cried for no reason sometimes.  I was hurting.  I was hurting my family.  I kept myself so busy, and tried to push it back into my mind so I didn't have to deal with it, but it always resurfaced. (Is any of this sounding familiar to you?)  Therapy helped me finish the grieving process and lay my mother's death to rest.  I have finally said goodbye.  That is just one example of the progress I made last year.  I was able to fix several issues I was having.  I am working on my last one - my weight!  I am finally ready to give me all the attention I need to get healthy.  I started from the top (my head) and I am working my way down.  Thanks for joining me for this journey.

TODAY'S POSTING

     As I told you in yesterday's posting, I have been busy and unable to post, so I got a few days behind, but I kept track of my eating and stats because I really am in this to win this and I told you from the start that I am doing this to be accountable to me.  I also somehow feel accountable to all of you who read me.  I feel bad when I don't get my post done, because there are so many of you following and wanting the latest details.
     I have 8 more days until weigh in.  My friend Diana started her diet last week (she got sick and had to restart it).  However, she is doing fantastic!  She has lost 10 pounds in a week and a half! Congrats Again Di! She also bought a new scale that keeps track of her weight, calculates her BMI, Her Body Fat %, and her body moisture?  I am going to bite the bullet and go get one, because this scale here won't choose a number and keeps floating up and down.  I can't tell you how much I weigh because I don't have a definitive answer - and I have asked four different people to read it for me!  Yep!  Time to say goodbye to that fickle scale and go get me a new one that will track my progress with absolute numbers!  I am so excited.  It's hard to sit here and make myself finish these blogs because I am going to get it today and I want to leave now!
 
TODAY'S STATS

     Green Tea = 3; Water = 7; Fruit = 3 - an apple, red grapes,  and a grapefruit; Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Proteins = Chicken breast; Veggies = onions, mushrooms, green bell peppers, red bell peppers, tomatoes, romaine lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower; Friendly Fats = 1 tbs. olive oil; Legumes = Chickpeas; Friendly Starches = basmati rice.

Wow!  I ate a lot today.  This was the first day I felt hungry a lot. - even when I was eating, my stomach was growling and wanting more.  I had my usual breakfast, but then an apple for an early snack.  For lunch I ate a chicken Cesar salad at Camile's Cafe, with some red grapes. I had a yogurt for an afternoon snack.  Then I had the last leftover bit of fajitas with rice because I was still hungry and there wasn't a lot.  I drank 4 waters by now.  For dinner, I had a chicken breast with onions and mushrooms, and steamed broccoli, with raw cauliflower and hummus.   That is a lot of food.  But I did it right!
     I told Diana the other day, and I follow my own advice:  If you get hungry - EAT!  Just make sure its the allowable vegetables.  You can have unlimited amounts.  While the plan tells us to have three meals and two snacks a day.  The idea is to keep your body burning fat and increase your metabolism.  If your stomach is growling and hurting, your body starts to go into fat storage mode because it thinks its going to be starved again. That MUST be AVOIDED at all costs.  So, even though the book doesn't say so, I eat.  It has only happened once so far, but I will do it again, if the need arises.  Just make sure you are eating VEGGIES and NOT Cake or donuts, etc. JUST DON"T DO IT!
God Bless...

Day Eight - Cycle Two (Day 25)


TODAY'S POSTING

     I have been so busy these last few days.  Everything is taking me three times as long to do on this computer of mine.  It just keeps freezing.  I just restored the whole thing and updated the software,  However, it needs a faster processing brain!  It is soooo frustrating!  It's been the bane of my existence.  I can't blog because of all the wait times.  I can't farm because it won't barely change pages!  It just stops in the middle of doing something and just sits there for hours!  ARRGGHH!  Calgon take me away!  :-)  I have lost several crops recently.  I have had to quit co-op jobs or not be able to contribute to my own jobs!  I am so sorry Jenni.  I hope you are reading this because I have been trying to send you a message of fv and I just can't get it to act right.  Thank you for joining my o-op and doing ALL of the work!  I hope it pays of for you!      
    
OK!  Now that I got that off of my chest.  I have been extremely busy and do not remember any details of my day for today, so I am just going to post my Stats and what I ate for you today.  I have remained faithful to my eating plan and always remember to plan when I am going out.  Even when I am busy, I stop and make myself eat and drink!

TODAY'S STATS

Green Tea = 3; Water = 6; Fruit = 1 apple; Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Proteins = chicken breast, steak, salmon, shrimp; Vegetables = onions, mushrooms, tomatoes, bell peppers, broccoli; Friendly Fats = 2 tbs. olive oil; Natural Starch = 1 cup basmati rice; Outlook = positive!

     So, I had my standard lemon water in the am and green tea.  Had an apple and a yogurt for breakfast.  For snack, I also had a yogurt (I was running low on fruit and needed to go shopping), with 2 waters and a tea.  Lunch was leftover fajitas with rice, a tea and 2 waters.  Dinner was a 3 oz sirloin steak, a 3 oz. salmon, and a skewer of grilled shrimp (8), with a cup of broccoli.  The total calories for dinner was 400!  It sounds like a like more, huh?  The shrimp was only 60 calories for all of them - there is no fat and no sugars in them either!  The steak and chicken grilled saved calories, but made up the most calories for dinner at 310, and the broccoli was 30.  Delicious!

I hope this bog is helping someone out there besides me!  I am enjoying the food and recipes, but it would be nice to hear from someone else who has tried them.  (Heather - have you started your 18 day diet yet?  If so, have you tried any o my recipes?)

Day Seven - Cycle Two (Day 24)

TODAY'S POSTING

     Up at 7:25, looked at clock and wondered why we weren't awakened by the telephone ringing at 7.  Called my friend Yvette to see what happened (she usually takes the little bit to school in the mornings).  She was sick and forgot to call and tell us.  Rushed to get ready.  Had to all a Taxi to take her to school.  Came back home, and found I had locked myself out.  I rang the doorbell for a few minutes until my son realized he needed to get up and answer the door. 
      Prepared and drank my lemon water.  It was the correct temperature and went down fairly easily.  I prepared my tea.  I ate my yogurt and a grapefruit for breakfast, along with my tea.  I also drank 2 waters.  I was expecting to be busy all day with an old friend, but he had to cancel and reschedule for tomorrow.
     Therefore, I spent the day updating my blog, farming my farm on farmville (I am currently undertaking serious renovations of my farm right now).  BTW, if any out there reading this plays farmville and is NOT my neighbor yet, PLEASE send me an invite to be your neighbor.  I need 6 more people before it will let me expand my land, and I desperately need the room.  I just put in my Mardi Gras Corner - in my favorite colors!  It's pretty.  I also have my Irish center done in green and gold.  I recently acquired a bakery and moved up two levels.  I am currently growing crops to help me bake goods for sale.  I still need to rearrange some things and fix the school yard back up.  I am digging a pond, and have plans for a greenhouse and a bee hive soon.
     Lunch was interesting.  I soaked chickpeas (garbanzo beans) all night.  I used them to make a fat free humus (see recipe below) that was pretty good.  I ate cauliflower with it and enjoyed it a lot.  I also had a salad with turkey chunks and fat free feta sprinkled in.  Another 2 waters went with lunch.  I saved the leftover hummus for another time.
     I am reminded that yesterday when I ate the leftover artichoke hearts and asparagus salad that I also sprinkled some fat free feta on that, and it really helped add flavor to it and but some of the tartness.  I like this fat free feta without any Mediterranean seasonings in it.  I thought that all feta cheese had those seasonings in it.  I never realized it comes plain.
     For dinner, I still have a tons of chickpeas left.  I put some in the freezer, some in the fridge, and still had a small bowl left over.  I made some home made salsa (see recipe below) with my Magic Bullet to go with dinner, and I decided to put some salsa into the bowl of chickpeas and try that.  It was really good!  The salsa was very tasty and added lots of flavor to what otherwise were plain beans.  I had looked up recipes for chickpeas, but found mostly different hummus recipes or ones with ingredients I can't have.  So, my salsa idea was plan B, and I believe it worked out well.  I prepared chicken Fajitas (see recipe below) for dinner with basmati rice.  It was fantastic.  I didn't even need the salsa to enhance the flavor.  I saved the leftover salsa for other dishes.
   As I was eating the fajitas with rice (the family eats them with tortillas), I was thinking about what kind of wrap I could put mine in, that would still be flavorful and good.  I thought about lettuce, but it would be cold and ruin the warmth of the fajitas.  Then, it dawned on me that the fajita mixture would taste fantastic in a cabbage leaf rolled up like a chicken and vegetable cabbage roll.  The flavor was reminiscent of my family's cabbage roll recipe (which I plan on making soon, because it contains ingredients I an have- it's a family favorite and passed down at least three generations that I know of - four if you count my daughter, but she makes her with shredded chicken because she doesn't eat beef).    I am definitely going to make cabbage to go with the fajitas next time.  I will include that as an option in the recipe below for those who want to try it and are not eating flour tortillas.  Otherwise, the normal recipe is eaten with small soft taco sized tortillas (try wheat or vegetable if you can find them, they are a healthier choice).
     I called my sister in Kansas, as her and her family are leaving to come out here tomorrow, with a planned arrival on Wednesday.  My brother-in-law's sister passed away Sunday morning after having a heart attack at the age of 47.  My thoughts and prayers go out to him and his entire family.  At one time, his sister Donna was my sister's best friend.  I was also married to their brother at one time, for a short time, a very long time ago, so I am still part of the family.  It's always sad to lose someone.  I interrupted my dinner to call, and I ended up staying on the phone for almost an hour.  I ended up not eating very much for dinner.  I felt full an satisfied at the time, but for the first time since I started this eating program, I was hungry about an hour later.  I tried water and tea for about an hour before I gave in and decided to have a snack to fill me up again.  I ate broccoli with salsa and hummus.  Also very tasty and filling..

FAT FREE HUMMUS RECIPE

(This recipe comes from the recipe book that came with my Magic Bullet)

     1 can of chickpeas (14 oz.) or cook fresh ones yourself (see directions below)
     2-4 splashes of fat free, reduced sodium chicken or vegetable broth
     2 tbs. lemon juice
     2 cloves of garlic
     sprinkle paprika (optional)
     salt and pepper to taste

Add all ingredients, except paprika, in blender (or Magic Bullet) and blend until smooth.  Do not add too much broth, as it will break down the chickpeas.  Splash a little at a time in and add more as needed until the consistency is smooth, but sort of thick.

Voila!  Fat Free Hummus!  This is a really good recipe.

     To Cook Your Own Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans) - soak peas in water with a tsp. soda overnight. in fridge.  Drain.  Rinse well.  Drain all water off.  Cook in plenty of water for 2 hours on a constant simmering boil.  Drain and rinse.  Use in recipes.

SEVEN SECOND SALSA RECIPE

     1 - 2 boiler onions or 1/4  of a regular onion (about 1/4 cup)
     1/6 to 1/4 jalapeno pepper (add more if you like it hot and spicy)
     8-10 cherry tomatoes or 1 regular sized tomato
     1 - 2 Cloves of garlic
     small sprigs of cilantro
     salt and pepper to taste

Place all vegetables in the order listed into the Magic Bullet large cup or your blender.   In the Magic Bullet you just give it a few slight taps to pulsate it a couple times so that salsa remains chunky.  Do same in blender.

Voila! 7-second salsa! This is delicious!  No reason to spend money eating out!

CHICKEN FAJITA RECIPE

This recipe is my husband's creation, and it is delicious!  The whole family loves this, and the kids don't usually eat onions and bell peppers!

ADJUST AMOUNTS TO SUIT YOUR FAMILIES NEEDS
     1 whole onion (red or your favorite)
     1 whole green bell pepper
     1 whole red bell pepper (or orange or yellow)
     1 package of sliced mushrooms (optional)
     1 -2 tomatoes
     1 -2 pounds of meat (This recipe works great for CHICKEN, SHRIMP OR STEAK)
     season salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste
     sour cream (optional)

NOTE:   To make the Shrimp fajitas real easy on you look for UNCOOKED, but already shelled and deveigned shrimp.

Julienne (thinly slice long pieces) all the onions and peppers.  Do Not Dice. Tomatoes can be diced.   You want to leave things in strips at least 2 inches long.  Wash meat.  Slice meat into thin strips. Heat a pan sprayed with Pam and add 1 tbs. oil.  When oil is warm, add your meat.  Season meat to taste - HINT: the season salt is providing your "fajita" flavoring don't be stingy with it, but don't go overboard either!  Stir meat while cooking thoroughly.  If using shrimp it is done when they turn bright orange and are no longer translucent.  The chicken should cook or 7-9 minutes - you can cut into a large piece to check for pink to see when done.  Remove meat from pan and set aside for a moment - cover to keep warm.

Put 1 tbs olive oil in same pan.  Toss in all vegetables.  Stir fry up those vegetables until they are soft and cooked through.  Add meat back in and stir up.  Toss in tomatoes and cook for about 2 minutes.

This recipe is made for tortillas - soft taco size (small).  You can serve with sour cream!  This dish is so delicious that you don't need any other condiments.  However, you could serve with cheese, salsa, guacamole.

Healthier Eating Options:  If you are trying to eat healthier, like me - do not use the tortillas (or use vegetable or wheat tortillas).  Use 1 cup of cooked basmati rice, place fajitas over the rice and enjoy.

Another Healthier Serving Option:  Take a cooked cabbage leaf and roll up some rice and your fajita mix into a cabbage leaf and eat it as a wrap.  You could probably afford to eat 2-3 of these (using your 1 cup of rice and all the vegetables mix you can fit in them.

Voila! Superb Fajitas!  This is the best recipe!!!!!

TODAY'S STATS:

Green Tea = 2; Water = 4 (yikes); Fruit = 1 grapefruit; Probiotics = 2 yogurts; Proteins = turkey breast, chicken breast, chickpeas; Veggies = lots! - romaine lettuce, cauliflower, onions, mushrooms, green bell peppers, red bell peppers, tomatoes, garlic, lemon; Friendly Fats = 2 Tbs olive oil; Fat free Feta Cheese

Monday, March 7, 2011

Day Six - Cycle Two (Day 23)

TODAY'S POSTING

     I had a pretty uneventful day, for which I am thankful for.  It's nice to no have a thousand things going on, so I can relax.  I slept in until 9:45.  Drank my lemon water.  Ate a yogurt, and tried to eat my apple, but it didn't taste good.  I woke up with a sore throat.  I ate the flesh of the apple and left the skin because it was sticking to my throat.  I had a tea.  I cleaned and cooked most of the day.
     I had leftovers for lunch.  I did eat the salad cold.  It was really good chilled.  I was going to heat it, but I liked it too much to chance ruining it.  I also ate left over salsa chicken again.  I had a yogurt for snack because I am running low on fruits.  I don't go shopping again until Tuesday.
     I put stew meat in the slow cooker to tenderize it.  I was going to try to make an edible stew for me and the family, but I didn't have carrots.  So, I decided to make the meat so tender it almost falls apart, then put bar-b-que sauce on it and broil it, so it's like ribs - only smaller.  I made baked potatoes (in the microwave), and broccoli with cauliflower.  It was a delicious dinner.  I made the bar-b-que sauce for my meat from Dr. Mike's recipe, which worked out well.  I was a little worried because when I first made it, it smelled like ketchup ad Worcestershire sauce and nothing like bar-b-que sauce.  However, I chilled it in the fridge until the meat was ready (a few hours).  When I took it out to use, it smelled good.  It didn't smell as good as Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce, but it definitely was edible ad a nice change in flavors.  I'll post Dr. Mike's BBQ sauce recipe below for those that don't have the book.  It's quick and simple. (however, you should get the book because it has a lot of stuff you want to keep referring to in order to guide you to success!  There are more recipes, meal plans for each cycle, your shopping lists for each cycle, and many other suggestions and tips for losing that weight.

     I grilled up some onions and mushrooms to put in my baked potato with seasonings.  It tasted fantastic.  I thought I would miss the butter, but I didn't.  The flavor of the onions and mushrooms overcame that deficiency. They also taste good with the other vegetables, as I have mentioned before.
    
TODAY'S STATS

     Green Tea = 3-1/2; Water = 7; Fruit = 1 (apple); Probiotics = 2 (yogurt); Proteins = chicken breast, beef; Vegetables = artichoke hearts, asparagus, tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, broccoli, cauliflower; Friendly Fats = 2 Tbs Olive Oil; Outlook = still going strong - like the energizer bunny.


DR. MIKE'S BBQ SAUCE

     3/4 cup low carb ketchup (reduced sugar)
     2 Tbs. Worcestershire Sauce
     1 Tbs. Agave Nectar
     1 Tsp. chili powder

Mix ingredients together in small bowl.  For best results, cover and refrigerate for an hour or more prior to use.  Use on your favorite meats.

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Day Five - Cycle Two (Day 22)

TODAY'S POSTING

     Woke up to the Burlesque soundtrack, as the little bit also loves it, and loves to play it.  She kept jumping on me to get up and dance with her, so I finally did.  How can you be mad at that.  Been listening to it all day, AND dancing to it all day!  Moving this body people  - feels good - if a bit awkward at times, but I don't let it deter me from the knowledge that I am shimmying and shaking all this blubber right off of my bones!
   
Still feeling so Alive and good.  What a gorgeous day it is today!  I've got all the doors and windows open.  I am doing laundry, and updating the blog today, since I got behind a couple of days.  I am doing chair dancing while I sit, and regular dancing while I stand and cook or take breaks from sitting (or if the music just gets me, I jump up and gyrate all over for a few minutes). 
       I saw a DVD that teaches a sexy fitness workout to burlesque beats.  I am considering purchasing this.  Not only because I can lose weight from the workouts, but also, I can learn some sexy dances that may be something I can do for the husband.  Anyway, it sounds fun.  I'll keep you posted on this development as I consider it more.  If you are interested in in, I posted the link to the left.


      I have a stack of books I am supposed to be reading, but I just can't get enough of this music!  I also have some things I am supposed to be working on for my friends.  I will have to get to that tomorrow as the sun is going down already.  I have been at this computer or dancing all day.

     Oh yea, I forgot to tell you that while I was out with Diana yesterday, we went to Trader Joe's, and I was so surprised at how big and bright it was in there.  I have only been to Trader Joe's twice in my life and once was in San Francisco the other in Everett, WA.  They were nothing like this store.  This one looked like a regular grocery store, whereas the other ones were much smaller and darker.  They only carried dry goods, if I remember correctly.  It was so nice!  I was looking for that elusive Kefir and Agave Nectar.  I actually found them there!  You an also find them online.  This is the brand I bought, but my bottle was smaller and only cost around $4.  The Kefir milk was about $3 for a pint.  I wanted the Kefir so I can make smoothies.  I need the agave nectar for a couple of recipes, including Dr. Mike's Bar-b-Que sauce recipe.   I have been wanting to make Bar-b-Que chicken breasts for weeks now, but can't make it without that agave nectar.  I sure hope it was worth the trouble and cost.  The young man at Trader Joe's said he uses it and its delicious.  He said it's so good he even puts it on his pancakes.  He said it's sweeter than syrup so you don't use as much.  I am anxious o do something with it.  Maybe it will be bar-b-que beef instead tomorrow.  Although, I don't know what to have with it.  I can't have pulled beef sandwiches, because I can't have bread.  I may make rice or beans (or both) to just go with bar-b-que beef of some kind???  I will have to think about it.  I also found fat free feta cheese.  I have never had plain feta, it's always had Mediterranean spices in it, so that will be interesting.  I also found some soy cheese that is fat free.  That ought to be interesting too.  BTW I found my artichoke hearts at TJ's also.

Day Four - Cycle Two (Day 21)

CELEBRATION TIME - COME ON - LET'S CELEBRATE!

     Today marks the end of three entire weeks of my new life change eating, and begins my fourth!  How about that?  I am so stoked!.  I can hardly contain myself.  I am bursting with energy, and feeling so great!  This is the longest I have gone healthy eating.  Things I had long forgotten about are coming back to me.  For instance, I am wanting to listen to loud music again.  I have been playing (and dancing to) the
Burlesque sound track!  Man!  I Love that Movie and Music!  Cher and Christina really out did themselves.  I was completely surprised by Christina, but Cher was true to form, like this role was written just for her.  It was classic Cher.  They both rocked their performances!  This is a feel good movie and soundtrack.  I dare you to watch it or listen to it and NOT feel like moving or dancing!  Go ahead!  Try it!

      I have also been dabbling in putting makeup on again.  I don't war it all the time yet, but I am picking up pieces here and there, and pretty soon, I will be fully stocked and able to put my face back on.  I used to never step outside my home without makeup, and in the last couple years, I lost enthusiasm for that for two reasons.  One is
because it's so hot up here that it just melts off my face and looks terrible.  Secondly, it wasn't doing its job of hiding the ugly because it can't hide fat.  My face has gotten so big, it's nearly unrecognizable as me.  However, that's changing. 
 

"Somethings got a hold of me, and I hope it stays with me.  It sure feels strange, but it sure feels good." (Burlesque Soundtrack)

     I don't know what it happening, but I like it. I want to rock it out, dance it out, exercise it out until I lose this fat and find myself again.  I already feel so ALIVE again.  I don't ever want to lose this feeling!  I want to keep it with me for the rest of my life.  I can't wait to live life to the fullest again.  I have wasted so much time!  I have a lot to make up for and I plan on taking advantage of every second God allows me to make up for it.



Day Three Cycle Two (Day 20)

TODAY'S POSTING

     Up at 7, got little bit off to school (Thank you again, Yvette).   Lemon water, as the doctor prescribed.  Green tea - ah, so comforting.  Yogurt and an apple.  TCB.  Grapefruit for snack.  Salad with romaine, tuna, and 2 boiled eggs, with kefir ranch for lunch.  Off to pick up baby girl.  Wanted to take a taxi, but made myself walk it out because of the promise I made myself to get more exercise this cycle forward.  After getting her from school, we walked another 10 blocks to go looking around CVS.  Caught the bus home, and walked the remaining 7 blocks.
    I had put on slow cooker salsa chicken around noon, so it was ready when we got home.  I ate it with shredded romaine lettuce, salsa and a scoop of fat free sour cream.  It wasn't really as good as it was by itself (last time), but I ate it anyway with some Brussels sprouts (that I didn't cook long enough).  All in all, dinner was a bust.  I think I cooked it too long (longer than last time) because the chicken didn't have much of the salsa flavor this time, that's why I had to add some.  I still like my ground beef/turkey taco salad more.  However, it was another successful day of eating right, and it filled me up. I am not living to eat anymore (taste), I am eating to live (sustain myself).

TODAY'S STATISTICS

      Green Tea = 3; Water = 5 (I know!); Fruit = 2 (apple, grapefruit); Probiotics = 2; Proteins = Tuna, eggs, Chicken breast; Vegetables = romaine lettuce, Brussels sprouts; Friendly Fats = 0; Outlook = Positive.

    Another day, pretty ordinary, but I am thankful to have been blessed with it, and the opportunity to undo some of the damage I have done to my body over the past 6 years.  I am also thankful for the strength and courage to keep going!

GOD BLESS...

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Day Two - Cycle Two (Day 19)

OH HAPPY DAY!

     So, I get up this morning around 7:30 to get the little one off to school.  I asked her to make my lemon water, so half-heartedly made it (she didn't really juice the entire half of the lemon - in fact, she barely got the top part out).  I made my own tea, and ate my yogurt and fruit.   I intended to sit back down and watch a movie, but as always, the computer draws me in.  However, it was giving me problems freezing up.  So while I sat here, my mind started thinking about my weigh in yesterday.  I actually was feeling lighter than yesterday, so I wondered to myself ("self", I said),  "  I wonder how much you weigh today?  I resisted as long as I could, but with the computer thinking, I gave up and went to the garage to weigh myself.  Since it was not an official weigh in, I didn't take everything off to be lighter, I just climbed up on it.  I was mildly amused and extremely excited and thrilled that the scale, (scoundrel that he is) decided to try and make up with me for what he did yesterday.  He said I was four pounds down  from yesterday's weight!!  Woo Hoo! 
    I recently posted some shoes on facebook that boasts 4 inch heels that are slammin', and I am going to own me some of them shoes as soon as I lose this weight and can climb up on them again.  I have really missed wearing my high heels.  I always feel sexy in them.  Shoes used to be my thing.  Nowadays shopping doesn't interest me much because there is nothing I want to buy.  I want to purchase all the sexy shoes and clothes, but that isn't possible since it's very difficult to feel sexy while being this large.  I actually hate going shopping for myself now, when I used to love to treat me to new things all the time.  I am telling you, this weight affects EVERYTHING in our lives.  That was one of my favorite past-times, was going to the mall, ask my older daughter, we used to go all the time.
    I had grapes for snack, they were crunchy and delicious.  I made a (1) grilled chicken breast on my George Forman Grill.  I steamed some cauliflower and broccoli, and I grilled onions & mushrooms to top it all off for lunch.  For dinner, I made my friend Diana's Meatball Soup recipe, which the family loves!  I will post it below, as usual.  It's quick, simple, and can be made on the stove top or in the slow cooker.
  Other than that, I have spent most of my day TCB.  I made some color changes to my blog - I hope you enjoy the new color scheme and rearrangement.

Day One - Cycle Two (Day 18)

THE RESULTS PLEASE.....

     The much awaited results had me anxious and excited to step onto that scale this morning.  Never before have I said I wanted to step on a scale.  So sure was I that I had a big loss getting ready to stare me in the face.  I had high hopes for a big loss - double digits is what I told everyone.  I was secretly hoping for 26 pounds, but would have been happy with 15.   After stepping on the scale and looking at it five or six times, maybe more.  I burst into tears!  I had bare minimum clothes on, so that offered no excuse.  I moved the scale from my kitchen floor (linoleum) onto the garage floor (concrete) to see if that made a difference because the last time I weighed was at Diana's house, and she has a hard tile floor.  I was using the same scale, just a different location for weighing in.  It helped with 2 pounds.  I checked to make sure the scale was set at zero.  I weighed myself four more times.  Then, I realized the reality of what it was telling me was the truth.
     As I struggled to remember all of the words of advice I had just given on my blog the last couple of days, tears streaked my face.  I had to call in re-enforcements.  I had to try to understand what went wrong.  I just spent 17 long days, eating the best I have ever eaten in my entire life.  I deprived myself of all the good things I want that are bad for me, in order to see and feel a difference in my body.  I said no to the cake.   I said no all the goodies at the movies, while the buttered popcorn smell filled my nostrils.  I said no to the bar-b-Que hot pockets every time the family made some, even when their smelled lingered for hours in the air of my kitchen and assailed me upon opening the microwave door to heat my green tea.  I said no to fast food!  I said no to those donuts on day eleven when I was down.  That is what is so torturous about this whole ordeal.  This is unacceptable!  I am fighting a war, but losing the battle.  I need my allies now more than ever.
     Dr. Mike says in his book.  He said, if the scale is not giving you the numbers you are looking for, don't worry about it.   He said, if you are going to worry about a number, think about your blood pressure, your cholesterol, your blood sugars, etc.  Those are the numbers that have seen serious improvement over the last seventeen days.  I just gave a friend who lost 6 pounds on her first cycle (granted she only has about 15 pounds to lose) and was unhappy about the result not to focus on the scale, because it can play tricks on you, but to focus on how her clothes were fitting, and how she felt.  It's time to take my own advice and listen to the experts!