HELP

Okay I know I haven't blogged in a long time but it has been crazy.  I need help!!!!  I have gained back all I lost and I am eating good stuff but I think just too much.
I have now started using a saucer for my dinner, lunch and breakfast.  Still walking and exercising but I have no one to be accountable too!  I have lost touch with everybody and I am lost.
If anyone has any ideas, please let me know. 
So I am putting out a plea for help and if there is anyone out there listening-PLEASE help!!
Love to all!!

It is so hot out...

I am so hot I feel like I am melting! (One way to loose weight)  Went to Farmer's Market today and bought popcorn-wasn't even 3 cups -and boy was it good!
Packing for vacation which starts Sunday.  I can not wait.  It is going to be hard to resist all the food but I am taking some to help me get through (already have the Kashi packed).
Phone ringing but I will be back!!!

I'm back.....

Missed me?  I have missed everyone!  It has been a bad few months but I am back!  My life has seem to be spiraling down and I was wondering if I would ever get back again--I have and in the form of a watch!  Yes, a watch!!!
My mom had passed away at Easter time and I watched her suffer and told myself I wasn't going to end up that way.  Well, guess what--I started eating like a fool and I mean a big fool!  She had left some jewelry for the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and one of the items I received was a watch.  Now to look at this watch, the way it was, it was pretty but needed a good clean up.  I took it to the jewlwry store and they made it beautiful so I decided if that watch could be cleaned up so could I!  So, I am back.
Going on vacation next week and those cheese fries at Knoebel's are so tempting (maybe just one order and not seven) but I am going to be like that watch and get cleaned up and live my life to the fullest!
Thank you Carolyn and Fawn for not giving up on me!  I also had tests regarding my lap band and am just waiting for the surgeon to call!  During those test I found out my thyroid was under active and my pituitary gland in my brain (I have one) is over active so now on new med for that!
I am going to conquer this addiction to food! (bad food that is)
Love to all!

Squirrels...

I have been feeding the squirrels and birds around our house for a couple of years now, well today the strangest thing happened--I was clipping coupons and I heard a scratching at the door.  Very soft scratching!  There in front of my door were empty peanut shells--I got left a present and a reminder.  Kinda cute!!!
What in the world do I do with rhubarb?  Picked some today and have it cooking on the stove but I do not know what to do with it.  Now my mom and grandma would make jam and pies but I have never done that.  Some say to mix it with strawberries and make a sauce for ice cream--but I don't eat ice cream any more.  HELP!!!
My journey has taken a twist.  I am a very bad, brittle diabetic and my blood sugars have been dipping below 80 for the past two days.  It makes me off balance so I fall, it makes me shake so I spill things.  If anyone has any ideas please let me know.
I do not know when the last time I thanked Fawn for all she has done for me.  So Fawn when you read this--THANK YOU!  My life has been changed by you, you have given me hope and self confidence into being just me, but a healthier me!
Going to cry, another side effect, so I am going to end right now and go look at this rhubarb and figure what to do with it!
Love to all!

where has time gone....

I can't believe that I haven't blogged in so long--but a lot has happened in that month!  I lost my best friend-my mom- on April 23rd.  She had been sick a long time and it really was a blessing, because I know where she is.
I had to stop the journey for a bit--I was a little depressed-but I am back on it now with a flourish.  Lost 1/2 pound last week but it doesn't matter I feel good!!!
I really can't stay on long my computer is updating itself! 
So love to everyone, I'kk be back on tomorrow!

Still alive......

Yes for all of those that were worried I am still alive.  It has been a rough couple of weeks but I am here.  I have double vision in one eye so it makes it kind of hard to type on a keyboard but I am trying.
I have not got weighed in such a long time because it seemed fruitless.  I have been on steroids for so long that it was making my blood sugars go hay wire (had some over 400, in face last night had one 422) that I have been pumping in insulin likemad.  Now I am done with them and I am ready to start my journey again in earnest.  I am not saying I haven't been on my journey, what I am saying that it didn't matter to me because of the steroids.  It seemed waste less.
So today is the beginning again and I really need to buy a new scale!!!  I guess I am probably at 450 pounds (ha ha) just joking.  I really do not know.
My husband and I are going to Lancaster, Pennsylvania for Easter.  The trip has been paid for about a year.  My in-laws (sister and brother) and us go every years so this is going to be a challenge to stay on the journey while we are there.  If anyone doesn't know it is Amish country and boy do they cook good!
Joe and I are doing the journey together.  He went to the heart specialist and he needs to loose some weight.  Boy this is going to be fun.
Well, my bladder is telling me I need to pay attention to it.
So love to all!

Last blog March 7th how is that possible....

Can't believe I haven't posted since March 7th.  Well, here I am again!  Aren't you all lucky.  I haven't weighed in awhile but I have been in the hospital with another stroke!!  Now I have terrible double vision and a dragging foot--oh well a lot of good things did come out of my visit though!  Sounds funny doesn't it.  But I got to witness and I feel good about it.
Everyone please read Marcy Burke's post!  The tail of the squirrel will never be forgotten and she will have that image in her brain forever!
I am still on my journey and it has been hard.  I am addicted though to almonds and have been eating them for snacks with other things.  Been watching my grand daughter because she has been sick but now I think she has given it to me.
I'll write more later but right now I am going to take a nap!
Love to all!!

Can you believe this........

SNOW AGAIN...I think Elmira is in the new snow belt!!!  I am so sick of it!
Well, after having a disappointing weigh in last week and then ending back on steroids--I just want to get rid of this crude!!  It seems to be hanging on to everyone though and all I know is that the pharmaceutical companies are making a great deal of money with all these antibiotics being percsribed!
I have been watching my food intake, the stuff I take in and following my journey all along the way.  I haven't even had a tootsie roll.  I did have two jelly belly jelly beans (popcorn flavor) yesterday.
I want to leave this point of wisdom with everyone:
WE IS FRIENDS
Me and You is friends
You smile, I smile...
You Hurt, I hurt...
You cry, I cry...
You jump off a bridge
I gonna miss your E-Mails.
Love to all!

IT'S GOING TO SNOW AGAIN......

Okay, okay I get it--snow is necessary-but is the cold weather that is associated with it necessary.  Couldn't it be 65 !!!  I have had it.  This morning when I went for my walk I almost didn't because of the weather.
I have relented and I am letting Joe have a hot dog and roll for supper!  He has an appetite for his favorite food.  He called and said that it has been a horrible day at work and that his chest wasn't feeling right.  But he said he was okay.  Called my friend Ramona (who is also his doctor) and told her and she wanted him to come right over but Mr. Stubborn went on a delivery and I haven't talked to him since.  I have a feeling that we will have a guest tonight.
Last night's Bungaroo was very good.  I froze a lot-it makes servings for 12-but had some for lunch.  It does give you a little gas from the cabbage but just take Beano!!  It is an unusual soup/stew.  I will post it soon.  It is everything, at least, I can have!
Be right back!
Love to all!

I am beginning to HATE this weather....

I know that there is a reason for all this weather but -4 degrees in the morning and then 31 degrees in the afternoon, no wonder everyone is getting sick!!
Made "Bungaroo" for supper and I will share the recipe on Sunday with a few friends.  Joe loved it and had two bowlfuls and wanted me to pack a bowl for his lunch tomorrow.  I am really blown away that he liked it.
Today when I weighed in at my endocrinologist I was 3 more pounds lighter.  Isn't it amazing that 3 scales could have different readings!  Wait till Monday and I will see if any of them are right.
My blood sugars are back to normal-as normal as they can get.  But my insulin intake has been lowered and I am so glad for that.
Another snowstorm is headed our way and it is supposed to hit Friday--Better get a lot of walking done in by then.  Do have the wii but it looks kinda funny doing my exercises with the walker in front of the fitness pad in case I start to topple.
Cleaned cupboards out yesterday to help a needy family within our church.  Got rid of a lot of white rice, breaded chicken and frozen dinners!!!
Love to all!

8 degrees out...B-R-R-R-R-R

Okay, when I started my walk this morning it was 8 degrees out, when I got back it was a heat wave--12 degrees out.  I had to walk today because of the snowstorm yesterday and I wasn't able to!
Joe is slowly asking questions.   This morning he wanted to know what kind of nuts he could have with his apple for snack.  I told him it could either be peanut butter or almonds.  So I do not know what he will decide.  Hopefully, one of these days I can go grocery shopping with him and get him fully on the journey!
I am making chili today and those of you who know me real well, know I hate any kind of bean!  I did put beans in because Joe loves them but I made it with a new organic sauce that Carolyn found at a local grocery store, no salt added petite cut tomatoes and of course tons of spices.  I also used ground turkey--he won't know the difference.
I happen to have a thought this morning while taking my shower--oh you know what's coming--when the weather starts getting nice, it will be back to shaving legs all the time!  UGH!!!
Hey my blood sugars are back to normal after my stringent course of steroids.  I am stoked.
Well, I hope everyone is enjoying the weather where you are--I'm not!
Love to all!

"Oh the weather outside is frightful, but my weigh in wasn't delightful.....

Okay, my weigh in wasn't the best but it wasn't my worst either.  I gained 1/2 a pound but, no excuses, I have been on steroids for a week now due to pneumonia.  Next week better!
My little bit of wisdom this week is: It's all about getting the hang of things. Easy does it; take it easy.   You'll figure everything out in time.  But for right now, just keep trying.  Pay attention and avoid the temptations to go further than you're ready.  Talk less.  And listen more.
Also, I made some amazing chicken the other day. Took 6 pieces of any part of the chicken (I used drumsticks and thighs) 2 tbsp. of olive oil 2 tsp. Paprika, 1 1/2 tsp. crushed Rosemary leaves, 1 tsp. minced Garlic, and 1/2 tsp. coarse ground Black Pepper.  Tossed everything together with some cut up sweet potatoes and put them in the oven at 425 for 30 minutes or until chicken is done.  Man was it good.  Loved the spices.  Still experimenting with everything.  Don't forget to line your pan with foil and spray it with a non-stick cooking spray!
Love to all!

What a day...

It is so beautiful out that I have upstairs windows upon to get some fresh air in the house.  Even have the screen open a little on the door.  Spraying Lysol everywhere.
Well, today I have my only granddaughter home from school.  On Tuesday she was telling me that she was running fast from the stomach bug and it wouldn't catch her.  Well, guess what it caught her.  She is so upset because she perfect attendance till today.
I am sneaking things in to Joe's diet like you would not believe!  Last night i snuck in avocado into the salad, whole wheat rules for his steak sub, and sweet potato french fries.  He liked it all!!!!
Lois,my accountability partner, has decided to visit her sister Lynette so I can't help her for awhile.  I do not know how long she is going to be there.
Just remember, I have to tell myself all the time, this journey is just not for us to loose but for us to regain our confidence and self esteem back and I am having a blast--hope everyone else is.
Congrats Cande for reaching a goal!!!! That is my next goal and I can't wait!
Love to everyone!

Falling apart....

I think I am falling apart slowly but surely.

Took Joe to the doctors, and we now have to go and see more specialist!!  Good thing the VA is taking care of it, I am already broke!

Last night I made a "Kitchen Boss" recipe-Rosemary Roasted Chicken with Potatoes.  I used Sweet potatoes and Joe never notice.  I had a leftover drumstick and Brussels sprouts for lunch today.  It was very good.

Well, on this journey I am learning lots of stuff-some people just need to see a success, some people need the evidence of someone feeling better and some just need a hug!! People are joining on so fast since Tuesday it is spreading like wild fire.  Wouldn't it be wonderful if we could be called the Greatest Losers and Feel Goodies of Elmira!  Doesn't make sense I know but it was a shot.

I am feeling good and I painted my nails and ordered mascara.  Don't faint--shaved legs, painted nails and mascara I am not turning into the Sexy Forever Barbie--I just feel proud of what I am doing and want to be a confident person.

Okay I am going to try again to get on some other blogs and read them.  I think I am just computer illiterate.
Love to Everyone!

Exciting times are happening...

Last night Fawn gave an excellent seminar on Food, Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyles.  So many people are very interested in what she talked about.  We had a bunch of snacks--which people were kind of shocked that it was stuff you can eat.  I am really excited because my husband, Joe, is starting the journey with me--my daughter, Marie, is also going to start.  My daughter-in-law who had gastric bypass surgery about 9 years ago has also asked for the hand outs that were given last night.  I do not want to see my children and grandchildren die before me.  I want them to feel good about themselves, get a little self esteem, maybe lots.  My grandson who is nine loves to eat but he also plays sports continually, last night though his basketball team got brutally beat in the play offs and he got fouled out for boxing a person in.  They lost by 1 point.
Me I am doing great.   I may be sick but I still went for my walk today but I know for sure I am not doing the inhaler thing--it makes me cough.
I am so excited that accountability is part of this journey.  I have a person who is going to use me as her accountable person.  I hope that I can get her out walking and doing other stuff.  My daughter has called me twice today wanting to know about the 100 calorie packs of nuts and Bugles.  I told her nuts okay, bugles not.
Love to all!  I hope everyone is doing okay and I would really like to know the people that were in the video last night and I say CONGRATULATIONS!! you are doing great.

It has been 7 days since last blog...

Okay, went and got weighed in today and lost 4 and 1/4 pounds!!!  But, it really doesn't matter it is how I feel.  Hey, I didn't even shave my legs to loose the weight!  Right now I am trying to get over bronchitis, sinus infection and something with my ear.  But I know a great physician!!!
Okay, Fawn has been in Elmira a week and the weather just turned nice today.  Went for my walk and it felt good to get out!  Tomorrow night she is doing a Food and Nutrition seminar at church at 7:00.  So if anybody who is reading this and lives in the polar section of New York come along.
Met Dave and Kathleen also.  They are an inspiration to everyone.  Wish they could be here tomorrow night.  Carolyn is my inspiration.  She helps me a lot in my eating plan and cooking healthy stuff.
Today is Valentine's Day, so I hope every woman gets what they want.  I am cooking lasagna for Joe tonight--his favorite food!  Since nobody bid on him, I guess I will keep him around!
Love to all!

disappointing weigh in

Well, what a day today was.  First, I get out of the shower with my conditioner and my cream still on my legs. Talk about nervous about the weigh-in.  Then going to the weigh-in I didn't lose but gained 4 pounds and with Fawn there.  Boy, I am so disappointed in myself!!!
Talked to Fawn, while being taped, and learned a lot about fats, proteins and carbs.  I thought I knew what I was doing but I have been blowing it doing the counting and eating of things.
I do have a sweet tooth and I thought sugar free was the way to go nut guess not it may say sugar free but it has sugar alcohol in it. Some things do have to look real close at the labels.
Well, after a few tears and talking to myself I am all right now (I think).
Well, love to all!  I am going to enjoy and pick Fawn brain while she is here.

No walk today...

Yesterday I had a cleaning/de-cluttering spree and I am paying for it today.  Head is pounding, arms hurt and can barely walk.  That will teach me to try and to do it all in one day.
I would love a tootsie roll right now but don't have any in the house--Praise God!  I would probably eat them all. Instead I will probably have a rice cake!
One more day till Fawn arrives in the cold New York.  Zach is the smart one he is staying where it is nice and warm.
Still have to shave my legs--thought I might do it tomorrow, so everyone that will be a national holiday for everyone.
Love to all!

Been thinking and that is scary

I am a beginner--seeing a pattern doesn't mean I know how to put it all together.  Take baby steps; don't focus on the people whose skills are far beyond my own. When I'm new to something-or I haven't tried it in awhile-it can feel impossibly hard to get it right.  Every misstep feels like a reason to quit.  I envy everyone else who seems to know what they're doing.  What keeps me going?  The belief that one day I'll also be like that: Elegant, Capable, Confident and Experienced.  And I can be.  All I need is enthusiasm.  A little bravery.  And--always--a sense of humor.
This is my college education showing through I have thought a lot about this and once in awhile as I go through this journey I will share my thought. (hope no one minds)
Love to all--went for walk this morning and it was 5 degrees out.  Had a sweater, hoodie and a jacket on!!

another day, another rice cake

I don't know about anyone else but 80/20 seems like a disaster zone to me personally.  If I do not follow I will gain 400 pounds!!!
Supposed to go to Wesleyan Women tonight but I can't let myself do it.  Sometimes the food looks so delicious I could eat it all.  I am making chicken pot pie for supper tonight and I know everything that goes in that.
Still got to shave my legs but I have till Monday morning.  It's probably going to take me till 8 any how and that is getting up at 5 to do it.
Went for a walk today not far but enough to know that it is cold out there.  Hurry up spring can't wait.
Well, got to go and finish my pot pie so Love to all!

found a solution

Today while taking my shower I think I have figured out how to loose at least 20 pounds at my next weigh-in--shave my legs.  Sounds gross doesn't it!  But if I shave them my socks will fall down!
Yesterday, Joe's first day back to work, I just lazed around the house, did wash but nothing else!  Can't walk because of the weather but I do not care tomorrow I am going out.
Cooking pork tonight with sweet potatoes and brussel sprouts--hope Joe likes it!
Not much to write nothing exciting going on--4 more days till Fawn gets in Elmira.  Wonder if she is going to weigh in with Carolyn and me.  I had better shave my legs then so I have lost something!
Love to all!!

weigh in

Don't know if I am going to be able to weigh in today-Carolyn has a sick child and I have to be with Joe in Bath by 1 and since he can't drive it is such a pain.  I feel like I have lost though and people are commenting on it.
Did confess that I had half a donut on Saturday while we were waiting for the Angel Food truck but I did pay for it afterwards!  Lots of people are talking about Fawn's upcoming visit to our snowbound town and I certainly can not wait!
Well, we are getting ready to go to Bath to the VA and just thought I would shoot a little blog out.
Love to all!

waiting patiently...

Been at church since 7:30 and now find out distribution isn't going to be till 1:30 this afternoon for Angel Food. That is okay though it has given me a lot of time for reflecting on things.
Joe is still driving me nuts but maybe he can go back to work on Tuesday.
Went out to dinner with family last night to Lin Buffet and only had crab legs--lots of them.  Do you know how hard it is to eat crab legs with NO BUTTER!
You know I am reminded of something Keith Drury once ended his letters with--Keep On Keeping On, and that is what we have to do in this journey-Keep On Keeping ON!
Love to all!

The weather outside is frightful....

But here it is delightful!!  Yeah right!  What a struggle these past two days have been!  I have wanted to eat everything in the house and haven't!!  When I walk-walked to church and back home again-I hurt all over, but it is improving little by little.  I just saw an ad for Zumba and the beginning steps look like I could do it--YEAH RIGHT!!  They move like nothing I have seen before!
Getting ready to see Fawn on during the time she is here.  If it wasn't for her I don't think I would be where I am and Carolyn has been a great mentor.
Still no takes for Joe so I guess I will keep him around!
Going to have my snack of rice cake and peanut butter.  Oh yeah, I shopped at Aldis's today and bought some good looking Talapia.  Can't wait to cook it!!
Love to all!

again I am here...

The view of the world is the following-Diverse, Dispersed, Dynamic, Determined and Devoted.  That is how I feel sometimes.  Diverse because there is no one else like me--thank God.  Dispersed because I am a creator of many things but a master at none.  Dynamic because I am me! Determined because I am determined for this journey to be successful and Devoted because a friend is a friend no matter how much they make you mad1
In this journey, I have learned a lot of things especially about myself.  I am a complicated piece of machinery.  I have a brain, honest I have pictures, a heart, have pictures of that too.  I am made of bones, tissues, blood and a forgiving nature.  I love to eat!  but I am learning to eat better.
I have had no takers for Joe but tomorrow we go to the doctors and maybe he will let him go back to work soon.  He is still available for all who want him though.
Love to all!

one more down

Well, here I am-one more pound down!  Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could snap your fingers, like Dorothy did with her red shoes, and we could finish our journey that quick.   I am taking this as a learning experience on how to eat better and getting longevity out of life!
If someone wants a husband, I have one for sale-no give away!  Since he can't work until we see the cardio man-HE IS DRIVING ME NUTS!!!  I have never cooked so much food and so many baked goods in a long time.  Tried to get him out to walk and nope he stays in his pajamas all day and won't do a thing!  Lord give me patience!
Had 3 out of 4 grandchildren last night and cooked spaghetti and meatballs. One wouldn't eat it because it was whole wheat pasta.  His lost!
I am leaving everyone with this thought--Everything is possible with His help!

1.5 pounds....

Well, weighed in on Monday and I had gained 1.5 pounds in two weeks!  Been through a lot in those two weeks though.  Been in hospital with another stroke and was released on Tuesday, the 11th, and on Friday my husband was admitted for a silent heart attack!  So we entered 2011 with a BANG!!!
On this journey I have learned a lot about myself!  One thing is when I eat something I haven't eaten in a while it has a real bad affect on me!  I feel guilty.  When I had weighed in this week I almost ate a tootsie roll(my downfall-they are so good) but I talked myself out of it and had a rice cake with peanut butter and banana.  I do crave a lot of things I used to eat but I am not going to eat them.
As I have said before, When you are going through some bad things, you find out who your true friends are, and I have!  If it wasn't the support that I have gotten from friends, I honestly do not think I would of gotten this far.  So what if I have gained 1.5 pounds, next week I might lose 2 pounds or the 1.5 that I gained.  I know who is guiding me through this!
Love to all and one day I will figure out how to look at other blogs!  When you get my age you know the technical mind is the first to go!!!

sitting here in my nightfown....

Here I am sitting here in my nightgown getting ready to start my day.  Got up at 4-couldn't sleep anymore.  It has been a rough two weeks but I will get through it.
My journey has taken quite a hit.  I ended up in the hospital and try staying on your journey with their food--I think I did pretty good.  Yesterday my husband was admitted for a heart attack, so again it is back to hospital food.  Even though Pastor Larry said I was a cheap date-$.69 for a salad.
I want to thank everyone for their words of encouragement.  Well it is now 6:40am and I have to get a shower and get ready to go do angel food, hospital visit, Christmas with my family, hospital visit and maybe a Harlem Wizard game.  Depends on Joe.
Love to all!

Update

Hi everyone this is Carolyn.  I'm one of Dawns fellow journey people.  I want to let you know she won't be blogging for a bit.  She has some other medical problems that she needs to handle at this time.  She is hospitalized but in good spirits. 

We ask that you keep her in your thoughts and prayers. 

During this time - I've seen and talked with her and she's concerned about praying for the rest of us,  she wants to help us meet our needs, and concerned about not having "nonfat" cottage cheese at the hospital.  Therefor  her family is going to try to and bring in some of her food for her.    That's the type of person Dawn is always caring for others besides herself.  Always bringing us some humor.  Loved by people of all age.  Especially kids.  She has many "adopted" kids and grand kids.  If you know her, you should be excited knowing your part of such a great person. 

I will update as soon as we know more, and soon she will be back updating!!

I Hate Physical Therapy...

I really do!  Every time I go I end up crying and want a Strawberry Banana Smoothie from McDonald's.  But of course I don't go there.  The wind is biting out there today but I went for a walk, not far but I did walk.
I have been experimenting with some things and I thought I would share.  Hate dry tuna fish--take a little non fat cottage cheese, extra virgin olive oil and Mrs. Dash, mix it in the blender and viola a little mayo to go with the dry tuna.  I personally like real mayo, but while on this journey that's my new mayo.  You could probably add some hot sauce for a little bit.  Tonight I am going to try using non fat cottage cheese to make a weird macaroni and cheese.  (COMFORT FOOD)
My thought for today is "When you are going through some bad things, you find out who your true friends are!"
Love to everyone!!!
Hey, this has been three days in a row that I have posted--a world record for me!

Wait for it..Wait for it...

Okay, weigh in was yesterday and I lost 4.5 pounds!!!!!  I celebrated the lose with a mini tootsie roll-just one.  It felt so good to get to 210.5  now can't wait to get to 209.   Baby steps!
My computer keeps acting up so I think I might have to have the Geek patrol come in and see what they can do.
Has anyone else seen Miss Plastic's Silicone (Suzanne Sommers) commercial.  How degrading to women over 40.  Each and everyone was made differently, so we all lose weight differently.  Why do we need pills to run our lives!
Love to all.  I am going to try to get on some other peoples' posts and maybe I can comment!

here I am again...don't faint!

Here I am again two days in a row.  Received a compliment today by someone asked me if I have lost weight.  Told them that it was just rearranged on my body.  Tomorrow will be the tell tale day---WEIGH IN!
Why do we dread that day?  Been asking myself that question for a couple of days.  We follow our journey and we shouldn't dread it, but we do.  I always look at Carolyn's face because I am afraid to look (I'm also on the scale backwards and despite what my kids say I do not have eyes in the back of my head).  Carolyn has been my inspiration-she is looking good and she didn't even follow the Sexyforever.com program.  That commercial still irks me!
Well, I'll be back tomorrow with either bad or good news, either way it is all good!
Love to everyone!

One more time...

If I see that Suzanne Sommers commercial for "Sexy forever", I am literally going to puke.  She who is made up of  plastics and implants promoting something for women over 50 to loose weight.  She looks like a mechanical Barbie.
Oh well, maybe one day!  Had my first high blood sugar last night of 441.  I was suffering from intense pain though in my neck and shoulders.  Woke up this morning with a 116 so there were no lasting effects from the pain.
Today has been a laid back day.  We received some things for Christmas that we returned and just watch the "Rose Parade".  My favorite float was all of them.
This journey is taking me on a trip that I can not believe.  I love the food but there sometimes seems a lot of it.  I just put it away for later.  I have so much energy but today my husband will not walk with me!  He thinks because it is Jan. 1st that he has to take everything Christmasy down.  I would leave it up all year if it was me!
Everyone enjoy the day!!!

Christmas is over....

Now that the Christmas season is over, we need to remember to stick with our journey's.  Even though I stuck like made I didn't lose or gain and stayed the same.  I also weighed in in different clothing which were heavier than usual, so maybe I did lose. Christmas season is a hard time to be on a journey.

My diabetes though has been under control and I haven't had a spike in ages.  I have gone low a couple of times but no highs!

I am also down a size in clothing.  I think everything has shifted to my feet but my shoe size is the same.

As Fawn puts it a New Year a New You!  Can't wait till that happens, even though it has already started!

Reason I am doing this....

In all of our lives bad things just happen to walk into it and this has been one of those weeks!  I have though stuck to my journey because I want to change.

My husband has not been able to keep things down now since Monday.  Today he has been sleeping a lot.  He is getting sick just from the smell of things cooking.  I had hummus and veggies for a snack and he thought that I was eating seafood and you guessed it-he ran to the bathroom!

Money seems to be a challenge also.  I think as adults we wish that it grew on trees and could get everything our children and grandchildren wanted, but we don't have endless pockets.  They forget what Christmas is all about and the stores don't help by commercializing it so much.  Don't get me started on our government or I won't stop!

On Monday when I was supposed to weigh in, I was sick in bed with aches, headache and you name it I had it.  I am still trying to get over that.  I also went to see the surgeon regarding my hernia, boy what great news I got.  The hernia is too large to be operated on.  It extends from the bottom of my rib cage to the top of my hip bone, about 1/2 way across my stomach area and 1/2 across my back.  IT IS HUGE!  The doctor said he could operate but my left side would not be able to move, it would be like a board put in there.  My quality of life would be zippo and I could lose my life also!.. It would be a dangerous surgery!

Well, sorry for all the bad news but the good news is that I am doing my journey and I am looking forward to my first goal  to loose 15 more pounds.  Christmas is a hard time to be on a journey but I know that all of us will prevail and make it to our goals!
To everyone a Merry Christmas and look for ward to the new year!!

another party

All of these parties are starting to get me down.  All the food today it is lasagna, salaDs
, Italian bread and tons of soda and deserts.  I will journey forward THOUGH.  i AM GOING TO BLOG MORE LATER.

Sister in law invite to dinner...

Well, my sister in law just called and has invited Joe and I to go out to dinner with them at their expense.  So a challenge arises.  Before when they took us out I did fine (they love a local Chinese buffet) I just had crab legs, fresh shrimp and salad.  Oops, forgot the Chinese tea!  I like this place but there are a lot of temptations.
Tomorrow is the trip to Rochester to see the surgeon for my head.  I do know that I have a brain I have pictures of it.  Hopefully he will say that I do not need surgery.  I don't have that many brain cells left as it is!!!
Well, off I go to dinner.  I'll let everybody know how I do.  Joe will be my spy!!

I am back....

What a terrible week I have had, even though I lost another 1/2 pound.  Found out I am drinking too much milk.  The weather here in Elmira has been frigid and I just can't seem to get my walks in.  I would become a Jack Frost.
Been partying but watching what I eat.  Under the guidance of Fawn I am getting there.  Last night we had a local board party at Pastor Larry's and Marcy's and I got to eat lots of (1 slice) of roast beef, lots of fruit and about a teaspoon of coleslaw.  My cup of green tea and water were of an excellent vintage!
I have found with my journey that I rely on others to help me along.  When I had my lap band surgery in 2007 I received no nutritional help and wasn't really told how to eat.  Then the stupid thing gets all twisted and I can have it fixed now if I want too.  But first I have to have a hernia repaired.  I had a little scare that they thought the pain was from Pancreatic Cancer but all it is is a stupid HERNIA!
Friday I am scheduled to see the neurosurgeon in Rochester but it might be a no go if the weather continues the way it has.  Tuesday I see the surgeon for my hernia--yuck!!
Well, I am going to get ready for bed--oh wait a minute I forgot to tell everyone that I am having the best blood sugar control I have ever had thanks to my journey.  I give lots of praises for that.  Insulin makes you gain weight and I am hardly putting any into my body.  Maybe this old lady will journey all the way and maybe wear a bikini some day--NO WAY!  I would need duct tape to hold up all my extra skin.  So I am signing off as a changed woman and having a great time on this journey.  I will blog again tomorrow if I haven't frozen to my bed.  (we don't heat our upstairs!)

better late than never......

Well, I was going to post last night but came home and went right to bed.  Had a Christmas gathering last night at the parsonage and I ended up eating real well.  Carolyn brought Chili (I still say that God had a sense of humor when he created beans) and a pasta salad that was to die for.  There were plenty of other fruits and vegetables.
I do have a confession to make--On Tuesday night when we were taking orders for Angel Food, Pastor Larry brought over gingerbread cookies--no icing-- and I ate one, just one.  They hardly have any sugar in them and boy was it good.
This journey has taught me a lot about myself.  Sure I have tons of health problems but maybe this journey, not maybe I know, will help aleve some of them and help me get better.  I am learning how to control myself when it comes to food and how to help myself and my husband to better eating.  Let's face it we are a generation of fast food and we want it right then and not have to wait.  Wouldn't it be nice if we could snap our fingers and it would happen.  That is why I am glad I am on this journey!
Christmas is coming and a lot more parties are going to be happening but I am learning to say NO and I can eat a peanut butter sandwich if I have too.  Everybody keep on keeping on the journey!!!

Weigh in....ugh!!!!

Had a weigh in yesterday and only lost 1/2 a pound--but that is all right I feel better except right now I am on the downside of a migraine.
There is so much food to eat and water to drink that sometimes I honestly do not know if I can get through it.  I eat what I can and either saved the rest for snack or for the next meal.
Remember when I said Let it snow..I wish it was snowing and then it wouldn't be so bitter cold out.  Went for my walk this morning and nearly froze my booty off!  It is only 24 out.
Made chili last night for supper and as I told Carolyn, God must of have  a sense of humor to create BEANS!!  They are disgusting even though I love hummus!
Going to a party on Thursday night (Wesleyan Women) and I need a healthy dish to pass so if anyone has a recipe for something healthy--pass it on.  Have another party next Tuesday and then one of Saturday night.  So pass them on everybody!!!!

Sunday dinner isn't like it used to be.....

Well, Sunday is here and cooking Sunday dinner just isn't like it used to be.  I remember cooking a roast, smashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, a salad, yorkshire pudding, gravy the whole nine yards.  Now it is a protein, 2 veggies and a carb but so what if I am feeling better!  (I think Joe is too!)
Joe sang today and it was great--he has been fighting a cold.  Wish I had the guts to stand up there and sing--just let me talk and I will be alright!
Made brownies for the packages tonight and didn't lick the bowl.  They sure did smell good though.  Well, Joe has Cantata practice and I have to go and type out some labels for the packages-I am out of ink.  Thank you to all for your encouraging words and once I figure out how to do it I hope I can be encouraging to you.  Love and Blesses--Keep on keeping on!!

Cookies galore.....

I have been baking up a storm today for the soldier boxes that we send out and I haven't eaten one cookie or licked my fingers!!!!  I am so happy that I resisted!!  Can't wait though to get them out of the house.  My granddaughter decorated them with tons of frosting.  Got company I will finish later.

Wendy's and eating there.....

Went To Wendy's last night with my husband and had a side salad no dressing and a water.  Boy did it feel good to order that and not want their wings.  I am getting control over my cravings and loving it.
Have a couple of things that I am stressing about but I am dealing with them.  Hopefully and with the grace one of them will be taken care of.  Getting in my walks and exercising with the wii.
I never thought that a journey like this could be exciting but when you see what is being accomplished by YOU it is exciting!

the weather outside is frightful...

I guess that is what we get for living in New York..this morning wake up and it is 50 degrees out and raining and by noon it is 34 degrees out and it is snowing..
Yesterday and today have been struggles but I have kept to my journey and I am really looking forward to my weigh in on Monday.  When I was walking in the rain this morning, I got refreshed in my heart and loved the walk.  It was very invigorating.  Tonight Joe and I are going to walk the Mall maybe twice!
If you haven't guessed by now I am not that much of a computer person and really don't like the computer but I will post hopefully every day or at least every other day.  Have to get ready for my walk--see you all soon!

Hope and encouragement

Went for an "official" weigh in at Carolyn's doctor and weighed in at 216 pounds and that is what my scale said when I started the journey.  So I am a little disappointed and just a little discouraged!
Yesterday went shopping for Christmas and I kinda had Wendy's boneless chicken wings and boy am I paying for it today.  My stomach is really churning and don't stand behind me you will get gassed away!!!
Right now I am making a very healthy turkey soup.  I have been stewing the carcass since noon and the meat has fallen right off.  I am going to add fresh cauliflower, fresh broccoli and whole wheat rotini.  I have added some Mrs. Dash to the broth and this house smells like Thanksgiving all over again.
My journey has been hit with some u turns and wrong turns (the wings) but you learn from your mistakes.  I do know this that my blood sugars have been fantastic and taking in less insulin (which is a growth hormone).  My walking is getting better--still with a walker or cane--but getting better.
I am glad that I started this journey and looking forward to hitting my first goal!

Thanksgiving or Bust!!!!!

It has been a while since I have blogged but  I have been sick--yuck!
Wednesday I cooked Thanksgiving dinner for my children, grandchildren and my husband.  We had roasted turkey, whole wheat bread stuffing (which disappeared, no leftovers), green beans, Brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, regular mashed potatoes and relish tray.  All the good food went within minutes and I still have regular mashed potatoes left.  No one realized that I had cooked a "healthy"meal.(except the regular potatoes)  On Thursday we went to my daughter-in-laws parents house and I only ate turkey.  There was plenty of food but I think that is when the worst migraine in the century started.  Woke up Friday still in bed but everything spinning.  The migraine had hit--all day I tried eating-nothing stayed down-tried reading-light hurt my eyes. So I lived in the dark ages all day.
My journey is working, I can feel a difference in my moods, energy levels and just about everything.  Those blogs that I peeked in on have given me the inspiration and I am learning to take small steps in the right direction.  I still think I am eating to much food but it is working.  Well, right now I have my youngest grandson, RJ, and mischief seems to follow him so I had better go see where he is at.  Love and Blessings to all!

Slowly but surely......

A new journey is a hard journey, its like when you are going somewhere  and you don't know how to get there and you go on mapquest and there are the directions for the taking--that's what my journey is Fawn gave me-my mapquest directions.
Have been out to dinner since starting-at a Chinese buffet.  Had salad (no dressing), crab legs (no butter) and fruit for dessert.  Came home and had a toasted whole wheat English muffin.  Think I did pretty good.
What is the scariest part of this new journet is the food amounts I am required to eat--I do my best.  Sugar or even just getting rid of Splenda has been hard.

6 days and still surviving.....

Well, here is my sixth day and a weigh in has happened.  I weigh two pounds less than I did last Wednesday--216 to 214!!!!  Feel real good but I am really pining for so chocolate!!  None in house thank God!  Made cookies and brownies  yesterday with CLC and didn't even lick the bowls, didn't even want to.

Kinda of Lost!!!

Haven't been on in a couple of days because it has been pure hectic!  Lost a step-aunt to suicide (suffered from severe depression).  I do know that she is not hurting anymore.  Depression is a serious disease and no one should be afraid to ask for help plus we must be willing to guide them to the help they need.  Okay, no more soap boxing!  I have been going through the detoxing of my body--so it is a little hard to sit down sometimes.(you that have been through it know what I mean) (no laughing Fawn).  I am also learning a new way to cook and create things.  When I had the lap band surgery in 2007, it was liquids for weeks on end but you learn how to cheat!  This journey is so much better because I am not starving my self.  I have learned to eat more calories than I have ever eaten and I think I have lost at least one pound (one pound at a time.  Today at Angel Food, my youngest grandson laid his beautiful eclair right in front of me-I ignored it.  I had a rice cake with hummus and blueberries plus water.  I am learning!!!

Hi!

Come meet Dawn and join her on her journey

What a wonderful time I am having.  Went shopping and bought tons of good nutrious food for my journey!

Second day (not that I am counting or anything)

Today has been a good!  Carolyn came over and had an official weigh in and she took pictures (even of my back, I have a big butt) and even a video.  We had a nice lunch of whole wheat rotini, cauliflower, shrimp and sauce.  I love almonds and have been having them along with fruit for snacks.  My blood sugars have been a little low but I will get that straightened out next week.  Did I tell everyone that I am going to be a grandma again--Stacey, Stefani's sister, is pregnant.  Her daughters are two precious girls who have called Joe and I grandpa and grandma since they started speaking.  Can't wait.  Well, I have to go and make "nutritious" Spanish Rice (don't tell Joe).

1 day of new journey

This is my first day of my new journey.  Starting at 219 pounds and at 5 foot 3 inches is a little too much for me.  This is going to be exciting and challenging.  Being a diabetic and changing things up is going to be hard but I have a great support system.  Yesterday was Joe's birthday and I did have a diet soda, cooki and ice cream but that was yesterday, today is a new day!!!