Weight - 303, up .4 pounds from yesterday, 31.2 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up feeling good, a little sorry for my splurge yesterday but ready to bounce back today.
Snack - none
Meal#1 - FYV Curried Chicken with Tomatoes - 1:15pm
Snack - Strawberries & Almond Nut Thins - 3pm
Meal#2 - FYV Italian Wedding Soup - 6pm
Snack - Strawberry/Blueberry Smoothie - 8:30
Drops - 9:07am, 1:45pm, 9:30pm
Water - 120oz
Exercise - 2 mile walk
Summary - Today was an interesting day. I didn't feel too good and actually took a big nap in the afternoon. Thinking it's probably because I'm coming off of the Vicodin and Valium. My heart was racing last night after my walk so I kept my walk today at a more sedate pace (about 3 miles per hour.) Last night I saw a dear and tonight the neighbor told me to be careful near the end of our condo row because there was a raccoon prowling between the cars...I hate raccoons! Fortunately I did not have a close encounter of the rabid kind.
Hunger wasn't an issue today even though I forgot to take my 4th drop. Tomorrow is pickup day with FYV so I hope there is chili this week! I'm really looking forward to it.
I know it's selfish but I hope that I have at least a .8 loss tomorrow so I can get to 32 pounds down and keep this train moving to sub 300 by the end of month one. If not no big deal, but I'm going to do my best to follow Shape's program to the letter until my 50 pound loss, and then allow myself a cheat day.
Mimi (my daughter's nickname) isn't feeling well and it's been tough on Janel (my wife), but even tougher on Mimi of course! I really hope she starts feeling better soon. She's such a trooper and never complains so when she's really not feeling good it's such a heartbreaker to hear her wail and cry. My biggest thing is I can't pick her up because of my back surgery, it's torture. All I want to do is pick her up and comfort her and throw her in the backup and take a walk with her but that will have to wait until I get the all clear from the doctor. That is at least 4-6 more weeks away.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Day 27 - 7/30/13
Weight - 302.6, down 1.2 pounds from yesterday, 31.6 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Pretty good all day even with late meals.
Snack - Apple, Strawberries - 2pm
Meal#1 - FYV Chicken Dijon (with broccoli) - 3:15pm
Snack - Apple, Pecan thins - 5pm
Meal#2 - FYV Garlic Sliders with spinach - 6pm
Snack - Chicken & Broccoli Casserole - 7pm
Drops - 7:45am, 3:50pm, 6:30pm, 10pm
Water - 120oz
Exercise - 45 minute walk
Summary - Today was a little bit of a "weird" day at least from a Shape perspective. The way the schedule worked at least. I had my 2nd follow up with Dr. Yarger today at 10:30am. So the morning went normal, I drank about 40oz of water but I wasn't hungry and didn't eat ahead of time. This was my first post surgery visit so I was excited to see how everything was going. It was about the same results wise as last time, everything checked out great across the board except a.) I'm still too acidic, still taking my Natrum phos twice a day for that but it can take 6 months, b.) my ketones are still at the highest measured level for their tests and they prefer it to be lower.
The good news is they confirmed that my weight loss is awesome and to keep doing what I'm doing. So I manage hunger with 4 drops when needed for a few days at a time, I will eat 4 approved fruits a day (I messed up yesterday and ate a peach, not on the list - oops!) and keep going with the Feed Your Vitality (FYV) meals for another month. Dr. Yarger checked with the inventor of Shape (they share the same office now) and he confirmed to keep doing what I'm doing as my analysis doesn't show any muscle being burned (bad) and just fat loss (good) so we will keep taking it one day at a time. I see her again in 2 weeks and I'm hoping to get my pH moving in the right direction.
So back to schedule, we had someone come by last minute to look at our condo so we had to scoot out of the house around 12:15 and didn't get home until after 3. So I had an apple and some strawberries around 2 but no meal until after 3! Not a typical day but overall I felt fine.
Had some chicken & broccoli casserole (not Shape approved) because I just felt like it...haha. I have been saying no to a lot of stuff (mother in law's chicken enchiladas for one, chic-fil-a for two) and it was from a woman at church making food for us. I'm going strict for the next two weeks, so hopefully it didn't hurt me weight loss wise!
I crushed a 45 minute walk afterwards to help atone and will go back to normal tomorrow.
Hunger - Pretty good all day even with late meals.
Snack - Apple, Strawberries - 2pm
Meal#1 - FYV Chicken Dijon (with broccoli) - 3:15pm
Snack - Apple, Pecan thins - 5pm
Meal#2 - FYV Garlic Sliders with spinach - 6pm
Snack - Chicken & Broccoli Casserole - 7pm
Drops - 7:45am, 3:50pm, 6:30pm, 10pm
Water - 120oz
Exercise - 45 minute walk
Summary - Today was a little bit of a "weird" day at least from a Shape perspective. The way the schedule worked at least. I had my 2nd follow up with Dr. Yarger today at 10:30am. So the morning went normal, I drank about 40oz of water but I wasn't hungry and didn't eat ahead of time. This was my first post surgery visit so I was excited to see how everything was going. It was about the same results wise as last time, everything checked out great across the board except a.) I'm still too acidic, still taking my Natrum phos twice a day for that but it can take 6 months, b.) my ketones are still at the highest measured level for their tests and they prefer it to be lower.
The good news is they confirmed that my weight loss is awesome and to keep doing what I'm doing. So I manage hunger with 4 drops when needed for a few days at a time, I will eat 4 approved fruits a day (I messed up yesterday and ate a peach, not on the list - oops!) and keep going with the Feed Your Vitality (FYV) meals for another month. Dr. Yarger checked with the inventor of Shape (they share the same office now) and he confirmed to keep doing what I'm doing as my analysis doesn't show any muscle being burned (bad) and just fat loss (good) so we will keep taking it one day at a time. I see her again in 2 weeks and I'm hoping to get my pH moving in the right direction.
So back to schedule, we had someone come by last minute to look at our condo so we had to scoot out of the house around 12:15 and didn't get home until after 3. So I had an apple and some strawberries around 2 but no meal until after 3! Not a typical day but overall I felt fine.
Had some chicken & broccoli casserole (not Shape approved) because I just felt like it...haha. I have been saying no to a lot of stuff (mother in law's chicken enchiladas for one, chic-fil-a for two) and it was from a woman at church making food for us. I'm going strict for the next two weeks, so hopefully it didn't hurt me weight loss wise!
I crushed a 45 minute walk afterwards to help atone and will go back to normal tomorrow.
Monday, July 29, 2013
Day 26 - 7/29/13
Weight - 303.8, down .2 pounds from yesterday, 30.4 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up feeling great. I think the 4 drop strategy this week will help keep my hunger back in check after my surgery.
Snack - No early snack
Meal#1 - FYV Thai Beef Soup - 11:45am (great soup)
Snack - Peach, Almond Nut Thins - 2:15pm
Meal#2 - FYV Lime Chicken w/cabbage - 4:45pm
Snack - Berries - 7pm
Drops - 9am, 1pm, 5:15pm, 10:15pm
Water - 100oz
Exercise - 20 minute walk
Summary - Amelia had a rash this morning so we took her back to the doctor to make sure it wasn't a reaction to the ear drop medicine for her ear infection. Turns out her high fever and the rash is Roseola and she's doing great now, the rash should fade in a week. Her ears are slowly getting better too with 4 days left of the ear drops. We see the ENT on Friday as a follow up. God is good!
Mom & Dad Barnholtz came by the house with chicken enchiladas for Janel and lots of fruits for me, yummy! Definitely wish I could partake in the enchiladas but the fruits will be delicious and I can make up for today when I'm nearer my goal weight.
Went for a walk with Janel & Amelia in the afternoon around 1:45pm for about 20 minutes.
Hunger - Woke up feeling great. I think the 4 drop strategy this week will help keep my hunger back in check after my surgery.
Snack - No early snack
Meal#1 - FYV Thai Beef Soup - 11:45am (great soup)
Snack - Peach, Almond Nut Thins - 2:15pm
Meal#2 - FYV Lime Chicken w/cabbage - 4:45pm
Snack - Berries - 7pm
Drops - 9am, 1pm, 5:15pm, 10:15pm
Water - 100oz
Exercise - 20 minute walk
Summary - Amelia had a rash this morning so we took her back to the doctor to make sure it wasn't a reaction to the ear drop medicine for her ear infection. Turns out her high fever and the rash is Roseola and she's doing great now, the rash should fade in a week. Her ears are slowly getting better too with 4 days left of the ear drops. We see the ENT on Friday as a follow up. God is good!
Mom & Dad Barnholtz came by the house with chicken enchiladas for Janel and lots of fruits for me, yummy! Definitely wish I could partake in the enchiladas but the fruits will be delicious and I can make up for today when I'm nearer my goal weight.
Went for a walk with Janel & Amelia in the afternoon around 1:45pm for about 20 minutes.
Sunday, July 28, 2013
Day 25 - 7/28/13
Weight - 304, down .2 pounds from yesterday, 30.2 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Normal, nothing out of the ordinary.
Snack - no early snack today
Meal#1 - FYV Dijon Chicken (with broccoli) - 12:45pm
Snack - Apple and Pecan Rounds - 2:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Garlic Sliders & Spinach - 5pm
Snack - Apple 9:15pm
Drops - 9:05am, 1:05pm, 5:45pm, 10:15pm
Water - 120oz
Exercise - 30 minute walk
Summary - Today is a great day. It is a day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it! :) We had a great sermon at church today from a retired pastor filling in for the week. I really enjoyed his conversation on the reality of Jesus as fully God and fully man and that even though it may be impossible to understand fully we trust in Him. It was awesome.
It has been tough this week with my back surgery we have had so many great people from church offering to bring us food! So Janel and her parents have been eating it and I'm standing strong with my Shape program because unfortunately I don't have the ability to just dabble (although I did have a little bit on the first day out of the hospital, and of course the chicken noodle soup in the hospital). I'm so grateful that so many people are reaching out and helping us and of course Amelia and Janel are really enjoying the great food too!
Today were two of my favorite FYV meals, pretty simple but delicious. I'll be signing up for another month of their food to help me muscle through the 300 pound barrier and I'm really looking forward to hitting the 50 pound loss in month 2 hopefully.
Hunger - Normal, nothing out of the ordinary.
Snack - no early snack today
Meal#1 - FYV Dijon Chicken (with broccoli) - 12:45pm
Snack - Apple and Pecan Rounds - 2:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Garlic Sliders & Spinach - 5pm
Snack - Apple 9:15pm
Drops - 9:05am, 1:05pm, 5:45pm, 10:15pm
Water - 120oz
Exercise - 30 minute walk
Summary - Today is a great day. It is a day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it! :) We had a great sermon at church today from a retired pastor filling in for the week. I really enjoyed his conversation on the reality of Jesus as fully God and fully man and that even though it may be impossible to understand fully we trust in Him. It was awesome.
It has been tough this week with my back surgery we have had so many great people from church offering to bring us food! So Janel and her parents have been eating it and I'm standing strong with my Shape program because unfortunately I don't have the ability to just dabble (although I did have a little bit on the first day out of the hospital, and of course the chicken noodle soup in the hospital). I'm so grateful that so many people are reaching out and helping us and of course Amelia and Janel are really enjoying the great food too!
Today were two of my favorite FYV meals, pretty simple but delicious. I'll be signing up for another month of their food to help me muscle through the 300 pound barrier and I'm really looking forward to hitting the 50 pound loss in month 2 hopefully.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Day 24 - 7/27/13
Weight - 304.2, down .4 pounds from yesterday, 30 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up feeling fine hunger wise. More thirsty at this point.
Snack - Fat free greek yogurt with strawberries - 9am
Meal#1 - FYV Curried Chicken & Tomatoes - 11:45am
Snack - Apple & Pecan Rounds - 2:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Island Chicken - 5pm
Snack - Berries & Pecan Rounds - 9:45pm
Drops - 8:10am, 12:15pm, 4:30pm, 9pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - Yesterday was a tough day and I "cheated" with half a banana. I was so hungry for a splurge even a can of Amy's Organic Lentil soup was calling my name. Fortunately I made it through the day without too much damage being done but I did take a 4th drop late in the day to help. Since I'm walking more and more every day I'm going to try going back to 4 drops for a week or so to help with the increase in exercise. Also I've been a little lax on tracking fruit accurately, I need to make sure I'm spot on so that I can pinpoint between normal plateaus and stalls due to excess.
Overall I'm happy to be down 30 pounds from the end of loading phase. We went for a great 34 minute walk this morning around 9:45 with Janel, Amelia and I. Slow and steady and lots of fun with great weather. Only 70 degrees in late July? Yes, please! With the exercise I'm definitely feeling hungrier. I'm going to drink some extra water and keep an eye on it.
Hunger - Woke up feeling fine hunger wise. More thirsty at this point.
Snack - Fat free greek yogurt with strawberries - 9am
Meal#1 - FYV Curried Chicken & Tomatoes - 11:45am
Snack - Apple & Pecan Rounds - 2:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Island Chicken - 5pm
Snack - Berries & Pecan Rounds - 9:45pm
Drops - 8:10am, 12:15pm, 4:30pm, 9pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - Yesterday was a tough day and I "cheated" with half a banana. I was so hungry for a splurge even a can of Amy's Organic Lentil soup was calling my name. Fortunately I made it through the day without too much damage being done but I did take a 4th drop late in the day to help. Since I'm walking more and more every day I'm going to try going back to 4 drops for a week or so to help with the increase in exercise. Also I've been a little lax on tracking fruit accurately, I need to make sure I'm spot on so that I can pinpoint between normal plateaus and stalls due to excess.
Overall I'm happy to be down 30 pounds from the end of loading phase. We went for a great 34 minute walk this morning around 9:45 with Janel, Amelia and I. Slow and steady and lots of fun with great weather. Only 70 degrees in late July? Yes, please! With the exercise I'm definitely feeling hungrier. I'm going to drink some extra water and keep an eye on it.
Friday, July 26, 2013
Day 23 - 7/26/13
Weight - 304.6, down 0 pounds from yesterday, 29.6 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up like I normally do, I could probably eat an all you can eat buffet but it's only because it's rebellion trying to act upon what I "can't" do. Otherwise, I'll eat my normal breakfast. Super hungry late in the day had to do 4 drops to counter.
Snack - Plain fat free greek yogurt, blueberries, blackberries - 8:00am
Meal#1 - FYV Italian Wedding soup - 10:15am
Snack - Apple, Berries, Pecan Rounds - 1:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Cajun White Fish & Asparagus - 6pm
Snack - Berry (1/2 banana cheat) smoothie - 8:30pm
Drops - 7:30am, 1:10pm, 6:30pm, 10:30pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - This is the first Friday after my surgery. I'm feeling very good considering. I'm a little disappointed by the weight today but it will happen once and a while and I'm not worried about it. I have been walking more during recovery and that will make a difference, I just have to make sure I'm not adding too much food (extra fruit, yogurt, etc.) One day at a time.
First meal was a little earlier than normal today as I was pretty hungry. I tried to space out later meals by adding activity in between (walk, movie, etc.) Took a walk for about 25 minutes in the light rain around 12:30. I'm blessed that the cortisone shot on 6/25 helped me be relatively pain free up until my surgery on 7/19 so that my muscles slowly came back. Now it's just a matter of repetition and continuing to walk at a slow, steady pace and I'll be helping my recovery and cardiovascular every day.
I thought today would be a cool day to do a day by day comparison on weight loss as today one of the few times since I've started that I haven't either lost weight, or gained instead. Here is a breakdown:
Starting weight 330 (each # represents a day and that weight loss/gain for the day, starting with the first loading day)... 2, 2.2, -5.6, -4, -2, -3.2, -1.4, -1.6, -.6, -1.6, -1.2, -1.6, .2, -1.4, 0, 0, -1, -1.8, -.6, -1.4, -.8, 0.
On day 14 I hit my first "non loss" day, and on that day my doctor said I needed to eat 2 more fruits a day as my ketones were too high. On day 16 and 17 I was in the hospital for my back surgery. Over the last few days I have been walking from 10-25 minutes a day which may be a change for my body to consider. It will be fun to see how the next week plays out. I see Dr. Yarger on the 30th so that will be a good time to check my ketone levels.
Prayers for my sweet daughter Amelia today, who despite tubes put in 2 weeks ago had a double ear infection again today. She's on ear drop medicine and Tylenol. She's the best, and I pray for her speedy recovery and no more ear infections!
Hunger - Woke up like I normally do, I could probably eat an all you can eat buffet but it's only because it's rebellion trying to act upon what I "can't" do. Otherwise, I'll eat my normal breakfast. Super hungry late in the day had to do 4 drops to counter.
Snack - Plain fat free greek yogurt, blueberries, blackberries - 8:00am
Meal#1 - FYV Italian Wedding soup - 10:15am
Snack - Apple, Berries, Pecan Rounds - 1:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Cajun White Fish & Asparagus - 6pm
Snack - Berry (1/2 banana cheat) smoothie - 8:30pm
Drops - 7:30am, 1:10pm, 6:30pm, 10:30pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - This is the first Friday after my surgery. I'm feeling very good considering. I'm a little disappointed by the weight today but it will happen once and a while and I'm not worried about it. I have been walking more during recovery and that will make a difference, I just have to make sure I'm not adding too much food (extra fruit, yogurt, etc.) One day at a time.
First meal was a little earlier than normal today as I was pretty hungry. I tried to space out later meals by adding activity in between (walk, movie, etc.) Took a walk for about 25 minutes in the light rain around 12:30. I'm blessed that the cortisone shot on 6/25 helped me be relatively pain free up until my surgery on 7/19 so that my muscles slowly came back. Now it's just a matter of repetition and continuing to walk at a slow, steady pace and I'll be helping my recovery and cardiovascular every day.
I thought today would be a cool day to do a day by day comparison on weight loss as today one of the few times since I've started that I haven't either lost weight, or gained instead. Here is a breakdown:
Starting weight 330 (each # represents a day and that weight loss/gain for the day, starting with the first loading day)... 2, 2.2, -5.6, -4, -2, -3.2, -1.4, -1.6, -.6, -1.6, -1.2, -1.6, .2, -1.4, 0, 0, -1, -1.8, -.6, -1.4, -.8, 0.
On day 14 I hit my first "non loss" day, and on that day my doctor said I needed to eat 2 more fruits a day as my ketones were too high. On day 16 and 17 I was in the hospital for my back surgery. Over the last few days I have been walking from 10-25 minutes a day which may be a change for my body to consider. It will be fun to see how the next week plays out. I see Dr. Yarger on the 30th so that will be a good time to check my ketone levels.
Prayers for my sweet daughter Amelia today, who despite tubes put in 2 weeks ago had a double ear infection again today. She's on ear drop medicine and Tylenol. She's the best, and I pray for her speedy recovery and no more ear infections!
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Day 22 - 7/25/13
Weight - 304.6, down .8 pounds from yesterday, 29.6 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up feeling good, not very hungry. Thursday's I eat a little later in the day due to FYV pickup after 1pm.
Snack - Plain fat free Greek yogurt with orange - 9:30am
Meal#1 - FYV New Orleans Shrimp (shrimp & zucchini) - 2:30pm
Snack - Pecan rounds - 3:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Chipotle Lime Chicken (chicken and veggie slaw) - 6pm
Snack - Apple/Berries Smoothie - 8:30pm
Drops - 9:15am, 1:30pm, 7pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - Today was pickup day for my FYV food. I was blessed to have some friends from church pick it up for me. There are some good repeats and new dishes to try this weak including - Italian Meatball soup, Garlic Sliders & Spinach, some good chicken dishes, etc. I'm in a good groove and I'm excited to keep this going day by day. To think that in a week I could be under 300 pounds is pretty amazing. I'm happy to follow the plan, and the results are a bonus.
Amelia had a great day out with her mommy but had a fever tonight. We gave her some Tylenol and called the nurses exchange. I'm definitely praying it's not another ear infection after she just had tubes put in 2 weeks ago.
Walked for 25 minutes tonight, felt pretty good but had tachycardia up to 138 after my shower. Just prayed and laid down and heart quickly went to normal around 85 bpm.
Janel picked up some horseradish spicy mustard for me today (score!) plus more apples, blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries. I am fully stocked. Thanks babe!
It feels good to have lots of good, healthy food ready to go to execute a successful day of back recovery and Shape eating.
Hunger - Woke up feeling good, not very hungry. Thursday's I eat a little later in the day due to FYV pickup after 1pm.
Snack - Plain fat free Greek yogurt with orange - 9:30am
Meal#1 - FYV New Orleans Shrimp (shrimp & zucchini) - 2:30pm
Snack - Pecan rounds - 3:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Chipotle Lime Chicken (chicken and veggie slaw) - 6pm
Snack - Apple/Berries Smoothie - 8:30pm
Drops - 9:15am, 1:30pm, 7pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - Today was pickup day for my FYV food. I was blessed to have some friends from church pick it up for me. There are some good repeats and new dishes to try this weak including - Italian Meatball soup, Garlic Sliders & Spinach, some good chicken dishes, etc. I'm in a good groove and I'm excited to keep this going day by day. To think that in a week I could be under 300 pounds is pretty amazing. I'm happy to follow the plan, and the results are a bonus.
Amelia had a great day out with her mommy but had a fever tonight. We gave her some Tylenol and called the nurses exchange. I'm definitely praying it's not another ear infection after she just had tubes put in 2 weeks ago.
Walked for 25 minutes tonight, felt pretty good but had tachycardia up to 138 after my shower. Just prayed and laid down and heart quickly went to normal around 85 bpm.
Janel picked up some horseradish spicy mustard for me today (score!) plus more apples, blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries. I am fully stocked. Thanks babe!
It feels good to have lots of good, healthy food ready to go to execute a successful day of back recovery and Shape eating.
Wednesday, July 24, 2013
Day 21 - 7/24/13 (3 week measurement update)
Weight - 305.4, down 1.4 pounds from yesterday, 28.6 from end of loading phase. Also lost 42.5 inches overall after 3 weeks.
Hunger - Woke up a little late today, I find myself waking up around 6am to use the bathroom and then falling back asleep until 9am+. Still getting some good rest after surgery, I'm glad to have the yogurt and fruit in the morning to hold me over until the afternoon.
Snack - Plain fat-free greek yogurt with orange and vanilla crème stevia - 9:45am
Meal#1 - FYV Asian Chicken - 12:30pm
Snack - Apple and Pecan Rounds - 3:00pm
Meal#2 - FYV Beef Bourguignon - 6:30pm
Snack - Orange Smoothie - 8:30pm
Drops - 10:15am, 3:30pm, 7:30pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - I'm settling into a new post-surgery routine. My back is feeling less stiff each day and although I do get some headaches and some pain it's really not bad at all. I'm so blessed to be having such a great recovery with so many people praying for me and my beautiful wife Janel taking A+ care of me. We have been walking slowly and not far a couple times a day the last 2 days and it has been a lot of fun. I'm hoping to keep that going and expand it to help with my recovery and reduce scar tissue build up (per the doc.) Slow and steady wins the race.
We are taking our first family walk today a little after 10:30am and hopefully will take another one tonight around 6:30pm. We don't really have anything else planned today so it's a great day to get into the Word, relax, and enjoy life. I was happy to be down 1.4 pounds today and with today being the 3 week mark we will do some measurements for fun to see how they compare to the start and also from the week 2 measurements. I will list comparisons a little later.
Neck - started at 20, week 2 at 19.5, week 3 at 18, total loss - 2"
Right Arm - started at 21, week 2 at 18.5, week 3 at 18, total loss - 3"
Left Arm - started at 21, week 2 at 18.5, week 3 at 18, total loss - 3"
Upper Chest - started at 52 1/2, week 2 at 50, week 3 at 49, total loss - 3 1/2"
Bust - started at 58, week 2 at 53 1/2, week 3 at 53, total loss - 5"
Midriff - started at 53 1/2, week 2 at 49, week 3 at 47, total loss - 6 1/2"
Waist - started at 59, week 2 at 56, week 3 at 55 1/2, total loss - 3 1/2"
Hips - started at 53, week 2 at 49, week 3 at 49, total loss - 4"
Right Thigh - started at 31, week 2 at 29, week 3 at 28 1/2, total loss - 2 1/2"
Right Knee - started at 19, week 2 at 17, week 3 at 16 1/2, total loss - 2 1/2"
Right Calf - started at 17, week 2 at 15 1/2, week 3 at 16, total loss - 1"
Left Thigh - started at 31, week 2 at 29, week 3 at 28 1/2, total loss - 2 1/2"
Left Knee - started at 19, week 2 at 17, week 3 at 16 1/2, total loss - 2 1/2"
Left Calf - started at 17, week 2 at 15 1/2, week 3 at 16, total loss - 1"
Hunger - Woke up a little late today, I find myself waking up around 6am to use the bathroom and then falling back asleep until 9am+. Still getting some good rest after surgery, I'm glad to have the yogurt and fruit in the morning to hold me over until the afternoon.
Snack - Plain fat-free greek yogurt with orange and vanilla crème stevia - 9:45am
Meal#1 - FYV Asian Chicken - 12:30pm
Snack - Apple and Pecan Rounds - 3:00pm
Meal#2 - FYV Beef Bourguignon - 6:30pm
Snack - Orange Smoothie - 8:30pm
Drops - 10:15am, 3:30pm, 7:30pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - I'm settling into a new post-surgery routine. My back is feeling less stiff each day and although I do get some headaches and some pain it's really not bad at all. I'm so blessed to be having such a great recovery with so many people praying for me and my beautiful wife Janel taking A+ care of me. We have been walking slowly and not far a couple times a day the last 2 days and it has been a lot of fun. I'm hoping to keep that going and expand it to help with my recovery and reduce scar tissue build up (per the doc.) Slow and steady wins the race.
We are taking our first family walk today a little after 10:30am and hopefully will take another one tonight around 6:30pm. We don't really have anything else planned today so it's a great day to get into the Word, relax, and enjoy life. I was happy to be down 1.4 pounds today and with today being the 3 week mark we will do some measurements for fun to see how they compare to the start and also from the week 2 measurements. I will list comparisons a little later.
Neck - started at 20, week 2 at 19.5, week 3 at 18, total loss - 2"
Right Arm - started at 21, week 2 at 18.5, week 3 at 18, total loss - 3"
Left Arm - started at 21, week 2 at 18.5, week 3 at 18, total loss - 3"
Upper Chest - started at 52 1/2, week 2 at 50, week 3 at 49, total loss - 3 1/2"
Bust - started at 58, week 2 at 53 1/2, week 3 at 53, total loss - 5"
Midriff - started at 53 1/2, week 2 at 49, week 3 at 47, total loss - 6 1/2"
Waist - started at 59, week 2 at 56, week 3 at 55 1/2, total loss - 3 1/2"
Hips - started at 53, week 2 at 49, week 3 at 49, total loss - 4"
Right Thigh - started at 31, week 2 at 29, week 3 at 28 1/2, total loss - 2 1/2"
Right Knee - started at 19, week 2 at 17, week 3 at 16 1/2, total loss - 2 1/2"
Right Calf - started at 17, week 2 at 15 1/2, week 3 at 16, total loss - 1"
Left Thigh - started at 31, week 2 at 29, week 3 at 28 1/2, total loss - 2 1/2"
Left Knee - started at 19, week 2 at 17, week 3 at 16 1/2, total loss - 2 1/2"
Left Calf - started at 17, week 2 at 15 1/2, week 3 at 16, total loss - 1"
Day 20 - 7/23/13
Weight - 306.8, down .6 pounds from yesterday, 27.2 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up thirsty and hungry, so going to keep it going with the yogurt in the morning and plenty to drink.
Snack - Plain Greek Yogurt/Strawberries/Stevia - 9:45am
Meal#1 - FYV Slow Roasted Beef Brisket (with onions and cabbage) - 11:15am
Snack - Apple and Pecan rounds - 2:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Rosemary Chicken and tomatoes - 6pm
Snack - Orange smoothie - 8:30pm
Drops - 9:15am, 1:30pm, 7:30pm
Water - 80oz
Summary - Had a good start to the day. I was glad to lose weight today but obviously getting better from surgery is top priority. I am walking short distances slowly to build up strength and to help in the healing process (less scar tissue, etc.) I'm still happy with the Feed Your Vitality meals. I am disappointed I've had Asian Chicken 4 times in the past 2 weeks and no chili yet! I'm not a complainer though so I'll have to see what this weeks meals are and then I'll make some suggestions depending on my score for the week. They won't know what I want unless I ask! I love chili :)
We have someone coming by to look at the condo tonight between 7-8pm. I've given that whole process to God so I don't get excited at all anymore when it comes to traffic. I don't know if that's a bad attitude or not? I mean, the way I feel about it when it's His time for us to move we'll move. Until then Janel and I are just happy to have a place to call our own. If we had to live in the condo for the rest of our lives we would make it work. But seriously, does anyone want to buy our condo? It's a great place, and low cost!!
Today is a good day, it's tough to stay away from "food favorites" but as each day goes by it's a victory. I would say it's "easier" but it's really not yet. I still like food a lot, but the ability to say no and to limit my portions is a skill in my opinion. Self control that is. I don't ever want to be over 300 again once I get below. Health isn't worth the false sensory pleasure that food fools you into. I want to enjoy what I eat without being a glutton. Shape Reclaimed is helping me get to the point where I can do that.
Hunger - Woke up thirsty and hungry, so going to keep it going with the yogurt in the morning and plenty to drink.
Snack - Plain Greek Yogurt/Strawberries/Stevia - 9:45am
Meal#1 - FYV Slow Roasted Beef Brisket (with onions and cabbage) - 11:15am
Snack - Apple and Pecan rounds - 2:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Rosemary Chicken and tomatoes - 6pm
Snack - Orange smoothie - 8:30pm
Drops - 9:15am, 1:30pm, 7:30pm
Water - 80oz
Summary - Had a good start to the day. I was glad to lose weight today but obviously getting better from surgery is top priority. I am walking short distances slowly to build up strength and to help in the healing process (less scar tissue, etc.) I'm still happy with the Feed Your Vitality meals. I am disappointed I've had Asian Chicken 4 times in the past 2 weeks and no chili yet! I'm not a complainer though so I'll have to see what this weeks meals are and then I'll make some suggestions depending on my score for the week. They won't know what I want unless I ask! I love chili :)
We have someone coming by to look at the condo tonight between 7-8pm. I've given that whole process to God so I don't get excited at all anymore when it comes to traffic. I don't know if that's a bad attitude or not? I mean, the way I feel about it when it's His time for us to move we'll move. Until then Janel and I are just happy to have a place to call our own. If we had to live in the condo for the rest of our lives we would make it work. But seriously, does anyone want to buy our condo? It's a great place, and low cost!!
Today is a good day, it's tough to stay away from "food favorites" but as each day goes by it's a victory. I would say it's "easier" but it's really not yet. I still like food a lot, but the ability to say no and to limit my portions is a skill in my opinion. Self control that is. I don't ever want to be over 300 again once I get below. Health isn't worth the false sensory pleasure that food fools you into. I want to enjoy what I eat without being a glutton. Shape Reclaimed is helping me get to the point where I can do that.
Monday, July 22, 2013
Day 19 - 7/22/13
Weight - 307.6, down 1.8 pounds from yesterday, 26.6 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up feeling great. Adding the plain non-fat greek yogurt and strawberries (with a few drops of the Vanilla Crème Stevia in the morning is a delicious addition.)
Snack - Greek non-fat plain yogurt/strawberries/Stevia - 9:30am
Meal#1 - FYV Beef Bourguignon (stew beef and tomatoes) - 12:15pm
Snack - Apple and Pecan rounds - 2pm
Meal#2 - FYV Island Chicken (chicken and brussel sprouts) - 7pm
Snack - Orange Smoothie and Pecan rounds - 9:30pm
Drops - 8:45am, 1pm, 8:30pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - I need to make sure I'm drinking enough water today, I have to come up with a tracking system while I'm on the mend from surgery. I don't want to give up ground on hydration. Sometimes when you only drink when you're thirsty you would be surprised how little you drink a day. I have to stay in the 140-150oz range.
I will be walking more today to try to build up some stamina, I'm looking forward to a couple short family walks and just take it easy. I feel a little numbness in my shin today but I'm praying that it's just part of the recovery and that when it's all said and done that my back heals fully and there are no nerve issues with my sciatic root and down my left leg.
I'll be following up with the surgeon this week to get some more information on my "abnormal anatomy" that he mentioned post op. I was coming out of anesthesia so I wasn't fully aware, but apparently my nerve root has three tethers instead of the normal two which made things a little more peculiar for my surgery.
Feeling great today, just taking it easy. God is good.
Hunger - Woke up feeling great. Adding the plain non-fat greek yogurt and strawberries (with a few drops of the Vanilla Crème Stevia in the morning is a delicious addition.)
Snack - Greek non-fat plain yogurt/strawberries/Stevia - 9:30am
Meal#1 - FYV Beef Bourguignon (stew beef and tomatoes) - 12:15pm
Snack - Apple and Pecan rounds - 2pm
Meal#2 - FYV Island Chicken (chicken and brussel sprouts) - 7pm
Snack - Orange Smoothie and Pecan rounds - 9:30pm
Drops - 8:45am, 1pm, 8:30pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - I need to make sure I'm drinking enough water today, I have to come up with a tracking system while I'm on the mend from surgery. I don't want to give up ground on hydration. Sometimes when you only drink when you're thirsty you would be surprised how little you drink a day. I have to stay in the 140-150oz range.
I will be walking more today to try to build up some stamina, I'm looking forward to a couple short family walks and just take it easy. I feel a little numbness in my shin today but I'm praying that it's just part of the recovery and that when it's all said and done that my back heals fully and there are no nerve issues with my sciatic root and down my left leg.
I'll be following up with the surgeon this week to get some more information on my "abnormal anatomy" that he mentioned post op. I was coming out of anesthesia so I wasn't fully aware, but apparently my nerve root has three tethers instead of the normal two which made things a little more peculiar for my surgery.
Feeling great today, just taking it easy. God is good.
Sunday, July 21, 2013
Day 18 - 7/21/13
Weight - 309.4, down 1 pound from yesterday, 24.8 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Pretty good today, still recovering from surgery. Had plenty of water (about 40oz) some plain yogurt and strawberries to start the day.
Snack - Plain greek yogurt and strawberries - 9am
Meal#1 - FYV Beef tacos (ground beef, cabbage on 3 romaine lettuce leaves) - 1:30pm
Snack - Pecan Nut Thins - 4:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Fiesta chicken (chicken and tomatoes) - 7:30pm
Snack - Apple - 9pm
Drops - 8:30am, 2:15pm, 8:30pm
Water - 140oz.
Summary - Today was a great day. My wound looks like there is some leakage which I called about and that is normal. Janel replaced my bandage and there has been no further leakage which is good news. She always takes the best care of me!
Those FYV beef tacos are a favorite of mine. It's ground beef mixed with cabbage in the container and 3 fresh romaine lettuce leaves come separate and you just spoon them full. I add either some spicy mustard or a little bit of hot sauce to mine (I would prefer ketchup but impossible to find without sugar or an artificial sweetener.) I was really full when I finished those today.
I am taking Vicodin, Vallium, and Metoprolol after surgery. Hopefully will only be on the V's for a week or 2 and then just my heart medicine and either Tylenol or Alleve once it's all said and done. I've been monitoring my pulse and it's in the 80's most of the time when I'm laying down and then around 100-105 when I'm standing up with light walking raising it up a little bit more. Once I lay down it goes back down. Gotta rebuild up my stamina.
Janel and Amelia had a great day at church today with the end of Vacation Bible school and the celebratory family day today. Amelia got up on stage twice today, I'm so proud of her. She is such a big girl :) And J&A had a great time at the after party with clowns, fun rides, and corn dogs. I'll be there next year! Looking forward to continuing to mend and being at church next week.
God bless.
Hunger - Pretty good today, still recovering from surgery. Had plenty of water (about 40oz) some plain yogurt and strawberries to start the day.
Snack - Plain greek yogurt and strawberries - 9am
Meal#1 - FYV Beef tacos (ground beef, cabbage on 3 romaine lettuce leaves) - 1:30pm
Snack - Pecan Nut Thins - 4:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Fiesta chicken (chicken and tomatoes) - 7:30pm
Snack - Apple - 9pm
Drops - 8:30am, 2:15pm, 8:30pm
Water - 140oz.
Summary - Today was a great day. My wound looks like there is some leakage which I called about and that is normal. Janel replaced my bandage and there has been no further leakage which is good news. She always takes the best care of me!
Those FYV beef tacos are a favorite of mine. It's ground beef mixed with cabbage in the container and 3 fresh romaine lettuce leaves come separate and you just spoon them full. I add either some spicy mustard or a little bit of hot sauce to mine (I would prefer ketchup but impossible to find without sugar or an artificial sweetener.) I was really full when I finished those today.
I am taking Vicodin, Vallium, and Metoprolol after surgery. Hopefully will only be on the V's for a week or 2 and then just my heart medicine and either Tylenol or Alleve once it's all said and done. I've been monitoring my pulse and it's in the 80's most of the time when I'm laying down and then around 100-105 when I'm standing up with light walking raising it up a little bit more. Once I lay down it goes back down. Gotta rebuild up my stamina.
Janel and Amelia had a great day at church today with the end of Vacation Bible school and the celebratory family day today. Amelia got up on stage twice today, I'm so proud of her. She is such a big girl :) And J&A had a great time at the after party with clowns, fun rides, and corn dogs. I'll be there next year! Looking forward to continuing to mend and being at church next week.
God bless.
Saturday, July 20, 2013
Day 17 - 7/20/13
Weight - Not sure, wasn't able to weigh in this morning. Will check tomorrow morning.
Hunger - Not hungry much at all. I had a fruit cup and a greek yogurt this morning at the hospital. Will plan on taking drops as normal today with my normal meal schedule throughout the day.
Snack - Fruit cup, greek yogurt - 8am
Meal#1 - FYV Island Chicken (chicken w/brussel sprouts) - 12:30pm
Meal#2 - Romaine lettuce with chicken casserole - 5:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Asian Chicken (chicken with cabbage) - 9:15pm
Drops - 10:45am, 5pm, 9pm
Water - 120oz
Summary - I was released from the hospital today. Overall it was a very good experience as far as surgeries go. My nurse/doctor team was very friendly and thorough. I am happy to be home with Janel and on the mend. I am going to follow directions and take it slow as I recover. One day at a time :)
I am excited to get back on Shape today. Yesterday I only took the drops once and I had chicken noodle soup x2 (at 6:30pm and 10:30pm), an apple, and some greek yogurt. I also drank plenty of water. Today I will be back on my FYV meals.
My thanks to my family, church family, and friends for all the prayers and support. The prayers and care have been more than I deserve and it is such a blessing to be part of God's family first, married to the most amazing woman second, and father to such a beautiful girl third. I've really got it made. Now it's time to just recover and keep at getting healthier and healthier. Every day is a blessing.
Wanda from church came by with chicken casserole and it was delicious. It was a celebration for getting out of the hospital. Back to plan tomorrow :) Thanks Wanda!!
Checked my 2 week measurements, down 37 inches overall. Pretty cool!
Hunger - Not hungry much at all. I had a fruit cup and a greek yogurt this morning at the hospital. Will plan on taking drops as normal today with my normal meal schedule throughout the day.
Snack - Fruit cup, greek yogurt - 8am
Meal#1 - FYV Island Chicken (chicken w/brussel sprouts) - 12:30pm
Meal#2 - Romaine lettuce with chicken casserole - 5:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV Asian Chicken (chicken with cabbage) - 9:15pm
Drops - 10:45am, 5pm, 9pm
Water - 120oz
Summary - I was released from the hospital today. Overall it was a very good experience as far as surgeries go. My nurse/doctor team was very friendly and thorough. I am happy to be home with Janel and on the mend. I am going to follow directions and take it slow as I recover. One day at a time :)
I am excited to get back on Shape today. Yesterday I only took the drops once and I had chicken noodle soup x2 (at 6:30pm and 10:30pm), an apple, and some greek yogurt. I also drank plenty of water. Today I will be back on my FYV meals.
My thanks to my family, church family, and friends for all the prayers and support. The prayers and care have been more than I deserve and it is such a blessing to be part of God's family first, married to the most amazing woman second, and father to such a beautiful girl third. I've really got it made. Now it's time to just recover and keep at getting healthier and healthier. Every day is a blessing.
Wanda from church came by with chicken casserole and it was delicious. It was a celebration for getting out of the hospital. Back to plan tomorrow :) Thanks Wanda!!
Checked my 2 week measurements, down 37 inches overall. Pretty cool!
Friday, July 19, 2013
Day 16 - 7/19/13
Weight - 310.4, down 0 pounds from yesterday, 23.8 from end of loading phase.
Today is the big day. I'm leaving for the hospital at 10am, I will be picking this back up upon my return home (which may not be until tomorrow.) I'm praying for a quick and safe recovery. God has me on a great path with Shape Reclaimed, but it's important to take one day at a time and not look at my progress as the goal. The goal is to keep my eyes on God each and every day, because I trust in Him, not in my own understanding.
Psalm 46
In God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me? - Psalm 56:11
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. - Philippians 4:4-6
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. - 1 Peter 5:6-11
Today is the big day. I'm leaving for the hospital at 10am, I will be picking this back up upon my return home (which may not be until tomorrow.) I'm praying for a quick and safe recovery. God has me on a great path with Shape Reclaimed, but it's important to take one day at a time and not look at my progress as the goal. The goal is to keep my eyes on God each and every day, because I trust in Him, not in my own understanding.
Psalm 46
In God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me? - Psalm 56:11
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. - Philippians 4:4-6
Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you. Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world. And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you. To him be the dominion forever and ever. Amen. - 1 Peter 5:6-11
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Day 15 - 7/18/13
Weight - 310.4, down 1.4 pounds from yesterday, 23.8 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up feeling good. I have surgery tomorrow and won't be able to eat until later in the afternoon so I'm considering "loading" today with a 3rd meal. Not sure yet (this is in the AM, will update in PM.)
Snack - Apple - 8:30am
Meal#1 - FYV Cajun Shrimp - 1:45pm
Snack - Orange 2:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV White Fish with Asparagus - 4pm
Meal#3 - FYV Beef & Cabbage - 730pm
Snack - Strawberry Smoothie - 9pm
Meal#4 - FYV Beef Tacos (with lettuce wraps) - 11:30pm
Drops - 7:45am, 12pm, 8pm
Water - 100oz
Summary - Today is my last day before surgery. I'm definitely praying that the weight loss helps from a recovery standpoint and that all goes well with a great procedure, wisdom and skill for the doctors/nurses, and amazing recovery. I am really looking forward to a strong recovery process so that I can begin to use moderate exercise to supplement my Shape journey.
As a side note there won't be much of a blog tomorrow, I expect to be indisposed for most of the day. I will weigh in, but I won't be able to eat or drink until some time north of 4pm.
I ate 4 meals today because of my meal process tomorrow being stunted by surgery, so I wanted to give my body a little boost and have some extra energy to get through. If I have to stay overnight at the hospital I'm hoping that I can get something plain for dinner to compensate (following Phase 1 shape rules, no processed food, no sugar, etc.) I'm thinking plain chicken breast with spicy brown mustard and steamed veggies with a couple pieces of fruit.
Hunger - Woke up feeling good. I have surgery tomorrow and won't be able to eat until later in the afternoon so I'm considering "loading" today with a 3rd meal. Not sure yet (this is in the AM, will update in PM.)
Snack - Apple - 8:30am
Meal#1 - FYV Cajun Shrimp - 1:45pm
Snack - Orange 2:30pm
Meal#2 - FYV White Fish with Asparagus - 4pm
Meal#3 - FYV Beef & Cabbage - 730pm
Snack - Strawberry Smoothie - 9pm
Meal#4 - FYV Beef Tacos (with lettuce wraps) - 11:30pm
Drops - 7:45am, 12pm, 8pm
Water - 100oz
Summary - Today is my last day before surgery. I'm definitely praying that the weight loss helps from a recovery standpoint and that all goes well with a great procedure, wisdom and skill for the doctors/nurses, and amazing recovery. I am really looking forward to a strong recovery process so that I can begin to use moderate exercise to supplement my Shape journey.
As a side note there won't be much of a blog tomorrow, I expect to be indisposed for most of the day. I will weigh in, but I won't be able to eat or drink until some time north of 4pm.
I ate 4 meals today because of my meal process tomorrow being stunted by surgery, so I wanted to give my body a little boost and have some extra energy to get through. If I have to stay overnight at the hospital I'm hoping that I can get something plain for dinner to compensate (following Phase 1 shape rules, no processed food, no sugar, etc.) I'm thinking plain chicken breast with spicy brown mustard and steamed veggies with a couple pieces of fruit.
Wednesday, July 17, 2013
Day 14 - 7/17/13
Weight - 311.8, up .2 pounds from yesterday, 22.4 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up feeling good. Not happy with the weight loss today but a plateau is to be expected with almost 2 weeks of consistent weight loss. No problems today with feeling excessively hungry.
Snack - Orange - 10am
Meal#1 - FYV Mexican Chicken Soup - 12pm
Snack - Almond Rounds - 3pm
Meal#2 - FYV Gingered Beef and Cabbage - 6:30pm
Snack - Apple, Almond Rounds, 9pm
Drops - 8:30am, 3:30pm, 9:30pm
Water - 100oz
Summary - I had my follow-up appointment with Dr. Yarger today. With my hunger levels it wasn't surprising that my ketones were measured on the "very high" range and her suggestion was to eat 2 more pieces of fruit a day. I can also have the Blue Diamond Nut Thins (I call them rounds for short hand) x6 twice a day. So bonus for me! I'm going to pick up some strawberries and some more apples tomorrow. The rest of my levels looked great, although my pH balance was at 6, and she wants it a little less acidic so I'm taking a sodium phosphate pill homeopathic tablet a couple times a day to help. As I mentioned not happy with the .2 gain today but in the grand scheme of things that's to be expected. Dr. Yarger was very excited for my 22.4 loss through this period. One day at a time...
Hunger - Woke up feeling good. Not happy with the weight loss today but a plateau is to be expected with almost 2 weeks of consistent weight loss. No problems today with feeling excessively hungry.
Snack - Orange - 10am
Meal#1 - FYV Mexican Chicken Soup - 12pm
Snack - Almond Rounds - 3pm
Meal#2 - FYV Gingered Beef and Cabbage - 6:30pm
Snack - Apple, Almond Rounds, 9pm
Drops - 8:30am, 3:30pm, 9:30pm
Water - 100oz
Summary - I had my follow-up appointment with Dr. Yarger today. With my hunger levels it wasn't surprising that my ketones were measured on the "very high" range and her suggestion was to eat 2 more pieces of fruit a day. I can also have the Blue Diamond Nut Thins (I call them rounds for short hand) x6 twice a day. So bonus for me! I'm going to pick up some strawberries and some more apples tomorrow. The rest of my levels looked great, although my pH balance was at 6, and she wants it a little less acidic so I'm taking a sodium phosphate pill homeopathic tablet a couple times a day to help. As I mentioned not happy with the .2 gain today but in the grand scheme of things that's to be expected. Dr. Yarger was very excited for my 22.4 loss through this period. One day at a time...
Day 13 - 7/16/13
Weight - 311.6, down 1.6 pounds from yesterday, 22.6 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Went to bed feeling a little hungry, woke up feeling fine. Thirsty for now, going to bring an orange to work today to mix it up for morning snack.
Snack - Orange 10:00am
Meal#1 - FYV Homemade Pot Roast with tomatoes - 12pm
Snack - Pecan Rounds - 3pm
Meal#2 - FYV Balsamic Chicken Wraps (chicken with cabbage) - 5pm
Snack - Apple - 7:45pm
Drops - 8:30am, 4:30pm, 9pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - Had a great day today. Feeling a little hungry later in the day but overall not too hard to control. I wouldn't be surprised if I need to eat just a little bit more to keep me at the right level for my size. Overall I am very happy with my FYV meals and happy with my weight loss.
Hunger - Went to bed feeling a little hungry, woke up feeling fine. Thirsty for now, going to bring an orange to work today to mix it up for morning snack.
Snack - Orange 10:00am
Meal#1 - FYV Homemade Pot Roast with tomatoes - 12pm
Snack - Pecan Rounds - 3pm
Meal#2 - FYV Balsamic Chicken Wraps (chicken with cabbage) - 5pm
Snack - Apple - 7:45pm
Drops - 8:30am, 4:30pm, 9pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - Had a great day today. Feeling a little hungry later in the day but overall not too hard to control. I wouldn't be surprised if I need to eat just a little bit more to keep me at the right level for my size. Overall I am very happy with my FYV meals and happy with my weight loss.
Monday, July 15, 2013
Day 12 - 7/15/13
Weight - 313.2, down 1.2 pounds from yesterday, 21 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up ready for my drops, a couple glasses of water and a fruit in about an hour or so. This is starting to feel more normal. Felt a little hungry later at night. A little actual hunger and a little wish I could eat that type of hunger.
Snack - Apple 9:15am
Meal#1 - FYV Balsamic Chicken Wraps - 12:00pm
Snack - Pecan Rounds - 3pm
Meal#2 - FYV Beef Sliders with Sautéed Spinach - 4:45pm
Snack - Apple - 9pm
Drops - 8:15am, 2:15pm, 8:30pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - Back to work today. Feeling good down 21 so far on the program. I'm excited to see the scale moving even if it's just a little bit each day. It's all about doing the right thing (following the program) one day at a time and then some day I will look way back from where I've come from and be astounded by the distance, the length of journey, the accomplishment. For now, it's just a day at a time. Tomorrow is not promised so I will enjoy today.
My wife and daughter have Vacation Bible School all week at church this week. They will have a lot of fun doing art projects and just fellowshipping with all the different people who may not normally come to church but come for VBS. They will have a great time.
I'm off work on Thursday and Friday is my surgery so only 3 more work days until I'm "fixed" and my back is no longer an issue. Of course, the recovery period is somewhat lengthy, 2-4 weeks until back to work and then up to 4 months for total recovery. I have to be careful and not picking up Amelia for the first month is going to be the hardest thing ever. With proper healing the chances of re-herniation on my discs are minimal. So I really have to follow doctor's orders. One thing that will help is weighing less. The last time I saw the spinal doc I was around 340, so I'll be down almost 30 pounds for surgery. Thanks Shape Reclaimed!
Hunger - Woke up ready for my drops, a couple glasses of water and a fruit in about an hour or so. This is starting to feel more normal. Felt a little hungry later at night. A little actual hunger and a little wish I could eat that type of hunger.
Snack - Apple 9:15am
Meal#1 - FYV Balsamic Chicken Wraps - 12:00pm
Snack - Pecan Rounds - 3pm
Meal#2 - FYV Beef Sliders with Sautéed Spinach - 4:45pm
Snack - Apple - 9pm
Drops - 8:15am, 2:15pm, 8:30pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - Back to work today. Feeling good down 21 so far on the program. I'm excited to see the scale moving even if it's just a little bit each day. It's all about doing the right thing (following the program) one day at a time and then some day I will look way back from where I've come from and be astounded by the distance, the length of journey, the accomplishment. For now, it's just a day at a time. Tomorrow is not promised so I will enjoy today.
My wife and daughter have Vacation Bible School all week at church this week. They will have a lot of fun doing art projects and just fellowshipping with all the different people who may not normally come to church but come for VBS. They will have a great time.
I'm off work on Thursday and Friday is my surgery so only 3 more work days until I'm "fixed" and my back is no longer an issue. Of course, the recovery period is somewhat lengthy, 2-4 weeks until back to work and then up to 4 months for total recovery. I have to be careful and not picking up Amelia for the first month is going to be the hardest thing ever. With proper healing the chances of re-herniation on my discs are minimal. So I really have to follow doctor's orders. One thing that will help is weighing less. The last time I saw the spinal doc I was around 340, so I'll be down almost 30 pounds for surgery. Thanks Shape Reclaimed!
Sunday, July 14, 2013
Day 11 - 7/14/13
Weight - 314.4, down 1.6 pounds from yesterday, 19.8 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up feeling pretty good. We have church this morning so I'm excited to praise and worship God. After that I have beef and cabbage from FYV, yum! Hunger shouldn't be an issue today.
Snack - Apple - 8:30am
Meal#1 - FYV Gingered Beef with Cabbage - 12:30pm
Snack - Pecan Rounds - 3pm
Meal#2 - FYV Mexican Chicken Soup - 6:45pm
Snack - Apple - 8:30pm
Drops - 7:35, 3:30pm, 8:45pm
Water - 120oz
Summary - Today is a great day. For one, every day you wake up alive is a great day :) No matter where I am in my journey I'm just happy to be given life, and blessed to share it with my beautiful wife, my amazing daughter, and so many friends and family. For everything under the sun there is a season, and I am so grateful to God that this is my season for Shape. I am taking it one day at a time and nothing for granted. My whole goal is to be healthy, losing weight is a piece of that, and after my back surgery on 7/19 it will be about taking steps each day to prevent scar tissue and to be mindful of the recovery period so that no further herniation in my discs occur. Slow and steady wins the race.
I'm looking forward to church this morning. I'm in the mood to praise and worship for all that we have, even with trials like my back, my mom's health, not knowing if we will be chosen by the birth mom of a soon to be born baby and just waiting, not selling our condo and buying the house we love, we are so fortunate to have what we have. To be here in the STL, to have great jobs with benefits, my wife and I are so blessed each and every day.
So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. We love because he first loved us. 1 John 4:16-19
Hunger - Woke up feeling pretty good. We have church this morning so I'm excited to praise and worship God. After that I have beef and cabbage from FYV, yum! Hunger shouldn't be an issue today.
Snack - Apple - 8:30am
Meal#1 - FYV Gingered Beef with Cabbage - 12:30pm
Snack - Pecan Rounds - 3pm
Meal#2 - FYV Mexican Chicken Soup - 6:45pm
Snack - Apple - 8:30pm
Drops - 7:35, 3:30pm, 8:45pm
Water - 120oz
Summary - Today is a great day. For one, every day you wake up alive is a great day :) No matter where I am in my journey I'm just happy to be given life, and blessed to share it with my beautiful wife, my amazing daughter, and so many friends and family. For everything under the sun there is a season, and I am so grateful to God that this is my season for Shape. I am taking it one day at a time and nothing for granted. My whole goal is to be healthy, losing weight is a piece of that, and after my back surgery on 7/19 it will be about taking steps each day to prevent scar tissue and to be mindful of the recovery period so that no further herniation in my discs occur. Slow and steady wins the race.
I'm looking forward to church this morning. I'm in the mood to praise and worship for all that we have, even with trials like my back, my mom's health, not knowing if we will be chosen by the birth mom of a soon to be born baby and just waiting, not selling our condo and buying the house we love, we are so fortunate to have what we have. To be here in the STL, to have great jobs with benefits, my wife and I are so blessed each and every day.
So we have come to know and to believe the love that God has for us. God is love, and whoever abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. By this is love perfected with us, so that we may have confidence for the day of judgment, because as he is so also are we in this world. There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love. We love because he first loved us. 1 John 4:16-19
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Day 10 - 7/13/13
Weight - 316, down .6 pounds from yesterday, 18.2 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - I feel about the same as I have. Like I'm being restrained from eating but it's working. I don't have any conscious need to eat. Just an unconscious feeling like I should be eating a lot more. I work today so hopefully the day goes by quickly. Going to try going to 3 drops a day today.
Snack - Apple - 9:30am
Meal#1 - FYV Beef Sliders with Garlic Spinach - 11am
Snack - Pecan Rounds - 2pm
Meal#2 - FYV Creole Chicken - 4pm
Snack - Orange Smoothie - 8:15pm
Drops - 7:30am, 1:30pm, 7:30pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - I started my Metoprolol back up on Thursday per my cardiologists instructions. He wants me taking it for another 3 months, 25mg twice a day. I had stopped taking it about half way through my first week of Shape and was feeling great with no abnormal heart rhythms. Both yesterday and this morning I have felt a rapid heart beat. I'm hoping that my body is just getting used to the medicine and will regulate soon. I will keep monitoring and if I'm having this often I'll call the cardiologist next week.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6
After some prayer with my brother in law I had a great day. No heart issues. I enjoyed both of my FYV meals. I've been on a meat and tomato roll lately (the homemade pot roast, creole chicken, etc.) and though I wasn't a huge tomato fan previously they have been very tasty. I am a big fan of spinach so I was stoked to have some today. I'm also a big asparagus fan. Prior to Shape I would have a kale or spinach shake with banana, protein powder and almond milk - which I will go back to once I graduate. I'm looking at Shape like a Master's program in getting my health back. One day at a time!
3 drops worked fine today, I wasn't starving or anything. I will continue to monitor and if my meal times creep early in the day and I end up with too much day left and too little meal I will use 4 drops as needed. I don't want it to be a crutch as I'm into week 2 of the program. I see Dr. Yarger again on the 24th for my first checkup and I'm excited to show her my progress and also see how I'm doing. Hopefully I can keep it up and show her even more progress in the next 10 days. The last 10 have been amazing with over 18 pounds lost. God is good :)
Hunger - I feel about the same as I have. Like I'm being restrained from eating but it's working. I don't have any conscious need to eat. Just an unconscious feeling like I should be eating a lot more. I work today so hopefully the day goes by quickly. Going to try going to 3 drops a day today.
Snack - Apple - 9:30am
Meal#1 - FYV Beef Sliders with Garlic Spinach - 11am
Snack - Pecan Rounds - 2pm
Meal#2 - FYV Creole Chicken - 4pm
Snack - Orange Smoothie - 8:15pm
Drops - 7:30am, 1:30pm, 7:30pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - I started my Metoprolol back up on Thursday per my cardiologists instructions. He wants me taking it for another 3 months, 25mg twice a day. I had stopped taking it about half way through my first week of Shape and was feeling great with no abnormal heart rhythms. Both yesterday and this morning I have felt a rapid heart beat. I'm hoping that my body is just getting used to the medicine and will regulate soon. I will keep monitoring and if I'm having this often I'll call the cardiologist next week.
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. - Proverbs 3:5-6
After some prayer with my brother in law I had a great day. No heart issues. I enjoyed both of my FYV meals. I've been on a meat and tomato roll lately (the homemade pot roast, creole chicken, etc.) and though I wasn't a huge tomato fan previously they have been very tasty. I am a big fan of spinach so I was stoked to have some today. I'm also a big asparagus fan. Prior to Shape I would have a kale or spinach shake with banana, protein powder and almond milk - which I will go back to once I graduate. I'm looking at Shape like a Master's program in getting my health back. One day at a time!
3 drops worked fine today, I wasn't starving or anything. I will continue to monitor and if my meal times creep early in the day and I end up with too much day left and too little meal I will use 4 drops as needed. I don't want it to be a crutch as I'm into week 2 of the program. I see Dr. Yarger again on the 24th for my first checkup and I'm excited to show her my progress and also see how I'm doing. Hopefully I can keep it up and show her even more progress in the next 10 days. The last 10 have been amazing with over 18 pounds lost. God is good :)
Friday, July 12, 2013
Day 9 - 7/12/13
Weight - 316.6, down 1.6 pounds from yesterday, 17.6 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Today was a stressful morning with Amelia's surgery. I was craving a chicken and bacon ranch from Subway with the chipotle sauce. Fortunately I was able to stick to plan.
Snack - Apple Smoothie - 10:15am
Meal#1 - FYV Homemade Pot Roast - 12:30pm
Snack - Pecan rounds - 4pm
Meal#2 - FYV Shrimp cocktail - 7:45pm
Snack - Orange Smoothie - 9:00pm
Drops - 6:45am, 11am, 3pm, 8:15pm
Water - 120oz
Summary - Started the day off early getting Amelia to the surgery center. Feeling pretty good overall energy wise even with early rising. I've never been a morning person but I am doing great with no stimulants at all (caffeine, etc.) Very stressful morning, but God is good all the time and Amelia did great. Her right ear still has a bad ear infection so we are on antibiotics for that for 7 more days plus 3 days of antibiotic ear drops (she had tubes put in today.)
Today is all about keeping her comfortable, letting mommy get some rest (she didn't sleep much last night) and staying on plan. I went for a 10 minute walk last night but I have 3 herniated disks and that's about all I could muster. Surgery for me next Friday and then on the road to recovery. I'm looking forward to being able to walk for 45-60 minutes at a moderate pace.
The pot roast was very yummy but with any beef/tomato dish I stay hungry mentally for a while. I did add some spinach of my own to help. I added some cabbage with my shrimp as the veggies that came with it were parsley and I'm not a big fan.
Great news of the day - AT&T came out and "fixed" my internet from having issues. Hopefully for good this time!
Hunger - Today was a stressful morning with Amelia's surgery. I was craving a chicken and bacon ranch from Subway with the chipotle sauce. Fortunately I was able to stick to plan.
Snack - Apple Smoothie - 10:15am
Meal#1 - FYV Homemade Pot Roast - 12:30pm
Snack - Pecan rounds - 4pm
Meal#2 - FYV Shrimp cocktail - 7:45pm
Snack - Orange Smoothie - 9:00pm
Drops - 6:45am, 11am, 3pm, 8:15pm
Water - 120oz
Summary - Started the day off early getting Amelia to the surgery center. Feeling pretty good overall energy wise even with early rising. I've never been a morning person but I am doing great with no stimulants at all (caffeine, etc.) Very stressful morning, but God is good all the time and Amelia did great. Her right ear still has a bad ear infection so we are on antibiotics for that for 7 more days plus 3 days of antibiotic ear drops (she had tubes put in today.)
Today is all about keeping her comfortable, letting mommy get some rest (she didn't sleep much last night) and staying on plan. I went for a 10 minute walk last night but I have 3 herniated disks and that's about all I could muster. Surgery for me next Friday and then on the road to recovery. I'm looking forward to being able to walk for 45-60 minutes at a moderate pace.
The pot roast was very yummy but with any beef/tomato dish I stay hungry mentally for a while. I did add some spinach of my own to help. I added some cabbage with my shrimp as the veggies that came with it were parsley and I'm not a big fan.
Great news of the day - AT&T came out and "fixed" my internet from having issues. Hopefully for good this time!
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Day 8 - 7/11/13
Weight - 318.2, down 1.4 pounds from yesterday, 16 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - I woke up feeling pretty good. Some calf cramps, no real hunger.
Snack - Apple 10:15
Meal#1 - (FYV) Chicken Creole - awesome! 2:30pm
Snack - Pecan rounds - 3:30pm
Meal#2 - Rosemary white fish and peppered bok choy - very good, 7pm
Snack - Orange smoothie, 9pm
Drops - 7:15am, 12pm, 4pm, 8pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - Had a busy morning. Got a hair cut, got some apples and oranges at the store with a few things for Janel. Ran home and grabbed a quick shower before my cardiologist appointment. Things are looking good. He was pretty skeptical of Shape Reclaimed but said any restricted calorie diet will lose weight. There is no possible way I would have the self control I do now without the Shape program guiding my way. So all systems go to continue with a 3 month follow up.
Janel, Amelia and I went to the park to let her swing and walk around. J&A split a birthday flavor ice cream sandwich. We picked up the next week of FYV meals and headed home right after Janel got stung by a bee :( Fortunately not on the lip like Amelia last week. Should be a relaxing rest of the day.
Hunger - I woke up feeling pretty good. Some calf cramps, no real hunger.
Snack - Apple 10:15
Meal#1 - (FYV) Chicken Creole - awesome! 2:30pm
Snack - Pecan rounds - 3:30pm
Meal#2 - Rosemary white fish and peppered bok choy - very good, 7pm
Snack - Orange smoothie, 9pm
Drops - 7:15am, 12pm, 4pm, 8pm
Water - 140oz
Summary - Had a busy morning. Got a hair cut, got some apples and oranges at the store with a few things for Janel. Ran home and grabbed a quick shower before my cardiologist appointment. Things are looking good. He was pretty skeptical of Shape Reclaimed but said any restricted calorie diet will lose weight. There is no possible way I would have the self control I do now without the Shape program guiding my way. So all systems go to continue with a 3 month follow up.
Janel, Amelia and I went to the park to let her swing and walk around. J&A split a birthday flavor ice cream sandwich. We picked up the next week of FYV meals and headed home right after Janel got stung by a bee :( Fortunately not on the lip like Amelia last week. Should be a relaxing rest of the day.
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Day 7 - 7/10/13
Weight - 319.6, down 3.2 pounds from yesterday, 14.6 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - I've been trying to space my meals out until later in the day. For years I worked nights so I'm most comfortable eating in the afternoon. Today was a good day for controllable hunger, although I still feel hunger, it's just controlled. Weird to describe. Mind over food. Weeee!
Snack - Blueberry smoothie - 9:30am
Meal#1 - Beef Bourguignon - 12:00pm
Snack - Pecan Rounds - 1:30pm
Meal#2 - Shrimp & Asparagus - 5:00pm
Snack - Blueberry smoothie - 9:30pm
Drops - 7:45am, 11:30am, 4pm, 8:20pm
Water - About 150oz
Summary - So I'm under 320 which is pretty cool. I haven't seen that since before I was married. My lowest that I've been since moving to Kansas in 2008 was 308. So that's the next goal and then on to the 200's. Just a reminder on blueberry smoothies above they consist of my large Nutribullet container, some ice, a handful of blueberries, a few drops of the Stevia (lemon and vanilla crème) goodness and water, then blend. It hits the spot. I ran out of apples and oranges so I will get some more of those tomorrow. I don't like running the same flavor back to back.
That's one of the reasons I love FYV (Feed Your Vitality) because of the great recipes that I would never do otherwise, and their great variety. I pick up my 2nd week's portions tomorrow. Last week they actually met me on July 4th to give me what they had as extras. I'm excited to see what this week will have with an actual week of preparation.
Today was a great day, because every day is a blessing. But I also was pretty excited to be under 320. Amelia is getting tubes in her ears Friday which is great because hopefully that will eliminate her constant ear infections. I see my heart doctor tomorrow, will be good to see what his evaluation shows (I'm down over 25 pounds since the last time I saw him.) We have 2 people interested in buying our condo. We should know if our adoptive birth mother picks us by this weekend. So it's a big week!
As always, God is good. Jesus is Lord. Amen.
"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong." - 1 Corinthians 16:13
Casting Crowns - Courageous
Hunger - I've been trying to space my meals out until later in the day. For years I worked nights so I'm most comfortable eating in the afternoon. Today was a good day for controllable hunger, although I still feel hunger, it's just controlled. Weird to describe. Mind over food. Weeee!
Snack - Blueberry smoothie - 9:30am
Meal#1 - Beef Bourguignon - 12:00pm
Snack - Pecan Rounds - 1:30pm
Meal#2 - Shrimp & Asparagus - 5:00pm
Snack - Blueberry smoothie - 9:30pm
Drops - 7:45am, 11:30am, 4pm, 8:20pm
Water - About 150oz
Summary - So I'm under 320 which is pretty cool. I haven't seen that since before I was married. My lowest that I've been since moving to Kansas in 2008 was 308. So that's the next goal and then on to the 200's. Just a reminder on blueberry smoothies above they consist of my large Nutribullet container, some ice, a handful of blueberries, a few drops of the Stevia (lemon and vanilla crème) goodness and water, then blend. It hits the spot. I ran out of apples and oranges so I will get some more of those tomorrow. I don't like running the same flavor back to back.
That's one of the reasons I love FYV (Feed Your Vitality) because of the great recipes that I would never do otherwise, and their great variety. I pick up my 2nd week's portions tomorrow. Last week they actually met me on July 4th to give me what they had as extras. I'm excited to see what this week will have with an actual week of preparation.
Today was a great day, because every day is a blessing. But I also was pretty excited to be under 320. Amelia is getting tubes in her ears Friday which is great because hopefully that will eliminate her constant ear infections. I see my heart doctor tomorrow, will be good to see what his evaluation shows (I'm down over 25 pounds since the last time I saw him.) We have 2 people interested in buying our condo. We should know if our adoptive birth mother picks us by this weekend. So it's a big week!
As always, God is good. Jesus is Lord. Amen.
"Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong." - 1 Corinthians 16:13
Casting Crowns - Courageous
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Day 6 - 7/9/13
Weight - 322.8, down 2 pounds from yesterday, 11.4 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Not super hungry when waking up. Will follow same plan as yesterday with 4 drops.
Snack - Blueberry smoothie - 9:30am
Meal#1 - Italian meatballs, delicious wanted more - 11:15am
Snack - Pecan rounds - 1:30pm
Meal#2 - Chicken Dijon with broccoli - 5:00pm
Snack - Blueberry smoothie - 9pm
Drops - 6:45am, 10:50am, 3:30pm, 8:40
Water - over 160oz
Summary - Today was a pretty good day although the Italian meatballs from FYV were so good, I wish there were 4 more. I am starting to extend meals and let them last by eating a little bit at a time. That seems to help. Overall I wasn't super hungry but just getting over the boredom eating phase forming new habits. I think 4 drops for a while will help. Will plan on that for another week or so.
Hunger - Not super hungry when waking up. Will follow same plan as yesterday with 4 drops.
Snack - Blueberry smoothie - 9:30am
Meal#1 - Italian meatballs, delicious wanted more - 11:15am
Snack - Pecan rounds - 1:30pm
Meal#2 - Chicken Dijon with broccoli - 5:00pm
Snack - Blueberry smoothie - 9pm
Drops - 6:45am, 10:50am, 3:30pm, 8:40
Water - over 160oz
Summary - Today was a pretty good day although the Italian meatballs from FYV were so good, I wish there were 4 more. I am starting to extend meals and let them last by eating a little bit at a time. That seems to help. Overall I wasn't super hungry but just getting over the boredom eating phase forming new habits. I think 4 drops for a while will help. Will plan on that for another week or so.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Day 5 - 7/8/13
Weight - 324.8, down 4 pounds from yesterday, 9.4 from end of loading phase.
Hunger - Woke up with a similar feeling to going to bed. Almost like taming a lion. I am aware that I should eat but I'm not ready to devour anything. Another day or two may demonstrate more control.
Snack - Orange smoothie
Meal#1 - White fish with asparagus, 11am, delicious
Snack - Pecan rounds
Meal#2 - Island chicken with brussel sprouts, 2:45pm, pretty good
Snack - Blueberry smoothie
Drops - 7:50am, 11:30am, 4:30pm, 8:15pm
Water - over 160oz.
Summary - Woke up pretty early, a little before 6. Felt rested, not really hungry, but feeling like I should be. Work days are better for hunger to start my day because I'm busy. A lot of eating for me is boredom / emotional eating. Like random Romans streaming to the Coliseum to view a random bloodbath. That's essentially what a huge meal for me is. Well got nothing better to do so might as well be disgusted and cheer about it.
Had a headache a little before Meal#1, took some Tylenol, felt better throughout the day. God is good and Janel lifted me up in prayer. Janel and Amelia had a rough day so we're definitely ready to thank God for every day but hopefully tomorrow wasps and falls aren't involved. At least in that order. Or any order. But especially not in that order.
Looking forward to each and every day one day at a time. The Lord's will be done. Took a 4th drop today and probably will for the next few days to help with hunger. Overall I would judge today a 6 out of 10 on the managed hunger scale. With a 10/10 being starved, and a 1/10 being not hungry at all.
Hunger - Woke up with a similar feeling to going to bed. Almost like taming a lion. I am aware that I should eat but I'm not ready to devour anything. Another day or two may demonstrate more control.
Snack - Orange smoothie
Meal#1 - White fish with asparagus, 11am, delicious
Snack - Pecan rounds
Meal#2 - Island chicken with brussel sprouts, 2:45pm, pretty good
Snack - Blueberry smoothie
Drops - 7:50am, 11:30am, 4:30pm, 8:15pm
Water - over 160oz.
Summary - Woke up pretty early, a little before 6. Felt rested, not really hungry, but feeling like I should be. Work days are better for hunger to start my day because I'm busy. A lot of eating for me is boredom / emotional eating. Like random Romans streaming to the Coliseum to view a random bloodbath. That's essentially what a huge meal for me is. Well got nothing better to do so might as well be disgusted and cheer about it.
Had a headache a little before Meal#1, took some Tylenol, felt better throughout the day. God is good and Janel lifted me up in prayer. Janel and Amelia had a rough day so we're definitely ready to thank God for every day but hopefully tomorrow wasps and falls aren't involved. At least in that order. Or any order. But especially not in that order.
Looking forward to each and every day one day at a time. The Lord's will be done. Took a 4th drop today and probably will for the next few days to help with hunger. Overall I would judge today a 6 out of 10 on the managed hunger scale. With a 10/10 being starved, and a 1/10 being not hungry at all.
Sunday, July 7, 2013
Day 4 - 7/7/13
Starting weight this morning was 328.8. I woke up around 5:30 because I had to pee. Wasn't able to head back to sleep so I put the baby in bed with Mom and did some chores.
I'm "hungry" this morning but I'm in no rush to eat one of my 2 meals. I'm trying to establish self control and drink water.
My chores consisted of dishes, taking out the trash, and rummaging through old cd's to toss away (listening to a few classics from my college days like Saves the Day and Dave Matthews - burning cd's were like mix tapes for kids a decade earlier. By the way I went to college in the late 90's, my wife calls it my emo stage.)
I ran out to get some donuts for my wife, and along the way I listened to some tunes, filled up the gas tank, bought some ice and an orange. When I got home I transferred the ice into freezable gallon bags for easier smoothie making.
Meal #1 - 7:45am - FYV Asian chicken. It's pretty good, chicken is tasty, it's mixed with a diced cabbage.
Snack - 8:30am - 1 orange, ice, water, 5 drops vanilla crème stevia, blended.
Meal #2 - 12:15pm - FYV Shrimp with asparagus. Delicious! Wish I had three times as much :)
Snack - 3pm - 6 pecan blue diamond wafers
Snack - 6pm - handful blueberries, ice, water, vanilla crème stevia, blended.
Church was great today. We went up and prayed for God's will to be done in everything, but especially about adopting again and buying a home. Also a praise report for my mom hanging in there like Ali in a Frazier fight.
My 3 Gail's went to Greenranch for a pool party and I went to see Man of Steel with a bud. It was a good movie. He ordered some movie theater food and it smelled delish. I was pretty hungry today so hoping that it fades tomorrow. A lot of it is mind over matter, and more than that, 2 Corinthians 12:9 which says, "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." Good stuff.
Redid my computer today with my new 256gb SSD HD finally. Feels good to have it done and everything running smoothly. Hopefully no more hard drive issues. It's almost 11pm and my stomach feels like someone just ran it over with a cement truck. Not much feeling, just flat, and I know it's there. Just laying there. Saying, "fill me." Well, we can try that tomorrow.
Took drops today at 7:15am, 12:00pm, and 7pm.
I'm "hungry" this morning but I'm in no rush to eat one of my 2 meals. I'm trying to establish self control and drink water.
My chores consisted of dishes, taking out the trash, and rummaging through old cd's to toss away (listening to a few classics from my college days like Saves the Day and Dave Matthews - burning cd's were like mix tapes for kids a decade earlier. By the way I went to college in the late 90's, my wife calls it my emo stage.)
I ran out to get some donuts for my wife, and along the way I listened to some tunes, filled up the gas tank, bought some ice and an orange. When I got home I transferred the ice into freezable gallon bags for easier smoothie making.
Meal #1 - 7:45am - FYV Asian chicken. It's pretty good, chicken is tasty, it's mixed with a diced cabbage.
Snack - 8:30am - 1 orange, ice, water, 5 drops vanilla crème stevia, blended.
Meal #2 - 12:15pm - FYV Shrimp with asparagus. Delicious! Wish I had three times as much :)
Snack - 3pm - 6 pecan blue diamond wafers
Snack - 6pm - handful blueberries, ice, water, vanilla crème stevia, blended.
Church was great today. We went up and prayed for God's will to be done in everything, but especially about adopting again and buying a home. Also a praise report for my mom hanging in there like Ali in a Frazier fight.
My 3 Gail's went to Greenranch for a pool party and I went to see Man of Steel with a bud. It was a good movie. He ordered some movie theater food and it smelled delish. I was pretty hungry today so hoping that it fades tomorrow. A lot of it is mind over matter, and more than that, 2 Corinthians 12:9 which says, "But he said to me, 'My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.' Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me." Good stuff.
Redid my computer today with my new 256gb SSD HD finally. Feels good to have it done and everything running smoothly. Hopefully no more hard drive issues. It's almost 11pm and my stomach feels like someone just ran it over with a cement truck. Not much feeling, just flat, and I know it's there. Just laying there. Saying, "fill me." Well, we can try that tomorrow.
Took drops today at 7:15am, 12:00pm, and 7pm.
Day 3 - 7/6/13
Starting weight this morning was 334.2. So I gained about 4 pounds in my "loading" phase.
I took my drops today around 7am, 11:30, and then 8pm.
I'm pretty excited about Day 3. It's the first day of eating just 2 meals a day, and after gorging myself the last 2 days nothing sounds better than a little frugality. At least for a little while. Eventually you get hungry again and the only thing with a shorter memory than your stomach is someone you've lent money.
My meals for this next stage (at least for the next month, maybe 2) are being prepared by Feed Your Vitality (FYV), a company locally that prepares Shape Reclaimed approved meals at a reasonable price. I say reasonable because my wife nor I cook particularly well and she's blessed me with approval to use FYV. So we pay a little more but for that cost we get definite, no messing around, delicious food at the exact portion level to succeed. I know I could do it on my own but to be honest, I'll let my ingenuity and can do spirit take over food preparation the next time I do Shape (people often do it multiple times to reset or cleanse even at their weight goal.)
So I'm working today. I took my 2 FYV meals with me along with an orange and 5 of the pecan Blue Diamond nut slims or whatever they are called. I drank plenty of water today. About 150-160oz or so. Had a great day at work too.
Meal #1 - around 10:30 I had the curried chicken with tomatoes. Very good!
Snack - around 12:30 I had the pecan slims
Meal #2 - around 3 I had the white fish with peppered bok choy. Also delicious.
Snack - I had a small orange a while later.
Snack - Around 6:30 I blended a handful of blueberries, water, ice, and a few drops of the vanilla crème true leaf stevia. Pretty tasty.
I was hungry the rest of the day but I was able to just drink water and eventually go to bed.
I took my drops today around 7am, 11:30, and then 8pm.
I'm pretty excited about Day 3. It's the first day of eating just 2 meals a day, and after gorging myself the last 2 days nothing sounds better than a little frugality. At least for a little while. Eventually you get hungry again and the only thing with a shorter memory than your stomach is someone you've lent money.
My meals for this next stage (at least for the next month, maybe 2) are being prepared by Feed Your Vitality (FYV), a company locally that prepares Shape Reclaimed approved meals at a reasonable price. I say reasonable because my wife nor I cook particularly well and she's blessed me with approval to use FYV. So we pay a little more but for that cost we get definite, no messing around, delicious food at the exact portion level to succeed. I know I could do it on my own but to be honest, I'll let my ingenuity and can do spirit take over food preparation the next time I do Shape (people often do it multiple times to reset or cleanse even at their weight goal.)
So I'm working today. I took my 2 FYV meals with me along with an orange and 5 of the pecan Blue Diamond nut slims or whatever they are called. I drank plenty of water today. About 150-160oz or so. Had a great day at work too.
Meal #1 - around 10:30 I had the curried chicken with tomatoes. Very good!
Snack - around 12:30 I had the pecan slims
Meal #2 - around 3 I had the white fish with peppered bok choy. Also delicious.
Snack - I had a small orange a while later.
Snack - Around 6:30 I blended a handful of blueberries, water, ice, and a few drops of the vanilla crème true leaf stevia. Pretty tasty.
I was hungry the rest of the day but I was able to just drink water and eventually go to bed.
Day 2 - 7/5/13
Today is the 2nd day of the Shape Reclaimed plan, and it is also the 2nd day of the "load" phase where you are still eating as much fatty food as you can while taking your drops. I took my first drop at 6:45am, but it is quickly being something routine without the stigma attached of "what am I putting under my tongue."
I'm not sure what I'm going to eat today as I didn't plan yesterday at the grocery store for 2 fat loading days. Oops :( I will have to get something for lunch and dinner while I am out and about. I will have to update after work, I'm sure I can find some fatty food somewhere.
After work update - found plenty to eat. Ordered Smugalas for lunch and had the mozzarella sticks and a big crispy chicken salad with plenty of shredded cheese and extra blue cheese dressing. I was stuffed to say the least. Dinner was equally as good with barbecued bacon baked beans, 'da dip, buffalo dip and plenty of tortilla chips. The one food I missed in the last two days of loading was burritos, but I will have to hit those up on the other side of the mountain.
At night I felt so full that I was almost sick. So I ate a small double fudge cookie dough blizzard from DQ just to make sure I "loaded" all the way. Mission complete.
Tomorrow starts the real day. Can't wait.
I'm not sure what I'm going to eat today as I didn't plan yesterday at the grocery store for 2 fat loading days. Oops :( I will have to get something for lunch and dinner while I am out and about. I will have to update after work, I'm sure I can find some fatty food somewhere.
After work update - found plenty to eat. Ordered Smugalas for lunch and had the mozzarella sticks and a big crispy chicken salad with plenty of shredded cheese and extra blue cheese dressing. I was stuffed to say the least. Dinner was equally as good with barbecued bacon baked beans, 'da dip, buffalo dip and plenty of tortilla chips. The one food I missed in the last two days of loading was burritos, but I will have to hit those up on the other side of the mountain.
At night I felt so full that I was almost sick. So I ate a small double fudge cookie dough blizzard from DQ just to make sure I "loaded" all the way. Mission complete.
Tomorrow starts the real day. Can't wait.
Friday, July 5, 2013
Day 1 - 7/4/13
I'm supposed to eat as much fatty foods (healthfully) as possible today - all while starting the propriety homeopathic Shape Reclaimed drops. Find the fat boys! 'Cause in 2 days you'll be hunting all over me - which is like having an Easter Egg hunt on a lawn covered in eggs. No real need to go searching. Just roll around in the excess and claim them to your heart's content.
Took my first drop at 6:45am. Didn't sleep that well last night. Probably because 4PM 2 hour naps are never a good idea under any circumstance. You can't eat or drink anything 15 minutes before or after the drops. Felt a little anxious after the first drop but settled down after just breathing and drinking some carbonated stuff later on. I get this mucus like cling to the back of my throat sometimes.
We had a busy day today, being the 4th of July and all. Great fun at the parade with Amelia and the Grand's in the morning. In the afternoon I hit up Dierberg's and grabbed a few items and then rendezvoused with the Feed your Vitality chef to pick up my first week of pre packaged food.
I chose Feed your Vitality because I didn't want to put too much guess work into what I eat as I start this plan. They have taken all the guess work out and just give you what you're supposed to eat every day. Doesn't get much simpler than that. All I'm adding are 2 fruits and plenty of water each day while taking my drops three times a day.
We had a fun lunch at Applebee's with a prospective birth mom. We will learn more in a week if we've been chosen. Her due date is August 9th. It would be amazing if God blesses us with baby #2, especially since it's such a perfect situation.
At night we watched the fireworks and it was a lot of fun. I remembered to take my drops all three times today without eating or drinking 15 minutes before or after. I tried to eat as much fatty food as I could. Day 1 of the load phase complete. Great day!
Took my first drop at 6:45am. Didn't sleep that well last night. Probably because 4PM 2 hour naps are never a good idea under any circumstance. You can't eat or drink anything 15 minutes before or after the drops. Felt a little anxious after the first drop but settled down after just breathing and drinking some carbonated stuff later on. I get this mucus like cling to the back of my throat sometimes.
We had a busy day today, being the 4th of July and all. Great fun at the parade with Amelia and the Grand's in the morning. In the afternoon I hit up Dierberg's and grabbed a few items and then rendezvoused with the Feed your Vitality chef to pick up my first week of pre packaged food.
I chose Feed your Vitality because I didn't want to put too much guess work into what I eat as I start this plan. They have taken all the guess work out and just give you what you're supposed to eat every day. Doesn't get much simpler than that. All I'm adding are 2 fruits and plenty of water each day while taking my drops three times a day.
We had a fun lunch at Applebee's with a prospective birth mom. We will learn more in a week if we've been chosen. Her due date is August 9th. It would be amazing if God blesses us with baby #2, especially since it's such a perfect situation.
At night we watched the fireworks and it was a lot of fun. I remembered to take my drops all three times today without eating or drinking 15 minutes before or after. I tried to eat as much fatty food as I could. Day 1 of the load phase complete. Great day!
Thursday, July 4, 2013
Initial Consultation - 7/3/13
A friend of the family recommended Shape Reclaimed as a way to reset your life. It allows you the ability to breakdown unhealthy fats in the body while following a medically supervised anti-inflammatory restricted calorie diet.
I can't argue with the results, everyone I know who has done the program looks and feels amazing and gives glowing reviews. So it was with no small amount of enthusiasm that I met with Dr. Yarger out at Yarger Chiropractic and Acupuncture and brought Janel and Amelia along for the ride.
The initial consultation was very comforting, informative, and for Janel and I, confirming. It was time to get going on this Shape Reclaimed journey. With any program, there are typically phases. And this program is no different.
Phase I - Two fat loading days following by at least 21 restricted calorie diet (RCD) day all while taking the proprietary Shape Reclaimed formula three times a day. Presumably the 2 fat loading days are necessary while taking the drops to teach the drops to find the fat. Robot transformer drops to the rescue! On day 3 of the program, or the first RCD, the body no longer has fat ingested and then starts to break down the yellow structural "bad" fat which is in abundance on this frame.
Phase II - The transition / stabilization phase of 21 days where you stop taking the Shape drops and start to slowing raise your caloric intake to 1200-2000 per day. You still stay away from sugars and refined starches.
Phase III - Slowly add in other foods again (read pizza and ice cream) and look for trigger foods that cause you to either snowball weight wise or just downright feel awful either from gut irritation or other non healthy side effects. Our body hates a LOT of what we eat, we just ignore it because it tastes so good.
Not to take it too far out of context but I'm going on a limb and quoting James 3:26 and applying it to my food journey too - "If someone thinks he is religious yet does not bridle his tongue, and so deceives his heart, his religion is futile." Guess what, my tongue beats my heart a lot when it's time to chow down. Let's bridle that bad boy!
All in all it was a good day. I start Day 1 on the 4th of July with a fat loading day. "I don't normally eat a hamburger, a brat, and a steak, but it is the 4th...." for you Jim Gaffigan fans.
I can't argue with the results, everyone I know who has done the program looks and feels amazing and gives glowing reviews. So it was with no small amount of enthusiasm that I met with Dr. Yarger out at Yarger Chiropractic and Acupuncture and brought Janel and Amelia along for the ride.
The initial consultation was very comforting, informative, and for Janel and I, confirming. It was time to get going on this Shape Reclaimed journey. With any program, there are typically phases. And this program is no different.
Phase I - Two fat loading days following by at least 21 restricted calorie diet (RCD) day all while taking the proprietary Shape Reclaimed formula three times a day. Presumably the 2 fat loading days are necessary while taking the drops to teach the drops to find the fat. Robot transformer drops to the rescue! On day 3 of the program, or the first RCD, the body no longer has fat ingested and then starts to break down the yellow structural "bad" fat which is in abundance on this frame.
Phase II - The transition / stabilization phase of 21 days where you stop taking the Shape drops and start to slowing raise your caloric intake to 1200-2000 per day. You still stay away from sugars and refined starches.
Phase III - Slowly add in other foods again (read pizza and ice cream) and look for trigger foods that cause you to either snowball weight wise or just downright feel awful either from gut irritation or other non healthy side effects. Our body hates a LOT of what we eat, we just ignore it because it tastes so good.
Not to take it too far out of context but I'm going on a limb and quoting James 3:26 and applying it to my food journey too - "If someone thinks he is religious yet does not bridle his tongue, and so deceives his heart, his religion is futile." Guess what, my tongue beats my heart a lot when it's time to chow down. Let's bridle that bad boy!
All in all it was a good day. I start Day 1 on the 4th of July with a fat loading day. "I don't normally eat a hamburger, a brat, and a steak, but it is the 4th...." for you Jim Gaffigan fans.
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