I'm officially at my lowest low I've ever been on during this weight loss journey and I got on the scale yesterday and let out a big squeal! Tim thought it was because he walked into the bathroom and I didn't want him to see the scale (which would normally be true) but it was b/c I hadn't ever seen the number on it! (truth be told, it's been a few times these past 2 weeks that I've let out that little squeal of excitement!) I was thinking what was different this time other than the 50,200 other times that I've hopped back on the bandwagon and why I'm moving finally firmly into the right direction. I think it's a lot of HARD FUCKING work and a lot of support. If you don't have the support system around you or the cheerleaders with you, it's hard to get and stay motivated. So, in honor of 10 Things Thursday, here is my Village:
1. My husband - yes, it's annoying that he's losing weight all the time and he goes running EVERY.SINGLE.DAY of the week and people are always remarking how good he looks, but that man tells me almost every day how nice, pretty, thinner, etc I look.
2. Tracy - our Pilates instructor. I literally quit an entire full-service gym to just commit myself to going to her classes. She's that awesome. She's not your typical Pilates instructor - picture late 40s soccer mom from the Midwest who's more of a drill sergeant than a quiet peaceful yoga/pilates instructor. She will make sure that we don't walk the next day and that when we laugh, we remember he classes b/c our abs are so sore.
3. Kathi - my trainer. I've known Kathi on and off for the past 7 years. I honestly don't know what I'm going to do when I move and can't see her at least 1x a week. She's now just my friend, not my trainer. I look forward to getting my ass kicked by her. She gives the best feedback, gets irritated when you aren't trying hard enough and encourages when she knows you need it.
4. Michelle - I'm 100% an "I can do this all by myself girl" BUT, it's so nice to have a workout partner like Michelle. We generally do Pilates and workout with Kathi together each week. To look at the two of us, you'd never believe we were on the same level with our fitness (or at least I think we are..) she maybe weighs 80lbs soaking wet and I tell her all the time that if I looked like her, I'd be walking around in daisy dukes and a crop top, but listening to her about her own insecurities just makes me realize that no matter your size, health, etc... everyone has something they want to work on. I hate when we don't work out together b/c we also like to chit chat (sometimes that pisses Kathi off though!) and it's nice to just have someone to be accountable to every once in a while.
5. MacT - if it weren't for him, I'd probably have hit my goal weight by now, but Thank God for him. He's well into his terrible twos and we just run to keep up with him. He alone is a reason for getting in the best shape ever.
6. My other friends - last night I hosted Wine Down Wednesday for the first time in over a month and I hadn't seen a lot of them in over a month - it was so fun to hear them tell me how good I looked. That little bit of a boost makes me excited to keep on going.
7. My college roommate Karen - who got me started on Advocare at the end of July. I did the 24 day Challenge and lost about 10lbs and am still keeping at it. I love the way I feel on their products and I think in conjunction with my band, I feel like I'm finally going to get to goal.
8. My blog buddies - even though I don't write a lot anymore, I DO READ still. I'm still so motivated by everyone and their successes. I love seeing how people are doing, what they are doing and I miss it when bloggers (like me sometimes) fall off the face of the earth.
I'm sure there are more villagers but I can't think of them right now! So, who is in your village?
I promise to post more (not even sure anyone is really still reading) but will always be reading..
onward..
xo
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Working Hard REALLY does pay off & TTT
Hi all! Remember me?? Let me re-introduce myself.... I'm Jen, I live in Arizona, I'm married to Timmy and have a cute little man, Mac, who BTW, is now 2!! Can you believe it? More on that later! Thought I'd do a little 10 Things Thursday to catch ya'll up on what's been going on in the last couple of months since I posted! (warning: LONG post ahead!)
1. What's with my title? Well, as you all know, I have been struggling for over a year to get off this plateau I've been on. I work out a lot, but my food just wasn't cutting it for me and I had been regularly seeing my doc to get my fill level right. Well, I'm happy to say that I Think I'm finally heading in the right direction. I've been doing well on my workouts (6-7 times a week, combo of Pilates, Strength Training, Zumba, Barre Class and Cardio) and a college friend of mine reached out to me on FB and recommended I try the Advocare 24 Day Challenge. I figured why not? So I'm on day 11 (days 1-10 are a really gentle, non just juicing cleanse) and I'm down lower than my lowest in 2 years, finally!! My fill level is great. I'm barely hungry most days and I'm making really really good choices thanks to my challenge I'm on. I haven't had sugar in 2 weeks, or caffeine or any carbs for that matter. I haven't wanted to kill anyone either, which is surprisingly shocking to me!! I'm excited to see where I end up after the Challenge is over! It's completely rebooted everything in me, and I feel awesome!!
2. Mac is 2! We had a super fun birthday party for him in July at a gymnastics and trampoline place. I tried not to go overboard since it wasn't at my house, but of course, I went a little crazy with his "Planes Trains and Automobiles" theme!! I just can't help myself! Everyone had a blast! (even the adults who got to jump on the trampolines and jump into the foam pit!)
3. We had a great time in Northern Michigan over the 4th of July!
4. Remember how I mentioned I was moving to Chicago in October? Yeah, well, that changed slightly. There was a lot of talk of impending layoffs with my company so I figured I'd wait to hear when I'd be laid off instead of just quitting.. and on Monday, I found out my end date is 12/31, which was completely shocking to me. I was prepared for any date but that one! So, we quickly changed some plans and are now staying until December, so I can collect my severance $$ and we can head to Chicago with some more money in the bank and I don't have to stress about finding work right away. Good things come to those who wait right?
5. I've been having a lot of fun with my buddies lately. Have been spending quality time with my girls since I'll be moving away from them soon.. went to Kid Rock a couple of weeks ago -- such a good show!!
6. Have not seen any of my AZ Blog girls in what seems like FOREVER! Need to change that ASAP! Now that I have some extra time here, hoping we can make some events happen!
7.Can't believe I can't think of anything else to write!
I really hope to be blogging more soon since I miss ya'll! I have been reading still a lot but just haven't had my blo-jo together so I'm hoping it comes back soon.
xoxo,js
Friday, June 21, 2013
6 THINGS FRIDAY!!!
It's FRIDAY!! WOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
1. I can't get over the Kimye baby's name.. I mean, it's just not right.. Of course this morning, I was trying to get it out of my mind and while at the gym, the only songs I kept hearing were Kanye songs.. so here I am again, totally bugged by it!! :)
2. my body aches in places I didn't know should ache. I take this crazy ass class on Thursdays at lunch time and while I hate every.single.minute of it, I still keep going b/c I know it works. But today I'm in total pain! Then I tortured myself even more and went to see Kathi this morning at the gym for a butt busting workout.. I must be insane, but now this whole exercise thing is a habit and I can't seem to shake it! :)
3. I had my Wine Down Wednesday group over on Wednesday night.. I LOVE these girls.. I LOVE Wine Down Wednesday! It's by far my favorite Wednesday of the month!! And Mac enjoys hanging with the ladies as well I think:
4. I got a really good fill last week and I think I'm FINALLY in my green zone. I haven't been starving and I'm eating just enough to satisfy me. AND, the scale is moving downward.. hallefrickinlujah!!!! Can't stop now!!
5. Saw Jenn and Amy a couple of weeks ago for brunch. Our usual, Elizabeth couldn't make it :( but it was a nice time! Always good to catch up with people that know what you are going through with the band and all the other stuff that comes with it! Both look great and are doing great!!
6. Heading to Michigan in 2 weeks for a week! Super excited! Tim and I are celebrating our anniversary (tomorrow) while we are up there and going to Mackinac Island for a day, sans child.. super excited to do that since he's been wanting to do that for years! Plus, Mac will love a little time a alone with Nana and Chip! Then, I'm going to ATL for work for a couple of days and then to Chicago to look for a place to live.. oh, did I mention that we are moving to Chicago in October?? More on that later! Haven't told my work yet, so if you and I are buds on FB, don't mention it please!! :)
xoxo, have a great weekend!
1. I can't get over the Kimye baby's name.. I mean, it's just not right.. Of course this morning, I was trying to get it out of my mind and while at the gym, the only songs I kept hearing were Kanye songs.. so here I am again, totally bugged by it!! :)
2. my body aches in places I didn't know should ache. I take this crazy ass class on Thursdays at lunch time and while I hate every.single.minute of it, I still keep going b/c I know it works. But today I'm in total pain! Then I tortured myself even more and went to see Kathi this morning at the gym for a butt busting workout.. I must be insane, but now this whole exercise thing is a habit and I can't seem to shake it! :)
3. I had my Wine Down Wednesday group over on Wednesday night.. I LOVE these girls.. I LOVE Wine Down Wednesday! It's by far my favorite Wednesday of the month!! And Mac enjoys hanging with the ladies as well I think:
4. I got a really good fill last week and I think I'm FINALLY in my green zone. I haven't been starving and I'm eating just enough to satisfy me. AND, the scale is moving downward.. hallefrickinlujah!!!! Can't stop now!!
5. Saw Jenn and Amy a couple of weeks ago for brunch. Our usual, Elizabeth couldn't make it :( but it was a nice time! Always good to catch up with people that know what you are going through with the band and all the other stuff that comes with it! Both look great and are doing great!!
6. Heading to Michigan in 2 weeks for a week! Super excited! Tim and I are celebrating our anniversary (tomorrow) while we are up there and going to Mackinac Island for a day, sans child.. super excited to do that since he's been wanting to do that for years! Plus, Mac will love a little time a alone with Nana and Chip! Then, I'm going to ATL for work for a couple of days and then to Chicago to look for a place to live.. oh, did I mention that we are moving to Chicago in October?? More on that later! Haven't told my work yet, so if you and I are buds on FB, don't mention it please!! :)
xoxo, have a great weekend!
Thursday, June 6, 2013
10 Things Tuesday - Catch Up Style
Lordy Be, I have no reason why I've been absent from the blog... just never have the motivation to type anything. I don't even have any pictures to post, so today, you just get words!
1. how's everyone doing? I'm doing good, just nothing too exciting going on!
2. I'm not one to normally pat myself on the back, but I need to tell you, I've been a workout BEAST!!! The last 4 weeks, I've averaged 6 workouts a week and last week, I did 7 days straight of working out. I'm really on a mission this time and FINALLY, I saw some more movement on the scale this week. I feel like I'm getting stronger and stronger with each workout and I'm finding myself becoming a little addicted to it!! I switch it up each day so I haven't gotten bored yet: Trainer (M), Zumba (Tues) Pilates (W) Trainer (F) Pilates (Sat) Walking (Sun) - I started in the last two weeks to go this crazy ass class that this girl teaches at my work.. holy moly, I can't even explain it.. it's called "stretch and tone" but it kicks my ass each time. I didn't want to go today but I was forced by a couple of my co-workers. Glad I did but my legs are shaking and I'm pretty sure I won't be able to move my arms to dry my hair tonight.. lots of planks, butt work, etc.. exhausting!
3. Speaking of movement on the scale, did I tell you that I tried to go weeks without buying a battery for my scale so that I wouldn't be obsessed with weighing myself each week - yeah, that didn't work! I ended up 2 weeks with that plan and then broke down to buy a battery. I have no control.
4. I just started watching Game of Thrones - holy hell is that show good!!
5. Trader Joe's Turkey Meatballs - YUM!!!
6. We are headed to Michigan for a week 7/3... CANNOT wait!!!
7. I'm seeing my girls Elizabeth and Jenn this weekend for brunch. We invited all the other Phoenix area band girls but not one person responded so I'm thinking either no one wants to see us or they aren't getting my invites.. either way, I'm glad to see Elizabeth and Jenn and happy that I met them through this forum..
8. Mac is a kooky little kid. He's talking a TON lately and there are days when he goes nuts that I think his little head is going to spin around but it doesn't and then I fall back in love with him real quick!
9. Sorry, such a boring post!
10. I have NOTHING else! Hopefully something exciting happens soon with me or I'll be boring ya'll to tears each time I write!! :)
xo, js
1. how's everyone doing? I'm doing good, just nothing too exciting going on!
2. I'm not one to normally pat myself on the back, but I need to tell you, I've been a workout BEAST!!! The last 4 weeks, I've averaged 6 workouts a week and last week, I did 7 days straight of working out. I'm really on a mission this time and FINALLY, I saw some more movement on the scale this week. I feel like I'm getting stronger and stronger with each workout and I'm finding myself becoming a little addicted to it!! I switch it up each day so I haven't gotten bored yet: Trainer (M), Zumba (Tues) Pilates (W) Trainer (F) Pilates (Sat) Walking (Sun) - I started in the last two weeks to go this crazy ass class that this girl teaches at my work.. holy moly, I can't even explain it.. it's called "stretch and tone" but it kicks my ass each time. I didn't want to go today but I was forced by a couple of my co-workers. Glad I did but my legs are shaking and I'm pretty sure I won't be able to move my arms to dry my hair tonight.. lots of planks, butt work, etc.. exhausting!
3. Speaking of movement on the scale, did I tell you that I tried to go weeks without buying a battery for my scale so that I wouldn't be obsessed with weighing myself each week - yeah, that didn't work! I ended up 2 weeks with that plan and then broke down to buy a battery. I have no control.
4. I just started watching Game of Thrones - holy hell is that show good!!
5. Trader Joe's Turkey Meatballs - YUM!!!
6. We are headed to Michigan for a week 7/3... CANNOT wait!!!
7. I'm seeing my girls Elizabeth and Jenn this weekend for brunch. We invited all the other Phoenix area band girls but not one person responded so I'm thinking either no one wants to see us or they aren't getting my invites.. either way, I'm glad to see Elizabeth and Jenn and happy that I met them through this forum..
8. Mac is a kooky little kid. He's talking a TON lately and there are days when he goes nuts that I think his little head is going to spin around but it doesn't and then I fall back in love with him real quick!
9. Sorry, such a boring post!
10. I have NOTHING else! Hopefully something exciting happens soon with me or I'll be boring ya'll to tears each time I write!! :)
xo, js
Thursday, May 16, 2013
10 Things Thursday!!!
1. Hallelujah it's Thursday!! Work sucks so bad that I'm not sure how much longer I can really hang in here!! I can't even describe work. It' s not that it's "bad" b/c of the people, it's the processes that make you almost crazy that I'm having a hard time with. Hard to explain.
2. Did anyone see this list? http://diettogo.com/blog/100-most-inspirational-weight-loss-bloggers-2013.. I beg to differ on quite a few of these!! I mean, I can't figure out how some of these even got on here.. some of these people are in no way Inspirational and a good portion of them aren't even successful at weight loss, so how in the works are they on here? Where is Amy W or LapBand Gal? Or JennxAZ?? Or Stephanie, or Chelle, or Vanessa?? These are the successful people in my little list in my head!!
3. I've been working out like a beast lately and I'm kind of on a roll. I've been doing Pilates Sat & Wed, Zumba on Tuesdays, Working out with Kathi/trainer on Monday nights and Friday mornings, and then cardio on Sunday. I take Thursday off. Not sure why I chose Thursday but I just did. Thursday is my night to just hang with Mac, do errands, play, etc.. I'm feeling very motivated with my workouts. I even had Wine Down Wednesday last night and instead of canceling Pilates and heading out to drink wine with my girls, I went to Pilates first and then showed up and didn't even drink! That's got to count for something!
4. I've been seeing my WL Dr. every 3 weeks for fills. I'm almost up to the highest fill level I've ever had. I finally lost around 4 lbs over the last 3 weeks so I was actually thrilled about that. I'm really really trying!! Did I mention I LOVE my Dr.? He's hilarious - total nerd but the nicest guy!
5. We are finally in the throes of nothing planned for the next 2 months!! So nice to just have nothing to prepare for, no trips, nothing! We are going to Michigan around the 4th of July for a week but nothing until then!!
6. I'm hanging out with Elizabeth and JennX this weekend at Jenn's community water park! super excited to see these girls as usual!
7. American Idol Finale is tonight, so is Grey's .. hmmm, what will I watch? I know I won't be watching FB b/c people ALWAYS spoil things since we are the west coast and don't watch things until later!! :)
8. I'm having a hard time coming up with 10!
9. I'll show you my new shoes I'm loving!!! I went to Nordstrom a few weeks back and the shoe salesman told me that there was a Tory Burch shoe sale going on.. which is like music to my ears.. so I snagged these cute espadrilles!! Love the little sparkle! (Ignore my chubby ankles.. for some reason I'm retaining serious water in my ankles lately! )
10. Have a good weekend!
xo,js
2. Did anyone see this list? http://diettogo.com/blog/100-most-inspirational-weight-loss-bloggers-2013.. I beg to differ on quite a few of these!! I mean, I can't figure out how some of these even got on here.. some of these people are in no way Inspirational and a good portion of them aren't even successful at weight loss, so how in the works are they on here? Where is Amy W or LapBand Gal? Or JennxAZ?? Or Stephanie, or Chelle, or Vanessa?? These are the successful people in my little list in my head!!
3. I've been working out like a beast lately and I'm kind of on a roll. I've been doing Pilates Sat & Wed, Zumba on Tuesdays, Working out with Kathi/trainer on Monday nights and Friday mornings, and then cardio on Sunday. I take Thursday off. Not sure why I chose Thursday but I just did. Thursday is my night to just hang with Mac, do errands, play, etc.. I'm feeling very motivated with my workouts. I even had Wine Down Wednesday last night and instead of canceling Pilates and heading out to drink wine with my girls, I went to Pilates first and then showed up and didn't even drink! That's got to count for something!
4. I've been seeing my WL Dr. every 3 weeks for fills. I'm almost up to the highest fill level I've ever had. I finally lost around 4 lbs over the last 3 weeks so I was actually thrilled about that. I'm really really trying!! Did I mention I LOVE my Dr.? He's hilarious - total nerd but the nicest guy!
5. We are finally in the throes of nothing planned for the next 2 months!! So nice to just have nothing to prepare for, no trips, nothing! We are going to Michigan around the 4th of July for a week but nothing until then!!
6. I'm hanging out with Elizabeth and JennX this weekend at Jenn's community water park! super excited to see these girls as usual!
7. American Idol Finale is tonight, so is Grey's .. hmmm, what will I watch? I know I won't be watching FB b/c people ALWAYS spoil things since we are the west coast and don't watch things until later!! :)
8. I'm having a hard time coming up with 10!
9. I'll show you my new shoes I'm loving!!! I went to Nordstrom a few weeks back and the shoe salesman told me that there was a Tory Burch shoe sale going on.. which is like music to my ears.. so I snagged these cute espadrilles!! Love the little sparkle! (Ignore my chubby ankles.. for some reason I'm retaining serious water in my ankles lately! )
10. Have a good weekend!
xo,js
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Holy Catch-Up Post.. and sorry in advance for the PHOTO CRAZINESS!!!
Hey ALL!! I've been horribly absent from my blog and I've barely even been reading.. so I'm going to do a quick catch-up and hurl a million pictures your way..
Last weekend was my bestie's wedding.. it was so freaking fun!! Probably the best time I've ever had at a wedding besides my own! We had a busy couple of days including the rehearsal and then the wedding but it was so fun and went by so fast!
Here are pics from the wedding and the rehearsal..
Mac on the plane.. we actually sprung for his own seat.. genius decision!!!
Last weekend was my bestie's wedding.. it was so freaking fun!! Probably the best time I've ever had at a wedding besides my own! We had a busy couple of days including the rehearsal and then the wedding but it was so fun and went by so fast!
Here are pics from the wedding and the rehearsal..
Mac on the plane.. we actually sprung for his own seat.. genius decision!!!
Timmy and me at the Rehearsal dinner
Shannon and her bridesmaids, me and TMac (aka Tracy)
We got our hair and makeup done.. I've never had more makeup on in my life!!! But, I loved it!!
Me and the beautiful bride!! and then some of me and TMac, Shannon and of course Timmy!!
While I loved my hair and makeup (and accessories!) I wish I could look at these pics and see just a happy me and not want to pick apart my large arms or wish that I had lost 20 more lbs.. I wish I could just be 100% happy with how I looked! Someday maybe..
On Saturday, my girlfriends and I got together and rounded up our kiddos and met up at a park.. it was so fun to hang out and see our kids playing together.. my friend Margo has the most adorable squishy little guy, Bowie!
Mac had himself a good time with all the ladies as well.
It was by far the hardest to leave Chicago this time.. I had so much fun with my family (my mom and dad were there too) and my friends! I couldn't be happier for Shannon. She was a beautiful bride and she was grinning from ear to ear all night!!!
Got home on Sunday and headed over to Joy's for our little Mother's Day celebration - just the three of us, in the backyard, sipping cocktails, eating awesome food, gossiping and reading trashy mags!
BEST DAY EVER!!! 
Be back tomorrow with weight updates!! XOXO
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Ten Things Thursday..
1. I know, I know, yesterday was Weigh In Wednesday, but I just couldn't go there. I contemplated throwing in the towel yesterday b/c I was so frustrated. I couldn't even write the numbers. I had an appointment for a fill and I almost didn't go, but then I said to myself, "self, if you don't go, what is the point of having a lap band... you are going to fail, get back up and be succesful and it all starts with going to see the Dr. and getting the fill".. so I went and am happy I did.
2. I love my new Dr. He's honestly the kindest one dr. I've ever had. EVER. He walked in, asked me how I was doing, I told him I was irritated, he tried to cheer me up and then I just said, "please just let me be frustrated for a minute" and he did. He asked me some good questions and then tried to joke a little with me, give me some options and then he said "did you get your hair done differently? B/C it looks really good!" Ah, that man knows the way to my heart, comment on my hair!! So, I got a nice sized fill (1.5cc) which almost brings me up to where I was pre-EGD. And then we came up with a plan to get another 1.5 in 3 weeks if I need it. I'm feeling much better today and had about a 1/2 of a small yogurt and was full, so hoping that's a good sign!!
3. Am starting with my old personal trainer Kathi tomorrow morning at 5:30. I'm excited and scared all at once. I can't wait to get back into the swing of getting my ass handed to me by here twice a week but I'm scared of the pain that I know will ensue. I'm hoping with her sessions, my 2x week Pilates and my Zumba mixed in with some additional cardio, I'm going to be rocking a hot body by this time next year!!
4. I haven't mentioned work lately - finally, it's getting under control!!
5. I'm obsessed with the "Walking Dead".. Damn you Michelle!!! I literally jump into bed every night and start up an episode on my iPad. Last night I thought I was going to have a panic attack, it was so intense. I'm almost done with the 2nd season so I need to figure out how to get the 3rd since it's not on Netflix yet.
6. Talked to my bestie last night.. 15 days until her wedding!! so excited! Trying to figure out how I'm going to do my hair since I got it CHOPPED last weekend!
7. LBG posted a funny blog about Plus Size models in catalogs and how ridiculous it is that they are not plus sized at all. That got me to thinking about how annoyed I always get when I see the mannequins in plus size section of the Old Navy website... I mean really, who stands like this and everything they model looks completely frumpy and blah.. I have this dress and it doesn't look like this on me at all.. it looks BETTER!
8. I had lunch with my blog besties Jenn and Elizabeth this past weekend. As usual, we spent the majority of the time chatting away. So good to catch up with them. We have plans for a water play date with the kiddos in May already! Can't wait!!
9. I found a new use for my child this morning.. I had on tall wedges and I dropped my ID on the floor and thought "shit, that's a long way down to pick that up" so I asked him to get it for me! He's got a new job!! "Picker-Upper"
10. I got nothing else. Have a good weekend!!
xo
2. I love my new Dr. He's honestly the kindest one dr. I've ever had. EVER. He walked in, asked me how I was doing, I told him I was irritated, he tried to cheer me up and then I just said, "please just let me be frustrated for a minute" and he did. He asked me some good questions and then tried to joke a little with me, give me some options and then he said "did you get your hair done differently? B/C it looks really good!" Ah, that man knows the way to my heart, comment on my hair!! So, I got a nice sized fill (1.5cc) which almost brings me up to where I was pre-EGD. And then we came up with a plan to get another 1.5 in 3 weeks if I need it. I'm feeling much better today and had about a 1/2 of a small yogurt and was full, so hoping that's a good sign!!
3. Am starting with my old personal trainer Kathi tomorrow morning at 5:30. I'm excited and scared all at once. I can't wait to get back into the swing of getting my ass handed to me by here twice a week but I'm scared of the pain that I know will ensue. I'm hoping with her sessions, my 2x week Pilates and my Zumba mixed in with some additional cardio, I'm going to be rocking a hot body by this time next year!!
4. I haven't mentioned work lately - finally, it's getting under control!!
5. I'm obsessed with the "Walking Dead".. Damn you Michelle!!! I literally jump into bed every night and start up an episode on my iPad. Last night I thought I was going to have a panic attack, it was so intense. I'm almost done with the 2nd season so I need to figure out how to get the 3rd since it's not on Netflix yet.
6. Talked to my bestie last night.. 15 days until her wedding!! so excited! Trying to figure out how I'm going to do my hair since I got it CHOPPED last weekend!
7. LBG posted a funny blog about Plus Size models in catalogs and how ridiculous it is that they are not plus sized at all. That got me to thinking about how annoyed I always get when I see the mannequins in plus size section of the Old Navy website... I mean really, who stands like this and everything they model looks completely frumpy and blah.. I have this dress and it doesn't look like this on me at all.. it looks BETTER!
8. I had lunch with my blog besties Jenn and Elizabeth this past weekend. As usual, we spent the majority of the time chatting away. So good to catch up with them. We have plans for a water play date with the kiddos in May already! Can't wait!!
10. I got nothing else. Have a good weekend!!
xo
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Weigh In Wednesday ... and Bachelorette Party Shenanegins!!
Last Week's Weight: 245.9 (I didn't actually post last week but it didn't change from the previous week)
This Week's Weight: 243.5
Loss: 2.4
Woot Woot!!! I am super excited about this considering the weekend that I just had!! Finally, things are moving in the right direction for me!!
So, let's quickly recap my past weekend... I will not share all the details but let's just say, we gave the movie "The Hangover" a run for it's money.. plus, some things are just better off left unwritten or published on a public forum!!!
My girlfriends arrived on Thursday evening from Chicago and LA. Shannon's aunt Michelle came from Seattle on Friday morning. Friday, we just hung out at my house and sat in the sun, chatting and gossiping. There may have been some beer and dancing involved as well.
The "moms" of the group.. Me, Margo and Angela
Friday night we put on our cute duds and headed into Old Town Scottsdale for dinner and drinks.
This Week's Weight: 243.5
Loss: 2.4
Woot Woot!!! I am super excited about this considering the weekend that I just had!! Finally, things are moving in the right direction for me!!
So, let's quickly recap my past weekend... I will not share all the details but let's just say, we gave the movie "The Hangover" a run for it's money.. plus, some things are just better off left unwritten or published on a public forum!!!
My girlfriends arrived on Thursday evening from Chicago and LA. Shannon's aunt Michelle came from Seattle on Friday morning. Friday, we just hung out at my house and sat in the sun, chatting and gossiping. There may have been some beer and dancing involved as well.
The "moms" of the group.. Me, Margo and Angela
Friday night we put on our cute duds and headed into Old Town Scottsdale for dinner and drinks.
Me, Shannon, Angela, TMac (in front), Michelle and Margo in back
Me and the bride to be
us girls taking a break from dancing for a minute
me and TMac.. the bridesmaids..
We hit up quite a few establishments and there may have been way too many drinks consumed by the author of this blog. And that's all I'm going to say about that.
Saturday morning, we went to the Fairmont Princess resort here and laid by the pool all day. Since Shannon works for Fairmont, we got a really sweet deal on a cabana and f&b package. I pretty much moved from chair to cabana to pool to chair to cabana all day. We had all planned to do dinner on Saturday night but the previous night's activities wore us out so we just ordered in and were in bed by 9! Totally lame but Friday night did us 40+ year olds in!!
I know I say this all the time, but these girls are really the best. I've never met a group of fiercely loyal people to each other... there's nothing that we wouldn't do for each other. Shannon definitely had a great time and I know that she loved every minute of it, which was the plan!!
So, 26 days until the wedding. I'm bummed I will not have met my 20 lb loss by the time the wedding rolls around but I'm feeling pretty good about how my dress looks on me and I'll keep working at it until then and after. I'm heading back for another fill next week and hopefully that will get me closer to the green zone and I'll continue moving downward.
I'm thinking I'm seeing two of my faves Jenn and Elizabeth this weekend! Need to firm up our plans but it'll be great to see them!!
Hope everyone is well!
xo,js
Friday, April 5, 2013
BYOC!!!
Thanks to Draz for giving me something to write about this week!!!
We answer 5 little questions - some serious, some silly - to give our blogging brains a break and to get to know each other better. Copy and paste to your own blog and ENJOY!!
I would quit my job and open up a little gift boutique! I've always been obsessed with paper, stationary, bags, little happys, but money and fear of failure will pretty much always take over.
2. What’s your favorite pizza topping and brand?
I'm boring - pepperoni and sometimes add a little mushroom! We have Grimaldi's here and I LOVE it!!! I think it's local to AZ and it's wood fired pizza.. so good. Rosatti's comes in a close 2nd. In chicago - it's def Lou Malnati's. Everyone goes crazy over Ginos, Giordano's and Uno/Due, but Malnati's is really the best!
3. If you could go back in time but only as far as five years – would you go or not go and why?
HELL NO!! Let's recap - 5 years ago we were just in the midst of the great Stull depression. I wouldn't wish that time on anyone. I'd say the last 4 years have been some of my best so I'm fine not going back!
4. Who is your favorite Disney princess and why?
This is a funny question b/c I've honestly never thought of having a favorite Disney Princess. I'm not a huge fan of any of them, we are lucky I even know who they are but since I know Kennedy, I know them by default - I think one of them is Aurora and isn't there a Jasmine??
The only other one I know of is the newest girl in crown - Sofia the 1st. So, I"ll go with her, she's my favorite!!
5. Repeat Question – summarize your week!
This week was decent. WorkWise, as always, it was busy busy!! I had 17 people at my house on Easter Sunday so that was fun! Then, my Bro, SIL and kids came in on Sunday night and have been here all week so that's been fun! Tonight we are having more people over and this weekend is packed with lots of stuff as usual. I can barely stop and take a breath!
I did get to see my Dr this week and got a fill. I'll write about that next week some time, but it's all good! I'm ready for my WL to really kick in and start seeing some good results.
Next week, my girlfriends come in for Shannon's bachelorette party and I'm super excited about that!
have a great weekend!
xo, js
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Weigh In Wednesday - Wah Wah
Last Week's Weight: 246.4
Today's Weight: 245.9
Total Loss: .5
Geez Louise.. not surprised though. I've been non-stop for the past week and haven't worked out like I planned. My eating has been not bad but I'm so hungry all.the.time. I'm heading to my dr. this morning so hopefully a fill will do me some good. I'm sucking up and paying all the $$ since my insurance doesn't cover Bariatric anymore, so I'm hoping that's even more of a motivator to get this shit done!! :)
Be back in a bit.
xo
Today's Weight: 245.9
Total Loss: .5
Geez Louise.. not surprised though. I've been non-stop for the past week and haven't worked out like I planned. My eating has been not bad but I'm so hungry all.the.time. I'm heading to my dr. this morning so hopefully a fill will do me some good. I'm sucking up and paying all the $$ since my insurance doesn't cover Bariatric anymore, so I'm hoping that's even more of a motivator to get this shit done!! :)
Be back in a bit.
xo
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Weigh In Wednesday - duh, duh, duh...
Last Week's Weight: 249
Today's Weight: 246.4
Loss: 2.6
I'll take it. I could have done better but I know I'm moving in the right direction.
What I did right:
Today's Weight: 246.4
Loss: 2.6
I'll take it. I could have done better but I know I'm moving in the right direction.
What I did right:
- Tracked my food daily (with the exception of Saturday/Sunday) on MyFitnessPal
- Walked 3 times after work with Mac
- 1 Pilates Class (more on that in a minute)
- 1 Zumba Class
- Cut out the Diet Rockstar Energy Drink I was drinking 1x a day
- Ate lunches from My Fit Foods - everything is all portioned out calorie wise so it takes guess work out of thing
What I could have done better:
- drank more water
- Not drank a shit ton on Friday night which led to the worst Pilates class in the history of time on Saturday morning. We took Brandon out for his birthday on Friday evening and the wine was aflowing.. I knew Pilates was going to suck and there were more 4 letter words coming out of my mouth than normal. BUT, on the plus side, I did go..
- Watched my intake on Saturday and Sunday
Goals this week:
- Don't overdo it on Easter. I'm hosting a brunch for like 10 of us.
- Keep up the workouts. Went to Zumba last night and really pushed myself and was sweating like a beast
- I have 3 PIlates sessions on the schedule between now and next week's weigh in
- Walk 3 times before next Wednesday
- GET MY FILL ON WEDNESDAY!!!
have a good day!
xo,js
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Jiggly Wiggly Pudding....
Anyone know what that's from?? If you are an avid watcher of the Disney Jr. channel, you'd know that that is what the King on "Sofia the 1st" loves and always says! "Jiggly Wiggly Pudding!"
anyways, I digress..
a funny thing happened on my walk last night with Mac... I walked about 1 1/2 miles UP the road and then while we were walking the way back, I decided to run a little (sidenote, I had read Kelle Hampton's blog yesterday and as usual, she inspired me.. she talked about running and "girl on fire"). As I was running, I could feel all my chub just jiggling up and down and all I could think about was "Jiggly Wiggly Pudding!" Not, "Girl on Fire"..
BTW, Mac loved the running!! he loves running and while I was running, he kept looking back at me and waving his arms and saying "Run, Run, Run"... that's serious motivation!!!
Lest you think I'm now a runner, get your minds out of the gutter.. I maybe ran for 5 minutes total, on and off, down-hill, pushing a stroller.
It's a start.
I also did some push-ups and some planks. Eat that Jillian Michaels.
I'm ready for Weigh-In Wednesday. I'm hoping I won't be disappointed. I would say with the exception of Friday and Saturday, I've been about 75% on track with my eating, which is better than about the 40% I was at last week. Fingers crossed and please say all your prayers tonight that I at least 1 lb!!
see you tomorrow!
xo, js
Pics from my walk last night:
anyways, I digress..
a funny thing happened on my walk last night with Mac... I walked about 1 1/2 miles UP the road and then while we were walking the way back, I decided to run a little (sidenote, I had read Kelle Hampton's blog yesterday and as usual, she inspired me.. she talked about running and "girl on fire"). As I was running, I could feel all my chub just jiggling up and down and all I could think about was "Jiggly Wiggly Pudding!" Not, "Girl on Fire"..
BTW, Mac loved the running!! he loves running and while I was running, he kept looking back at me and waving his arms and saying "Run, Run, Run"... that's serious motivation!!!
Lest you think I'm now a runner, get your minds out of the gutter.. I maybe ran for 5 minutes total, on and off, down-hill, pushing a stroller.
It's a start.
I also did some push-ups and some planks. Eat that Jillian Michaels.
I'm ready for Weigh-In Wednesday. I'm hoping I won't be disappointed. I would say with the exception of Friday and Saturday, I've been about 75% on track with my eating, which is better than about the 40% I was at last week. Fingers crossed and please say all your prayers tonight that I at least 1 lb!!
see you tomorrow!
xo, js
Pics from my walk last night:
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Chicago FUN visit recap!
Hey all, first, thanks so much for the support I received on yesterday's post. It was soo hard to write that weight down and put those pictures in but I appreciate all the comments and love!
I also realized that I hadn't posted since I went to Chicago a week ago for my bestie Shannon's shower.
As usual, it was FUN!! It was literally a quick 48 hour trip but we packed alot in in that time. Tim and Mac also came with and we met my parents at our hotel (which BTW, if you are going to Chicago, stay at the Omni on Michigan - great location, all suites, good price and excellent customer service!). We met up with Shannon, her moms, and fiance Kevin for dinner that night which was yum!
Let's just get this out there that Mr. Mac does not travel well. He has like zero patience (I mean, he is only 20 months old) so by the time we were getting on the plane, he was going ape shit bananas and every person on that flight was looking at me with those "please don't let that screaming kid be sitting next to me for 3 1/2 hours" eyes.. once we finally took off, he fell asleep for most of the flight. but damn, mama gets a little stressed out and then it all goes downhill!! We got to the restaurant and he wanted to run around like a maniac, but finally sat down and ate like a polite little gentleman!! This was his real first time experiencing the cold and he didn't seem to mind!!
Saturday morning, I got a much needed little break away and headed up to my friend TMac's house to put together the favors and get some flowers and cupcakes for the shower. Since the shower was at a wine bar, we put together these cute little favors - mini-wine bottles with a chalkboard wine charm attached and a piece of chalk (everyone thought it was a cigarettte, b/c you know, that's how classy we roll, putting a ciggy in a favor!) they turned out super cute!
The shower was a super success and Shannon had a good time and got lots of fun gifts. It was nice to see a mix of people there to celebrate her - some of Kevin's family, his and her friends and then her family and friends. She was grinning ear to ear for most of the day! It seriously makes me soo happy to see her so happy!
After the shower, my girls, moms and I went to an old neighborhood bar and just caught up some more. I know I say this all the time, but I love these girls. When I'm around them, I just have this feeling of being "home".. hard to explain.
Sunday morning, we headed over to my friend Laura's house so that Mac could meet her son, Logan, and we could meet my friend Margo's new baby.. so fun! Mac and Logan will be BFFs some day, they just don't realize it yet.. instead, they wrestled for toys and knocked each other around like boys do.
Then we boarded the plane for another fun filled ride home.. actually it wasn't so bad since Mac dozed off as soon as the wheels lifted off the ground and then woke up as soon as we landed. I wanted to scream "your welcome" to all the other passengers around us!!!
Now, we are back in the swing of things and I'm prepping for easter when we'll have our traditional 3 family get together with the H's and the G's! then, my brother and family come into town on Easter Sunday for a week and then the following weekend, all the girls come in for the bachelorette party (woot woot) Then, it's the wedding!! So, I'll be slowing down some time around mid-May!!
I also realized that I hadn't posted since I went to Chicago a week ago for my bestie Shannon's shower.
As usual, it was FUN!! It was literally a quick 48 hour trip but we packed alot in in that time. Tim and Mac also came with and we met my parents at our hotel (which BTW, if you are going to Chicago, stay at the Omni on Michigan - great location, all suites, good price and excellent customer service!). We met up with Shannon, her moms, and fiance Kevin for dinner that night which was yum!
Let's just get this out there that Mr. Mac does not travel well. He has like zero patience (I mean, he is only 20 months old) so by the time we were getting on the plane, he was going ape shit bananas and every person on that flight was looking at me with those "please don't let that screaming kid be sitting next to me for 3 1/2 hours" eyes.. once we finally took off, he fell asleep for most of the flight. but damn, mama gets a little stressed out and then it all goes downhill!! We got to the restaurant and he wanted to run around like a maniac, but finally sat down and ate like a polite little gentleman!! This was his real first time experiencing the cold and he didn't seem to mind!!
The shower was a super success and Shannon had a good time and got lots of fun gifts. It was nice to see a mix of people there to celebrate her - some of Kevin's family, his and her friends and then her family and friends. She was grinning ear to ear for most of the day! It seriously makes me soo happy to see her so happy!
After the shower, my girls, moms and I went to an old neighborhood bar and just caught up some more. I know I say this all the time, but I love these girls. When I'm around them, I just have this feeling of being "home".. hard to explain.
Sunday morning, we headed over to my friend Laura's house so that Mac could meet her son, Logan, and we could meet my friend Margo's new baby.. so fun! Mac and Logan will be BFFs some day, they just don't realize it yet.. instead, they wrestled for toys and knocked each other around like boys do.
Then we boarded the plane for another fun filled ride home.. actually it wasn't so bad since Mac dozed off as soon as the wheels lifted off the ground and then woke up as soon as we landed. I wanted to scream "your welcome" to all the other passengers around us!!!
Now, we are back in the swing of things and I'm prepping for easter when we'll have our traditional 3 family get together with the H's and the G's! then, my brother and family come into town on Easter Sunday for a week and then the following weekend, all the girls come in for the bachelorette party (woot woot) Then, it's the wedding!! So, I'll be slowing down some time around mid-May!!
Monday, March 18, 2013
Coming Clean..
I've been blogging for almost 4 years now and while the original intent of my blogging was to document and journal my weightloss journey with the lap band, it became so much more than that. I've had a baby and the blog has become more about my life and family and friends than what it's original intent was. While I still want to use this blog to chronicle my "life", I need to refocus on what I started out to do, which is to use this tool that I've been given the opportunity to have and use it to it's full advantage to change my life. One thing I never did for fear of judgement and honestly, just shame, was ever put a before picture nor did I ever disclose my weight on my blog. ( I started out with a lot of real life friends and family reading my blog and I still have those readers) I figured that since so many of my blog friends were hiding the fact that they even have the band, what was the big whoop with me not telling my weight. I have come to realize though that the most successful lap banders/sleeve folks are those that are full disclosure, doing weekly weigh ins, talking about their plans, eating habits, etc..
I need to be one of the success stories. So my shame and fear of being judged ends today. I plan on doing weekly weigh-ins on Wednesday and I plan to share my successes as well as my short-comings. I need to support, I need to do this and get it done. I'm tired of watching everyone around me succeed and me just being OK with it.
So here we go:
Today's Weigh In: 249
249? Pathetic! I'm up 10 lbs since my unfill before my EGD a month ago. When I did my EGD, he filled me back up to 6 ccs which is totally not enough for me. I am usually good at around 9.5ccs. He wanted me to go about 3 weeks with this fill level. In that 3 weeks I've found out that my new insurance doesn't cover the band at all. So, I'm going to be self-pay and I'll be damned if I waste all this money and not get moving in the right direction. My lowest I've ever been since having surgery was 235. My goal is around 175/180 so I have a ways to go. I'm going in this week to meet with my new doctor and come up with a plan.
Here are my "before" pics.. from yesterday. I'm considering it an NSV of sorts that I was even in a tank top walking outside, but it was hot!! (Also, lordy be is my garage a mess!!!)
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I met up with Elizabeth yesterday at a baseball game! Super fun to meet her daughter who was a trooper and so sweet to run after Mac every time he tried to escape our area! She is a great support and I can't tell you how nice it is to just talk to someone who get's it. Today she's having her port moved so she's going to be back at it as well!! :) Love her!
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so, that's it. I'm finally out. Feels good!! I'll be doing weigh-ins on Wednesdays since it seems a lot of peeps do that, plus "Weigh In Wednesday" just sounds right!!
Thought I'd make myself feel a little better about myself today by wearing a dress that has been sitting in my closet for quite some time and I finally have a little color on my legs to wear it! Sorry for the blur but just couldn't get it to focus.. also for the messy playroom!!
Expect to be seeing more of me in blogging (less of me in weight!!)!
xo
js
I need to be one of the success stories. So my shame and fear of being judged ends today. I plan on doing weekly weigh-ins on Wednesday and I plan to share my successes as well as my short-comings. I need to support, I need to do this and get it done. I'm tired of watching everyone around me succeed and me just being OK with it.
So here we go:
Today's Weigh In: 249
249? Pathetic! I'm up 10 lbs since my unfill before my EGD a month ago. When I did my EGD, he filled me back up to 6 ccs which is totally not enough for me. I am usually good at around 9.5ccs. He wanted me to go about 3 weeks with this fill level. In that 3 weeks I've found out that my new insurance doesn't cover the band at all. So, I'm going to be self-pay and I'll be damned if I waste all this money and not get moving in the right direction. My lowest I've ever been since having surgery was 235. My goal is around 175/180 so I have a ways to go. I'm going in this week to meet with my new doctor and come up with a plan.
Here are my "before" pics.. from yesterday. I'm considering it an NSV of sorts that I was even in a tank top walking outside, but it was hot!! (Also, lordy be is my garage a mess!!!)
.JPG)
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so, that's it. I'm finally out. Feels good!! I'll be doing weigh-ins on Wednesdays since it seems a lot of peeps do that, plus "Weigh In Wednesday" just sounds right!!
Thought I'd make myself feel a little better about myself today by wearing a dress that has been sitting in my closet for quite some time and I finally have a little color on my legs to wear it! Sorry for the blur but just couldn't get it to focus.. also for the messy playroom!!
Expect to be seeing more of me in blogging (less of me in weight!!)!
xo
js
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