I'll begin by saying that, if you've considered the surgery at all, don't put it off. Start going through the process. I feel like six months of waiting while learning, however beneficial it was, was the hardest part so far. I know I'm only one month out, but I can tell you that this is the best gift I've ever given myself in my life. And my only regret is that I didn't do it sooner. For the first time in my life, I feel in control.
The Negatives
I thought I would get the negatives out of the way first. But I can't really think of any! Maybe next month that will be easier, but at the moment, I don't feel there are any negatives -- except, of course, I would kill for a salad. But it won't be long now.
Yeah. Having the scale not move for two weeks wasn't the easiest thing in the world, but I took heart in my nutritionist's advice. And I knew my clothes were feeling bigger, anyway.
Are there people who have lost more than me in the first month? Probably. But I have been able to keep food down, my energy level is great, and that is worth a ton! I suppose I should be honest and say I did have one "bad" day, but it was all my own fault. I went several hours without eating or drinking, and when I finally ate, I ate too much too fast. It was not fun, but it was a good learning experience. And if I stick by the rules, everything will be fine.
The Positives
1. I'm in control.
2. I've lost 23 pounds!
3. I've lost 15 1/2 inches.
4. I LOOK FORWARD to exercising!
5. I have the energy to deal with 24 four-year-olds.
6. I'm happier than I've been in a long time.
7. I'm off almost all of my meds, and my blood sugars are still improving!
8. The grocery bill is down.
9. I'm eating to live, not living to eat, and filling my body with good things.
10. Do I really need a number 10? But if I must have one, shopping for smaller sizes has already become more fun!
I want to thank each and every one of you for reading, supporting, praying, and commenting. You'll never know what an impact you have had on this journey so far! I can't wrap this post up without thanking my two incredible boys for their constant support and encouragement. I love you with all my heart, and cannot wait for the adventures to come!
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Sunday, August 10, 2014
It's Actually A Good Thing
I am sorry it has taken me so long to update my blog. It is actually a good thing, I have been feeling so good that I haven't taken the time to stop and blog!
On Wednesday I went to see my favorite doctor (not!) My labs were great. The scale was way down. I have done everything he asked me to. One would think this would provoke positive comments from him. Oh no. He proceeded to tell me that he has seen many people start out positive like me, but after a few years fizzle out. Are you kidding me? If I was backsliding I could understand this rant, but seriously? Why would anyone do that? I have GOT to find a new doctor. Any suggestions?
On Thursday I had a bit of a meltdown. I had my first moment of, "I can't do this. Why did I have this surgery?" I had no idea where it came from. Then I talked to my friend Toni. She said, "I know why....your doctor put doubt in your head!" She as exactly right. What a jerk.
Friday I was very proud of myself. I went to an Early Childhood conference. I dealt with the drinking and eating without any problems at all. I lasted all day! I walked around campus all day and didn't wear out. The only hitch was sitting by strangers while my tummy made all of it's crazy gurgles. I call it "speaking whale." LOL! I felt the need to explain to each person I sat by what was going on! I hope this doesn't last forever! I even ended my day by working in my classroom for a few hours! I felt very accomplished!
I have been walking more and it feels really good. I don't know when I have looked forward to going out for a walk. I am trying to walk a bit more each day. I look forward to the day when I can start swimming!
All in all I am very pleased. It has not been as painful or difficult as I had expected. There are a few difficult parts. For instance, I want a salad or fresh fruit SOOOOO badly. I am not craving junk! I just want a salad! I hope that someday that will be possible. Some people can have them, and some can't.
Also, the scale has not moved since about a week out! I was told this would happen. For most it happens at week three. I know I am doing what I am supposed to. I can feel my clothes getting bigger. I am only consuming 500-600 calories a day. I just have to trust what they say and not let it get to me. They say your body is just freaking out and it will catch up sooner than later. Sigh. I hope it is sooner and not later :0)
It is getting easier every day to get everything in. Eating has gone well. I had an omelet on Saturday. I wasn't sure how my tummy would handle it. It went so well and tasted great! I have been pretty agreeable with everything so far. I just look forward to being past the mushy stage!
Tomorrow I start back at work. We go to a conference. Tuesday and Wednesday are staff meetings. I am getting excited to see all these darling 4-year-olds! Prayers for an uneventful week would be appreciated!
On Wednesday I went to see my favorite doctor (not!) My labs were great. The scale was way down. I have done everything he asked me to. One would think this would provoke positive comments from him. Oh no. He proceeded to tell me that he has seen many people start out positive like me, but after a few years fizzle out. Are you kidding me? If I was backsliding I could understand this rant, but seriously? Why would anyone do that? I have GOT to find a new doctor. Any suggestions?
On Thursday I had a bit of a meltdown. I had my first moment of, "I can't do this. Why did I have this surgery?" I had no idea where it came from. Then I talked to my friend Toni. She said, "I know why....your doctor put doubt in your head!" She as exactly right. What a jerk.
Friday I was very proud of myself. I went to an Early Childhood conference. I dealt with the drinking and eating without any problems at all. I lasted all day! I walked around campus all day and didn't wear out. The only hitch was sitting by strangers while my tummy made all of it's crazy gurgles. I call it "speaking whale." LOL! I felt the need to explain to each person I sat by what was going on! I hope this doesn't last forever! I even ended my day by working in my classroom for a few hours! I felt very accomplished!
I have been walking more and it feels really good. I don't know when I have looked forward to going out for a walk. I am trying to walk a bit more each day. I look forward to the day when I can start swimming!
All in all I am very pleased. It has not been as painful or difficult as I had expected. There are a few difficult parts. For instance, I want a salad or fresh fruit SOOOOO badly. I am not craving junk! I just want a salad! I hope that someday that will be possible. Some people can have them, and some can't.
Also, the scale has not moved since about a week out! I was told this would happen. For most it happens at week three. I know I am doing what I am supposed to. I can feel my clothes getting bigger. I am only consuming 500-600 calories a day. I just have to trust what they say and not let it get to me. They say your body is just freaking out and it will catch up sooner than later. Sigh. I hope it is sooner and not later :0)
It is getting easier every day to get everything in. Eating has gone well. I had an omelet on Saturday. I wasn't sure how my tummy would handle it. It went so well and tasted great! I have been pretty agreeable with everything so far. I just look forward to being past the mushy stage!
Tomorrow I start back at work. We go to a conference. Tuesday and Wednesday are staff meetings. I am getting excited to see all these darling 4-year-olds! Prayers for an uneventful week would be appreciated!
Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Mama Said There'd Be Days Like This
Tomorrow marks two weeks since surgery, and inevitably, I have had a not-so-great day. First of all, I see this as a blessing, because I realize that I'm so lucky not to have had bad days prior to this. It appears I may have overdone it a bit. (I know...big surprise.)
My left side has crazy pains when I bend or move in certain ways. I've attempted to take it easy most of the day. I write this, not to complain, but if any of you end up having this surgery, you may know what to expect. I'm sure it will clear up soon. I just need to be gentle with myself.
The few hours today that I didn't spend reclining, were spent with my mother visiting her doctors. Unfortunately, it appears that her Multiple Myeloma has returned, and she will resume her chemo regimen soon.
Step One will be on Thursday when she receives two units of blood. I have been present during every transfusion, but this week I will have to take a pass. I'm pretty confident that sitting in their chairs for six hours would not be a good move. It will be quite difficult for me to not be there. Please keep her in your prayers, as she begins treatment. Thank you so much; it is greatly appreciated!
I'll end with a quick positive. My goal for protein intake in the first month is 60 grams a day. In the months to follow, the goal is 80-120 grams. Today, I consumed 92 grams! Woo hoo! A week ago, I would have told you that would never be possible. What a difference a week makes!
My left side has crazy pains when I bend or move in certain ways. I've attempted to take it easy most of the day. I write this, not to complain, but if any of you end up having this surgery, you may know what to expect. I'm sure it will clear up soon. I just need to be gentle with myself.
The few hours today that I didn't spend reclining, were spent with my mother visiting her doctors. Unfortunately, it appears that her Multiple Myeloma has returned, and she will resume her chemo regimen soon.
Step One will be on Thursday when she receives two units of blood. I have been present during every transfusion, but this week I will have to take a pass. I'm pretty confident that sitting in their chairs for six hours would not be a good move. It will be quite difficult for me to not be there. Please keep her in your prayers, as she begins treatment. Thank you so much; it is greatly appreciated!
I'll end with a quick positive. My goal for protein intake in the first month is 60 grams a day. In the months to follow, the goal is 80-120 grams. Today, I consumed 92 grams! Woo hoo! A week ago, I would have told you that would never be possible. What a difference a week makes!
Monday, August 4, 2014
Is This Real Life?!
Physically, I am probably feeling too good. I spent my weekend out and about, grocery shopping, going to a concert in the park, taking a mile-long walk, and watching Shakespeare in the park, in addition to going to church.
Today it appears that I may have overdone it a bit. My muscles are sore, and after spending five hours at school today, I think tomorrow is going to have to be a much more relaxing day.
I am thankful every day that God provided me the strength and courage to follow through with this procedure. I am confident He will continue to grant me the gift of strength as I travel a road that I am sure has hills up ahead. I thank all of you, also, for caring enough to read my humble posts and encourage me. I am truly blessed!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)