Thanks for joining me!

Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. — Izaak Walton

ALMOST 2 YEARS ON

 

1ST FEBRUARY 2020

 

Hasn’t time flown?

I’m almost 2 years out now; in April to be precise. But we’re in a new era now. Post Brexit! My skin creeps at the thought of what is ahead.

However, in the words of Scotland’s FM “I am full of hope for Scotland’s future” and personally I am full of hope for my own future. I am looking forward to a much healthier life. At least I know I tried my best to get on a better road regarding what I can control. The question is could I have done better? The answer is most definitely YES.

I am not making excuses, but I beg the question. If I hadn’t been in a relationship, where my partner has been bringing all sorts of junk food into the house, what would I look like now? Also, I most certainly am drinking again. Mostly Gin lol? I virtually was no longer drinking alcohol. In fact, I had not really been drinking at all. Maybe a couple every few months for years prior to surgery. John is a big drinker and this has made it difficult for me not to want to drink too. There’s nothing worse than going out with a drinker and staying sober week in week out.

I guess the time has come when I need to focus again on what goes down my throat, and regain control with an iron will. I need to be mindful of my lifestyle and weight and start to take action to overcome my weight gain. I need to be accountable AGAIN.

I had gone up as far as 14,1 after Christmas (I was 12,10 on 3 Feb 2019 ) and I’m hovering between 13,10 and 13,12. Yep it has happened; the weight gain is real about 1 stone.  It’s hard to know how the weight gain is made up. What I mean by that is; I am still wearing the same clothes I was wearing last year when I weighed less. I am still swimming, doing Yoga, Pilates and Jiving each week. I have been known to walk as much as 17k steps in one day. I can do things now that I couldn’t do a year ago and probably since the mid 90’s. I ask the question, is there some weight gain due to muscle gain? Probably yes!! 

How do I feel?  “I feel great about what I have achieved; about my life, what I am capable of doing, but I know I can do better”!  I am loving life, I am knackered a lot, but for good reason. My life is full, despite my Fibromyalgia and Hypermobility syndrome and being almost 59 (next month) I do more than many of my peers. I have to remind myself to pace myself before I crash with Chronic Fatigue.

What do I not feel great about? 

• Slow creep of gaining pounds
• Transference of addiction ( I will write again about this soon)
• Allowing shit food into my home
• Dropping the ball/ BALLS

So what are my plans?

• I am making an appointment to see my Dietitian in the next 2 weeks. I have one more appointment included in my package.
• I am using the opportunity to see a councillor (I have a free appointment in my package)
• I will self refer to Councillor to help me with addiction transfer
• Taking a firm hand with John and MYSELF on junk food
• Do a kitchen cleanse on bad foods
• Start planning my meals again
• Start Macro counting again
  • Log food and drink consumption on a daily basis, monitor daily weight, Protein and Carbohydrates
• Resurrect My Fitness Pal app
• Cutting down on alcohol. I will limit myself to maybe 2-3 times a month

So all in all I’m back with a vengeance.

---

15th May 2019

OMG a while has passed and most of you have probably given up on my blog. I guess I kind of have too. My site was up for renewal and I decided against paying the annual subscription for the all singing all dancing blog. Unfortunately, much of the formatting has been lost on the switch over.

I am not sure I have the time nor the extra energy for sifting through the pages and redesigning etc and giving it a special look. Maybe down the line I will invest the time to do so. I apologise in advance for why the site does not look the same as before.

You may be asking why not enough energy or time to spend doing this job. The reason is a simple one. I am so busy with my life now that spare time I do not have, I am simply out enjoying myself, life and my new man!!

Yes, there is life and can be romance, lust, whatever after Bariatric Surgery.

I read a very sad post yesterday of a lady who had undergone surgery and who has lost an incredible amount of weight. She like I, had taken the plunge and joined dating websites. Dating before or after surgery is a huge thing for most ladies and gents, never mind if you have been courageously and religiously following a new life style regime to change your body and your life. I know I have been, although, I do have treats and take carbs etc in moderation of course. I am human and it would not be natural to deny myself things I love or want once in a while.

Anyway, back to the subject of online dating. This lovely lady has been subjected to ridicule, insults and hateful and bullying comments, even telling her she has no right to be on the site, and to get off.

I have no idea why people and men in this case have to be so cruel.

My message to everyone out there, do not give up!! There are many lonely and wonderful people out there and maybe your dream guy is just around the corner.

I am 58 for those of your who don’t remember. I have always lived the single life and even appeared in a Glasgow newspaper many moons ago featured in a Bridget Jones (single female) feature, explaining that it is ok to be single and that you can live the life you want.

I thought it was what I wanted, but possibly deep down I hoped for something else and wondered why it didn’t happen to me. Like Ms Jones I have dated the short, the tall, the big, and small, paying more attention to boy/men friends meeting a list of specific criteria, than actually finding someone who shared my values, sense of humour and thirst for fun and enjoying what life has to offer.

After a few first dates and one dizzy from a guy (his loss not mine), I tried out no 5. Yep 5 was always my lucky number. He turned out to be a guy who was in the year above me in school and had lived only 5 minutes from my home where I grew up. I went out for lunch not expecting anything after the previous disasters and after spending 9 hours catching up, I was not sure about seeing him again.

Am I glad I listened to 2 of my good friends who told me to give him a chance? So, I did give him a chance and we’re 2 months going out together on Sunday.

I hardly seem to have a minute to sit down and get my thoughts together; between my Pilates, Yoga and Swimming during the day and seeing mum and running around after her and spending time with him, I’m generally eating or sleeping in the time I have left.

The only reason I am writing this entry is because he’s snoozing on my couch at the moment, catching up on zeds. He’s a milkman and sheep farmer so he works strange hours at times. But despite that, he has introduced me back into the world of dance. I had vowed to go back to dancing and had even found a new girlfriend to do this with, and ordered a new pair of dance shoes the week I met him. But as he jives, he took me along to his class and social events and it’s all taken off from there. I’ve been away 2 weekends so far, both involving music, dancing and lots of laughter. I have found someone who takes the stress off of me, who compliments my personality and more importantly has made me feel great about myself. Yep he likes my sagging deflated boobs. Can you imagine? My friend Pauline who passed away and had been my greatest inspiration in getting the surgery told me that she had considered skin removal surgery until she met her new husband, and who too loved her saggy and squishy bits.

I believe there is someone out there for that poor lady whose confidence has been knocked by these nasty selfish men. In general, most men are attracted to looks first in comparison to women, but not all men are “up their own asses”. Many are insecure in some respect, just like you. Everyone has their weak points and everyone needs to be propped up in some way. We are by no means perfect. No one is. We all have flaws. We all have the ability to live our Best Life. We just need to be brave and keep going and grab life with both hands and with gusto.

It’s cycling next! lol

 

5th February 2019  Day 311

It’s been a while since I have written anything and I feel I need to get focussed. I haven’t been particularly bad on the eating front since I have been exercising daily for about 10 days or more. But, sometimes I feel the slippery slope edge is getting nearer.

The scales finally tipped another pound down the other day, but I float between a couple of pounds higher all the time. Mum passed a comment today that she thought my face looked thinner, but I think its just the haircut I had on Saturday. Who knows? I do think my midriff has tightened up a bit over the past few days. I showed her my thighs ( a brave step) they are just so wobbly I exclaimed! She just laughed as I made them swing, sway and jiggle. I can almost make them salsa on their own. They certainly have minds of their own and don’t seem to work as a pair but quite independantly.

So what am I doing about the jiggles? I’m just upping the exercise and have introduced cardio to my exercise regime. This was on the advice of both my dietician and my chiropractor.

I had been emailing my dietician about the apparent stall I was on and whether I had lost all I was going to. I was constantly reminding myself about the whoosh effect and how my flab was appearing in different places as the fat was leaving the cells and filling with water, ready to finally disappear for good.  But the scales not moving gets to us all who are on this journey. She advised me to change up something, look at calories in/out and consider weight and cardio training.   I have enclosed a couple of her emails. On a brighter note it is always reassuring to know that in the eyes of your medical team you are a success.

Hi Zena

 

I have recalculated everything based on your accurate height of 1.64m.

Initial pre op appointment with me on 12.3.18 weight 111.1kg (17st 7) BMI 41.3

• 1st review 14.5.18   weight 100.9kg  (15st 12),   BMI 37.5
• 2nd review 4.8.18     weight 90.4kg    (14st 3),    BMI 33.6
• 3rd review 17.11.18  weight 82.5kg     (13st),      BMI 30.6.

Your 50% target weight at 1 year (so April 2019 ) would be a minimum of 89kg (14st) so you have far exceeded that. Your 60% target at 2 years so April 2020 would be 85kg (13st 5) so you have also exceeded this.

You have in fact also exceeded 65% which is 83kg and you are sitting at about 70% excess weight loss. This is a superb result at this stage post op.

Keep up the good work and I’ll catch up with you around summer time, unless you want seen before then. You have 2 appointment left with me between now and April 2020.

Rona Osborne Dietitian

 

Hi Zena,

I would say you have definitely achieved the target weight in terms of excess weight loss which would, in terms of literature, deem the surgery successful.

As for further weight loss this may come in time but at a much slower rate. It’s perhaps time to consider your expectations in terms of rate of loss as this will be considerably slower than the 1st few months post op plus given the amount of weight loss you have already achieved, rate of weight loss will slow but does not need to stop. A good goal would be a pound a month so over the next year you lose a further stone.

Exercise will eventually result in improved muscle mass particularly if your activity is weight training/resistance. This type of exercise helps with body shape rather than weight loss. Weight Loss is more likely to be achieved through cardio training so a combination of both types of exercise for you would be ideal.

I definitely do not believe this is the end if your weight loss journey, just keep using your life long tool of sleeve surgery to get the most out of it and keep up all your new good habits. Regularly review where you are at and what you can change to continue progressing.

 

Following receiving this email I was still confused as to why I could have gotten this far yet still not be in a healthy BMI bracket. I am still considered obese i.e. my current weight is within overweight/obese bracket.  So I wrote back to my dietician about my confusion and she got back to me.

Hi Zena,

So there are 2 targets.

1. A surgical target which is worked out on excess weight loss at 2 years post op. That’s the 85kg and means we can track that patients are progressing as they should be with surgery.

2. A healthy BMI (20-25) target and for you this would be 67.5kg or below. This is the target weight for the general population based on height and weight and would be a predictor of health risk etc.

Of course you should strive for a BMI within this range but this would not be a direct result of a bariatric procedure which is why we have separate targets.

Hope that makes sense, let me know if any questions.

Rona

All things said and done I should feel proud of  my achievement so far. But I will not be totally happy until I have reached a healthy BMI.

I spoke to my chiropractor about my concern with doing weight training. I have Hypermobility syndrome and must be careful with my joints. He tipped me to start with a cross trainer to work on cardio. Last week I paid a visit to the gym and met with a trainer to put together  a fitness program for me. I am now using 4 machines to get me started. The “Cross Trainer” “Arm bicycle”, ” Bike”  and some “lateral thingy ma bob”. In the meantime I will work up to doing weight training.

To add fuel to the fire I signed up for “Fitness February”, a challenge on behalf of Cancer Research. I am in Day 5 and doing well so far, although I am pretty exhausted and have had to cut things down to one execise a day.

If you’de like to donate something to this worthy cause and to encourge me, I’d really appreciate it.   Fitness February Donate Page-Cancer Research

Donate Here

In Summary

• I’m way ahead of my surgical target
• I am working towards a healthy BMI
• I am trying to condition my body through various types of exercise
  • Swimming
  • Gym work
  • Pilates Reformer
  • Yoga
  • Pilate Gym Bar
• I am doing Fitness February on behalf of Cancer Research

16th Jan 2019

A bit late for Happy New Years now… Hope you are all doing fine.

 

Last few weeks have been a bit trying to say the least although not all bad.

Mum has been a bit low and then she lost her oldest friend at the time of year when she lost her own father.

New Year was very quiet. I did try to make it fun and dragged my friend out to a local pub, but it was very disappointing as it did not fulfil my expectations. I remembered many a New Year being brought in there, when it was buzzing and a great place to be. So I will not be rushing back.

Last weekend brought my BBF’s 5th  Weding Anniversary Party. It was a night of celebration, since when they married, it was doubtful that her husband would survive 6months. Surviving and beating the Big C then a massve stroke last summer we all got together to celebrate with them.

They hired a beautiful venue, with a live band and it was a wonderful dressy affair with flowing Prosecco, Canapes and a Hot Buffet later in the evening. I dumped my car and had a few drinks. I always love when I have a good night and suffer no hangover!

So now with all of that out of the way. We come crashing back to reality.

I started back at Yoga Swimming and Pilates last week and I’m just off to swimming pool now to get some exercise today.

As for the weight it has been hovering and stalled for about 2 months. Yesterday I wrote to my dietician to ask for advice, but toda,y I’m starting a reset for the remainder of the week. I’m upping my fluids, concentrating on Slimfast Vitality plus a meal early evening and no frills, extras or treats. So serious game face on.

I’ll keep you posted.

28th December 2018 Day 271

Well I am sure many of you out there like me are wondering if you’ve done damage to yourself over the holiday period, reflecting on the past year and wondering about the fast approaching 2019.
I did have 2 of my besties over on Friday last for dinner and the exchanging of gifts. It was a nice evening. Oh, how times have changed. Years ago, we would all have been drunk and a bit raucous. Now we are older and more sensible and happy chilling on the sofas.
Christmas was quiet as it is just my mum and I. We went out for Christmas Dinner. I managed most of two courses. I did have to visit the ladies’ room several times during the meal as my stomach was bothering me and let’s just say for fear of TMI, I was later relieved. I brought half my steak home and turned it into a Goulash last night. It was very nice. Tonight, I’ll add some beans to what is left of the sauce and have a spicy bean dinner.
On Boxing Day, I made a roast chicken dinner followed by trifle for mum and I.
I do not seem to have put on any weight over the past week, for that I am relieved. Today I’m eating light to balance out any poor choices I’ve made. On the whole I have been pretty good. I am mindful of my cheats and the lack of swimming and general exercise I’ve been NOT doing. Yesterday for example I walked round the park twice to try and ease me conscience. I have been feeling extra tired too which has not helped. The pure lack of routine has damaged my well-being. I need to give myself some sort of normality sooner rather than later. I had planned in unrolling the yoga mat today and doing some warm up etc but just not feeling it.
It’s almost 2pm and I’m still sitting here in my night shorts. I guess I’d better get cracking, not that I was planning on doing anything in particular. I’ll try and drop in before the year end. If not… have a spiffing Hogmanay!

 

9th December Day 252

Wow I can’t believe we are just 2.5 weeks till Christmas. This year has been FAST! Yet how I have changed.

According to Maureen I am all collar bone in yesterday’s photos. I was out with the “Society Girls” a group of schoolies. We all had our Christmas Jumpers on and had a Secret Santa pressie dip. I won a fluorescent pink beanie hat saying “Cute Butt Phsyco” and a “Chocolate Penguin”, which I devoured last night after I got home.

I had quite a lot to drink yesterday too, several pink gin and lemonades and 1/4 litre of Cinzano. For once I could have stayed out in the evening too, but was home by eightish. I tried Prosecco when I arrived but after just 3 sips my stomach became swollen and I took cramps and was flushing badly. Thus, why I ended up on the gin. It seems to agree with my pouch better.

It was loads of fun and we played with cardboard moustaches and a wee stuffed elf. You had to be there to appreciate it all. Just the kind of stupidity that a crowd of school friends get up to when they’re soon to be knocking on 60’s doors. There was quite a lot of chatting about health issues which I managed to stay out of. Not too cheery for a Christmas Day Out.

The other day I was at the Mall and bought some new clothes. I tried on four dresses in different styles in Monsoon. I wanted to see where I was in the sizes of dresses. I could not believe that they all fitted well. I picked up a dress in Dorothy Perkins and bought it. What was even more surprising was that it fitted really well. What a milestone to walk into a shop, pick something off the rack, buy it without trying it on and “HEY PRESTO” it fits. I am over the moon. I wore it out today at lunch with the mammy. I also wore a sheepskin coat which I have not had on in years. It used to look like a jacket but it’s definitely a coat on me now and looks good, even though I say so myself. I wore high heeled boots I found in my wardrobe. My first time in heels for about 20 years. WOW WOW WOW!!!!

The scales are still stuck but I know I’m losing inches so happy about that. On the portion sizes, I can sometimes manage 2 courses if they are small. Today I had scallops (5 in total) then a Ricotta & Spinach Ravioli (only ate 3, brought 2 home for tea). It makes me feel a little more normal too and I have gotten over the problem of not finishing everything at one sitting. I always hated wasting food.

I was pretty full and had to sip on water with lime and mint leaves to try and digest things. It helped until I could suck a mint and get my burping under way.

Many new sleevers ask about how do you know when you are full? Or, do you burp or fart a lot, da de da?

Full Up Feeling With me I get a full up feeling that makes me feel “blaaaaaah”. I know once I get that feeling that it’s time to wrap up, and maybe manage 1-3 more bites and then quit eating. It works, as so far, I’ve not dumped or been sick or had the “foamies”

Burping. TMI…. I do burp a lot. Sometime I hiccup about once after my last bite. Then within 5-10 minutes I burp. Personally, I feel it’s because I am an extremely fast eater. I do not take my time. But I do chew my food very well. I burp loads for about 30 minutes after eating I’d say.

Farting. TMI….I don’t fart any more than I did before surgery. I’m quite thankful for that. There is a saying that in the first 3 months farting is NOT your friend. Don’t trust a fart! I must admit that there is a lot of truth in that. Initially before I was getting all my solids, water and vitamins and before my bowels were moving daily again, I would feel that I needed to poop and it would turn out just to be farts. I’d rush to a bathroom in a store and find no poop and just sit and fart for a few minutes. This symptom disappeared once I got in to a routine and things all settled down to my new normal.

So, anyone out there worrying about this, DON’T! It will pass. There are people out there who have pooped their pants and are quite concerned about this issue. All I can say is it will go away if you play by the rules. I was lucky and never had any accidents. I had a few near misses when I couldn’t get to a bathroom quick enough. Sorry if this is all a bit too graphic, but it has to be mentioned.

Exercise. I’m still swimming 4x a week and doing my Yoga and Pilates. I found myself looking up ice skating times. I used to be a keen figure skater and I miss it so much. I feel that this is something I could try again. I think this will help with my leg muscle development and shift some fat in more difficult areas, in addition to getting more of my memory fitness back. My first step will be to walk around the house with my boots on.

I was browsing at the pictures from last year and was shocked at the difference in my appearance. It really shows now in photos. I am so chuffed.

On that note I’ll bid you good night and good health.

27th November Day 240

Weight Loss   Another 10 days have passed and I’m the same weight. 12,12 but I’m not bothered. Just the “Whoosh“. Last week I put on my jeans and pulled the belt on to find the buckle slotting into the tightest hole and some more, if, the holes had been punched. I bought the belt about 4 months ago and I was wearing it in the slackest hole. So, I’ve lost a minimum of 6 inch off my waist in 4 months.

Many say the best way to measure weight loss is in the inches you’ve lost from all your key areas. I never started that so no point in starting now. I just measure in my clothes and dropping sizes.

I have been keeping up the exercise most days, some doing at least 2 different activities in the one day. Monday it was Pilates then swimming and yesterday it was Yoga then swimming. Today I had a duvet day. I was knackered and also the weather was so bad; with strong winds and rain. The thought of going out was depressing. I just felt like being cosy.

I had to go outside to take over a courtesy car since my car is going in for major repairs. I managed to have two car accidents in 2 weeks and my car is a mess. It’s a bigger job that I thought so I’m not sure how long it will take, as body parts will be needed. Time will tell. First accidents in 40 years of driving, I’m not sure what that is about.

Monitoring Health and Activities on the Fitbit Ionic   Tomorrow & Friday I’m planning in going back to swimming. I purchased a “Fitbit Ionic” on Black Friday and I tried it out yesterday in the pool. It was fairly accurate and only missed the first length of the pool. I’m not sure about the calories. It did make an estimate, but according to research it all depends on your weight as to how many calories you actually burn in the pool. I’ll try again and see what it calculates tomorrow. The watch also calculates your sleeping patterns. This is something I’m interested in, as my sleeping was really poor until I changed my pain relief 2.5 years ago. Since I am no longer taking Gabapentin, I am relying on me, to sleep the required 8 hours. I’m not sure if it’s a coincidence that my sleeping seemed pretty poor the last 2 nights or was it because I was wearing technology on my wrist? I’ll try again tonight and then after that try sleeping not wearing it. I was quite alarmed at the amount of times I woke up or was in a light sleep mode.

I have my first Christmas event on Sunday. I’m taking my mum to her club’s party.  I bought a little top with bells to wear. The following week I have an afternoon lunch with the “Society Girls”. That should be fun. It was a year ago that I first went out with the Schoolie Girls. I am so looking forward to it. It should be a giggle. I am still waiting on my Secret Santa gift, I do hope it will arrive in time.

All in all, I’m keeping fairly busy and trying hard to get toned. I’m watching the skin flab around at the moment. Another sign of the Whoosh Effect.

Thanks to all my new readers it’s been interesting viewing the countries that my readers are from. Here’s a shout out to the countries tuning in. Hope I haven’t missed anyone!

UK, USA, Canada, Norway, Australia, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Singapore, Egypt, New Zealand, Ireland, Pakistan, Samoa, Tunisia, Serbia, Trinidad & Tobago, Netherlands, India

 

17th November Day 230

This morning I had my appointment with my dietician Rona and then was meeting up with Maureen for lunch and a catch up.

Rona ran through a few questions about how things were going, taking notes along the way. How my health is in general and took my weight of course. She asked about the following and some;

• my wounds
• any pain in or around my stomach
• digestive issues
• a typical day’s food diary
• medication; what I was taking?
• my life style
• exercise
• protein and calories going forward
• carbohydrates & snacks
• sleep, mood and mental state

Firstly she was pleased with my progress and totally behind everything I am doing. She thinks I’m looking great and was of the opinion that I am doing everything as per the book and was in agreement with my chosen snacks and to some carbs being introduced. She agreed that since I am exercising so often that it was ok to be eating up to 800/900 kcalorie region and to be eating up to about 80g protein.

I was glad about that, since a few weeks ago when I went onto shakes for the week to try and kick start my weight loss I was concerned that my kcalories were creeping up around the 1000 mark, although that was purely a guestimate on my part. Therefore, taking into consideration that I am exercising almost every day, then it was ok.

She told me that I had to increase my vitamin intake to 2 tablets daily; that as a sleeve patient we need to take above the daily recommended A-Z since we don’t consume as much as the normal person. So that’s quite a big thing. This seems important and I’ve never heard other sleevers mention this.

She reminded me to get my B12 injection since it’s due again and to make my next appointment with her for after I see my surgeon next. So I’ll diary that.

I shared with her that I was off of all pain killers for the first time in about 19 years, that I am sleeping really well and do not have as many fatigue crashes with my fibromyalgia. I also told her that my mental state and mood is great and that I am considering reducing my anti-depressant sometime in the new year with the view to withdrawing completely.

All in all it went well although her records require me to let her know my exact height as she had the wrong height recorded and in turn my stats are too. A bit strange but will attend to that soon.

Afterwards I met up with Maureen for a few hours.We had a lovely seafood spagetti as a treat (small portion). She was looking good and is also wearing a lot of 14 clothes. We talked about lots of sleeve related issues including the fact that we can’t believe we have both lost all of our weight and have come so far, and will we lose any more? Always a worry. Think we all suffer these thoughts.

Tonight I watched Mama Mia 2 and I’m now watching Mom & Dad. Chilling out. Have  great weekend everyone!

 

16th November Day 129 ***** 7 Months Out *****

It’s my 7 month post op anniversary today. What a year it’s been.

I cannot believe how far I’ve come in just 7 months. I am truly loving life and looking forward to my future. It’s been a lifetime since I felt this way, so positive about everything.

I want to celebrate myself today; my spirit, my soul, my mind, my body. This time last year I was feeling pretty lousy about everything and so unhappy with myself. I would not have believed what I have achieved this year for one minute if I had been told. I would never have believed that my friend Pauline would no longer be with us either. It’s probably a good thing that we don’t know where our life is going. For to know such sad things in advance would have us in a continual state of depression.

I think I’ve finally broken through the 12’s barrier. I’ve maintained 12stone 12lbs for 3 days in a row now. That alone is something to celebrate. I was getting so down with the hovering up and down a few pounds for several weeks. In total 73lbs lost since my decision for surgery was made.

I am seeing my dietician on Saturday morning and I had wanted to maintain my weight in the twelves for that meeting. I just need to keep it there another day. Sods law may make it creep back up again. I do hope NOT.

I had a very lazy day yesterday. I slept all morning, did some light housework and watched lots of Netflix telly. I finished a box set called Ozark. I really loved it.

I’ve been overdoing it and needed to crash. Still doing Pilates, Yoga and Swimming most days. I have been exercising every day. Saturday was Yoga, Monday, Pilates, Tuesday Yoga then Swimming. Wednesday I was swimming then had a full body massage and a Chiropractic adjustment. I always find it advisable to rest after an adjustment never mind a massage. To add to the stress of all of that, I crashed my car AGAIN. I cannot believe that in 40 years of no claims I have had 2 accidents in 2 weeks. I am beginning to worry that I am losing it. Maybe just bad luck?

I am meeting up with my sleeve friend Maureen on Saturday after my meeting at the hospital. I’m looking forward to that. We always enjoy catching up and lunch of course!

My mum has not been too well this last week or so and I am quite worried about her. Tomorrow after swimming I will pop up to see her. Maybe if she’s feeling any better we could pop out for a wee carvery. Otherwise we’ll just watch a movie. The weather has been so stinky the last few days that she may not want to venture out even in the car. Tomorrow will tell.

As far as boosting myself is concerned I bought a few pieces of 14 clothing the other day. The skirts don’t quite fit yet but the jeggings and tops are fine. I love having new things to wear and even more so, being able to have a choice in prints and styles that have not been available in larger sizes. It’s so liberating. I love it so much. My interest in clothes and fashion has been restored again. It has highlighted even more so, the lack of choice for larger ladies. In my pre-fat days I always loved wearing unique styles with unusual details. Just having a choice makes it a joy to shop again. During the fat-years it was an achievement to find something on a rack in my size that I usually purchased it just so I could get something new, irrespective of whether I really liked it or not. It’s amazing how I avoid the styles I have been wearing for so long. I just want to show my figure off and feel sexy again. That is the vain side of the weight loss fight, but I don’t care, since I’ve not been able to enjoy these feeling for many years.

I’ll bid you all good morning since it’s 2am and I am getting a bit tired and will not be able to get up in the morning to go swimming if I don’t go to bed soon. Nighty night!!

5th November Day 218

Todays blog is about “How to Boost Yourself when the scales are NOT moving”

One of the areas that I read and hear about time and time again is, “I’m on a stall”. “The scales haven’t moved in ages, a month, 3 months bla de bla”. My friend Maureen texted me the other day. She sounded disappointed that the scales were not moving for her. Maybe in reading this Maureen you will not be so hard on yourself! You are doing great!! Listen to ME!!!

There are some things you can do that may or may not help, but remembering the Whoosh effect is important. It is something I have to keep reminding myself about, every few weeks. The honeymoon period is over for me. I’m over six months out now, so I have to be more aware of what I am doing. What I should be doing and pulling my rein in. I have put some points together of areas to consider when you start beating yourself up for the scales not moving.

Remember it is a Natural Part of the Process

Tell yourself…….The scales WILL stall. They have to. Your body has to adjust. It takes longer for some than others. Is your tummy squooshy, flapping about too much. Remember that is your fat cells full of water. It is all part of the process. This is usually when you lose inches and the scales don’t move or fluctuate slightly.

Visualize your End Goal

The mind is a powerful tool, use it to help you. Visualize yourself in that little black dress, you have in the wardrobe or you have your eye on in a lovely store. You won’t want to give up and just stay in bed and pull the duvet over your head. You’ll give yourself a focus.

Remind yourself what is at stake

Going back to what you were should not be an option. Ask yourself “Do I really want to Go Back There? ”

1. “What did you put yourself through not to reach your goal?” and more importantly, “Is your goal achievable, or have you set it too low?” After all, maybe you are fine just the way you are! Speak to your nutritionist or surgeon and get advice on everything if you haven’t already done that. The professionals should always be your first port of call if you feel you are not ahead of the game, or stuck. They may have great advice or maybe you just need to be told you are doing fine and carry on. But your nutritionist should be taking an active role in insuring you are eating right; the correct foods, Protein, Kcal etc for your stage in your weight loss journey.
2. How is your health? I bet you it has improved 10-fold from where you began this journey. Are you no longer taking medication for a health condition? Are you more active? Are you taking regular exercise? Do you feel better in yourself? All of that can only get better as you travel along this path of healthy choices. Don’t forget this.
3. Do you really want to start gaining again? No! After all, if you slide down that slippery slope you are likely to end up larger than ever, have missed your window of opportunity and never get the chance again to optimize on losing weight.
4. You cannot justify buying larger clothes again after clearing your FAT clothes out. On the other hand, you CAN justify buying smaller, sexier, more fashionable clothes. As they will improve your confidence and self-esteem.

Control your environment

1. Fill your home with healthy, wholesome foods.
2. Throw out any BAD snacks you’ve recently snuck into the house
3. Rein yourself in to get back on track
4. If you have to make or provide certain bad foods for the family. Suggest they go out for it or make it themselves, or do without to support you.
5. Plan your meals and snacks.
6. Measure and count kcal and Protein again if you have stopped that.
7. Give yourself a treat every now and then.

Don’t let yourself get too hungry

1. People go too long without eating, then pig out when they’re feeling too hungry.
2. Plan your snacks so you don’t grab the first bad thing you can lay your hands on. This will prevent you binging.
3. Control your portion sizes and make sure you are in a routine and eat every day at the same time if physically possible.

Know what makes you vulnerable to overeat.

The key is to know where your problem areas are and have a plan for dealing with them

• Do you stay up too late and binge in the wee small hours?
  • Go to bed earlier
  • Keep busy, don’t feel bored or take the walk of shame to the kitchen
• Do you sneak stuff when cooking and serving your family?
  • Get them involved in their own food preparation
  • Eat your meal before you cook or serve them
• Are you bored or not getting out enough?
  • Go out more, make plans. Not everything has to cost money. Meet up a friend for a walk. Join a local walking, yoga group. Go swimming. Once you’ve gone on your own once it’s a breeze. Make time for yourself and your health and fitness.
• Do you feel you don’t have time to plan or eat properly?
  • Make time and go back to basics
  • Plan all your meals and snacks in advance
  • Prepare packed lunches or take good Protein shakes for meals. Always carry one in your bag, car or even in your desk drawer. Make sure you do the same for snacks. Carry berries or healthy snacks to work to stop the temptation of sneaking to the vending machine.

These are just some suggestions. What are yours? Find a solution to them and try to stick to it.

Plan indulgences.

1. Schedule in the odd BAD treat.
2. Indulge at lunch one day a week.
3. Go out with friends for lunch or dinner. You choose the venue.

Forgive yourself.

1. Allow yourself a bad snack or a small indulgence once in a while or even once a week Have a taste of someone else’s food. Very often a mouthful is all we need to stave off the craving. Treat it as a reward, NOT a punishment.
2. Allow yourself a day off from exercise if you don’t feel up to it. Don’t make a habit of it. Only if you have worked hard the past 3 days. That maybe the day you have an indulgence. Tomorrow is a new day.
3. Don’t make it all so serious. Let yourself off the hook. Forgive yourself if you have something you feel you should not be eating or drinking. Tell yourself it’s ok. You planned that treat. Tomorrow is another day. After all it’s good for your carbs etc. to increase once in a while. It gives your body a wee jolt when you cut down again, and get back on track.

Beware restaurant overeating.

1. Make eating out as a chance to practice good portion control. There is no law that says you have to order an entrée every time you eat out or that you can’t have 2 starters. Pay attention to your appetite, and order a dinner salad or appetizer instead of a main dish. Or take half home in a doggie bag.
2. If you have a local restaurant you have always gone to, you will probably find they will accommodate your smaller portions and charge accordingly. My local Italian restuarant where my mum and I are going for Christmas Dinner have reduced the £50, 3 course lunch to £35 where we can choose less courses or/and have smaller portions.

Work to change negative thought processes.

1. Practice Mindfulness. Learn about being in a mind/body place as opposed to being judgmental or hard on yourself.
2. Don’t beat yourself up all the time. You are human. You are allowed to make mistakes, or bad decisions. In this journey it is more important to make healthy choices 95% of the time. Trust the process.
3. Don’t allow people and influences into our lives that don’t support us. Dump junk!!! That includes people.
4. Distance yourself from negativity. You may find that family and friends have a lot of external stuff going on. They may bad mouth you, try and pull you down. Learn to shut this out. Ask yourself why are they being like this? Have they always done this to you? If the answer is yes. You need to do something about it. If a “so called friend” is not supporting you, perhaps you need to consider; “they are not really a friend”. Friends should be supportive. They should want the best for you or want you around their lives as a healthy person who can contribute to their lives. You may not be able to “dump” family so easily, but you have to put yourself first.

You made this decision to do something about your life. You wanted to live better and healthier. Perhaps you need to speak up and tell them this. Ask them “Would you rather I be dead in the next 2 years?” They may be surprised that you spoke out. But hey ho, it’s your life! They can choose to like it or lump it. Negativity breeds negativity.

Have a cheering section.

1. Having to account to someone else gives you a reason to hang in there get a buddy mentor or whoever. Someone you trust and who believes in you.
2. Make sure you join a local group. Find someone who understands what you are going through. A fellow Bariatric patient is the best person for this type of support, who can support you and vice versa.
3. Maybe your local group meets up once a month. This could help you vent or discuss ideas, problems or simply gain knowledge on how you can tackle your issues.

Remember that you have to keep working at it.

Your surgery is “just a tool” to help you achieve your goal, It is NOT a guarantee. Two-thirds of our population is overweight which means it’s not natural to be slim and fit. We don’t walk two miles to work and back and forage for food every day, we are no longer hunter gatherers.

It’s easy to see thin people and think how lucky they are, but if they’re over 30 or even 20, they’re working at it. Being slim and fit is something we have to pursue and nurture, like happiness or friendship.

So, what do I do when I’m feeling p***** that the scales are not moving? Something I did yesterday was I tried on some jeans that I bought a month or so back that were too small. I tried them on and the zip went up! Success! The inches are still coming off. I’m the same weight though, imagine that? And when I wasn’t looking the scales dropped today into the twelvers. Yep this morning I was 12stone 13lbs. SUCCESS snuck up on me.

So here’s a wee count down list:

1. Buy a couple of clothes pieces in advance and keep handy to try on every now and then. This will incentivise you and if all of a sudden, they fasten then success. It’s the inches that matter. Do a Victory dance!
2. Go out and do something you couldn’t do a month ago. Enjoy it!
3. Put on something nice, your slap (make-up), do your hair and get out there. Live
4. Say to yourself. I am a better person now. I believe in myself. Believe
5. Plan something to do at the end of the week that will lift your spirits. Enjoy yourself
6. Take action ..do a restart for a couple of days. Take Control
7. Start tracking your Protein and kcal again. Count your Macros
8. Get into the zone again
9. Reflect on your journey and how well you’ve done so far, be proud of what you have achieved. Award yourself
10. Don’t give up. Strong
11. Write a sign saying “whoosh” and stick it on the fridge. WHOOSH

To read about the whoosh effect again go to 25th October and read the article again or click on whoosh to read the full online article WHOOSH

30th October 2015 Day 212

1 Irish setter Lost = 70lbs Total

Woke up this morning feeling exhausted and decided to give my yoga a miss. However an hour or so later electricians arrived in the empty flat next door to do rewiring and the noise was excrutiating. So I dragged myself out to the swimming baths to give my head a rest. I felt like I had been hit by a brick. I did a quick mile and a wee sauna later felt a bit better.

I hadn’t wanted to go out as I was having a new stool delivered and didnt want to miss it. I just made it back in time as the delivery man was at the front door. A plate of soup later and I have assembled it.

Its an ergonomic kneeling stool. I had one twenty years ago and ended up chucking it as my knees and shins were always sore. I thought I’d give it another bash, hoping that this one has more padding. I’m only 5 minutes on it and they are hurting again so not convinced yet, that it will be much better. However this one does adjust and folds away. I have left myself with no other option as I gave away my very expensive leather desk chair to make room for my monks seat and was loathed to sit on a dining room chair another hour. Time will tell I guess. I may take the castors off and will play around with the different heights and see how I get on. I did buy one of those squooshy seat pads last month, (I’ve no idea why) but maybe it will relieve my knees. The one that you can put an egg inside and its not supposed to break. Needless to say I will not be trying out that trick!

Definitely my last purchase as I have now spent my emergency money. Yep I don’t think I mentioned I made another new antique purchase. I purrr chased an Arts and Crafts (Liberty’s of London) writing bureau/bookcase. I spent a few days copying the remainder of my CD’s on to PC and bought neat little folders that take 80 CDS’s/DVD’s. So they are all compacted into 8 of these folders out of sight. I tossed my CD towers to make room for the bureau; a much loved piece of furniture, far more preferrable to IKEA Billy bookcases! So I am now skint and back living from week to week. I guess the one way to stop the spending addiction is to have nothing left to spend. Oh how history repeats itself with me.

No more guinea pigs lost! I must have eaten some over the weekend. Talking about the weekend I spent a very enjoyable Saturday afternoon out with the Society Girls in town, drinking, eating, gabbing and laughing. We’ve arranged our Christmas event for the beginning of December.

Also on Monday I was at my schools 90th Anniversary of the Old Grammarian’s Seniors lunch. 120 of us were there. There were 7 of us there. We had some music of the old school musicals and we all sang the school song. That was fun! Good job they provided us with the lyrics lol. I could only remember the first 2 lines.

So all in all its been an exhausting few days. I’m looking forward to some home cooked meals as I’ve just eaten out 3 days running.

All in all I’m looking forward to losing another guinea pig soon.

26th October Day 208

Whoosh Another lb

25th October Day 207

It’s been a while I know. It gets harder to remember what I have been up to. I’ve been busy going swimming, Pilates and Yogi-ing. I’ve been out for a few lunches and made a few purchases I shouldn’t have made. Apart from that I met up with Maureen my sleeve pal from the Nuffield a couple of weeks ago. We ate out at the Wee Lochan. It was really nice and the portion sizes were great for us. I had some gorgeous Venison. We shared a sweet.

Maureen had caught up on me despite me being a month ahead of her. This got me thinking about perhaps I’d let go of the ball. I knew I’d been sneaking in some snacks and treats that I shouldn’t have. I was picking up bad habits. I needed to do something to get back on track.

On Sunday I had salad when I was out at lunch then started a shake diet on Monday. I thought I’d see whether I could do a wee kick-start to get me losing again.

Fellow sleevers are always concerned about stalls in losing weight and I know we all have them. It can feel like a month and it may only have been 8 days since the scales moved. I am perfectly aware that although the body is not losing lbs it has to adjust to the weight loss and almost recallibrate to its new size. I had bought a new skirt a few weeks ago amongst other things. It was on the tight side but decide to keep it until I shrunk into it. I tried it on last Sunday and the zip went up no problem so the inch losing was still working.

All I can say is don’t lose hope if the scales are not showing weight loss. You may find like me that over a week the scales hover up and down a few pounds and it almost seems, like you are gaining instead. Your body differs from day to day, just like your mood or the way that you feel in general. Some days you may not have done a poo others you may feel lighter as you went more than normal. Or perhaps you drank more liquids, ate more protein or exercised more bla d’ bla. You get the message. Don’t worry. But if you feel a wee bit out of control or on a spiral consider a wee reset. There are lots of tips and suggestions out there about how to do this. It’s just a matter of finding a solution that’s right for you. The most popular suggestion I have seen has been going back to basics. It may be the lrd diet or liquid one or high fat etc.

So I’m on day 4 of my 3 shakes a day diet. I had only intended doing it for a couple of days to see how I got on. I have not been 100% good. I have had wee snacks. tch tch. Yesterday I was down a pound, who’s to say I wouldn’t have lost it anyway. This morning I was down another pound and even saw the scales flicker down to 12 stone something. That’s always a good sign that the scales are ready to move again soon. Another thing I noticed is that yesterday and today I slept longer and struggled to get out of bed. I realised that my body had gone into starvation mode; the body’s conservation method when there has been a large reduction in calorie intake. The body slows down naturally to conserve energy. So today I got up and went swimming to get my body started into hopefully using some of my body fat. I swam a mile. That’s 32 lengths in 30 minutes. Not bad for an improvement over the last few weeks.

So I officially hit the 5stone loss this morning and I’m only 2lbs from hitting the 12 stoners. Yee Haaaaaa.

I’m reposting the whoosh effect article.

The “Whoosh” Effect: Burning fat and losing weight don’t happen simultaneously!

Fundamentally speaking, burning fat is all about creating a caloric deficit. (You eat less food than your body requires, thus forcing your body to make up the difference by getting energy from fat reserves). This isn’t a theory. It’s the first law of thermodynamics. It’s literally one of the laws of physics.

However, as many diligent dieters have personally learned, the amount of weight that you lose each day, or each week, is rarely consistent.

Some weeks, you’ll find that you don’t lose any weight at all — even when you’ve had a perfect workout schedule, and eaten at a perfect caloric deficit. Other weeks you’ll discover that you lost way more weight than the numbers say you should have lost.

If the laws of calorie-in / calorie-out are real, why would a person lose such dramatically different amounts of weight from week to week, despite following an identical routine?

Enter… “The Whoosh Effect”

As you burn fat, you’ll sometimes notice that the area where the fat used to be tends to take on a sort of “squishy” consistency. “Squishy” fat forms because, as fat cells are extracted and mobilized, the space where they once existed gets filled with water, making the area feel “softer” than normal. Sometimes “squishy fat” forms in places we can see it, and sometimes it forms more internally where we can’t. Sometimes it’s in huge pockets, and sometimes it forms at a microscopic level where you can’t see it or feel it. But the areas that were once filled with fat sit there, filled with water!

The squishy-fat areas can last for a few days to as much as a few weeks. Then, one day, inexplicably and out of nowhere, all that squishy fat suddenly tightens up! In some cases, you’ll even (suddenly) look leaner! And at the same time, the scale suddenly drops — and you cheer because you feel like whatever you did the day before caused you to lose a ton of weight!

It will probably surprise you to learn that almost ALL scale movements are the result of fat burn that happened days, or even weeks ago! (Sudden scale movement at the very beginning of a diet is usually the result of water-weight being dropped due to a decrease in carb intake, however).

Did you catch that? When the scale goes down while dieting, it’s usually because of fat that you lost several days (or even weeks) ago, and your body is finally expelling the water that took its place.

Put another way, even though you may be in a state where you are constantly burning fat, the results of that effort may not show up on the scale immediately. And more likely, they’ll show all at once, one day, where you’ll have a sudden “whoosh” of weight-loss!

For the rest of the article click on the link below.

If you want to read this on the web site click here later, otherwise you’ll miss the rest of my blog lol. the Whoosh Effect

Another useful tool is this little weight loss chart that allows you to view whether you are on target or not.

I’m 6 months out and 70lbs down. So I’m still on target.

8th October 2018/ Day 180

The weekend’s over and a bit of a mixed bag. My cousin ‘s flight was cancelled on Thursday so he didn’t arrive until Friday night. A shame we missed a day, but we made up for it.

We went out for dinner and took mum to our friendly local Trattoria Genova and then home for a gab. We put the world to rights. On Saturday I took him to visit Culross, the village that the Outlander Series 1 was partly filmed. We had late morning coffee in a cute little terrace you could mistake for France and then walked up the many cobbled streets to the old Abbey ruins and the kirk at the top of the hill. I can remember a few years ago when I visited with friends and how difficult that hill was to climb. That’s the second time in a couple of months I’ve gone there to visit and the difference in me climbing that hill is amazing. I no longer fight for breath and feel refreshed by the time I reach the top. Life is so different. The walk down before was crippling on my hips. Now it’s a pleasant stroll. We then sat outside and ate lunch at the Red Lion. That will probably be the last time I can do that this year.

The gravestone was erected a few years ago. A local woman decided that Stewart should be recognised so a new stone was erected to honour his bravery and a plaque was also erected inside the church. Stewart McPherson was my 3rd great Uncle on my mother’s fathers’ side of my family.

We then travelled towards Glasgow and home, stopping to visit the Kelpies at Falkirk on the way. Gary was very impressed with them and considering the glorious blue skies, we couldn’t have wished for a better day to visit. They looked fab glistening in the sunshine against the blue sky.

Yesterday we went out for lunch down the Clyde to “Coast” another one of mum and I’s locals. Then back to the Airport to drop Gary off. All in all it was very pleasant and great to see him again.

On the subject of eating out; that was 3 days in a row I ate out. Many people are concerned pre-op about whether they can still enjoy themselves eating out. Well you can! On that note, probably up until this week I have carefully chosen what to eat and especially portion sizes. I was of the opinion that I was eating much larger portions recently. I know it’s not been every day. But I did have that feeling. Just an illusion since the full feeling is so evident that I feel like I’m stuffed after every meal. Well that’s definitely not true. I had Sea Bass with some ink pasta, Prawn Salad, and yesterday I had Red Snapper. They were full a la carte portions and I was astounded how little in each meal I did in fact eat. It brought it home to me that I am still eating small portions. I had been very concerned about this. Yesterday both Gary and I had the Snapper. He cleared his plate after having a starter and I struggled and hardly made a dent in the plate. I am so relieved about that. I was concerned incase that was a reason why the scales have not been moving. Now I know for sure I’m just on a stall. I felt guilty as I wanted to eat more but knew I couldn’t. It’s very reassuring I have not stretched my pouch! So I guess between my appetite and activity increasing my head is still adjusting. I know I am sickened by what many people have stuffed on to their plates at the carvery. I cannot fathom it and that I may have eaten that amount before.

So I would advise anyone who needs reassurance, have meal out and have the same as someone else so you can compare later. I think because I live and eat alone it’s difficult for me to realise this.

This morning I was at my Pilates Reformer class. It was hard this morning. Probably as I felt really tired. I am now off to have a soothing bath before getting on with the day.

Chat soon.

5th October 2018 Day 177

It’s a beautiful day and I’m just filling in some time till noon when I’m going swimming. Just discovered that the pool session is closing for a wee while so need to go later.

This week my activity has increased again. I am feeling a lot more like myself. My chronic fatigue has come back to its normal levels.

• Monday -Pilates Reformer
• Tuesday -Yoga, Swim, Sauna
• Wednesday – Housework
• Thursday -Swim, Sauna
• Friday – Swim, Sauna

I won’t be doing anything else till Monday morning again. I’ll need the rest!

My cousin Gary was supposed to arrive last night but his flight was cancelled at the last minute, so he’s arriving tonight. It’s a shame we’ll miss a day, as I have not seen him since 2004 when he came up to Scotland for my brother’s funeral. I hope he doesn’t wear me out. He was always super fit. He is recovering from a hip operation so that will keep him in line lol.

Just been having a wee discussion with someone across the pond who is saying that she has never exercised in the past or since her surgery.

One of my main reasons for weight loss surgery was to be able to exercise again. I know its important for a long healthy life. My dad was super fit. He died at 79 and was out cycling just six months before his final decline with the big “C”. I loved sports when I was younger, not all, but I had my favourites. I figure skated from 6 till 9 years old and rekindled my love of it when I hit 29 and skated up to 6 times a week until I was about 37. I was forced to give up as I could no longer jump. I did not realise at the time I was injured. My spine was twisted. No wonder my body seized up back then. At one point I couldn’t walk or stand. My body was wrecked. My hypermobility syndrome means I have to keep my body supple, otherwise I will end up in a wheel chair.

Another reason for trying to get fit is to help strengthen your core muscles. Having a strong core will help you through life. It will help prevent injury just doing the everyday tasks, help restore your body balance and keep your heart pumping. It can assist in giving you a longer healthier life, providing your time isn’t up of course. Another great benefit is achieving that flat stomach and clothes looking better on you. My lack of belly flab is one of the things my mum has complimented me on. She noticed quite early on the difference in my tummy’s appearance. On the down side I will have loose skin by the end of this journey and will need to look at options or NOT.

Everyone is different and most are left with some areas that do not look as good as others. Younger ladies will not have the same concern as while the skin has lots of elasticity it is more likely to spring back. Us post menopausal ladies will be left with excess skin somewhere. I have good idea where mine will be. The flab can be tightened over time, with exercise, the skin can only be shifted with surgery.

I was also a skier for over 20 years and associated it with my dad and brother as it was something we did as a family. I was a horse rider too. These particular sports were very good at building you core muscles up. The down side when you stop it gives you a big bum, hips and thighs. I can always remember my dad telling me that when I was young. My my, how he was right on that one. I was always pear-shaped, so it’s so nice to hold up my jeans now and see how small they are in comparison to what I was wearing in April. I must post a pick later of the comparison lol.

I’m off to pool now, dinner with mum and Gary later. Catch up soon.

1st October 2018 Day 173

Another month gone by. I’m on a slow down. These sick-bed weeks a few weeks ago are catching up with me. The scales have been hovering up and down all week but I think the inches are coming off again I’m definitely having a whoosh time!

On saying that I have just reined myself in a bit. I have been eating more I’ve noticed. My portion sizes sometimes are bigger than I should be having and I’ve been sneaking in some treats and not fruit or high protein ones tut tut. So I’ve smacked myself down and had to switch on my bad cop food button. It’s very easy to slip down the slippery slope and fall into bad habits. I must repeat after myself 100 times ” I must watch what I eat and think before I put it in my mouth. I must watch what I eat and think before I put it in my mouth. Ok enough of that.

I have been feeling very lethargic and it’s always hard to decide what’s causing it.

• is it bad food /nutrition
• lack of something i.e. B12
• fibromyalgia or HMS
• adjusting to my new shaped body
• doing too much
• still getting over the flu

It could be any combination of these. I have to be sensible and remind myself that I do still have health conditions and I have increased my activity significantly. For other fibro sufferers out there, we must still pace ourselves and manage our condition by having good rests before we burn ourselves out.

Last week I attended a new class and have just returned today from my second Pilates Reform session. I think I’ll be a bit sore after that. My instinct is to keep going every day with yoga and swimming too, but that’s when I must think, should I? can I? before I rush in and exhaust myself. I’ve not been to yoga for 3 weeks with one thing or another, but I intend going back tomorrow. I’ve been trying to exercise 2-3 times a week but I am going to try to up it, to 4 times. Today I walked home from the town centre as my car is in the garage. I can’t remember the last time I did that. I even enjoyed it. Daaa what is happening to me?

What I love about weight loss is all the tiny achievements or milestones. Yesterday mine was taking a pair of tights out the drawer, pulling them on, not having to struggle with them and wait for it. I could have pulled them up over my boobs no problem. OMG it’s been many years since I could do that. They were even falling down slightly and not because they were too tight.. Good pun Zena. They were comfortable and the seams were not cutting into my skin. I also wore a midi skirt that is now a maxi. That was a shock. But a good one.

On Saturday I went to the Glasgow weight loss meeting. It runs once a month. An informal get together where we discuss, ask and answer questions by sharing our experiences. It’s also very interesting hearing about others’ journeys. It helped me face up to what I have been doing over the past week and get back on track. I want to thanks the group as always for sharing and caring. It was also great to meet with new people who have either been on a long battling journey or just starting off and deciding what action to take. I wanted to give Audrey Lees a special mention, “You are a beautiful girl! Stay strong and remember you are not alone.”

On the funny side here is a photo of my friend Diane and I wearing my last year’s winter coat. It just looks soooo big now. And… it did almost fasten with the 2 of us inside.

22nd September 2018 / Day 164

Been unwell again. More of the lurgy. Getting concerned that I’m serially catching stuff. Spent another few days in bed. Thought I was over it but sniffing and nose blowing now. I am beginning to think I’m lacking in something or maybe it’s just that I am mixing more and attending places like swimming baths, saunas etc., that are famous for germs.

The good news I’m still managing to lose. I dropped another 3lbs during the week. Total 4,10 lost. So that’s great news. Better news is I bought a new coat, fitted style too. It’s been a long long time since I’ve worn anything like it. On reflection I decided to return it for a smaller size, yep size 14. I never thought for a moment it would fit me now. I fastened it too, although wouldn’t wear it for a few weeks yet. A clothes size drop from 22/24 to 14/16. I’m so proud of myself.

For the first time it really sunk in yesterday, when I slipped on a lovely coat I bought last winter. I could have fitted me and my friend inside. In fact I should have taken a pic of that. Maybe I’ll not take the stuff to the shop until next week. Must get a photo. I have noticed a number of people doing that and I have not got round to it yet, but think the time is right now. As I folded some of the clothes I wore last winter I was shocked at their size. I gasped and thought they must have stretched but as I pinched myself I realised that was me last September. That was the dress I bought for the school reunion.

I did some more clearing out of clothes. I gave loads to the Accord charity shop. However today I’m off out to look for a used clothes shop I was in a few weeks ago with my late friend Polly. I tried looking for it yesterday, but couldn’t quite remember where it was. I’m off to Partick this afternoon to get some of my nails repaired and will try looking again. It would be good to get some money for some bits. I have 3 coats, some long dresses and better quality things. Too good in my opinion for the local charity shop. So fingers crossed I find it. I just want them out my flat now. I still have loads of clearing to do yet. It’s a bit of a nightmare really. I have always had too many clothes to wear. I have found throwing things away very difficult of late. But I’m ready for a fresh start. So need to do it, however long it takes. I have kept some very special items from the past that I am aiming to wear again. Good to have an incentive.

Only been swimming once this week and tried some home yoga this morning but definitely out of sorts. Hopefully I’ll be feeling better through the week.

Good luck everyone on your own journeys.

14th September 2018 / Day 156

I started the day with a quick 20 lengths of the pool followed by a manicure. Another pound down yesterday and still off today. Pauline would have been pleased.

We had a lovely day yesterday celebrating Pauline’s life in style. We had a lovely lunch in Trattoria Genova, the place that her and I met up for the first time to discuss Bariatric Surgery. We told funny stories and talked about our Pauline experiences. We did giggle a lot.

Afterwards 4 of us went to the local pub, a place that we had a number of schoolie nights out. I dumped my car and partook in a number of gin beverages. In fact I drank quite a lot. I did feel very drunk. I even had some Prosecco later. I had a protein drink before bed and some juice. I woke in the early hours and had some more juice. I did not have too much of a hangover considering the amount I’d had to drink. I had a lot of reservations after my last drinking experience when I suffered from Sunday till Thursday with bad wind pains and much discomfort. So I guess I need to take note that the pink gin with lots of ice and a little lemonade went down better.

I had the best time in a long time reminiscing and I never got to the melancholy stage that some others did.

All in all it was a lovely way to celebrate her life and remember her. I am so glad we got together. Unfortunately there were only 6 of us instead of the previously planned 14. But I am sure we made up for the small number.

12th September 2018 / Day 154

Two weeks on and in the blink of an eye how the world has changed. It’s been a very trying fortnight emotionally, mentally and physically.

When I last reported I was going out with my good friend Pauline H. We had a fabulous day at the spa, charity shopping, errand running and of course lunch. I drove Polly home as usual and went into her house to wish her husband Tommy and her Bon Voyage.

I hugged her in the hall, wished her a fabulous safari and told her I’d miss her.

I had a call from her phone late morning the next day. It was her husband. He told me Pauline had passed away. She had a massive heart attack, while finishing her packing. I was in shock!

I wrote the following on fb.
This has not been an easy day. It is with great regret, and a heavy heart that I am posting this message to the group. Sadly, today Pauline Hunter, (nee McFadzean) passed away at her home. Pauline and her husband Tommy Hunter were due to fly out to SA on safari today. A trip she was so excited about making.
I spent yesterday with her, unaware that as I hugged her goodbye, telling her I’d miss her while she was away, that it would be our last goodbye.
It is uncertain at this stage what caused Pauline to make such a speedy exit.
Pauline was a very special lady. She was vibrant, fun-loving, sensitive, crazy mad and an extremely good friend. She loved her life and lived like there was no tomorrow. She touched so many people and I know I am just one of so many who will be left with an enormous void where her personality fitted.
I will post another note once arrangements have been made for those who’d like to pay their respects.
I’d like to pass on my deepest sympathy to Tommy Hunter, and to Pauline Hunter’s family.
RIP Pauline. I’ll miss my scatty pal!

Pauline was more than a friend to me, she has been my mentor, and supporter through my Bariatric journey. She researched so she could understand the various ops and helped me come to my decision. She has helped me with tips etc, since she had been banded about 10 years ago. She had been about 12 lbs heavier than I was in February. Lately she hovered around 10.5 – 11stone. She was my inspiration and advocate to stay on track.

I miss her more than she would have ever known. We had similar tastes and loved browsing at ANYTHING and shopping. She loved her food too and we explored a different venue every Thursday. We had so much fun. She was a shining star. My life and so many others will be duller now she’s gone.

I have tried to keep busy, and busy is what I’ve been. I have surprisingly kept on track through everything. I’ve been swimming, yoga and even went to a new class body balance. That was tough. I’ve lost another 2lbs. Total 4.5 stone down. I am now wearing size 16’s. I’m swapping a pair of jeans I bought the last week for size 14, so that I have something to wear down the line.

My mother is very proud of me and is loving me looking good in my clothes again. I am too. I’ve stopped wearing baggy clothes. Some of my old tops are like dresses or sacks now. I can’t believe I filled them just a few months ago.

I saw a posting on a weight loss site showing comparable items to how much weight you’ve lost. Apparently, I’ve lost 3 car tyres. That is pretty astounding. No wonder my balance and strength has improved. I am weaning myself off of my pain relief to see where I am with that.

I have had to take mum to the hospital 3 times for scans to check for a clot. Luckily she got the all clear. My neighbour on the other hand, has been taking regular anxiety attacks and I have been to the hospital with him, this week. Not sure how he is today, but it’s worrying to see him in such a state. I think I’ve bitten off more than I can chew with him.

Tomorrow I’m lunching with some of Pauline’s friends as we are not allowed to go to the funeral as it is being held privately. We will pay our respects by having good food, chat and a few beverages. I may even partake in some alcohol for the toast. I will wear sunflower yellow.

Pauline with her husband Tommy and doing 2 of her favourite things, eating and travelling

Pauline & I doing silly specky faces

29th August 2018 / Day 140

A busy week so far. Scales still on the 4stone 5lbs loss. But I’m happy with that despite yoga and swimming efforts I feel good.

My fibromyalgia has been not bad at all recently. I still suspect that I have more a chronic fatigue than fibro. But not much difference. I definitely have more energy than I’ve had in the past. Most pains I have been having, have been twinges and muscular due to my increased activity. My mobility has improved 10fold and I am not falling as much as I used to and getting out of the bath is so easy now. I’m loving all of that. Today I was swimming and did 26 lengths in about 30 minutes so I’m pleased with my progress.

My arthritis in my left wrist has been playing up with the damp weather of late. I also cut two fingers with my largest cooking knife. That was a comedy. The blood was gushing and I had no idea that the second finger was bleeding too. I called on a neighbour and he had a bit of a meltdown in the bathroom trying to get dressings etc out of the first aid box. There was so much blood I couldn’t get the finger dressed properly. The bathroom looked like a blood bath and it took ages to clean up afterwards. You couldn’t make it up. Tape sticking to anything but the dressings, scissors not cutting bla bla. Laurel and Hardy would have been envious. There was even blood on the pineapple in the kitchen. So the 2 of us ended up in the kitchen salvaging the pineapple by elimination. It was very tasty. (not the blood may I add) The knife was charged with dangerous cutting and banned to the block for quite a while.

So between the bad wrist and the two fingers on the other hand yoga proved to be a bit too difficult with some of the exercises we were being asked to do.

I went swimming today as I thought I could chance the finger not bleeding. It was great until I came home and tried to open a mail packet and yes blood gushing again. It was a really bad cut and I probably should have gone to the hospital, so it’s dressed again for protection.

I made loads of apple chutney on Monday as I’d been given a bag of apples from Pauline H that was difficult trying to peel them with 2 dodgy fingers. But hey ho. It’s made and waiting to mature. Can’t wait to get stuck into it next month or so, yummy.

Talking about yummy I came across a giant Ferrero Rocher that I had been given a few months back and couldn’t resist having some. Maybe a little too much, but I guess it was as experiment. Probably too much info but my poo this morning was not as perfectly formed as it should be, so I’m blaming the chocolate on that. It’s firmly hidden in the back of the cupboard until I come across it again. Did I enjoy it? The sensation was quite nice as I love chopped nuts in chocolate, but I should have stopped at 2 mouthfuls. No shakes or anything like dumping. So that’s good. I was dreading that happening.

I’m rushing back out now to try to get the car valeted as it’s disgusting in and out. Tomorrow Pauline H and I are off to the salon. P is having a foot spa in preparation for her safari in SA on Saturday and I’m having a neck back and shoulders massage. Then we’ll do lunch. So a nice relaxing day tomorrow as Friday’s are usually crazy mad.

Bye for now peeps. Keeps up the good work fellow sleevers etc. I’ll try to check in at the weekend. Hoping the scales might drop by Saturday. Fingers crossed!!

23rd August 2018 / Day 134

Thought I’d do you all a wee update on this week. I finally began to feel better on Tuesday after a week of the lurgy.

I threw myself back into Yoga on Tuesday morning despite still feeling a bit ropy. I enjoyed it very much and again was able to do everything thrown at me. I continued to be busy throughout the day; following a lovely brunch out, I did my ironing, cleaned my windows, laundry and housework.

Wednesday morning I continued the pace with a trip to the swimming pool, followed by supermarket shopping for mum and myself, then a trip to the dentist, to replace an old filling I’d managed to lose (not sure where it went since I have no memory of it coming out).

Thursday I had a long lie, then out to lunch with my friend Pauline H, followed by some retail therapy.

In amongst this activity I managed to lose another 2lbs. Total lost -61lbs (4stone 5lbs). Great news from my scales and I put it down to the increased exercise activity, drinking plenty of fluids and healthy regular poos.

Poos are a subject that is raised a lot in WLS groups. I can remember writing to my dietician not long after WL surgery. I described my poos as small and droopy. It’s amazing how things settle down after a while. This subject came up with my fellow sleeve friend Maureen a few weeks ago. I had noticed a couple of weeks before this, that my poos had returned to healthy and normal. This had comforted me as I had been worried for a while that these pathetic poos were here to stay, the new norm. But it seems that following surgery and a decent recovery time, there is a return to a form of normality. So don’t worry guys. Yer poos will be ok in the end!

Following on from that lovely subject I’m going to pad off to bed as my dreams are calling me.

Night night.

19th August 2018 / Day 130

Another lurgy day and voice still not back. I’m getting a bit fed up with it. I’ve been snacking a bit today. In the grand scheme of things it’s not really that bad. I just feel bad and still a bit sorry for myself. Fed up with the medicine routine too. Not sure what I’ve done but it looks like I’ve skipped a dose. I could have sworn I’ve had 2 lots of antibiotics already today, but that’s not what the pills in the box are saying. Yep it’s officially sad when your pills are talking to you. I don’t need to speak back to them. A great excuse for locking yourself away and being a lazy bitch.

I wish I had the energy to go out for a walk and get fresh air, even a wee swim. I can’t believe I’m wishing for exercise! I’m officially crackers. But, seriously, I need to get a NEW healthy obsession. I thought I could become a fitness freak. I was one before.

I am one of those people who when I get a new hobby, interest, job etc, I become obsessed to the point it takes over my life. Mine has been eating and spending for too long. I did touch on obsessive behaviour yesterday but only skirted around the title. I never went deeper. I think perhaps I need to consult a councillor. I know I am entitled to a psychologist within my “sleeve package” but I will probably speak to my doctor. My surgery offers 6 – 8 sessions from a councillor when you feel you need it. I have over the past 14 years had 2 courses for various reasons. It was suggested to me by an old friend many moons ago. She said;

• If I have the opportunity at anytime to speak with a councillor I should
• Not to knock it
• It will amaze you what you get out of it
• It can help you sort out all sorts of issues
• It doesn’t make you a lunatic

She was right. So maybe the time has come to sort this stuff out. If I’m honest I turn to obsessive compulsive behaviour at times of stress, upset or emotional turmoil. I like to mask all my problems or tears behind my latest obsession, whatever it may be.

I do think that the fitness compulsion is one of the healthiest. Don’t get me wrong. I will not become a gym bunny. I hate gyms. But there is my yoga and swimming to start with. I think I will speak to my doctor about counselling asap.

On that note I’m away to soak in my bath and put on fresh pj’s. The weekend is almost over. I think if my voice is not back by tomorrow I need to go back to the docs anyway. Wish me luck!!

18th August 2018 / Day 129

Another week gone. What a week. It’s Saturday night and no partying for me. I was meant to be going out on a schoolie night out, but I’ve been struck down with the lurgy since about Monday night . It has progressively gotten worse. Now I have little or no voice. Not much use going out, no drink, no energy, no voice. Maybe hooking me up to some sort of drip concoction would be more relevant. But maybe not. I am already taking my usual pain killers, plus co-codamol or paracetamol or flu tablets (a safe concoction of daily paracetamol), penicillin, throat spray, gargling, millions of juice drinking (sugar-free) of course and not much else. I know many of you out there question what to take for this and that. The other day I took 2 flu tablets (typical supermarket pills, paracetamol, caffeine and a decongestant) and took 1 later on that afternoon. It contained caffeine and I felt bad later and had to make a hasty trip to the bathroom. I’m blaming the caffeine for that. So I now only take 1 of these but take extra paracetamol in a plain tablet with it. A word of warning if you are not used to caffeine, it may upset you, if you take the usual recommended dose if feeling under the weather. Smaller tummy, less caffeine!

So a quiet night in for me in front of the telly.

I started the week with a little spending obsession, determined to purr… chase an antique or two, that I had seen the previous week, when out with Pauline (my band and schoolie friend). So that’s what I did. Never mind the cost, but where to put was more challenging. My friend Ian who came over to help me get it into my building asked me about 4 times “but Zena where are you going to put it?” On top of cost, about £30 for materials for seat pad and if to get it made for me another £40 or there about. I’m probably capable of making it myself, but don’t want to make a balls-up. So we’ll see once the fabric arrives. So you’re asking what did I buy. Yet another linen chest and a Monks seat/pew, complete with cobwebs and lots of dirt from old wellies no doubt. Real mud inside and on the bottom, so think it has been used to store wet mucky boots. I probably could get DNA done to establish where it came from and who was responsible for the warped bottom.

A bit like me going back to my surgeon and trying to sue him for my warped bottom, no need for a DNA test there. My bottom has become quite warped. It looks nice and smooth with my clothes on and what used to be a midi skirt last year, is now a maxi I can almost trip over. All because of my warped bottom. A nice problem to have! Just not very pretty.

Enough about my bottom.

I did go swimming last Saturday morning as promised and I did not sink. Quite the opposite I was a bit like a buoy, very buoyant. I found it difficult to get my feet under the water when doing the breast stroke. I did enjoy it and boy oh boy how the swimming baths have changed in 30 years in my absence. I was intending going at least twice again before checking in, but the lurgy said no. I was thinking, I probably caught the damn thing at the baths last week. You never know what’s lurking in the water, what lies beneath??

I did Yoga again on Tuesday morning and was pleased when Lily the teacher came over at the end and told me how well I was doing. Thank God as that can justify me spending about £110 on yoga books, mats, bag etc, if nothing else can. I am going to keep going. It’s not a difficult class as it’s mainly older ladies who go. I do love the last 10 or so minutes when we get to lie down and cover up and drift off to Lily’s dulcet tones.

As for my weight another 1lb down 13.12. Slow and steady. I do want rid of this throat problem so I can get that lovely cossie back on and try another pool out. Maybe enjoy the quietness now that the schools are back in.

On that note I’m hungry and need to get some food together.

10th August 2018 / Day 121

Evening Peeps!

Hope everyone’s had a fab week. Mine was certainly better than last week. I’ve been very busy and I’ve ended the week on a high note. The scales moved again this morning, another pound down and a special pound it was, since it’s taken me into the thirteeners. Yep I’m in a new stone weigh-in club of losers. 13.13

Sorry to leave you in the fourteeners, Maureen lol.

Last couple of days, I’ve had a bit of a mixed bag; including foot spa, out to lunch twice, helping a friend spend her money, a funeral, a hospital appointment with the mammy, a hair trim, some poundland shopping. Tomorrow I’m finally going swimming.

I realised I have not been in the water swimming for 30 years. That shocked me, but it’s a fact. My friend thought she was bad at a 10 year gap, but I beat her out of the pool so to speak. She’s a week older than me and can still wear a bikini. Ah maybe next year… NOT!

On saying that, when I was out shopping with my friend Pauline H the other day, we ventured into poundland. We were looking at the vests and t-shirts and since the summer is ending, I did not think it wise to buy anything else for this summer. So I took the plunge and bought a size 14 and 2 size 12’s. Pauline who has kept her 10 stone off for about 10 years (banded) assured me, I would get to that. I still find it unbelievable. There is still a Ms doubtful inside who thinks that the same gremlin who stole my lean body 20 years ago (in the middle of the night) will do the same again. I just feel I’ll never get there. I don’t mean to put anyone off, but the voice inside my head doesn’t believe it, or, see a thinner body in the mirror. I have to pinch and remind myself that I only had my op on 16th April, just 4 months ago next Thursday. So it’s early days.

I know I’m adjusting to my new life well. Especially when I read some poor souls’ entries on fb who still can’t eat or drink a year out. I must say I am lucky. I can eat whatever I choose. I do religiously eat my protein at every meal and very rarely have anything between meals, unless it’s fruit berries or the like. I’ve had a little rice once, noodles once (eating the protein in the bowl first), 4 chips on about 4 occasions, a few mouthfuls of bread on another 4 occasions. I eat out every week, this week it’ll be 4 times.

Tomorrow after swimming I’m meeting up with my sleeve pal Maureen for lunch. I’m really looking forward to it and to catching up with her journey. She is a month behind me, but started at about the same place. It’s a good support to have someone to check in with each week and support each other. I do recommend a sleeve buddy. It’s also great to have someone like Pauline for support, who’s been there and done that, albeit a different procedure. She reels me in when I’m out with her, if I appear tempted by bad food choices. I know if they are not in the house, I cannot eat them. I allow myself treats, don’t get me wrong. Tonight I had my Halo ice-cream after my dinner and I did have a triangular sandwich and the sausage out of a sausage roll at the funeral earlier today.

When I met with my dietician last week she agreed that as long as I realised the odd treat was ok, providing I am sticking to the good proteins that I am eating at meal times.

Many of you out there have no idea what to eat. Perhaps you struggle to know what is Protein. Where do you get it from? Be aware of the different types of Protein and why it is important to eat animal Protein. You cannot get all the required amino acids that are present in Proteins in vegetable Proteins alone. We need Protein to recover and repair our bodies. After surgery it is vitally important that we get enough Protein to sustain our bodies and help us recover and heal quickly. The variety of Protein I eat ensures a varied diet and a nutritional one. I always had a varied diet but I probably try harder now to ensure I have a well-balanced and nutritional diet at every meal.

Here are many of the animal proteins I eat every week.

• beef, chicken, turkey, venison, ham, pork, steak, steak mince, duck, pigeon, corned beef, pastrami, lamb steak, lamb mince, gammon
• salmon, smoked salmon, sea bass, trout, smoked trout, whiting, tuna, hake, sole, smoked haddock, haddock, prawns, king prawns, mussels, squid, mackerel, sardines, clams, lobster, cod, crayfish, langoustines, herring, monkfish, scallops, sea bream
• legumes; beans, peas, chick peas, lentils
• nuts; brazils, almonds, hazel nuts, pistachio, walnuts, pecans
• seeds; pumpkin, sesame, sunflower
• grains; oats, wheat, quinoa, barley, spelt
• dairy (animal); milk, yoghurt, eggs, cheese, whey powder (not to be confused with vegetable protein powder)
• soya – I don’t eat soya. It’s bad for my yeast intolerance

If you want to ask any questions feel free to send a private message on the Contact page.

Good night all and have a fabulous weekend!

8th August 2018 / Day 119

Afternoon fellow losers. Yep that means the scales have finally moved. Yesterday another pound lost and maintained today. I’m just 1lb from dropping in to the thirteeners. Can’t wait to see another number on the scales. I’m the first to admit, it gets tedious to see no change. My brain knows it’s ok, but like many of you, I get downhearted too.

I was out at my favourite Italian restaurant yesterday with the mammy. I love it there cos they’ll whip me up what I fancy. The chef put together a nice wee fish stew; a mix of mussels, prawns, king, prawns and squid in the most dreamy tomato sauce. Actually, it was not that wee! It’s great to get that fab taste without the pasta. It was a protein feast to be sure.

I did eat a massive amount of protein yesterday. I had an Arla shake pre yoga, yep I went to yoga, and I managed to do everything. It was noted how well I did. That was a great victory, not to feel like the fat woman.

After yoga I went to brunch with 2 fellow yogerers. I had italian toast with scrambled egg and a whack of smoked salmon.

Then early dinner of the fish stew.

As you can imagine, or maybe no one else gets this. I do have a keen sense of smell. My wee this morning was decidedly fishy in aroma. Well I did eat loads of fish yesterday. For the fish loathers, it’s a shame, cos the protein score is very high. I was pleased with that. I never counted but experience tells me it’s high yet not so filling as meat. I know I had way over my 60g of Protein. Points to me.
Further to my mention of hair loss and B12 levels the other day (5th Aug).

• Hair Loss Something many of you fear or suffer from. At the moment it’s a fear for me. I would be surprised at this stage if I was to lose mine. My protein intake is high. I started using Plantur shampoo a few times a week, not sure if it works. But prevention is better that the cure. So here is the quote from my dietician. ” hair loss is not unusual during the 1st 6 months post surgery (most typically between 3 months and 6 months) and this can be a result of a combination of things; the shock of the surgery on the body itself, the rapid weight loss and low protein intake. You can take Biotin which is a supplement. You will notice your hair will generally fully recover by around 6 months post op at which time it is up to you if you keep taking the Biotin or not.”
• B12 Levels This is a quote from my dietician regarding the levels in my blood. “The reference range for B12 levels should be between 200 and 800. I would recommend routine 3-4 monthly B12 injections unless your levels are over 1500, then I would suggest missing one”

Hope this helps some of you. Byee for now.

6th August 2018 / Day 117

Thanks folks for having a look yesterday at my blog! Great stats!

I forgot to add a couple of things yesterday.

1. I was out with my Schoolies, “The Society Girls”. A group of girls from school that try to meet up every now and again for Prosecco and Pink Gin, (the new beverage of choice). I was on Robinson’s Diluting juice all afternoon after last weeks dramas. Anyway… there was only six of us on Saturday and I hadn’t seen most of them since pre-op. They all thought I looked fab and really noticed my weight loss. So great news.
2. Following my meet up with my dietician Rona on Saturday and her praise of my diet choices, I was asked about any good cook books that I could recommend. So here are some I purchased after my op to give fresh new inspiration. I’ve not really used them much, but I did give them a good once over before purchasing. A word of warning… Many books out there that boast that they are books supporting Bariatric surgery. They are not good. The recipes are very often low in protein and high in fat and calories. So be careful and mindful of your choices.

   1. Eating Well After Weight Loss Surgery: Over 140 Delicious Low-Fat High-Protein Recipes to Enjoy in the Weeks, Months and Years After Surgery Paperback – 2 Jul 2004

   2. The High-protein Cookbook: More Than 150 Healthy and Irresistibly Good Low-carb Dishes That Can be on the Table in Thirty Minutes or Less Paperback – 1 Nov 2000

   3. Weight Loss Surgery Cookbook: Simple and Delicious Meals for Every Stage of Recovery

   4. Weight Loss Surgery Cookbook For Dummies, 2nd Edition (For Dummies (Lifestyle)) Paperback

   5. Bariatric Sleeve Cookbook: 177 Healthy Gastric Sleeve Recipes for the Gastric Sleeve Surgery and Diet Paperback – 1 Mar 2018

The following shows books that I ordered and was disappointed in and returned, usually as they were not good quality recipes. Please bear in mind that I have been cooking for over 40 years and the ones I bought are not the simplest books on the market. There are plenty out there for the beginner, and with less ingredients.

5th August 2018 / Day 116

Still only 4 stone down. A big stall for 10 days. I’ve been floating around that mark, up and down a few pounds.

I saw my dietician yesterday and she was extremely pleased with my progress. She emphasised that I’d had a really bad week, involving the very sick and dying. A week of high stress levels. I guess when you think about it, it’s amazing that I’ve been hovering and not put weight on. So points to me!

We had a fabulous chat about my progress, what I’m eating, portion sizes, vitamins, B12, liquids. We discussed health, mood, my Blog and well-being. She spoke highly of my diet, I confessed a few things but she was totally fine with it all. No scoldings. We laughed about my extreme behaviour early on in my journey; when we were emailing and she was trying to explain that I was doing fine and not to be obsessed with my protein input as I was getting enough. We talked about potential hair loss but I’ve forgotten everything she said, so I’ll email her and get it all explained in writing. I’ve made another appointment to see her in November. She told me that I was on target and that I only had to lose a further 9lbs to be at my 1 year minimum target. Pretty good for 3.5 months.

I told her that I had my first B12 injection and had bloods taken at my GP’s. We discussed various nutrient levels to look for in the print out, but I’ve lost the post it note. I’m not doing well there, so once I get the email I’ll give you all the details.

I do have to report that I was very uncomfortable for about 4 days last week. A week yesterday I made 2 cocktails for a friend and myself. They were gorgeous at the time. But between a slight dehydration hangover topped up with stress I had the most weird wind pains and discomfort. I bought peppermint tea and wind relief tablets to try to settle it. Although I got some relief, it kept returning. I noticed that every time I drove over speed bumps on the road I felt like my insides were dropping out.

It was not my first drink since my op, I am sure I mentioned having a couple of glasses of Prosecco a while back, topped up with ice. I had no ill effects from that. It looks like I’ll need to experiment more. lol

I am still plucking up the confidence to go swimming soon. I am sure it will do my tummy good to get my muscles tightened up. I’ll try to take time this week to get my act together, and get that swim dress on for real. I’ll keep you posted.

Until then if you can’t be good be mindful.

26th July 2018 / Day 106

Da da da daaaaaa!! 4 stone down yeehaa.

What can I say. A light day on the food then back to normal and the scales moved again. 2 more lbs and I’ll be down into next stone bracket. Can’t wait. It always helps and gives a boost when you drop into the next stone.

25th July 2018 / Day 105

Day 105 wow. Yep wow.

So despite the scales stalling, apparently I look completely different. I was told on Sunday by several men that know me, that I was almost unrecognisable. They thought I looked great, fabulous, so different, and nearly walked by me. A few others mentioned to my mum; they were obviously too embarrassed to say to a woman how great she looked. Never mind,they noticed. Funny how only 1 lady, who is an actual lady, told me head on, that I looked great and had lost a lot of weight. So the Lord and the Lady who hadn’t seen me for a while took the time to talk to me about my weight loss. I guess that’s all that matters, is that the Gentry took the time. Probably the others, who actually knew about my op are jealous lol.

So yes the scales have stalled. So hopefully the inches are coming off again! That’s what happens. For those who are on their journey too, maybe you get a bit anxious when the scales are not moving. I read this recently and I think it is a good article that explains this phenomenon.

The “Whoosh” Effect: Burning fat and losing weight don’t happen simultaneously!

Fundamentally speaking, burning fat is all about creating a caloric deficit. (You eat less food than your body requires, thus forcing your body to make up the difference by getting energy from fat reserves). This isn’t a theory. It’s the first law of thermodynamics. It’s literally one of the laws of physics.

However, as many diligent dieters have personally learned, the amount of weight that you lose each day, or each week, is rarely consistent.

Some weeks, you’ll find that you don’t lose any weight at all — even when you’ve had a perfect workout schedule, and eaten at a perfect caloric deficit. Other weeks you’ll discover that you lost way more weight than the numbers say you should have lost.

If the laws of calorie-in / calorie-out are real, why would a person lose such dramatically different amounts of weight from week to week, despite following an identical routine?

Enter… “The Whoosh Effect”

As you burn fat, you’ll sometimes notice that the area where the fat used to be tends to take on a sort of “squishy” consistency. “Squishy” fat forms because, as fat cells are extracted and mobilized, the space where they once existed gets filled with water, making the area feel “softer” than normal. Sometimes “squishy fat” forms in places we can see it, and sometimes it forms more internally where we can’t. Sometimes it’s in huge pockets, and sometimes it forms at a microscopic level where you can’t see it or feel it. But the areas that were once filled with fat sit there, filled with water!

The squishy-fat areas can last for a few days to as much as a few weeks. Then, one day, inexplicably and out of nowhere, all that squishy fat suddenly tightens up! In some cases, you’ll even (suddenly) look leaner! And at the same time, the scale suddenly drops — and you cheer because you feel like whatever you did the day before caused you to lose a ton of weight!

It will probably surprise you to learn that almost ALL scale movements are the result of fat burn that happened days, or even weeks ago! (Sudden scale movement at the very beginning of a diet is usually the result of water-weight being dropped due to a decrease in carb intake, however).

Did you catch that? When the scale goes down while dieting, it’s usually because of fat that you lost several days (or even weeks) ago, and your body is finally expelling the water that took its place.

Put another way, even though you may be in a state where you are constantly burning fat, the results of that effort may not show up on the scale immediately. And more likely, they’ll show all at once, one day, where you’ll have a sudden “whoosh” of weight-loss!

The Minnesota Starvation Experiment

During World War II, a scientific study was performed wherein 36 men volunteered for a semi-starvation diet of 1,500 calories a day for 6 months, combined with several hours of hard labor every day. This became known as the “Minnesota Starvation Experiment”. (The purpose was to learn about the physiology and psychology of starvation, and use the data to help returning POW’s).

One of the many interesting findings that came from this study was that weight loss progressed in a nice, linear fashion in the beginning. Men lost about 2 pounds per week, every week. After some time, though, it became erratic and unpredictable.

Body weight would remain stagnant for several weeks followed by overnight “bursts” of large amounts of weight loss (3+ pounds). It’s physically impossible to burn several pounds of fat overnight, so how is that possible?

Well, the scientists looked into the phenomenon further and found the answer: water retention.

The men were steadily losing fat even when their weight wasn’t changing because as they lost more fat, they held more water. This only became obvious once the excess water was expelled, which gave the appearance of very rapid weight loss.

So let’s be very clear on what was happening:

The calorie deficit did its job by systematically reducing body fat, but the reductions in total body weight were often counter-balanced by increases in water retention.

How can you avoid the “Whoosh effect”?

Short answer: You can’t… Or more accurately put, you don’t really need to. It’s your body’s natural method of coping with fat-loss. Just let it do its thing.

Long answer: Scientists in the study referenced above actually found a trigger to cause the whoosh effect. You ready? It was a single meal that included a dramatic increase in caloric intake. For instance, a 2,300-calorie meal was served to celebrate the half-way mark of the experiment, and researchers noted that many of the men woke up several times to pee that night and, in the morning, were several pounds lighter than the day before.

Yeah, you read that right, a small cheat-meal triggered the drop in water-weight… And it’s one of the key reasons I recommend incorporating a REASONABLE cheat-meal once a week into your long-term weight loss plan.

Once again, it’s important to reiterate that you don’t NEED to do anything to trigger the whoosh effect. It’ll happen when it happens. But sometimes, if you’ve been dieting for a long time (6+ weeks) and haven’t lost anything on the scale for 1-2 weeks, a small cheat meal can help you feel like things are “back on track”.

Conclusion

A weight-loss plateau doesn’t necessarily equate to a fat-loss plateau!! Just because the scale isn’t moving, doesn’t mean you’re not burning fat, and it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.

Second, and probably more importantly, don’t expect results every single morning when you weigh-in. While it CAN work this way (and often does early on), it’s not typical. You might find that weighing-in once a week is a better strategy if you find yourself dealing with this problem more than you like.

So no, I will continue to weigh in every morning, cos that’s who I am.

If you want to read this on the web site click here later, otherwise you’ll miss the rest of my bloglol. http://100down.org/the-whoosh-effect/

Another useful tool is this little weight loss chart that allows you to view whether you are on target or not.

I’m 54 lbs down and just over 3 months post op. I did start losing weight from my surgeon appointment a month and a half previously, but I still feel I’m on target. I guess the final judge will be my dietician who I meet up with in about 10 days time. So I guess she’ll decide if I go on the naughty step or not. Not sure what I’ll do cos my hair is shaven yikes. Ideas on a postcard or comment below. lol

17th July 2018 / Day 97

I can’t believe it is day 97. Time has flown. …and it’s been a while since I posted. My Aussie visitors have gone, my flat is back to normal with an exceptionally clean and tidy guest room awaiting being messed up, I slept for 2 days and I am having a very late hot lemon while writing this post, but think I will venture to the park gym for my first exercise in 2 weeks after late brekky.

What has happened, well I survived house guests and eating out. I had a child’s portion chilli enchilda and 4 chips and salad. I never finished it but loved it at the time. I did cheat last week including wolfing through 6 packs of skinny popcorn, a bag of Japanese salted peanuts, some real tiramasu from my cousins plate washed down with 3 spoons of delicious ice cream from mums plate. No dumping!

I hope now I can get back into my routine of eating better. I have had weight loss over this period and I am now tipping the scales at 3stone 12lbs down (54lbs). Thats me down to 198lbs. A little hurrah while counting lbs and not stones. I have 2 challenges in the near future. To kick the 4 stone loss and get into the thirteeners. I still don’t quite believe it.

On Friday I ventured to M&S and tried on bras. I bought 4, sizes 38 E,F & G. So it appears I’ve lost the inches around my back as my boobs have not shrunk as yet. I was wearing a 42DD. It would be nice if as I shrink I keep a decent amount of boob stuffed into the cups. I know my friend who lost over 10stone although she is down to a 34 she wears a bigger cup, than when she was slim. My mother on the other hand was a slim size 18 & 40 bust at 21 and at 91 is still a 40. She was a cyclist, very fit, slim but had big boobies, lol.

Our sightseeing took us to Culross (pronounced CU’rus). For those of you who don’t know Scotland it was where the first series of Outlander was filmed. My cousins loved it. We ate at the Red Lion and then had afternoon tea in one of the little alley ways. I can remember the first time I visited there I struggled up the hill to the Abbey and the kirk. I think we must have taken over an hour to get up that hill. Last week I hardly struggled at all to get up it. That was a major win.

The second win was looking for an ancestor’s grave stone but later realising I had found another. I need to look into that as it was a new stone that had been erected recently for an old soldier in India, who had been given the Victoria Cross. Genealogy is one of my passions. That’s how I met my Aussie cousins a number of years ago. One of his G Grandmother’s is my GG Grandmother.

On Saturday I met up with a fellow loser, Maureen. We had lunch and then sat in the Botanical Gardens till after 6pm and yacked happily in the sunshine. It was a lovely day.

Last night I managed to persuade a friend to go swimming with me, without asking her may I add. So looks like I’ll have a swimming buddy after all. Need to sew and secure the straps on my new cossie. So this week I dont have much planned. Perhaps a venture out with my Banded friend Pauline, walking around (somewhere) and lunch, getting back to a routine and taking mum to the dentist later in the week. So it’s 11.30 and I’m off to get some brekky and get myself over to the park, then maybe some supermarket shopping and a wee sit in the garden with the mammy.

Till laters peeps, signing out.

6th July 2018/ Day 86

I can’t believe the sun is shining again. What a Summer! I was just saying hte other day I was wondering if we had finally escaped the Icelandic Ash Fallout. Last year was just sooo grey. Almost 12 months of grey skies. Gone ut not forever, just like us losers weight loss. It’s a fact!

For anyone considering gastric surgery, we are only in possession of a tool to help us lose and maintain our weight. It’s up to every individual to ensure that weight gain does not happen. I have had quite a number of temptations put in front of me but not given in like some I’ve seen on the internet. I have not yet experienced dumping of any kind. I have eaten bites of the odd thing on the not allowed diet but still managing to contain them. I’ve also not really had any cravings either. I’ve been more put off by food on the television or food smells when I have been out and about. Yesterday I did partake in a small snack that I would not normally have.

Yesterday despite a tearful start for my mum the day ended up full of surprises. An indian family were partying at Largs under a yellow canopy. It was a 12 year old girl’s Birthday celebrations. I was asked over by the family when I was passing to my car. On telling my mum and her neighbour; who had joined us on the wee seaside trip, on my return, they thought it would be nice to pop over later. I nipped up to a little gift shop for a card and a gift, then and wee dropped in later. I was offered all sorts. I did take a triangular sandwich and 1 fab sizzling rib. It was gorgeous. I passed on fizzy libations and other “bad foods”. It was a wee treat!!

We returned to a little restaurant, a few hours later and I ordered a trio of fish, salmon, hake and sea bass. I was not able to finish it, but took a doggy box for our neighbour’s dog.

Today, I’m busy getting up to date with things as tomorrow I have a cousin and his wife arriving from Australia for three days. I will be busy with them and their room is all ready, so just a final tidy up and washing done.

So that’s all folks. Another lb down yesterday. Total lost 50lbs. Hoping my second weekly pound falls off tomorrow lol.

4th July 2018/ Day 84

Happy Independance Day to all the Americans reading my post.

There seems to be a pattern. My losing days are between Fridays and Sundays. Not sure why that is. I can get a bit depressed around mid-week as it seems ages since I’ve lost anything. So it spurns me on to maybe do a liquid diet today and drink loads of fluids. Maybe it’ll accelerate the loss. But maybe not.

That old story of letting myself get down as maybe others are doing better than me is happening. I know it does not make sense to feel that, but I realise others let it get to them too. So I guess it’s a typical concern and common behaviour with fellow sleevers and other bariatric surgery peeps.

I’ll give myself lines…”I must not let others’ successes get me down” da da da da da

I’m just back from my hour exercise at the park gym and off for a cool shower. Today I’m giving myself a different view to sit out in. I’m off to my bander friend Pauline’s. She successfully lost over 10 stone years ago and has maintained her weight all these years later. She always inspires me. I feel I need to be encouraged today.

This summer has been gorgeous. It reminds me of summers when I was a kid. Long long summer days and nights. All 8 weeks of them lol.

I’m conserving my energy as on Saturday I have Australian cousins arriving for a few days during their travels around the world. I know it will be exhausting driving about Scotland with them. Although “good exhausting”. The great weather is forecast to continue.

Have a great day everyone.

30th June

I was at my second meeting at Glasgow WLS group on fb. They meet on the last Saturday every month at Gartnavel Hospital for a natter, encouragement and support and lunch. The highlight lol.

There were three new peeps, two who are booked for sleeves in July and one who is trying to decide if surgery is right for her.

I do wish them all good luck in their future ventures and hope to see them post sleeve and decision-making.

Lots of sharing of experiences, opinions and lunch was lovely, My new love of eggs was evident when I ordered Eggs Benedict Royale. It seems to be a common change in tastes, peeps now loving eggs or hating them post op with a vengeance. STRANGE

28th June 2018 /Day 73

Another beautiful day. I’m just doing a quick blog before I go to the outdoor gym in the park. I go for an hour and have a break for 5 min halfway through. I don’t like gyms never was one to go to them. I was more of an all action girl. Everything I did when I was slim involved speed and probably an element of danger and excitement. I figure skated, skied and went horse riding. I even went ranching for 2 weeks when I was in my mid/late thirties. I worked and partied very hard. For a few years in my late30’s/early 40’s I was dancing 5/6 times a week. (jiving, salsa, western)

So what can I say about the outdoor gym. I get fresh air. I can even work on a wee tan, talk to all the dog owners that go by, take a seat on a bench, have a fruit snack at half time and watch the ducks. And even more importantly I don’t need to smell that stuffy sweaty smell all around, or watch the skinnies next to me.

I’m having my hot lemon drink and I have made up my shake for brekky. Every morning I start the day with 200ml of hot water with a thick lemon wedge. It’s not only good for the skin but gets your insides moving, to put it politely.

Good news I lost a lb yesterday morning and another this morning, so my new weight is cw: 14 stone 9 lb. (93kg) sw: 18 stone 1 lb (114.8kg), so that’s a fab 3 stone 6 lb lost (21.8kg) (48lbs).

I mentioned previously how I don’t really feel any different from pre op. I am always full after meals, so I think I have overeaten, what I mean is, I think that I am still my original weight and feel like I’ll never lose anything.

I know I can do things easier; like get out of the bath. After breaking my wrists over a year ago, I can now get up off the floor using my right wrist/hand and not my arm propped onto something. I am wearing a combo of clothes but all my new clothes I am wearing at the moment ar 2/3 sizes smaller.

I’d like to say to those out there who feel they are stalling. Maybe they are not. I find that when the scales are slow to drop, the inches are dropping instead. So don’t despair if you think it’s all happening too slowly. Use your clothes as a guide instead not the scales.

That’s all folks. Have a great day!!

Please feel free to make comments at the page bottom or contact me privately from the contact page.

19th June 2018

Yesterday’s lunch went well the mammy and her crony had a great time. It was a laugh listening to them. They missed half of each others conversations. The crony wears hearing aids that are on the blink at the moment. Mum doesn’t, but she denies her hearing is failing, and picks up a different meaning. But they had a lovely time and its nice to see mum eating so well, she never passes on the pudding and ice cream.

Me I had a full portion, although never emptied my plate. Something I never failed to do in the past.

I had salmon wrapped in crispy parma ham in a parsley sauce, carrots, brocolli, mash and 3 chips. I ate all my protein and carrots and bits of the rest. I was full, and was not envious of the puds at all.

Later on in the evening I had crackers with some cheese and chutney and at bed time a hot choc and mint slimfast vitality (only 150mls).

I was knackered and very sore in the evening and was a couch potato. Lifting mums wheelchair in and out the car knackers me.

I thought that maybe my fibromyalgia would disappear over time, but guess I still have it as well as the chronic fatigue. But I do feel much better than I did 2/3 months ago. I get out of the bath much easier and the other day when I stood on my wee stool to wash windows, it was so much easier. I always had to hold onto something before and felt quite unsafe. But now its easy peasy!!

Today I put on a pair of leggings and the legs look wrinkly. Maybe I will have to chuck most of my leggings. I thought I’d get a good wee while out of them yet. Maybe not. Hey ..I aint complaining!!

Thanks to all my visitors yesterday. Best day ever! It would be nice for someone to like my pages or even make a comment. I do get great comments on fb, but it would be nice to get them here. Come on ladies and gents, don’t be scared.

Have a great day.

18th June 2018

Another pound lost today, FAB, thats all I can say. Well it’s not really. I always have something to say. I also want to say, I hope this is me on the move again. I know we are not meant to watch these scales and only weigh in once a week maximum. But, I just can’t help myself. Scales gremlins beware.

Yesterday my mother’s carer arrived while I was still there. She hadn’t seen me since last summer. Mum had told her about my op so she did know in advance about my weight loss, but she just said WOW. That was a great feeling. She saw it right away. She said she could see it all around my face and shoulders. I was lounging about on the couch, so mum told me to stand up to show her. I felt like a model!! What a great feeling. You know, I have to be thankful, my mum is my greatest fan and she tells me almost every day, how proud she is of me to do this and be trying so hard to succeed.

But it’s more a matter of getting a return on my investment! Afterall, £10k is a lot of money but I feel “I’m worth it!”

So if you are thinking about getting gastric surgery, remember you are worth it.

• You are worth having a better life
• You are worth being healthy and living a healthier life
• You are worth getting rid of baggage, and that extra lard you are lugging about
• You are worth killing your co-joined twin, or maybe siblings. (No offence to anyone out there who is or knows a co-joined person)
• You are worth being, a sexy single, being a wife, being a mum, being a partner and being the best friend you can be. You are worth being alive!!

Have a great day everyone. I’m doing lunch with my mum and her old pal. I’m not worried. I’ll find something I can have on the menu.

16th June 2018

Happy 2 month anniversary to me. I was sleeved exactly 2 months ago and was recovering at this time, 16th April.

I have very good news for this day. I broke into the 14 stoners. Yep I broke the barrier that feels like I have been stuck in (between 15stone and 15,1) forever. I had a look at my weight loss chart and it turns out its only been 4 days, OMG. I am obsessed. In total 3stone 2lbs lost.

My friend that was banded many many years ago and lost 8 stone told me she still weighs herself daily. I guess I need to accept that; I am going to have a long standing relationship with my scales!

On saying all of this I have not eaten or drunk anything yet today and it just past midday. I was shattered this morning, a real chronic fatigue day. I did too much yesterday.

I am hoping to get my act together and go out and find possible lining material for my home made tote bags. I am eager to get them finished. After all I am going to have quite a few more in the wings. I wish now I hadn’t parted with the all 11 pairs of jeans I gave away last month. I could have started a wee factory. Hopefully by the time I’m finished my tote bags will be the size of clutch bags. hehehe. My sleeve “shrinking Violet ” will be so pleased, she’ll be splitting her sides.

15th June 2018

I’m of mixed minds today. Firstly feeling pi**** because the scales are stuck, yeah the little weight watch pixie has stuck super glue inside the scales and jammed them in the 15 stoners. I’m stuck on 15 stone and tomorrow I’m 2 months post op and wouldn’t it be a nice treat to see the scales tip at 14 stone 13. It would be great.

Secondly, I’m feeling great. (It’s a case of the Good News vs. Bad News scenario). Why? Because I had bought 2 pairs of extra skinny jeans out of Matalan, thinking they will never fit me in a month of Sundays, as they were the cheap make) and hey PRESTO tried them on and got the zip up nae bother. I am going to keep them for another couple of weeks so they look great and not OK.

So you see my dilema? One that many of us sleevers and other losers face. The scales stuck dilema.

I have been aware in the past, that you can lose inches when not losing any weight. I think it might be your body adjusting. Not sure there?

I have been busy yesterday during the rain and gales. Apart from feeling knackered, I stayed in my cosy bed to recharge all morning then decided I wanted to be creative since not going to the outside gym in the park.

I had come across 2 pairs of faded jeans that I had stuffed in a cupboard as the zips were broken. I had intended getting the zips replaced but found that they were now too big. I also found 2 lovely pairs of faded boot legs size 18 with slits down the back pocket and thought I could perhaps mend them. This had all come to be as I had dug out a sewing machine to be mended and found a little feather weight one that I thought I should start using. No I did not buy 2 machines, but my mother had many years ago and was no longer able to sew.

I had sewed as a teenager and had often run up a skirt for some disco or other at school lol. After surgery I thought that mending and altering some clothes would help in my transition down the losers bench.

A few weeks ago I put a maxi dress and long skirt into the alterations shop to alter to fit me, so I could get the summer out of it. But I needed to do some less complicated alterations myself. Yesterday I got round to round 2 with the sewing machine and mended a favourite dress I have worn for probably 20 years up the sizes so why not give it a whirl again going down them? I also took a maxi skirt’s hem up a few inches. I had worn it a couple of weeks ago and had the waistband turned up a few times and was tripping over it all day. They both look good later.

But, my main project was upcycling 2 pairs of jeans into tote bags. I had often thought I’d like to give this a whirl. I had googled it the other day and found 2 very good videos on it. So yesterday I made 2 bags. Well they’re not finished I still have to do part 2 the handles and linings. I want to look around though for some nice material. I want to visit the local charity shops first, for any nice coloured shirts, before buying any material. I do have a couple of my own shirts in mind though, for later projects. Afterall, there are going to be a few pairs of jeans being tossed aside. But they look great. I had to stitch close the pockets and the zip area to make them look better and to keep them more secure.

For the size 18 jeans I cut material out of the spare legs of the jeans from the bags and sewed 8 inch long patches inside the back pocket/bum area doing lots of zig zag stitching. Of course they look really trendy now since the ripped jean phase is with us. Lovely white long lines down the pocket and back of thigh. I have no idea how I managed to rip 2 identical jeans in exactly the same place. Must have just been my very fat bum!!

Now back to my dilema….

I have decide to go back onto a liquid diet for a couple of days. Keeping my protein up still at 60g. I do need to get into the 14 stoners for my peace of mind. I’ll keep you all posted what happens there.

L8ers!

10 June 2018

Day 55

Not checked in for a wee while. I’ve been very busy or maybe just sitting in the glorious sun most days. It’s been years since I remember such great weather.

So how have I been doing since I last chatted?

Great I guess. I’m still losing weight in fact yesterday I touched my 3 STONE loss marker yaaahhhhhh!

I’ve gone through a few markers.

• I’ve done some extra exercise
• I’ve eaten out a few times
• I ate my first full dinner plate (och it was salad though)
• I drank alcohol and bubbles without problems

I went to my local park last week and exercised on the outdoor gym equipment. I enjoyed it emensely in the gorgeous morning sunshine before it got too hot. I will start again during this week.

I went out with mum for lunch last week. She has been asking me regularly…. when can you go out to eat? We went to our local Italian restaurant and they made me a seafood stew with mussels, squid, fish, prawns and very tasty tomato sauce. I had a fraction of a piece of bread as a treat, but left the rest. I never even ate a slice, just a corner really. It was all so yummy.

I also went out on thursday and was drooling at the menu. I did peruse the entire menu but took my eyes back to the Super Salad I noticed and thought that’s what my dietician would choose for me. It was gorgeous. Leaves, spinich, chicken, walnut, avocado, pomegranate, cottage cheese, some pulses, roasted beets. It was in a large bowl but I never got my full feeling as it was just the right amount. It would never have satisfied me in the past. But it was glorious!

On Friday night I had a schoolies night out. I was wondering if anyone would notice my weight loss. I bought a new outfit, 2 sizes smaller than I had been wearing. A few weeks ago I dropped sizes into a size 18 top. But my bottom was still fitting a size 20. I had dropped 1-2 sizes there. I was always pear shaped. I had bought a couple of pairs of skinny 18 jean jeggings a few weeks ago but they were too small. However I was out shopping and optimistically took some 18’s into the changing room and hey presto they fitted and looked good.

Well the weight loss was noticed and I got quite a few compliments. One of the girls knew about my op and she was over the moon with my results as she has not seen me for quite a while. I even told one of the girls who was asking how I had managed to lose weight and as I sat and lied to her I thought oh what the hell. I’m ready for any fall-out. I had read about so many girls who got sh** from others when they told them. But to my great surprise she was interested and smiled beaming when I told her. She wished me well and thought my 3 stone weight loss was fab. I explained I was on target and losing about 2lbs a week.

SO, all in all it was a great success and one of my x’s even asked me over for a sleep over lol. I evaded the Q and made it known I was taxy-ing home with one of the girls. I was dancing for longer than usual and even had 2 glasses of Prosecco.

I had seen my chiropractor earlier that day and had discussed with him the possibility of me drinking. He explained my healing process would slow but that a couple would not hurt, especially since I was not a regular drinker, and would not overdo it. So I decided to have a drink, after all I had to try it sometime. I no longer drank much, only very occassionally and had not had a drink since about february. I left the car so I made the decision to try and since I was with friends I knew if I got ill, someone would look after me. It was strange and I guess I was waiting on feeling bad. I thought during the first glass I may get heartburn, but I dropped some ice in the glass to calm the bubbles down and all was fine after that. It was needing to be cooler anyway. I did feel a little tipsy at one point but it very quickly passed after some iced water. I was quite sober when I went home.

To top it all off even after my 3 oclock bed time I woke up in the morning and the scales tipped to my 3stone drop.

I have digital scales and this morning it flashed to the lower stone (14 13.5) and back up again and thats usually a sign I’m about to lose more. So that has inspired me for today and I will be extra good today and increase my liquid intake, as that may be enough to tip the scales tomorrow. I’m dying to see the scales drop to the 14 stone marker.

That’s all folks for today. I’ve been up for a while this morning and already done a huge ironing. I’m off to take mum to church and do some garden planting at mums as a surprise for when she comes home.

Have a great day!! 3 stone down yaaaahhhhhhhh!!

My friend Pauline and I doing silly specks faces

26th May

Day 40

Its been a few days since I checked in, I guess I’ve been just getting on with it and also enjoying the beautiful sunshine.

I was up pretty early today as I had a big day. I was going to my first group meeting and perhaps an afternoon with the Society Girls. (a school group that’s been meeting up In the Society Rooms in Glasgow for an afternoon drinking session) Of course not sure if going yet and also would not be partaking in the bubbles or other tasty treats).

The group I was going to is one of my facebook closed groups Glasgow WLS info and Support. It was held in a room in the Gartnavel Hospital, and most of us adjourned to the local for a lovely lunch. The meeting was fab and had lots of great advice and info flowing about. It was a great feeling being in a room with other people who have shared the same or similar experiences. A real comeraderie! We tottered over to the local restaurant for a lovely lunch. It was so nice to be out with others who were concerned about what they were eating and it made me feel normal in that I was not the oddity, looking for the thing on the menu that was safe to order and feel that I could finish. I ordered scallops and black pudding, a starter with a side salad. Gorgous! I am so glad pie and beans was not on the menu.

I am still counting Protein and kcals and have found a much better website/app to use, that cuts down the work. My Fitness Pal You can even scan food barcodes and it will find them and work out the macros for you. You just need to check the amounts and servings are accurate. So if I only have 1/3 scoop of slimfast vitality then I will select 0.33 as my serving and its all calculated and added to your diary for you. I was working it all out manually and I was starting to dread doing it each night. Now I can do it all in seconds after or before I eat. My breakfast was made up of 100ml Arla Protein milk, 1 scoop of slimfast vitality, 1/2 Skyr yoghurt. I added the rest of my Skyr as a snack for later on in the day. That all came to 239 kcal and 25g Protein. I can easily see at a glance how much of my daily allowance is left. I would recommend this app. It is much easier to use in the app than the laptop. You can just use it as a look up on the internet if you don’t want to create an online account. I am currenly on 600kcal and 60g Protein daily. I am on day 41 post sleeve.

All in all great time and well worth anyone considering surgery even to get a feel of what to expect and understand some of the pitfalls, drawbacks and negatives about the various surgeries available.

After lunch I made a s urprise visit to my BFF as I have not seen her since pre surgery. We had a great natter and a sit out in the garden until after 7 in the evening. But more importantly she introduced me to Iceland’s Mini Vienetta at 60 kcal. YUMMY!!!!!! I then toddled home and made corned beef hash from a small tin of meat and beans. That made 3 meals for me. What a saving.

Great Day!!

23rd May 2018

Day 37

Today was another busy day. I’m a bit sore today. Yesterday I did a few hours gardening and the pain is starting to take over. I did some retail therapy to take the edge off, followed by a wee sit down in the park. I hadn’t had lunch and it was well after 3 when I realised I was starving. I popped into Greggs and picked up a Lemon & Herb Chicken salad with roast vegetable grain. It had a red pepper humous sauce. I was pleasantly surprised. So I had a little picnic as I had to try out my new chair I bought for only a tenner. It was extremely comfortable, and the late lunch was pretty fab too. My first carry out! I did not finish it and I fed the left over chicken to some friendly doggies who were hanging out nearby. They appreciated it.

After that I made my first visit to my chiropractor after my operation. I needed straightening out. I have a feeling the pain from the gardening is going to make my recovery a wee bit slower than normal.

Tonight I spent some time clearing out some trousers and jeans from one of my wardrobes. I filled a black bin bag with a number of pairs that were past their sell by date and folded 7 pairs of linen trousers, 8 pairs of jeans and a pair of cargo pants, ready to take along to the Glasgow WLSinfo Support Group meeting on Saturday. Maybe some others could benefit from some clothes on the way down the weight loss ladder. Just a thought.

20th May 2018

Day 34

Hi everyone, A lazy day today as I feel I have been overdoing it last few days.

I seem to want to munch this evening so I’m feeling bad about myself, I know I shouldn’t as yesterday I was way under my daily 600 kcal. I was another 1lb down this morning too.

So take note…Don’t be hard on yourself as tomorrow is another day and a new start!

16th May 2018

Day 29

Today’s another day, that’s what mum said to me last night and she’s right. I can correct things today!

So hot water with lemon, half way through and an Arla shake for breakfast. That’ll take my calories to 180kcal and Protein to 20.25g. Much better than the cereal!

What have I learned have a much smaller portion of cereal to bring calories down and make sure boost protein throughout the day.

I’ll try and rectify today. I’ll keep you all posted later.

Oh and another lb down yaahhhh. That’s 33 in total.

Onwards and Upwards!!

15th May 2018

Day 28

Today started really badly and it went on …and on. Major melt down! Why? God knows as I have been doing really well and had a good report at hospital yesterday from the surgeon and the dietition.

I decided to start right away with the macros on Protein and kcal. Ooooo a bad idea. I started just after breakfast . A breakfast that the dietition mentioned from my diary that she said was fine with her. The recommended serving 50g. I cover mine with an Actimel and about 6 blueberries. It was yummy. I was never really a cereal person. But I found this FUEL granola. So I dually put the macros onto my spreadsheet I had downloaded and YIKES. Over 300 kcal and only about 11g Protein.

I realised the dietition had given me sheets with some macros on them, but no daily allowance for 4 weeks sleeved. So I e-mailed her and found out 600kcal and 60g Protein daily. So what did I do? I panicked and flaked out. Then proceeded to drop the showerhead from the holder, not once but twice, the second time landing on my bad wrist. (I broke both wrists last year and had 6 surgeries). What did I do? Cry like a toddler, uncontrollably. I threw myself on the spare bed with towel in hand and sobbed till dry.

After a couple more e-mails back and forward I was none the wiser. After all I kept getting told my Protein was excellent, but that was on 5 meals. (3 large and 2 snacks). I had to get down to 3, but not sure how to get the Protein to 60g.

So like a typical girl, I had a hot bath, pulled myself together and went out and had a foot spa and manicure to make me feel better. I picked up my new specks and a few supermarket items and went to mums.

She knew something was wrong as soon as I went in the door, she even got on to her feet and came over to give me a hug. She has been my greatest supporter through all of this and loves that I’m losing weight. So she asked , can it not be righted tomorrow. And ..Yes she is correct!

14th May 2018
Day 28

Today was my 1 month review with my surgeon and my dietition. My surgeon checked how I was doing, checked my wound, my weight and answered any questions I had. His scales were way out, but it turned out he had already been told that today. Thank God. Anyway wasn’t really concerned since I have been monitoring my weight with my own scales at home so know that I am 32lbs down since I first met with my surgeon back on 27th Feb when I made the decision to get sleeved.

My main concern was whether I am getting enough protein and other nutrients and minerals. As it happened, the good news was that Rona the dietition was able to look at my food diaries and see what was good or bad. She was very impressed with my diaries and the quality of what I have been eating. She made some tweaks and stressed the importance of the first 4 months. To quote “you won’t get another chance at the first 4 months”, the “most vital time to keep your calories low and lose as much weight as possible”.

So what has been tweaked for anyone who is following my food diaries;

• try and stick to 3 meals a day
• only have low calories snacks if you require them, but try to not take them between meals. Why? You may need to increase your food intake amounts later on when your appetite increases in the future. That’s when you can bolster out on your intake. If you are currently having calorific snacks then you will have nowhere to go. I explained that I have been concerned whether I am getting enough Protein and other nutrients and she assured me that I am. She asked about my supplements and since I am taking an A-Z then any shortfall in my veggies and fruit etc are covered.
• Start taking Calcium & Vit D supplements (available in Boots). The Vit D helps the Calcium be absorbed by the body. The concern here is for lack of Calcium, thus resulting in future Osteoperosis. I bought the supplements on the way home and have taken today’s dose already (Vanilla chewable, 3 for 2). I am not too concerned about this as I had a Dexa scan last year and my bone density is excellent, well above average for adults. As I’m 57 and through menopause, my result was reassuring, and its unlikely that I would contract it in the future. But I will be good and take them anyway, to keep things right.
• She also gave me a chart with calories and protein macros to help me going forward. It is very limited though. I had asked if she knew of any good books or macro charts available. She did not, so I will appeal to some of my fb groups and see if anyone has come across any worth purchasing.

So all in all it went well. I was wearing a new outfit, I purchased last night and both peices were a smaller size than I have been wearing, that was a great boost for me.

Going forward, I will make sure I cut out the snacks I have been eating and start calorie and protein counting.

Onwards & Upwards!!

12th May 2018
Day 26

It’s a ovely morning here in Paisley. I’m up and midway through my morning cleanse. My wounds a wee bitty sore today. However I’m committed to taking the mammie away for a wee run in the car “doon the watter”. That’s down the River Clyde to the foreigners visiting. I’ve not been able to take her anywhere as I can’t lift her wheelchair or scooter into the car yet. So that’s the plan for later. I just need to get my breakfast down my gullet and get organised. Probably pack a protein shake or some soup to keep me going. Mum suggested going somewhere to eat, but not sure I’ll be up for that too.

As it turned out, we never went away a wee run in the car after all. i was relieved as by the time I’d gone supermarket shopping I was whacked. Another tiring day.

11th May 2018
Day 25

Another difficult day, no energy. Stayed in bed, slept all morning and watched a couple of movies, an oldie and a nuby, Clive Owen in Anon. I’m just up now. I have had breakfast and lunch also looking forward to dinner. I’m making a Moroccan lamb steak tagine. I know it’ll be too much when I saw the meat out of the dreezer. So I’ll make for 2 meals and freeze one for a lazy day.

I was reading an interesting post on fb which I’ll share with you

So perhaps this is what’s wrong? I do feel like hibernating. I am happy by mself and don’t want to be bothered with outside life. I was out late last night and I think the day was too much. I find it hard to get a balamce. Last night I almost texted a friend about going to an exhibition we’ve planned to go to, I am sooo glad I never, cos I would have had to cancel again! SO yeah I am hibernating conserving my energy after a full on day. I am not sure how long it’s going to take to kick this habit.

I am definitely eating as best I can. Did anyone else feel like this?

10th May 2018
Day 24

A bit of a late start today as I went back to bed for a while till breakfast and watched a movie till lunch time. Finally got round to doing some ironing. I so wanted that our of the way.

I’m off out tonight with a friend to a psychic evening. Mum booked it without consulting me. I usually go with her but still not up to lifting her walker or wheel chair into the car so I told her I couldn’t take her.

The big problem is they serve a meal at it. Usually there are 3 choices but I’m going to have to speak to the duty manager about my portion size. This’ll be my first time out since sleeved. Not looking forward to it and also in the hands of the gods as to whether it’ll be good nutritionally. I’ll let you know how I get on.

So tonight went well, I explained to the head waiter and he ordered me a small portion. I had roast chicken on potato and black pudding mash , green beans and I had a couple of mouthfuls of my friends red cabbage, I had a spoonful of mixed berries for dessert. It was yummy and nice not to have to cook. It was hard to judge quantities, but I couldn’t eat it all. I did eat all my chicken though and only had a couple of mouthfuls of mash. So big success, just wish he’d put on a side plate as I’d asked. I need to insist that next time.

About my tummy… I hurt it yesterday bending down trying to reach something and my main wound is hurting inside. Not sure if I’ve strained myself or damaged the soft tissue inside?

9th May 2018
Day 23

Today has gone miles better. I was up at 7, early for me. I did housework after the gas check and made a large pot of chicken & vegetable soup otherwise known here as Cock-a-leekie. I gave mum about 8 normal portions and gave Violet 5 portions for the freezer. She’s my sleeve.

I then had energy enough to pop to the supermarket and then to mums, where I washed and set her hair.

I was back into normal eating times again. I took a bit of venison steak out of the freezer for my evening meal. Ambitious but realistic as it turned out. I ate it all, with some cauliflower and brocolli. My first proper red meat since before LRD. I was stuffed though. I did enjoy it very much.

All in all a good day.

8th May 2018
Day 22

Today has been exceptionally hard, not on the eating front though. I had to force myself to get up to eat and drink. I’m just so lethargic, far worse than yesterday. I slept almost all day up until 3 ish. Then watched some catch up tv. I’ve got some energy now but not much.

I need to be up at 7am tomorrow as I have a gas man coming to check the system, so I hope I can find the energy to do the tasks I have set myself. I need to catch up with stuff around the flat and make a pot of soup for the mammy.

I still don’t know if it’s my chronic fatigue or am I lacking in something?

I am managing to put the effort into my food once I get into the kitchen though, I’m just running a few hours behind.

Today I feel as heavy as ever. It’s strange. My mother tells me every day how she sees the weight off of me. Some of my clothes even look strangely baggy on me. So it looks like I’m losing inches although the scales have been stuck since last week. I feel full all the time,, As I feel stuffed after everything I eat, I think I’ve just gorged on some huge meal when its’s just baby portions each time. I mean when would I have just eaten 2 crackers with smoked salmon pate and not finished the entire tub? One positive today is, I’m enjoying how food lasts forever. I can see how Rona my dietition was right in saying I could invest in the best food as I would not be eating as much.

I’m wondering if I could have 1/3 to a 1/2 a venison steak tomorrow night? I am only on day 22 but I have not felt ill yet after anything I’ve eaten. Lucky I guess and perhaps stemming from my previous extremely wide variety in my diet. I do still get an uncomfortable feeling when I’ve had enough and I’ve restrained myself from over-loading my plate or bowl with too much food.

Anyway that’s today’s little ponder. Any comments please drop me a line. Good luck fellow sleevers!

7th May 2018
Happy Day 21

I woke up over an hour later this morning but felt shattered.

I guess I’ve been doing quite well over all. I have read of quite a number of ladies who are still unable to eat or even drink at this stage, so it appears I’m one of the lucky ones. My dietition did say, that she felt I would do really well after my op, so I guess she sees all sorts and has the experience to tell who will be ok and who will struggle.

But today I’m struggling with tiredness and lethargy. But I have no idea if this is op related or just my chronic fatigue from my fybro. Certainly, yesterday I went a long walk in the park. I crashed when I went to my mothers later on in the afternoon. After dinner last night I got my second wind and was up until about 1am. (I am a late bedder).

However it’s now 15.35 and I’m not washed or dressed yet. But no matter what, I’ve been trying to keep my fluids going in. I’ve just finished eating a lovely little omelette followed by some custard and banana. So I’ll get it together shortly and get my tail up to my mums since I promised I’d do her hair. She’s been in bed all last week as she hurt her foot, so I convinced her yesterday that she should get up today and get her morning carer to get her bathed and hair washed ready, so despite my not feeling like it, I will drag myself there and fulfil my promise to her. It’ll probably tire me again and I’ll need a snooze.

I was thinking yesterday that maybe in the short term I should be having a wee mid-afternoon cat nap to recharge every day. Did anyone else feel like that?

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