tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29371202073470230992024-02-07T05:18:00.491-08:00Metamorphosis. . . a change will do me good.Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-3605680462201093222011-05-09T20:53:00.000-07:002011-05-09T20:53:47.282-07:00The Proof Is In The Pudding (Sugar Free, Of Course!)<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We have a Wellness Department at work, which offers programs, classes and information free of charge to help people live healthier lives because healthier employees means lower health costs. Every year the Wellness Program has a <b>Healthy Challenge</b> where participants go through a few tests and measurements each March. By taking part in some of the free programs offered through the Wellness Department and making healthy lifestyle choices, you can be compensated with either up to 15 hours of leave time or up to $250.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Here's how I stacked up this year versus last year's figures:</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> March 2010 March 2011</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Total Cholesterol (<200mg/dl): 205 167</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">HDL (>34 mg/dl): 47 52</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">LDL (<130 mg/dl): 137 106</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Triglycerides (<200 mg/dl): 109 77</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Glucose (<110 mg/dl): 104 95</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">BMI: Nunya Business Nunya Business -7.9</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was excited to get the compensation, but I was equally, if not more, excited to get the results! Just thought I'd share the stats with you all! Can't wait to see what next year's numbers hold.</span>Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-83880680029757770312011-04-10T21:28:00.000-07:002011-04-10T21:28:45.967-07:00Living 60 pounds less!Okay, I know it's been a while, but let's not harp on how long it has been since my last post -- what matters is that I'm here now. (grin) <br />
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I know you all have been worried about me and the possibility of me falling of the face of the earth. But as most of you know, life just gets away from you, and that's what's happened over the last 2 months: I was sick and got even sicker when I had a BAD reaction to an antibiotic; Mom was in the hospital for 11 days and 2 surgeries for a bad infection that they now believe was a due to a brown recluse spider bite; I had a relapse and have been struggling to get over a bad ear/sinus infection -- still can't hear completely out of the ear. But in all of it, I'm still making headway, and am glad to report their is even less of me typing this post! <br />
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I've had my second fill in the band since the last time I posted. Only 1.5 cc's this time, but I've been able to tell the difference A LOT more than with the first one of 3cc's. I eat extremely smaller portions because even one bite more than necessary makes me feel absolutely miserable. I was afraid that I'd constantly feel hungry, but I don't! I guess I'm still transitioning to trust my body after my mind and emotions have lied to me for so many years. <br />
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My biggest failures that I've been working on are:<br />
1) <b>Taking my time when eating. </b> Eating too fast doesn't allow time for the food to get from my banded pouch into my stomach. When this happens, it doesn't provide the most pleasant feeling -- it feels like the world's 2 most strongest men are simultaneously punching me in the back and the sternum.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulQ_fXuM_tJYBXS-vrunX3uVJXz2Xg93Oj4BfhPsI810Xb1TE4LxpTwpKqsid83pmBbhkXZI9g9-w3Gfsj4g_Be184_Pk87VixqECwVwo5upVQMAGyaJIhTinybJPM7Rj8SW5M_01SnQ/s1600/lap_band-LapBand-blog1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgulQ_fXuM_tJYBXS-vrunX3uVJXz2Xg93Oj4BfhPsI810Xb1TE4LxpTwpKqsid83pmBbhkXZI9g9-w3Gfsj4g_Be184_Pk87VixqECwVwo5upVQMAGyaJIhTinybJPM7Rj8SW5M_01SnQ/s320/lap_band-LapBand-blog1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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2) <b>Really CHEWING my food well instead of swallowing it whole like a snake.</b> I'm sure I'm not the only one who is used to eating in a hurry because there's always something to do. But much like the problem and physical pain I experience from eating to fast, not chewing my food well cause it to get stuck and the strong men to come and punch me, again . . . they aren't very nice men.<br />
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I weighed almost two weeks (I don't want to be a slave to the scale), and as the title states, I've now lost a total of 60 pounds since December. YAY!<br />
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Thanks for your patience in my posting delay. Thanks for several of you email and inquiries about my blogging absence. I've been very encouraged by so many people following my progress and giving their support!Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-26866640886470023112011-02-10T23:05:00.000-08:002011-02-10T23:05:15.722-08:00To Fill You In<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Well, I'd been working on another post for a week or so; thought I'd published it, but turns out I somehow deleted it. grrrr!</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had my first fill on Friday, January 7, 2011. The anticipation of the procedure was more painful than the actual procedure, which is always good. You can watch the procedure for yourself:</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The first part of the video talks a little about the difference between banding and other weight loss surgeries. An animation of the fill procedure starts about 0:42, and an actual video of the process starts about 1:20.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a little uncomfortable because they have to wiggle the needle a little to get it into the correct port hole, but I've had paper cuts that have hurt worse. It's also a strange sensation when the saline went in because I could feel it moving through the tubing up to to the band. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The worse part was having to drink barium. YUCK! I had to drink a couple ounces while they injected me, which allows them to get the correct amount of saline in the band. There's no set amount of saline for the fill -- each person is different. They inject more saline than necessary and then plunge it out slowly until the barium starts to trickle through the band. Once the trickle starts, they know they have enough injected. This first time I had 3cc's of saline injected. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After they withdrew the needle and applied a Snoopy band-aid for the little trickle of blood, I went back into the fill area waiting room to drink water. I had to stay there for a little while and drink (water) to make sure it went through without any problems. Sometimes, even one drop of saline, can be too much, causing pain nor the ability to swallow liquids or foods.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">A fill is kind of a stressor on the stomach/system, so you have to work your way back up to food. It's kind of like the post-op diet, but in a about three days instead of three weeks. On the day of a fill, I have nothing but liquids (tomato soup, broths, protein drinks, etc.) The day after a fill it's soft foods (heavier soups, eggs, mushy foods). On the third day, basically back to normal.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">[On a side note, that's an Oklahoma accent my doctor has, there. We actually graduated from the same high school. . . about 25 years a part. He's actually a lap band patient himself and has lost over 100 pounds, as has his head nurse. It's nice knowing they understand and can relate to the process.]</span>Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-8903877924267809922011-01-18T21:42:00.000-08:002011-01-18T21:42:34.517-08:00The Story of Me: Part One<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">[PROLOGUE: As I look forward to my new journey in a new year, I can't help but look back on not only the last year, but all the things that brought me to this point. I think one's past plays an important role in one's future -- not in the dwelling on it and letting it consume kind of way, but learning from it. Growing from it.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">How did I get here? A point in my life, which seemed so out of control that I needed to take the drastic measure of surgery to regain my life? The story is long, so I'll give you the Reader's Digest abridged version. The story has many chapters, housed in about 3 volumes:<i> Volume One -- Body Image Issues. Volume Two - Health Issues. Volume Three -- When Volumes One and Two Collide</i>.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As <strike>to keep you coming back</strike> not to overwhelm you, my gracious reader, I'll share <i>Volume One -- The Body Image Issues</i> in this post.]</span></div><br />
THE WEIGHT OF THE WORLD.<br />
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I'm not sure if there's one woman who, despite her mother constantly telling her how wonderful and beautiful she is, hasn't experienced body image issues at some point in her life. I know I wasn't immune. I'm sure mine started somewhere along first grade when I experienced a growth spurt, forever rocketing me to back row status, so the smaller daintier gals could be seen in class photos and have the best views of the chalkboard. (I'm not bitter.)<br />
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I think I was in the third or fourth grade when I first started dieting. I don't remember exactly where or how it started, but somewhere along the way, with an older sister in high school and the miseries that come with anyone trying to fit in, our house switched its membership from <i>The Clean Your Plate The Rapture Might Come Tonight Club</i> to <i>The Hilton Head Metabolism Diet Society</i>. With three girls, I think a lot of times, mom thought it would be better to have all three of us go through the solution at the same time despite whether or not we had developed the problem yet. (She's always believed in being prepared -- guess that's why she always sent us to church camp with a suitcase full of every possible bandage and medication to treat every possible injury and ailment we might acquire during the week . . . don't think ever used a single thing. lol) But trust me, I'm NOT blaming my mother -- she's an amazing woman, who did the best she could or knew to do. I'm sure she'll make a few modifications with the next three girls she raises.<br />
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The yo-yo dieting continued all the way through high school all the while growing taller and trying to figure out where I belonged. I mean, it was like a episode straight out of <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ai1FHufz_HY&feature=&p=F66AEA5CCB14E07B&index=0&playnext=1"><i style="color: blue;">Freaks and Geeks</i></a> (One of the GREATEST t.v. shows every created -- way ahead of its time! It was The William McKinley High School series handling the awkwardness of high school before Glee was even a twinkle in Ryan Murphy's eye. Yes, in case Jeopardy! ever asks, same high school name . . . but I digress.)<br />
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Fast forward a few years through a couple million,<i>"so how tall are you's</i>" and do <i>"you play basketball's"</i> to starving myself and over exercising in college in order try to look more like my more petite peers. While others were earning their freshman fifteen, I was convincing myself and everyone else around me that eating only made me feel sick. Yeah, I know -- years later -- just how absurd that logic was, but back then I was certain, that with enough sacrifice, eventually, a giraffe could look like a Shetland pony. <br />
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At some point, I don't remember when, I realized my absurdity and started backing away from the ledge. I remember being on a mission trip and finding a workbook on eating disorders. I figured I'd buy it and if anyone ask just say it was for some research for my major studies in psychology -- I've always said it was a self-help degree. (I still have the workbook, but couldn't find it tonight to share the title. If you are interested, let me know, and I'll send you the info when I finally track it down.) <br />
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I guess I found the book at the right time in my life -- when I was emotionally ready. Going through the workbook, having loving understanding people who I could talk to and help me through the emotional muck and mire, and maturing in age helped me to start realizing, (in Stuart Smalley voice) "I'm good enough. I'm smart enough. And doggone it, people like me." That's not to say it I was magically cured and never doubted myself again, but I started moving forward, seeing myself for ME and not comparing myself so much to the 5'3" size 0 standing next to me.<br />
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And then, I got sick. . .Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-43507121786014313462011-01-04T22:46:00.000-08:002011-01-04T22:46:43.640-08:00Tie a rope to your ankles, so you won't get lost. . .we're divin' in!I had planned to go in a completely different direction with this post until I came in from work, turned on the t.v. and started watching the first episode of this season's Biggest Loser. I normally don't watch Biggest Loser, as I'm usually working on Tuesday nights at the library. I've caught it a few times, but since I hadn't started with the show from the beginning, I really don't know the stories behind the contestants and would forget about it until my next once and month early shift rolled around the next month. However, it's touched me the few times I've watched it (and eventually made me cry), and I'd think, "Man, I wish I could see this every week!"<br />
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Being off on medical leave, I saw season finale last year (2010 was, like, SO long ago), and it really encouraged me. I was really glad to catch this season's premier show, and I think keep up with this season on-line. (Probably should check to make sure they replay it on the website first.) Seeing the back stories and struggles of the contestants really made me feel connected because I could SO relate. (Good job, t.v. making people! Your fancy t.v. making skills sucked me in.) I don't think I'd ever have the courage to be on a show like Biggest Loser. I'd love the chance to workout with the likes of Bob and Julian, but I couldn't be THAT transparent in front of millions of viewers. (Especially, ONLY WEARING A SPORTS BRA AND SPANDEX WITH MY WEIGHT FLASHING ON A BILLBOARD FOR THE WHOLE WORLD TO SEE!!!!) <br />
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I mean, I have a hard enough time being completely transparent on here because my constant Miranda Right Thinking, "anything I BLOG, can and will be used against me," way of thinking. But that's not what I want to accomplish by doing this -- blogging about my journey and experience. I mean, there's only so much "what is Rachael eating today," I can share and only so much "what is Rachael eating today," you care to read about, for that matter. It's encouraging to see someone else's journey and draw strength from them learning from and overcoming their own struggles. I guess that's what I hope for this blog -- for it to be my own "Biggest Loser" process (Minus the big paycheck at the end, but I might just have to go ahead and spring for the makeover).<br />
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So! I plan on delving a little deeper into what got me to this point -- where my life got so out of control that it seemed the only viable solution to get it back was to undergo surgery. My back story. Me. What's made me me. What I <strike>have</strike> am <strike>learned</strike> learning from it. It won't all be pretty, but some of it might just be funny. (Just don't expect pictures and the admission of how much I weigh for a while 'cause we don't know each other quite well enough just yet.)<br />
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Oh, and by the way . . .<br />
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Breakfast: Hazelnut coffee protein shake and 3 turkey sausage links (Addicted to Aldi's Healthy and Fit brand, fully cooked, microwaveable, and they're only $0.89 for 10 links!)<br />
Lunch: Chicken salad and a chocolate chip cookie<br />
Dinner: Scrambled eggs with cheese and salsa<br />
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You know you wanted to know!Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-69269033523557367622010-12-30T22:36:00.000-08:002010-12-30T23:40:08.877-08:00Christmas Hiatus and Holiday Eating<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I know it's been a few days, but I took a little off to spend and enjoy Christmas with the family. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Eldest (my sister Robin) came in from Oklahoma the Tuesday before Christmas, and we enjoyed several days together, mainly getting her addicted to "The Big Bang Theory," before the rest of The Family came in from Waxahachie. She hadn't seen me since Thanksgiving when I was just starting my pre-op diet, and she could really notice the fact that I was already losing weight -- especially when I almost lost me pants a couple of times when we were out and about. (haha)</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Eldest helped fulfill my craving for sushi, where I introduced her to, yet another addiction of, as she says, "The best hot and sour soup she's ever tasted." I had a cup of hot and sour soup and a sushi roll, which had The Eldest not helped me with, I wouldn't have been able to finish. I'm finding it amazing as to how quickly I get full. We had a lovely time of running last-minute Christmas errands and viewing Christmas lights.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The Mother, The Father, and The Chihuahua Sister came Christmas Eve Morning after mom got out of the doctor. [Her lupus is out of remission, so the doctor started on her lupus medications again. We are slightly disheartened that it's back, but we are rejoicing that her breast cancer scare came back good for the most part -- we'll just have to keep a cautious eye on the future.] The Eldest and I made a delicious baked potato soup (with low fat sour cream and cream of cheddar soup for the cheese) for our Christmas Eve dinner before taking The Mother, The Father, The Chihuahua Sister out to see the Christmas lights.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">My family is great and very supportive of me on this journey -- sometimes a little too supportive. lol They've been overly concerned, discussing amongst themselves, as though I'm not even in the room, about what they "think" I can and cannot eat. Mom even whispers about foods she thinks might "tempt" me. (lol) I finally had to sit them all down and put an end to it. I think I finally got my point across and they finally understand the point of them encouraging and supporting me and not having to be responsible to police and hide food from me. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I did, however, agree to change our menu from the previously decided brisket and fixin's, since I'm not able to eat beef at the moment, to turkey and all the fixin's. Besides, The Eldest had a turkey given to her that was burning a whole in her freezer. For Christmas we had: turkey, dressing (very moist for my sake), my favorite green beans that I've mentioned in a previous blog, mashed sweet potatoes (with just a little milk and butter, vanilla and spices), broccoli slaw that The Eldest makes, Copper Penny Salad (wonderful marinated carrots with onion and bell pepper -- one of my family's favorites), and deviled eggs. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I ate my dinner on a 7" salad plate with a few tablespoons of everything I wanted. Again, I was amazed at how soon I was full. Funny thing was while the rest of the family was suffering from carb-overload and tryptophan, I wasn't fazed by it at all. Had I been more on top of things, I could have pulled off some lovely practical jokes on them while they were dozing. I have plenty of time to prepare for next year!</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I did have dessert and savored every bite. I took up the mantle and made my mom's famous strawberry cake with strawberry butter cream icing. The Elder (my sister Rebecca), The Eye-talian (The Elder's Italian husband), and The Chihuahua Niece showed up Christmas Morning bearing pecan pie and my absolute favorite . . . BUTTERMILK PIE! </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I waiting a few hours and had my dessert as a snack. A small slice of each of the three filled me up quickly. I made the family promise to save me another slice of buttermilk pie. They happily complied -- after I threatened to make them sleep outside in The Eldest's vehicle if they didn't. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">As always, we had a great time together, and I look forward to the next time we can all get together. </span></div>Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-48171776182840278952010-12-18T22:27:00.000-08:002010-12-18T22:27:04.475-08:00Movin' On Up & Losin' Myself<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I graduated! </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There were no caps and gowns or commencement speeches, but there were soft scrambled eggs, a baked potato, and tuna fish salad with green beans (Prepared my favorite way: sauteed in olive oil with garlic and balsamic vinegar. So delicious!). Yesterday was my post-op visit, where I was given the go ahead to increase my food choices to included: canned vegetables, canned chicken, canned tuna, soft mushy fruits, and overly cooked paste and sauce. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">After a week on this diet, I'll graduate again -- just in time for Christmas when I'll be able to eat almost anything. However, I still won't be able to eat bread (except for cornbread), rice, pineapple, apples, lettuce, beef, or pork until after my first fill because they don't want my stomach working that hard just yet. My first fill should be the last Friday of this year, or was it the first Friday of the New Year? Guess I really should look into that.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The scale found me five pounds lighter. Yea! That's 32 pounds from when I started the process. Yea! Looks like my New Year's Resolution to lose weight will actually be successful this year. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Today, I ate scrambled eggs, again 'cause I'z likes 'em. And (drum roll) egg noodles with marinara sauce. Egg noodles? (I need to go to the store!) Spaghetti and angel hair pasta aren't the best choices because they don't really get chewed that well -- we usually just slurp them down. From now on whenever I have pasta, I need to have something I can bite, chew, and enjoy. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Oh, here's where I can use your input. I've started researching different workout possibilities for when I'm given the go ahead to begin participating in more strenuous activities than just walking. I'm interested in your thoughts, so let me know if you have any suggestions. Just remember I haven't worked out in years, so I'm not ready for New York Marathon level of workout . . . but someday!</span></div>Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-70955312446206889002010-12-14T21:28:00.000-08:002010-12-14T21:28:42.067-08:00Monumental Moments<div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">Five days into my post-operative diet, and I'm proud to say I: </span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">1) am experiencing less and less pain. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">2) am gaining more and more strength. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">3) have been able to shower once again. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">4) have not obsessed over the scale. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">5) did not wrestle the hot dog from my father's hands, shove it in my mouth, swallowing it whole like a snake would eat a rat. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">6) did not, after smelling my parent's Cool Ranch Doritos, hide in the closet and, at the very least, lick off the seasoning. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">Now, that's not to say I didn't think LONG AND HARD about the last two. I guess I'm getting a little "soup-ed" out -- there's only so much tomato and cream of (fill in the blank) a person can take. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">I felt well enough today to go out on a little excursion with Mom. I even drove! The field trip? To PetSmart to buy cat food. I did pretty well, but really felt it when we got back home. I forgot that I hadn't had lunch, so I was hungry, thirsty, and hurting -- not a good combo all together. It wasn't anything a little soup, pain medication, and nap couldn't cure. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">While at home, I really need to be more aware to drink more throughout the day. Whenever I'm at work, I always have water at my desk because talking to patrons keeps my mouth and throat dry, so at home I really need to keep on top of it, so I don't get dehydrated.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;">Mom and Dad are leaving tomorrow afternoon, so I'll be on my own. (Yes, they'll take the rest of the hot dogs and Doritos with them.) </span></div><div style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace; font-size: small;">Friday morning is my post-op check up. I'm looking forward to seeing how much weight I'm lost since surgery. I decided not to weigh until Friday's visit, and that's been hard! I'm also looking forward to the go ahead for REAL food. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Courier New",Courier,monospace; font-size: small;">I'm craving sushi!</span>Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-23582395034716829172010-12-12T16:32:00.000-08:002010-12-12T16:32:49.388-08:00Increased Food = Increased Strength + Reduced PainHaving slept extremely well last night, I woke up this morning and went straight to the pantry to grab the box of Cream of Wheat. IT'S DAY THREE, which means I can start eating soft runny foods instead of just drinking clear liquids. I've always been a fan of Cream of Wheat (and Malt-o-Meal) since I was a kid, but I will say, this morning's Cream of Wheat was the absolute BEST I've ever had. I'm sure it could have been muddy rainwater, and I would have thought it delicious since it was something other than broth, jello, juice and popsicles. <br />
<br />
I spent the rest of the morning puttering around the house doing little things here and there -- sat in a chair and unloaded and loaded the dishwasher. With my Cream O' Wheat in me, I felt stronger and for a moment contemplated running around the block. (Not really.) I spent the rest of my morning debating which soup should be my introductory. <br />
<br />
Progresso Creamy Tomato Basil won, and just like the Cream of Wheat, it was the BEST tomato soup I have ever had! For this evening I'm thinking a lovely Campbell's Cream of Mushroom or Cheddar Broccoli paired with a dry 2010 Cranberry Apple Juice. <br />
<br />
My pain level is much less today -- just sore and really bruised at my incisions. I was able to sleep almost normally last night and only woke once in pain. It's nice to finally be feeling stronger. Tired, but stronger. <br />
<br />
I realized I never took my measurements before surgery in order to keep track of my inches lost, so that's on the agenda for this evening. Mom said she'd help -- hopefully, the camera will be far far away. She's again mentioned all the shots she wish she'd taken. Who knows. She might be the next Annie Leibovitz or Olan Mills.<br />
<br />
Healing and making progress. It's been a good day!Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-58405812162637264592010-12-10T21:15:00.001-08:002010-12-10T22:06:36.734-08:00Beef Broth Kisses and Popsicle DreamsWell, I'm alive! A little worse for ware, but making it. <br />
<br />
Surgery went well, yesterday. I think the worst part was coming out of the anesthesia BLIND, FREEZING and in PAIN -- thankfully two of those were remedied quickly enough by several warm blankets and a shot of THE GOOD STUFF; it would however, take my glasses 30 minutes to travel to me from the family waiting room.<br />
<br />
They had me up walking soon thereafter, although I wouldn't pass any "yellow line test." They walked me to a little x-ray room where they had me drink a cup of barium, so they could make sure everything was flowing well. They then ushered mi familia in for a wonderful family reunion, where I finally got my glasses and could see just how cute (and married) my post-op nurses was. <br />
<br />
Funny thing about the whole day was there was this lady I usually call "Mom" who turned paparazza on me. That's the last time I teach her how to use her camera phone and tell her I've started a blog on my weight loss journey. She said to me this morning, "I should have taken a picture of you and Dr. Smith before you went back for surgery," tonight, "We need to take a picture of your incisions." Now, I live with the dreaded fear of photos of me half sedated in a hospital gown wearing no makeup being leaked to the public. There goes my future political career. I am starting a photo journal of the process as well, but you won't be seeing those pics for some time. I snapped some photos the night before surgery (Fully clothed! No Biggest Loser style photographer, here!) and plan on taking an updated photo each month. Eventually (when I'm comfortable enough), I'll add them to my Flickr account and allow you to take a gander. Don't count on seeing mom's handiwork there. <br />
<br />
I'm on a 48 clear liquid diet, so it's been: beef broth, chicken broth, sugar free jello, no sugar added juices, sugar free popsicles, coffee, and tea. On the third day <strike>of Christmas</strike> I'll graduate to sauces, smooth or blenderized soups, cream of wheat, blenderized cottage cheese, protein drinks, and puddings until my post-op visit a week from today on Friday, December 17.<br />
<br />
<br />
I've been working to stay ahead of the pain by setting the alarm on my phone to go off every four hours, so I don't miss a dose of pain meds (liquid yuck). Last night, I got off by just 2 hours, and well, let's just say OUCH! <br />
<br />
My job this week is to just walk. Get up and move around. Keep the longs a breathing. Keep pneumonia at bay. Not lifting. No pulling. No changing a flat tire. And to look helplessly as someone else has to pour the HUGE jug of apple juice my sister bought at the store. In her defense, it was on sale! (she knows me so well!)<br />
<br />
My family has been great. I feel bad asking them to do things, and they keep telling me to stop apologizing. I appreciate everything they are doing for me. I have learned, however, that one should have a more stoic family when it comes to abdominal surgery because laughter really isn't the best medicine. Laughter hurts.<br />
<br />
(Yesterday morning's pre-surgery weigh in found I had lost an additional TEN pounds since Monday's pre-op visit. That's a grand total of 37 pounds since the end of August.)Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-69193869144469265222010-12-08T23:42:00.000-08:002010-12-08T23:42:22.763-08:00Night NestingTonight I've been nesting. Since I won't be able to push, pull, lift, or tow for several weeks, I've been going around around the house getting things done: Laundry done and folded (thanks to my sister). Dishes washed. Kitchen cleaned. Sheets washed and back on the bed. Chester's litter box cleaned. Trash and recycle bins ready to be hauled by one of my lovely family members to the curb tomorrow evening.<br />
<br />
Mom and Dad came in tonight with my sister Rebecca. Rebecca doesn't have to work the next couple of days, so she wanted to come for support. <br />
<br />
My last meal tonight was a soupy chili and low fat cottage cheese for a snack. I drank my last drink of water - until after surgery - about 11:30pm, totally missing my last 30-minute window to drink anything before midnight. Since my surgery isn't until 2 o'clock tomorrow afternoon, my brain is trying to convince myself that I'm somehow going to die of thirst. <br />
<br />
I keep feeling like I'm forgetting something, yet even if I do, it'll be all right. <br />
<br />
I'll post again as soon as I'm coherent enough from you anesthesia stupor. However, don't be surprised if I post some mumbled jumbled nonsense. Just reason that I'm still alive and well, but still riding the anesthesia/pain med cocktail. Thanks for your thoughts and prayers.<br />
<br />
Excitement Level: 70% Nervous Level: 150%Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-21559888943525458192010-12-07T22:57:00.000-08:002010-12-07T23:09:57.021-08:00I Dreamed A Dream. . . Of Chicken Fried Steak<span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> Les Miserables and Susan Boyle may have "dreamed a dream in time gone by," but lately I've been dreaming of food. Seriously! Chicken Fried Steak with mashed potatoes and gravy. Spaghetti and meat balls with garlic toast. Actual dreams. </span><br />
<br />
<span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">For the last thirteen days, I've been on a modified preoperative diet to shrink my liver. They want it to shrink because it sit on the stomach where my band will be attached, and shrinking it means they won't have to move it a lot during surgery and run the risk of damage. My diet consists of three meals a day. Two of protein shakes, and the third of any soup I want -- as long as it's not cream based. I can have snacks of low fat cottage cheese, sugar free pudding and jello, and V8 juice, and another protein shake. Due to my height, I need at least 105 grams of protein a day. </span><br />
<br />
<span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I have become a skilled Shake Artisan (Smoothie King's got nothing on me). In the morning, I always go for a coffee-based pairing; in the afternoons, something a little more fruity. The key was finding the protein I liked and loading up on recipes. It's been fun trying different combinations.</span><br />
<br />
<u><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">The Tools of My Trade:</span></u><br />
<br />
<span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">My JCPenney Cooks 5-in-1 Power Blender with Attachments. Works great! Easy to clean! Easy blend-to-go access! (And, of course, you know I got it on sale WITH a coupon!)</span><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4rIvk8fOmQZquejU4Vp8ZJonvSCuiEZIYutvSAG-tq9KCDkD6wmviChE25BjDZN6WczyueQiNVW1XWt3GCOGgOymyGKyOuWxI636lmyYFvxq7tUGQ3zHke1qNdxjRJ6taro3l2P0iVs/s1600/cooks+blender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4rIvk8fOmQZquejU4Vp8ZJonvSCuiEZIYutvSAG-tq9KCDkD6wmviChE25BjDZN6WczyueQiNVW1XWt3GCOGgOymyGKyOuWxI636lmyYFvxq7tUGQ3zHke1qNdxjRJ6taro3l2P0iVs/s200/cooks+blender.jpg" width="199" /></a></td></tr>
<tr align="left"> </tr>
</tbody></table><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Jay Robb's Whey Protein Powder. Thus far, my go to protein powder of choice. Tastes great! Blends smoothly! 25 grams of protein per scoop! (Like Raisin Bran, 2 Scoops in the morning and usually at dinner.) Zero grams of sugar! One gram of carbohydrates! 110 calories!</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWoQXzlwzjhoy-Y0p7xWCGnKLqbANKesui2ZTGADKrsnaYksL3yv3yfbwA3NqJg44w-kabuK5-qLfD4lyiJ_10jRAl3HV-ME4imCASKD0HBVxB_9CqRsNGXAU8ZAoDkZpC-Lg74BCAARY/s1600/jayrobbwheyproteingroup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWoQXzlwzjhoy-Y0p7xWCGnKLqbANKesui2ZTGADKrsnaYksL3yv3yfbwA3NqJg44w-kabuK5-qLfD4lyiJ_10jRAl3HV-ME4imCASKD0HBVxB_9CqRsNGXAU8ZAoDkZpC-Lg74BCAARY/s320/jayrobbwheyproteingroup.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I use skim milk or low sugar juice. Frozen berries and fruit. Aldi is my go to store for these because I can get a gallon of skim milk for 99 cents and wonderful frozen fruit at amazing prices. A tablespoon of peanut butter provides a little extra protein and goes great with the chocolate. Coffee is great with chocolate or vanilla protein powder, and some mornings I add a little sugar free hazelnut creamer to add a different flavor. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">My other protein drink of choice is Nature's Choice Zero Carb ISOPURE Protein Liquid. I keep one in the truck in case I get hungry and need need a protein fix. Each bottle has 40 grams of protein. Zero sugar and carbs. 160 calories. Tastes GREAT! My favorite flavors are Alpine Punch and Apple Melon, which tastes kind of like an apple Jolly Rancher, but not as sweet. Great to sip on throughout a day of shopping and errand running.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivYdZ4JiaGzKM7-LAXPQQIfutMhnwOgULcBMtx7PofD0CPJ4KXspc6CpgiRKgJBadAMDj4v9rKQAF7vS7d6GxaC9VK2B_td0kspiOx7Wb8fZpBigqPG-xrliUfTcfKrgnt14ghGI7-_Os/s1600/ISOPUREGL-2T.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivYdZ4JiaGzKM7-LAXPQQIfutMhnwOgULcBMtx7PofD0CPJ4KXspc6CpgiRKgJBadAMDj4v9rKQAF7vS7d6GxaC9VK2B_td0kspiOx7Wb8fZpBigqPG-xrliUfTcfKrgnt14ghGI7-_Os/s1600/ISOPUREGL-2T.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> After surgery, I'll gradually work my way back up to foods -- even chicken fried steak -- but from now on, I'll always have to incorporate protein shakes and drinks into my daily life. Honestly, I should have been doing this all along; it's amazing how much energy the right amount of protein gives me throughout the day and has made me feel fuller and lose weight. By adding the right amounts of healthy protein in my diet during my four months of nutrition training, I lost over 15 pounds. Since Saturday, the last time I weighed while on my two week pre-op modified diet, I've lost an additional 12 pounds -- not sure what I've lost since Saturday.</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Now those pounds might look like 10 bucks to a billionaire, but I'm well on my way! Off to bed, to wake up to my last band free day. </span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Excitement Level: 60% Nervous Level: 40%</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> </div><div style="text-align: left;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span></div><span id="internal-source-marker_0.857492880433631" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11pt; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span>Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-86683225560421666862010-12-06T22:02:00.000-08:002010-12-06T22:02:14.562-08:00T-Minus Two Days. . .<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This morning, I trekked through a good dose of traffic from south Fort Worth all the way to Trophy Club, Texas, for a few tests: blood work, EKG, blah, blah, blah, etc., infinity, plus more. All these tests are important because come Thursday at 12:30pm, I'll be checking into Baylor Medical Center at Trophy Club to undergo a little procedure that should give me the necessary tool to continue regaining my health and my life. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm having gastric lap band surgery. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I officially started the process back in the summer. Thankfully, my employer has a wonderful Wellness Division and the director has streamlined the process. They see the value of getting employees healthy, so all the battling with the insurance company has diminished; I received my approval in less than a week when most others took about four to six weeks.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">The first step was PAPERWORK! Loads and loads of paperwork! I had to read and watch a lot of information on several procedures, but if you know me, you know that I like my research! I had to attend two surgical seminars and their two support groups. Then I decided on the surgery I felt was right for me, as well as the surgeon. I had four nutrition appointment, each one month a part, where I began practicing a post-surgery life style. Had a psychological evaluation. (YES! I passed!) My insurance did my final approval. The date was set.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">So, here I am. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm currently in the last few days of my pre-op diet to shrink my liver, so it won't need to be moved around too much. I'm excited and nervous, but mostly stressed about getting everything in order at work (and home) since I'll be out for three weeks. </span></div>Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2937120207347023099.post-58182581200683110492010-12-05T20:12:00.000-08:002010-12-05T20:56:19.046-08:00Preface<div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I know you've heard the rumors, so I'm here to set the record straight </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> . . . (drum roll, please) . . . </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I'M BLOGGING, AGAIN!</span><b><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span></b></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">For those of you not fortunate enough to follow my musing from over two years ago, you can take a stroll down (my) memory lane <a href="http://arroganttexan.blogdrive.com/">here</a>. </span><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Why start blogging again?</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I'm about to embark on a journey. A journey I wanted to share: for support. for accountability. for encouragement. to chronicle. to (possibly) help someone else along the way.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><br />
</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">WHAT'S IN A NAME?</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">This blog has been the works for over a year -- in my mind at least. I've started it a thousand times, but could never get past the point of registration that asked for the blog name and URL address. I wanted something meaningful -- even if it was just to me. </span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
<span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> URL Address Meaning:</span><br />
<span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">"<b>Amending</b> Self" -- Improve. To change for the better; to alter; to enrich.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">"<b>A</b> <b>Mending </b>Self" -- Heal. To restore; make repairs.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Blog Name Meaning: </span><br />
<span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">It's a funny thing how the mind works. I ran across the following quote in a magazine about six years ago while waiting in a CareNow to get a flu shot, <b><i>"Just when the caterpillar thought the world was over, it became a butterfly."</i></b> I was going through some difficult medical stuff at a time, which at that point seemed hopeless to me. Reading that quote reminded me of the awe of metamorphosis. The hope in the struggle. It didn't magically make every thing better, but it gave me just a hint of Hope and stuck with me ever since. </span><br />
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<span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I was reminded of it again, recently, while reading Eric Carle's <i>The Very Hungry Caterpillar</i> to my weekly children's program at the library. Silly? Maybe, but that's just how my mind works. I thought about where I've been and where I am in my life's process.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
<span id="internal-source-marker_0.5704973748236449" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: small; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">And so, I began the process of building my chrysalis. This shall be the story of <b><i>my </i></b>metamorphosis.</span></div><div style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
</div>Rachael S.http://www.blogger.com/profile/12141574797087389493noreply@blogger.com1