Wow… 3 days since my last blog… The time has flown as we get ready for the Great Race on 7…
Since arriving in Bathurst on Tuesday its been frantic… setting up and getting ready for the biggest weekend in motorsport this year… only now that the cars are actually on the track do I get 5 minutes to sit down and blog… and its only because were in the lunch break, although as I blog I can hear the roar of the Fujitsu series warming up their engines for their first race
The weather for the first time in a few years has been rather bitter with minus 2 degrees this morning at 6am when we were on the track doing Sunrise… The days have been mild with a cold wind meaning long sleeves, fleece and jeans are a must; and this morning I even had the thermals on…
Everything is going great too… I have really noticed how much extra energy I have too… We’re based in the Paddock area in the middle of the track, so to go in or out, or over to the main public area, we have to go across the bridge, so there been lots of stair climbing too… Now I’m not saying I haven’t been getting tired (I have), but I’m doing a lot more before I start to run out of steam…
It was also interesting the other day I had to bring some gear in which I recon probably weighed about 20kg… It felt like a tonne, but I though afterwards, that’s what I used to carry around every day so no wonder I’ve go much more energy…
Eating had been relatively easy too; although I am now starting to feel what the full effect of the band is and I just cant eat what I used to and I’m throwing food out which is a good thing.… we went shopping on Tuesday to get some stuff, so I got some bit I can easily eat on transition diet… plus food at the OB compound has been easy too… every meal there’s been some easy stuff… Nachos/Tacos (without the corn chips), san choy bow, pasta & sauce… plus salad and other stuff so it’s been good… Plus I’m getting really good with my water too We’ve had a couple of BBQ’s for dinner and Pizza one night and I only had 3 pieces and a bit of pasta and I was full…
I hoping with all the walking and stair climbing this week, by the time it comes for my weigh in next week, there’s a bit of good news there…
Until next time - GO Holden
Friday, October 9, 2009
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
The Boys from Bathurst
As the Lee Kernighan song goes
We been running strong
From the east to the west
We been banging fenders
To give you all the best
We been setting records in every state
Well their aint no car
Like a big V8
To the boys from the bush
Were back in town
Well the cars in the back and the shutters down
Were all heading for the Bathurst field
To see Brokky and the boys serving up a thrill
Obviously were not going to see Brokky, but there’ll be plenty of thrills and spills at the Mountain this week once the cars hit the track on Thursday…
Today’s a travel and setup day, before our first News segment tomorrow and then every day through until the end of the race…
My weekly weigh in was bought forward by a day, and unfortunately its disappointing, but not surprising… 114.9kg – an increase of ½ a kilogram… Not good, but the last week or so I haven’t been as active as I should have been and haven’t been for a walk now for a couple of weeks because of the weather. I’ll get back to it in Bathurst…
Anyway just about to have some brekky and then head off, so I’ll blog from Bathurst soon
Monday, October 5, 2009
My first hiccup…
Literally… As I’m heading off to Bathurst tomorrow, I’ve been trying a couple of things on the transition diet the last couple of days and taking it slowly just to see how I go… It’s nice to actually eat something of substance and not feel hungry a couple of hours after…
I tried some toasted raisin bread yesterday and again today and it ended up the same… with the hiccups. No matter how much I chewed it, it ended with the same result – hiccups. I ended up throwing out what I hadn’t finished today. So that’s one off the list. For lunch (and it was a late one after I finished a few hours work) I tried a 6” Chicken and Bacon Ranch Subway… well to my surprise that went down OK… No hiccups, nothing – the good thing with that was there was something to chew… I chewed, Chewed and then chewed some more and it went down nicely… and it kept me full for a few hours – I can start to feel the band working and I haven’t even had a fill.
Tonight I made a pasta bake, which again went down with no issues… 1 cup of the bake (normally I have two) and a few grape tomatoes, onions and fresh basil out of my garden… It took half an hour with a couple of stops in between, but again no issues…
Almost back to normal at work too… Packing the vehicles today was a breeze – except for trying to fit it all in… light lifting with no pain or twinges which obviously means everything is almost back to normal… The internal bruising which I was feeling for a while too seems to have gone, and I’m almost back to sleeping on my stomach for parts of the night which is great…
Anyway better get back and finish packing… just waiting for some clothes to dry… It’s going to be a cold one this year according to the forecast, so I’ve packed some extra woollies to make up for that excess fat I’ve gotten rid of in the last couple of months
Until next time
I tried some toasted raisin bread yesterday and again today and it ended up the same… with the hiccups. No matter how much I chewed it, it ended with the same result – hiccups. I ended up throwing out what I hadn’t finished today. So that’s one off the list. For lunch (and it was a late one after I finished a few hours work) I tried a 6” Chicken and Bacon Ranch Subway… well to my surprise that went down OK… No hiccups, nothing – the good thing with that was there was something to chew… I chewed, Chewed and then chewed some more and it went down nicely… and it kept me full for a few hours – I can start to feel the band working and I haven’t even had a fill.
Tonight I made a pasta bake, which again went down with no issues… 1 cup of the bake (normally I have two) and a few grape tomatoes, onions and fresh basil out of my garden… It took half an hour with a couple of stops in between, but again no issues…
Almost back to normal at work too… Packing the vehicles today was a breeze – except for trying to fit it all in… light lifting with no pain or twinges which obviously means everything is almost back to normal… The internal bruising which I was feeling for a while too seems to have gone, and I’m almost back to sleeping on my stomach for parts of the night which is great…
Anyway better get back and finish packing… just waiting for some clothes to dry… It’s going to be a cold one this year according to the forecast, so I’ve packed some extra woollies to make up for that excess fat I’ve gotten rid of in the last couple of months
Until next time
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Health Matters
Yes your health really does matter… as you get older, you really need to take a step back and look at where you’re at, and what you can do to improve not only your day to day; but long term health… That’s what I did; and after 7 weeks I’m feeling like a new person – and people are even telling me that I just look some much better, healthier and happier than when I was 20kgs heavier… and generally not looking after myself.
On his radio show this morning; Doc John asked why I went public with what most people who have got a lap band consider a private thing.
I look at it this way – while the decision is private (although I did speak with Doc and a colleague who has also had one); the actions and results are a very public thing.
People notice – they notice you eating differently and notice you loosing weight – and add to that they offer support and encouragement every step of the way. While there are support networks online that can offer information and advice from people in the same situation as yourself and maybe even via the clinic you go to for your treatment – there is nothing like the support network from family, friends and colleagues.
In the long run; for me it’s much easier to be open about it; that way I don’t have to avoid things and become a hermit just because I didn’t want people to know. I heading away with work next week on assignment knowing that I can confidently do as I need to; be that go out or stay in for dinner – without having hide it from my colleagues that I’m sharing with
My Health Matters to me – the last few years I’ve been kidding myself and not really trying – despite partly following a Low GI diet. I’d had a heart scare a few years back, diagnosed with Insulin Resistance, along with high cholesterol and my blood pressure on the higher side of normal… The signs were starting to show
If this sounds a bit like you – do something about it like I did - It will change your life; and you’ll feel so much better in yourself for doing it…
On his radio show this morning; Doc John asked why I went public with what most people who have got a lap band consider a private thing.
I look at it this way – while the decision is private (although I did speak with Doc and a colleague who has also had one); the actions and results are a very public thing.
People notice – they notice you eating differently and notice you loosing weight – and add to that they offer support and encouragement every step of the way. While there are support networks online that can offer information and advice from people in the same situation as yourself and maybe even via the clinic you go to for your treatment – there is nothing like the support network from family, friends and colleagues.
In the long run; for me it’s much easier to be open about it; that way I don’t have to avoid things and become a hermit just because I didn’t want people to know. I heading away with work next week on assignment knowing that I can confidently do as I need to; be that go out or stay in for dinner – without having hide it from my colleagues that I’m sharing with
My Health Matters to me – the last few years I’ve been kidding myself and not really trying – despite partly following a Low GI diet. I’d had a heart scare a few years back, diagnosed with Insulin Resistance, along with high cholesterol and my blood pressure on the higher side of normal… The signs were starting to show
If this sounds a bit like you – do something about it like I did - It will change your life; and you’ll feel so much better in yourself for doing it…
Saturday, October 3, 2009
MIA
It’s been a bit like that the last few days… Missing in Action… Since the Tsunami hit on Wednesday it’s been long days at work covering that, as well as getting ready for Bathurst… Even had to work today to finish packing, just so were ready to go to Bathurst on Tuesday… Tomorrow off, then a few hours work Monday, before heading to the Mountain on Tuesday.
I haven’t had time to check emails, Facebook, or even blog…
It’s been rather interesting the last few days, with the crazy hours I’ve been working, and not being able to have my regular small meals… Wednesday night was OK, as I was able to have a risotto, Thursday night I was stuck in a side street in Windsor waiting for a tow truck until 8.30pm (gotta love the aging Holden suburbans) so I didn’t have anything to eat until 10pm when I got home – and I had lunch at 1… I was staving… And yesterday was another interesting one, which was my own stupid fault. I couldn’t find my house keys for looking, and chased around Epping and Martin Place only to find them in the back of the Suburban in my jacket (which I thought I’d left in my car at Epping) after trying everywhere else… I was so glad it was the end of the week and once I found my keys decided to join the other in the boardroom for Friday night drinks… Just had a beer an tried some nibbles – not too many but what I had went down OK
Friday morning was probably the lowest point I have reached in the last 7 weeks… I was feeling a little off, tired and generally run down… Probably the longer hours and lack of sleep, and other things happening at work actually hit me – lack of food = energy didn’t help either; but I soldiered on, and after a good night’s sleep last night felt much better today…
Tomorrow I’m going to gradually start on the transition diet, to give me a couple of days before I go away to get into a pattern… I’m looking forward to it, as good as the mushies is with a little more variety than the thin fluids, I’m still getting a little board always eating one of the 4 puréed meals I did; so I’m thinking tomorrow I might try some fish; and then on Monday some Pasta bake or something like that
Don’t forget Health Matter’s on Sunday morning at 7am http://www.drjohndarcy.com/listen_to_drjohn.html
Until next time
I haven’t had time to check emails, Facebook, or even blog…
It’s been rather interesting the last few days, with the crazy hours I’ve been working, and not being able to have my regular small meals… Wednesday night was OK, as I was able to have a risotto, Thursday night I was stuck in a side street in Windsor waiting for a tow truck until 8.30pm (gotta love the aging Holden suburbans) so I didn’t have anything to eat until 10pm when I got home – and I had lunch at 1… I was staving… And yesterday was another interesting one, which was my own stupid fault. I couldn’t find my house keys for looking, and chased around Epping and Martin Place only to find them in the back of the Suburban in my jacket (which I thought I’d left in my car at Epping) after trying everywhere else… I was so glad it was the end of the week and once I found my keys decided to join the other in the boardroom for Friday night drinks… Just had a beer an tried some nibbles – not too many but what I had went down OK
Friday morning was probably the lowest point I have reached in the last 7 weeks… I was feeling a little off, tired and generally run down… Probably the longer hours and lack of sleep, and other things happening at work actually hit me – lack of food = energy didn’t help either; but I soldiered on, and after a good night’s sleep last night felt much better today…
Tomorrow I’m going to gradually start on the transition diet, to give me a couple of days before I go away to get into a pattern… I’m looking forward to it, as good as the mushies is with a little more variety than the thin fluids, I’m still getting a little board always eating one of the 4 puréed meals I did; so I’m thinking tomorrow I might try some fish; and then on Monday some Pasta bake or something like that
Don’t forget Health Matter’s on Sunday morning at 7am http://www.drjohndarcy.com/listen_to_drjohn.html
Until next time
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
My first takeaway in 7 weeks
I know it’s a little early, but I’ve had to stay back at work tonight because of the tsunami in Samoa, and I only came to work with my normal rations for the day, so tonight I went an bought myself a small risotto, and so far so good… its well cooked and really soft, and I got a combination of Pumpkin and Chicken, so its not too bad… I’m using the technique I was taught yesterday, and while it’s not easy, especially with a soft food, I’m starting to master the art of ‘Chew to a paste’ and “wait 60-90 seconds between swallows” so it will definitely last the 20 minutes…
I did my radio interview today for Health Matters on Sunday, which came out well – about the only thing that did go right today… Hopefully tonight between updates and the late bulletin, I should be able to get some Bathurst and Melbourne Cup prep done…
I must be off and continue my “chew to a paste” - back to mushies tomorrow
Until next time…
I did my radio interview today for Health Matters on Sunday, which came out well – about the only thing that did go right today… Hopefully tonight between updates and the late bulletin, I should be able to get some Bathurst and Melbourne Cup prep done…
I must be off and continue my “chew to a paste” - back to mushies tomorrow
Until next time…
and this morning 20 kilos lost
Yep... that’s right, I've hit the 20kg mark on my weigh in... This morning was my normal weekly weigh in and I've hit the milestone in 7 weeks... Just quietly I'm pretty pleased with myself...
I know from next week when I start back on my transition diet to the "new" normal and having 1500 calories a day, my weight loss will start to slow (remember 2-5 kg a month is progress), but that’s good... to date my weight loss has averaged just under 3kg a week which just cant be sustained for healthy weight loss... that said, I'm now over 1/3 of the way to my goal
The other good thing about gong back to normal, is getting No2 movements back to normal... for the last 8 weeks they have been all over the place and still at only 1 every 3-4 days or so, despite daily Benefibre... Have gone back to Metamucil today as that did seem to work, but the problem with that is it fills your stomach up with nothing... but I'm hoping I can get my 1 weetbix down...
Must go and get ready for work, so until next time...
I know from next week when I start back on my transition diet to the "new" normal and having 1500 calories a day, my weight loss will start to slow (remember 2-5 kg a month is progress), but that’s good... to date my weight loss has averaged just under 3kg a week which just cant be sustained for healthy weight loss... that said, I'm now over 1/3 of the way to my goal
The other good thing about gong back to normal, is getting No2 movements back to normal... for the last 8 weeks they have been all over the place and still at only 1 every 3-4 days or so, despite daily Benefibre... Have gone back to Metamucil today as that did seem to work, but the problem with that is it fills your stomach up with nothing... but I'm hoping I can get my 1 weetbix down...
Must go and get ready for work, so until next time...
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
One step forward – and 20 steps back
No need to worry… Its nothing to do with my progress… that’s still going great guns – today was just one of those days. Everything that could go wrong, and get in the way of getting done what I needed to get done did. People being caught up and delayed, flat tyres, people calling in sick… we had it all – needless to say I got nothing done I needed to get done with the exception of heading off to the dietician to find out all I needed to know about the “transition” diet…
And it’s definitely something I’m looking forward to next week after 8 weeks of Optifast, greens, thin fluids and the mushies… But I’m not going to take it too fast… I can’t.
It was a good session too – a group of just one – ME… so I was able to pick the brains of the dietician which was great. Its interesting that now I will be able to east some of those foods that a couple of years ago I couldn’t on the Low GI diet… That said – I still follow a lot of what I learnt in low GI to this day… and I recon that even though eventually I didn’t loose any weight on it, it definitely helped me from putting on more than what I did…
The transition diet is just that – all about the transition of eating with the band… Small Bite (about the size of a 10 cent piece), chew food to a paste and check with your tongue, Check for fibres and lumps by pressing on the roof of the mouth, swallow AND THEN WAIT 60-90 seconds between swallows. The other thing is to stop when feeling SATISFIED not FULL (which is about 20 minutes) – this is going to be interesting…
Obviously the first week will be without a fill (well actually there already is some in there) but then after that the aim is to get into the Green Zone (just right)… I’ll tell you more about that after my first fill.
Today handouts included a full list of the different levels in the transition diet (easiest, easier, challenging and most challenging) and the different foods in each of these groups…. The plan is to start on the easiest and progress through after every band fill… and it’s interesting where some foods sit… would you have though a banana would have been challenging, or crisp bread and toast would have been the easiest… It was a real eye opener about my new way of eating…
It’s a late post tonight, because I just couldn’t be bothered when I got home after the day I had… all I wanted to do was have dinner and vege out in front of the TV watching Rafters and All Saints…
I thought I had better log on before I went to bed so check my emails and did this quick post…
Another busy day tomorrow, catching up on what didn’t get done today and also my second interview with Doc John (don’t worry haven’t forgotten to post the first – I’m just waiting for it) for Sundays show…
Anyway off to bed so until next time…
And it’s definitely something I’m looking forward to next week after 8 weeks of Optifast, greens, thin fluids and the mushies… But I’m not going to take it too fast… I can’t.
It was a good session too – a group of just one – ME… so I was able to pick the brains of the dietician which was great. Its interesting that now I will be able to east some of those foods that a couple of years ago I couldn’t on the Low GI diet… That said – I still follow a lot of what I learnt in low GI to this day… and I recon that even though eventually I didn’t loose any weight on it, it definitely helped me from putting on more than what I did…
The transition diet is just that – all about the transition of eating with the band… Small Bite (about the size of a 10 cent piece), chew food to a paste and check with your tongue, Check for fibres and lumps by pressing on the roof of the mouth, swallow AND THEN WAIT 60-90 seconds between swallows. The other thing is to stop when feeling SATISFIED not FULL (which is about 20 minutes) – this is going to be interesting…
Obviously the first week will be without a fill (well actually there already is some in there) but then after that the aim is to get into the Green Zone (just right)… I’ll tell you more about that after my first fill.
Today handouts included a full list of the different levels in the transition diet (easiest, easier, challenging and most challenging) and the different foods in each of these groups…. The plan is to start on the easiest and progress through after every band fill… and it’s interesting where some foods sit… would you have though a banana would have been challenging, or crisp bread and toast would have been the easiest… It was a real eye opener about my new way of eating…
It’s a late post tonight, because I just couldn’t be bothered when I got home after the day I had… all I wanted to do was have dinner and vege out in front of the TV watching Rafters and All Saints…
I thought I had better log on before I went to bed so check my emails and did this quick post…
Another busy day tomorrow, catching up on what didn’t get done today and also my second interview with Doc John (don’t worry haven’t forgotten to post the first – I’m just waiting for it) for Sundays show…
Anyway off to bed so until next time…
Monday, September 28, 2009
Another Notch on the belt- the feeling of Progress
Yep… on the new belt which I have only started wearing since I started loosing weight; I’m now in on the 4th notch… I quite surprised myself this morning when I put it on and then felt something was different… The 3rd notch which I had been on the last few weeks was suddenly bypassed… Yippee… It’s always a good feeling… They way I’m going in a few more weeks I’ll be able to put on some of my older jeans and consign my current ones to the wardrobe for 18months time when I hit my goal weight and want to do that before and after shot… It’s a great feeling – the feeling of progress
I must say I’m actually enjoying wearing jeans (and clothes generally) that aren’t skin tight any more… Because for the last few years that’s all I’ve been able to get… I’m sure the fat around my thighs is dropping off too, in addition to my gut and in my face and neck… It will be interesting seeing people next week that I haven’t seen for 6-12 months, to see what their reaction is…
I’m getting used to using the stairs at work too… sometimes I forget, but hey were all human; but I can now do level 3 to level 5; two steps at a time; without puffing when I reach the top – again that’s another feeling of progress
Tomorrow I’m off to the dietician again, a week early because I’m at the Mountain next week; Tomorrow’s group session is for the “Transition to the Gastric Band style of Eating”… I can’t believe it’s a week already on the mushies… I’ll be starting to get back to the new “normal” before I know it
Anyway, time for my last “meal” of the day… then a bit of TV and bed…
Until next time
I must say I’m actually enjoying wearing jeans (and clothes generally) that aren’t skin tight any more… Because for the last few years that’s all I’ve been able to get… I’m sure the fat around my thighs is dropping off too, in addition to my gut and in my face and neck… It will be interesting seeing people next week that I haven’t seen for 6-12 months, to see what their reaction is…
I’m getting used to using the stairs at work too… sometimes I forget, but hey were all human; but I can now do level 3 to level 5; two steps at a time; without puffing when I reach the top – again that’s another feeling of progress
Tomorrow I’m off to the dietician again, a week early because I’m at the Mountain next week; Tomorrow’s group session is for the “Transition to the Gastric Band style of Eating”… I can’t believe it’s a week already on the mushies… I’ll be starting to get back to the new “normal” before I know it
Anyway, time for my last “meal” of the day… then a bit of TV and bed…
Until next time
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Where did spring go?
What a crap weekend… After waking up to another dusting yesterday, it didn’t really get any better… I ended up pulling out the fleece and wearing that most of the weekend… What’s with this crazy weather?
So much for my walking regime too… Yesterday was too dusty and today was to damn cold… I know it sounds wimpy but I’m not going to get the flu while I’m still recovering… Speaking of recovery, unless I stop and think about it (or do something silly like bending over or picking up something heavy) I cant feel any tenderness in the port region and even all the internal soreness and bruising isn’t noticeable either which is great… For the first time last night I was able to sleep on my stomach for a little while without (much) pain…
And my snoring has stopped… Scott mentioned the other day that with all the weight I’ve dropped he’s not hearing my snoring anymore either which is great news for whoever I have to room with at Bathurst…
6 half cups of food a day is not quite filling me now… I’m trying very hard to resist temptation, but now I’m back on normal food all whizzed up, my taste buds are starting to crave… I’m also just making the ½ cup over 10 minutes… Tonight I made a Mild chicken curry in the crock pot for 8 hours… It was mouth watering… and I’ve got another 8 half cups in the freezer… I think I now have enough meals to last me through until the end of the mushies… Chicken Curry, Bolognaise, Chilli Con Carne, and Butter Chicken for lunch and dinner…
My first full week at work tomorrow and it’s a busy one, not only with Grand Final week (go the Eels), but also Bathurst prep and pack, Melbourne Cup prep, and all the usual day to day crap… But it will keep me busy. That’s one thing about the weekend when you’re sitting at home; you sometimes tend to clock watch if you’re feeling peckish… Not at work though… you have to remember to have a break…
Anyway a couple more things to do before Rescue Special Ops comes on
Happy Birthday Sis...
Until next time…
So much for my walking regime too… Yesterday was too dusty and today was to damn cold… I know it sounds wimpy but I’m not going to get the flu while I’m still recovering… Speaking of recovery, unless I stop and think about it (or do something silly like bending over or picking up something heavy) I cant feel any tenderness in the port region and even all the internal soreness and bruising isn’t noticeable either which is great… For the first time last night I was able to sleep on my stomach for a little while without (much) pain…
And my snoring has stopped… Scott mentioned the other day that with all the weight I’ve dropped he’s not hearing my snoring anymore either which is great news for whoever I have to room with at Bathurst…
6 half cups of food a day is not quite filling me now… I’m trying very hard to resist temptation, but now I’m back on normal food all whizzed up, my taste buds are starting to crave… I’m also just making the ½ cup over 10 minutes… Tonight I made a Mild chicken curry in the crock pot for 8 hours… It was mouth watering… and I’ve got another 8 half cups in the freezer… I think I now have enough meals to last me through until the end of the mushies… Chicken Curry, Bolognaise, Chilli Con Carne, and Butter Chicken for lunch and dinner…
My first full week at work tomorrow and it’s a busy one, not only with Grand Final week (go the Eels), but also Bathurst prep and pack, Melbourne Cup prep, and all the usual day to day crap… But it will keep me busy. That’s one thing about the weekend when you’re sitting at home; you sometimes tend to clock watch if you’re feeling peckish… Not at work though… you have to remember to have a break…
Anyway a couple more things to do before Rescue Special Ops comes on
Happy Birthday Sis...
Until next time…
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Everything Old - is New again
Now that I'm minus a sack of potatoes, I'm starting to fit into some of my older & smaller clothes in my wardrobe which is a great feeling... Don’t worry - I wont be pulling out 80's or 90's fashion... That’s just too old, and when I get down to that size it will be time for some retail therapy...
I've managed to get comfortably into some shorts I go last year, that ended up being just slightly too tight and something you wouldn’t be seen in in public, and finally can wear my nice V8 polo I bought back at Bathurst in 07 without it looking like its 10 sizes too small… It’s now comfortable without stretching it…
And there’s so much more… I’m looking forward to autumn (I know it’s a long way off) but I think that’s when I’ll do a good cleanout of my wardrobe, and get rid of all the 3XL stuff… While I don’t expect to ever get down to a medium, I’m hoping by the time I reach my goal I’ll be somewhere between a Large and X Large…
I've managed to get comfortably into some shorts I go last year, that ended up being just slightly too tight and something you wouldn’t be seen in in public, and finally can wear my nice V8 polo I bought back at Bathurst in 07 without it looking like its 10 sizes too small… It’s now comfortable without stretching it…
And there’s so much more… I’m looking forward to autumn (I know it’s a long way off) but I think that’s when I’ll do a good cleanout of my wardrobe, and get rid of all the 3XL stuff… While I don’t expect to ever get down to a medium, I’m hoping by the time I reach my goal I’ll be somewhere between a Large and X Large…
The week that was...
This mornings unofficial weigh in was 115.7kg, making it almost 20kg’s since I started just over 6 weeks ago…. And I’m feeling great…
Yesterday I plotted my progress on excel and included a progress indicator column at loosing 2kg a month until I reach my goal of 80KG (25BMI)… at 2kg a month, I’m hoping to reach my goal my March 2011, so just over 18 months. It’s not going to be easy but I’m determined to succeed this time – and KEEP IT OFF…
Back at work this week, and even though only for 3 days, has been busy and I’ve been quite active (more than normal) and found it all much easier. I’m even using the stairs more – consciously, but eventually I’m hoping it will become second nature
Yesterday was a bit different though… we had a few equipment problems so I was doing a bit of bending, which took it out of me and the port area got a little tender by the end of the day, so I asked the others to pack up so I didn’t irritate it more… last thing I want is a popped port and have to go through all this again…
Going to take it easy this weekend… After last weekend’s hectic ACS meetings and prep, I need to get some stuff done around home… Going to leave it till this arvo to go for my walk, after the wind and dust has died down, but I’m about to head out for my coffee and paper so will see you around soon
Yesterday I plotted my progress on excel and included a progress indicator column at loosing 2kg a month until I reach my goal of 80KG (25BMI)… at 2kg a month, I’m hoping to reach my goal my March 2011, so just over 18 months. It’s not going to be easy but I’m determined to succeed this time – and KEEP IT OFF…
Back at work this week, and even though only for 3 days, has been busy and I’ve been quite active (more than normal) and found it all much easier. I’m even using the stairs more – consciously, but eventually I’m hoping it will become second nature
Yesterday was a bit different though… we had a few equipment problems so I was doing a bit of bending, which took it out of me and the port area got a little tender by the end of the day, so I asked the others to pack up so I didn’t irritate it more… last thing I want is a popped port and have to go through all this again…
Going to take it easy this weekend… After last weekend’s hectic ACS meetings and prep, I need to get some stuff done around home… Going to leave it till this arvo to go for my walk, after the wind and dust has died down, but I’m about to head out for my coffee and paper so will see you around soon
Thursday, September 24, 2009
The Buds of Spring
After yesterdays dusting, I rose early to give the herbs and tomatoes a drink after they way the wind dried them out… To my amazement they are growing so well, the tomatoes are starting to get flowers on them (so fresh tomatoes shouldn’t be too far away) and the herbs and chilli’s have just taken off… The basil is thriving along with the parsley, and the rest are coming along well too… So by the time I’m back on solid food and back from the mountain, I’ll be able to cock up a storm in the kitchen with my fresh herbs… I’ve tried growing them before but never had any success so I’m really happy with them now
A little bit less mad at work today… Getting used to walking the stairs again instead of the escalator or lift… finally started to get through some of the backlog from the last 2 weeks… which I need to before I head for Bathurst in 6 days…
Getting used to the mushies today too - I feel like I'm eating a lot as I have to have 6 "meals" (only 1/2 cup) a day… and getting back to keeping my fluids up as well (2x750ml sports bottles) plus a coffee and tea… Scott's cooking Chilli Con Carne tonight, so that should be nice all whizzed up...
I am so amazed at how much better I’m feeling for the weight I’ve lost so far… its like I’ve lost a sack of potatoes (almost – not far off 20kg loss now)…
Until next time
A little bit less mad at work today… Getting used to walking the stairs again instead of the escalator or lift… finally started to get through some of the backlog from the last 2 weeks… which I need to before I head for Bathurst in 6 days…
Getting used to the mushies today too - I feel like I'm eating a lot as I have to have 6 "meals" (only 1/2 cup) a day… and getting back to keeping my fluids up as well (2x750ml sports bottles) plus a coffee and tea… Scott's cooking Chilli Con Carne tonight, so that should be nice all whizzed up...
I am so amazed at how much better I’m feeling for the weight I’ve lost so far… its like I’ve lost a sack of potatoes (almost – not far off 20kg loss now)…
Until next time
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Back at Work – Waking up to the Apocalypse
Ok let’s try again… My laptop has been in the habit of blue screening again lately, just as I was starting to do today’s blog… Gotta Love Bill Gates!
I’m finally on the train on the way home… I thought I might be able to easy myself back into work today, but on waking up to this morning’s apocalypse, there was no chance… One of the first ones in for the day shift and one of the last out…
It was great when I got in this morning… everyone was so amazed at how well I looked and how much I’ve lost… Not that I’ve lost that much since I finished 2 weeks ago (only like another 4.5kg – this mornings weigh in was 117.3kg), but I think the combination of not being around for a couple of week and also my walking regime while I’ve been away, may well have changed my composition a bit… It’s a great feeling though when you get compliments and people noticing your weight loss…
Everyone stopped me and asked me how I was feeling, how it all went, and even commenting on the blog… Great to see I have some loyal readers out there… That said I still managed to clear my desk of bills, clear my inbox of emails, and start a 'to do' list, before heading out to do a live cross for news… It was full “team coverage” tonight with all trucks out and one of the late operators called in sick so I had to fill in…
I was quite good with my food too today with my first full day on mushies… Breakfast I had 1 soggy weetbix with heaps of milk, a green tea when I got to work, followed by a skim flat white a little later… Morning tea was some apple and strawberry puree, with my butter chicken and rice for lunch… forgot about the water bottle until just before lunch, but had a full bottle after, before my ½ cup of oats about 3.30pm… For dinner I’m thinking baked beans with either scrambled egg or ricotta cheese; its bloody yummy ricotta – low fat from the deli – I could eat the full tubs it’s that delicious. I can’t believe it – a full day without Optiyuk! (sorry I’m just over it)
Well I’m almost home (and the laptop hasn’t crapped itself again) so I’ll hit the post button and will blog again tomorrow… Hopefully with a little less wind and dust
I’m finally on the train on the way home… I thought I might be able to easy myself back into work today, but on waking up to this morning’s apocalypse, there was no chance… One of the first ones in for the day shift and one of the last out…
It was great when I got in this morning… everyone was so amazed at how well I looked and how much I’ve lost… Not that I’ve lost that much since I finished 2 weeks ago (only like another 4.5kg – this mornings weigh in was 117.3kg), but I think the combination of not being around for a couple of week and also my walking regime while I’ve been away, may well have changed my composition a bit… It’s a great feeling though when you get compliments and people noticing your weight loss…
Everyone stopped me and asked me how I was feeling, how it all went, and even commenting on the blog… Great to see I have some loyal readers out there… That said I still managed to clear my desk of bills, clear my inbox of emails, and start a 'to do' list, before heading out to do a live cross for news… It was full “team coverage” tonight with all trucks out and one of the late operators called in sick so I had to fill in…
I was quite good with my food too today with my first full day on mushies… Breakfast I had 1 soggy weetbix with heaps of milk, a green tea when I got to work, followed by a skim flat white a little later… Morning tea was some apple and strawberry puree, with my butter chicken and rice for lunch… forgot about the water bottle until just before lunch, but had a full bottle after, before my ½ cup of oats about 3.30pm… For dinner I’m thinking baked beans with either scrambled egg or ricotta cheese; its bloody yummy ricotta – low fat from the deli – I could eat the full tubs it’s that delicious. I can’t believe it – a full day without Optiyuk! (sorry I’m just over it)
Well I’m almost home (and the laptop hasn’t crapped itself again) so I’ll hit the post button and will blog again tomorrow… Hopefully with a little less wind and dust
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Variety is the spice of life - The Mushies
Finally after 6 weeks, I can start to eat some regular types of food… it just has to be puree’ed to within an inch of its life (to like tomato paste consistency)… but hey its only for 2 weeks… so by the time I head for the Mountain (Bathurst), I’ll be back onto normal food in new portions…
The physio session was cancelled this morning (the physio was sick), but the dietician session was fantastic and really informative…
Still eating and drinking throughout the day every hour or so for 12 hours, but at least its now something with sustenance and that should start to make me feel like I’ve actually had something and also stop the dizzy attacks… I mentioned to the dietician about them (and also confessed my spag bol on Friday night) so she said I should be right to start on mushies tonight…
So It’s ½ cup of mushies 6 times a day (or 2 more half cups if I’m still feeling hungry) – and the mushies are anything from cereal (oats, weetbix, pasta and rice) to pureed soft fruit (bought some Goulburn valley puree’s), soft boiled vege (potato, mushy peas, pumpkin, sweet potato); some real protein and dairy (fish, chicken, meat, eggs, baked beans, ricotta cheese, custard, milk – all low fat of course) as well as sauces and gravy… the only thing I cant have is fats and oils which isn’t a problem… They also suggested to blitz things separately so they still look semi appetizing.
I have just got home from the supermarket, and it was a good shop… Also got a new muffin pan – not for the muffins, but it’s a great size to measure out the ½ cups and freeze them for future – just like my sister does for my niece…
So what’s for dinner tonight? I’m thinking butter chicken and rice… I was going to make spag bol, but I had that on Friday night…
The other part of the session was going through how the band was placed, how big our new stomach is and why we must follow these diets, how the band was placed and stitched, why we need to follow the guidelines for no tummy type exercises, and the worst part, how you know if something is wrong with the band… She also said there is some fill in the band already, which I didn’t know… apparently now they do put some in during the operation, which they didn’t do in the past… how much – I don’t know… Guess I’ll find that out at my first band fill on 13 October – Some of this would have been good to know either just before you went in or straight after the operation… I mean I was told some of it, but I would have like to have known more…
Back to work tomorrow so it should be a nice relaxing night tonight in front of the TV watching Rafters and All Saints…
Weigh in tomorrow morning so that should be interesting to see how I'm going... They say that now were back on food, we should be looking at loosing 2-5kg's of excess weight a month... which is generally what they say is a good speed to do it... 1/2 to 1kg a week.
Until next time…
The physio session was cancelled this morning (the physio was sick), but the dietician session was fantastic and really informative…
Still eating and drinking throughout the day every hour or so for 12 hours, but at least its now something with sustenance and that should start to make me feel like I’ve actually had something and also stop the dizzy attacks… I mentioned to the dietician about them (and also confessed my spag bol on Friday night) so she said I should be right to start on mushies tonight…
So It’s ½ cup of mushies 6 times a day (or 2 more half cups if I’m still feeling hungry) – and the mushies are anything from cereal (oats, weetbix, pasta and rice) to pureed soft fruit (bought some Goulburn valley puree’s), soft boiled vege (potato, mushy peas, pumpkin, sweet potato); some real protein and dairy (fish, chicken, meat, eggs, baked beans, ricotta cheese, custard, milk – all low fat of course) as well as sauces and gravy… the only thing I cant have is fats and oils which isn’t a problem… They also suggested to blitz things separately so they still look semi appetizing.
I have just got home from the supermarket, and it was a good shop… Also got a new muffin pan – not for the muffins, but it’s a great size to measure out the ½ cups and freeze them for future – just like my sister does for my niece…
So what’s for dinner tonight? I’m thinking butter chicken and rice… I was going to make spag bol, but I had that on Friday night…
The other part of the session was going through how the band was placed, how big our new stomach is and why we must follow these diets, how the band was placed and stitched, why we need to follow the guidelines for no tummy type exercises, and the worst part, how you know if something is wrong with the band… She also said there is some fill in the band already, which I didn’t know… apparently now they do put some in during the operation, which they didn’t do in the past… how much – I don’t know… Guess I’ll find that out at my first band fill on 13 October – Some of this would have been good to know either just before you went in or straight after the operation… I mean I was told some of it, but I would have like to have known more…
Back to work tomorrow so it should be a nice relaxing night tonight in front of the TV watching Rafters and All Saints…
Weigh in tomorrow morning so that should be interesting to see how I'm going... They say that now were back on food, we should be looking at loosing 2-5kg's of excess weight a month... which is generally what they say is a good speed to do it... 1/2 to 1kg a week.
Until next time…
Monday, September 21, 2009
My dizziness problems are answered - SYDBAND on Yahoo Groups
A couple of weeks ago I joined the SYDBAND group on Yahoo Groups…
SYDBAND We are a social group that aims to provide support to people that have had the laparoscopic adjustable band or ‘lap band’. We provide a safe and no judgmental space for lap banders to talk about their experiences on this journey no matter what stage they are at. We also are there as a source of experience for people looking to be banded at some point in the future.
Tonight I posted about my dizziness during the Thin Fluids stage, wondering if anyone else had suffered and within an hour, I had 4 of the members come back to me to tell me what they had done to overcome it… Basically it’s a protein deficiency in the diet now my body is almost back to normal – well it has been almost 6 weeks since I had any REAL protein ; apart from the synthetic stuff that’s in the shakes and the other Optifast products…
The responses and suggestions are much appreciated… From starting on Puree a little early (like I did on Friday night), adding sauces and gravies, to adding baked beans to the tomato soup and even a little cheese… YUM… even tuna and tomato juice… and having 6 smaller meals a day rather than the 3 (I'm having shake then soup in about 90 minutes)
Looking forward to trying them all
SYDBAND We are a social group that aims to provide support to people that have had the laparoscopic adjustable band or ‘lap band’. We provide a safe and no judgmental space for lap banders to talk about their experiences on this journey no matter what stage they are at. We also are there as a source of experience for people looking to be banded at some point in the future.
Tonight I posted about my dizziness during the Thin Fluids stage, wondering if anyone else had suffered and within an hour, I had 4 of the members come back to me to tell me what they had done to overcome it… Basically it’s a protein deficiency in the diet now my body is almost back to normal – well it has been almost 6 weeks since I had any REAL protein ; apart from the synthetic stuff that’s in the shakes and the other Optifast products…
The responses and suggestions are much appreciated… From starting on Puree a little early (like I did on Friday night), adding sauces and gravies, to adding baked beans to the tomato soup and even a little cheese… YUM… even tuna and tomato juice… and having 6 smaller meals a day rather than the 3 (I'm having shake then soup in about 90 minutes)
Looking forward to trying them all
Thin Fluids Diet - Day 12 – Bring on the mushies
As I blogged the other day I am so over shakes and soups, and now the last few days for some reason I’ve been getting dizzy spells when getting up out of a chair or lying down on the lounge – not good…
I’m trying to drink as much water, tea & coffee, along with juice, drinking yoghurt, as well as the soups and shakes, but the same old same old, just isn’t cutting it anymore… it feels like I’ve been on a 2 week drinking binge because I’m always heading to the toilet…
So what happens when you’re not content – you start to pick… Yep back to my old habits… I haven’t picked much but without the variety my body is just getting bored… There was a pasta bake in the fridge, so I’ve had a few bits off that so far…
Yesterday’s ACS meeting went well and the positive compliments I received from my colleagues about my weight loss and how well I look made me feel great… It was a long day – almost 8 hours of meetings – I’m glad we only do that twice a year
Tomorrow morning I’m off to the physiotherapist and then dietician to find out about stage 2 and the “mushies” which I have to stay on for another 2 weeks… That sounds a little more appetising, as at least I can have a bit more variety in my diet…
Went for another long walk this morning as the last 3 days have been a bit to hectic to do it… if I can get at least 3 good walks in a week, as well as the running around I do at work, I’ll be happy…
One more day and them I’m back at work… I’m enjoying my time off, but once I get back into it at work, hopefully it will help me take my mind of when my next “meal” is which is shat I have been doing this last few weeks because of the amount of fluid I have had to drink
Until next time…
I’m trying to drink as much water, tea & coffee, along with juice, drinking yoghurt, as well as the soups and shakes, but the same old same old, just isn’t cutting it anymore… it feels like I’ve been on a 2 week drinking binge because I’m always heading to the toilet…
So what happens when you’re not content – you start to pick… Yep back to my old habits… I haven’t picked much but without the variety my body is just getting bored… There was a pasta bake in the fridge, so I’ve had a few bits off that so far…
Yesterday’s ACS meeting went well and the positive compliments I received from my colleagues about my weight loss and how well I look made me feel great… It was a long day – almost 8 hours of meetings – I’m glad we only do that twice a year
Tomorrow morning I’m off to the physiotherapist and then dietician to find out about stage 2 and the “mushies” which I have to stay on for another 2 weeks… That sounds a little more appetising, as at least I can have a bit more variety in my diet…
Went for another long walk this morning as the last 3 days have been a bit to hectic to do it… if I can get at least 3 good walks in a week, as well as the running around I do at work, I’ll be happy…
One more day and them I’m back at work… I’m enjoying my time off, but once I get back into it at work, hopefully it will help me take my mind of when my next “meal” is which is shat I have been doing this last few weeks because of the amount of fluid I have had to drink
Until next time…
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Health Matters with Dr John Darcy
Hi
You’ve probably just heard me on the radio chatting with Dr John; and now you want to know more about why I’ve gone down the lap band path to control my obesity and basically “get a new life”…
As I said "I was over being FAT!" As I get older things are getting harder and little problems are starting to creep into other wise my relatively good health.
I’m 37, and after many years and a promotion moved into a desk job at Channel 7… I’ve always been big, but after moving off the road in 2005, I started to balloon, and people were starting to notice (not to mention myself)
I committed to getting the lap band back on 10 August 2009 - blog
Dr John and I have been work colleagues for nearly 20 years and he’s seen the way my yo-yo dieting had gone… When I caught up with him in August prior to committing to the surgery, he was very supportive of my decision, and we discussed how we could share my story to the broader audience, who may have heard about it, but didn’t know where to go next…
This Blog is one way I’m letting people know my experience, along with regular chats on “Health Matters” every few weeks to monitor my progress
When I started I was tipping the scales at 135kg and a BMI of almost 43. In 6 weeks I have dropped almost 16kg and my BMI is now 37 – and I’m already feeling the benefits – including a whole new wardrobe I haven’t worn for a few years…
I’ve blogged here every day, so if you curious and want to find out more about my experience so far (warts and all), grab a glass of water, sit back and have a read… feel free to comment or drop me an email…
All the best
Craig
You’ve probably just heard me on the radio chatting with Dr John; and now you want to know more about why I’ve gone down the lap band path to control my obesity and basically “get a new life”…
As I said "I was over being FAT!" As I get older things are getting harder and little problems are starting to creep into other wise my relatively good health.
I’m 37, and after many years and a promotion moved into a desk job at Channel 7… I’ve always been big, but after moving off the road in 2005, I started to balloon, and people were starting to notice (not to mention myself)
I committed to getting the lap band back on 10 August 2009 - blog
Dr John and I have been work colleagues for nearly 20 years and he’s seen the way my yo-yo dieting had gone… When I caught up with him in August prior to committing to the surgery, he was very supportive of my decision, and we discussed how we could share my story to the broader audience, who may have heard about it, but didn’t know where to go next…
This Blog is one way I’m letting people know my experience, along with regular chats on “Health Matters” every few weeks to monitor my progress
When I started I was tipping the scales at 135kg and a BMI of almost 43. In 6 weeks I have dropped almost 16kg and my BMI is now 37 – and I’m already feeling the benefits – including a whole new wardrobe I haven’t worn for a few years…
I’ve blogged here every day, so if you curious and want to find out more about my experience so far (warts and all), grab a glass of water, sit back and have a read… feel free to comment or drop me an email…
All the best
Craig
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Thin Fluids Diet - Day 10 – I’m so over Shakes & Soup
If I never have to drink another shake, or sip another soup it will be too soon…
Now is when the real hard work begins… staying on track until I can get back to the new “normal” food in 3 weeks
The last couple of days have been really busy…
Yesterday I was down in the Southern Highlands of NSW helping my brother & sister in law move into their new dream home… not that I could lift anything… I still tried to help... but at least I got the pantry and kitchen done... oh and of course the TV…
I went all prepared with my little bag of food (the same as what my sister does for my neice) packed with shakes and soups… Although I must confess I was a little naughty… Mum made spag bol for dinner, so I snuck about a ½ cup and blended it all up… It was nice… and washed it down with a Crownie (my first beer in over 5 weeks)… I wasn’t going to blog, but is did say this blog was going to be warts and all… I was very careful and was ready to stop if there was any pain, but it was all goo… I was the last one finished and in the end only had about ¼ of a cup anyway… but I’m back to my shakes and soups again for the next few days… Dietician on Tuesday where I find out all about the “mushies”
Today been a little less energetic, but my minds been at it all day preparing for the ACS AGM tomorrow and the presentation of my Web redevelopment recommendations that we’ve been putting together for the last 5 months… That was almost done until I opened one final proposal which arrived yesterday… We thought it was cut and dried, but the new prop was just as good as the one we going to recommend, so I’ve had to redo the whole presentation again… and I’ve still got a couple of other short reports to write before I go to bed tonight
Late this afternoon, I finally managed to escape to buy some more shakes(I was almost out) and some more (different) soups, which I'm going to try for dinner tonight...
An early start tomorrow to get to the meeting in North Sydney to set up at 8am for our all day meeting which starts at 9… I’ve got my soups and shakes packed again for that one too… Hopefully I’ll get a chance to blog tomorrow night…
Then a couple more days to go before I’m back at work on Wednesday – not that I’m looking forward to it…
Until next time...
Now is when the real hard work begins… staying on track until I can get back to the new “normal” food in 3 weeks
The last couple of days have been really busy…
Yesterday I was down in the Southern Highlands of NSW helping my brother & sister in law move into their new dream home… not that I could lift anything… I still tried to help... but at least I got the pantry and kitchen done... oh and of course the TV…
I went all prepared with my little bag of food (the same as what my sister does for my neice) packed with shakes and soups… Although I must confess I was a little naughty… Mum made spag bol for dinner, so I snuck about a ½ cup and blended it all up… It was nice… and washed it down with a Crownie (my first beer in over 5 weeks)… I wasn’t going to blog, but is did say this blog was going to be warts and all… I was very careful and was ready to stop if there was any pain, but it was all goo… I was the last one finished and in the end only had about ¼ of a cup anyway… but I’m back to my shakes and soups again for the next few days… Dietician on Tuesday where I find out all about the “mushies”
Today been a little less energetic, but my minds been at it all day preparing for the ACS AGM tomorrow and the presentation of my Web redevelopment recommendations that we’ve been putting together for the last 5 months… That was almost done until I opened one final proposal which arrived yesterday… We thought it was cut and dried, but the new prop was just as good as the one we going to recommend, so I’ve had to redo the whole presentation again… and I’ve still got a couple of other short reports to write before I go to bed tonight
Late this afternoon, I finally managed to escape to buy some more shakes(I was almost out) and some more (different) soups, which I'm going to try for dinner tonight...
An early start tomorrow to get to the meeting in North Sydney to set up at 8am for our all day meeting which starts at 9… I’ve got my soups and shakes packed again for that one too… Hopefully I’ll get a chance to blog tomorrow night…
Then a couple more days to go before I’m back at work on Wednesday – not that I’m looking forward to it…
Until next time...
Thursday, September 17, 2009
The Wraps come off…
Finally after 7 days I was able to take the dressings off this morning… being the big wimp that I am, and not liking what I could see or feel under them It took me almost an hour to do it…
One at a time…
To my surprise they had all healed well and what I could see through the dressings was the dried blood from just after the operation… and with no stiches… just a bit of heavy duty tape (like the packing tape you used to be able to get with the cotton fibres running through it), and then a waterproof plaster put over the top… no gauze or anything else…
The only one that looked a little funny was the port one, where I was left with a slight indentation in the skin… but not to worry, I’m sure that will heal well too now the airs getting to them… and I doubt after a few months you'll be able to notice them, which will be great for my new 6pack (LOL)! - We'll you gotta dream
One at a time…
To my surprise they had all healed well and what I could see through the dressings was the dried blood from just after the operation… and with no stiches… just a bit of heavy duty tape (like the packing tape you used to be able to get with the cotton fibres running through it), and then a waterproof plaster put over the top… no gauze or anything else…
The only one that looked a little funny was the port one, where I was left with a slight indentation in the skin… but not to worry, I’m sure that will heal well too now the airs getting to them… and I doubt after a few months you'll be able to notice them, which will be great for my new 6pack (LOL)! - We'll you gotta dream
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
My Weight Loss Progress
