Better Banded

First fill after 15 Months!

2011-09-23T14:23:00.000-04:00

Hi Ladies!

Getting SO excited for next Weekend!!

I had my first fill Wednesday, I thought it had been a year but my NP said "Nicole it's been since June 2010" I could feel that I needed a little more restriction..I was up a good 5lbs on my scale.

So currently I have 7.9 cc in my band..day 3 of liquids is today so far so good!

Trying to get pictures off my phone the weekend before last I ran a 5k on Saturday & Sunday..oh my how times have changed!!

See you in Chicago!

Boobs 2011 Fun Facts

2011-09-02T12:49:00.000-04:00

1. How did you pick your blog name? I love the song by Jack Johnson Better Together, and I started blogging after I was banded so I thought it was a good band blog name :)

2. When did you start blogging? September/October 2009 after I was banded August 2009, I was on Lap Band Talk and found Jen W. Blog..She was also banded in August of 2009 and I LOVED reading her daily updates and then was brave and started my own blog. Blogging brought so many AMAZING people in my life.

3. Theme of blog? Weight loss, sucess with the band, what's going on in my life

4. Did you go to BOOBs 2010? Yes- Was for sure one of the highlights of 2010 for me.

5. When were you banded? August 24, 2009

6. How much have you lost? 100lbs! I was up to 105lb but the summer has me back down to 100lbs loss.

7. What are you most looking forward to at BOOBs? Seeing all my Favorite People, talking, laughing, having a great weekend!!

8. What/who do you hope to find/see/accomplish at BOOBs 2011? Have fun, meet new bloggers, hang out with friends, feel eachother's ports lol

9. Children? Pets? Nope!

10. Who is your roomie? Susan from Diary of a Lap Band Mom

11. What day do you arrive? Friday 8:30am flying out of Boston at 6:30am

12. What airport/flight/time? ORD

13. What events are you signed up for? not signed up for events, going to window shop on Michigan Avenue and play it by ear

14. Hobbies? Reading, Spinning, Training for 5ks

15. Career? I work for a Non-Profit, partnering with state and meeting with local businesses to get dislocated workers back to work. It is very rewarding and I love my job

16. Single? Married? In a relationship? Recently divorced in May..I am dating someone right now :)

17. Your birthday month? March

18. What do you want other BOOBs to know about you? Please say hello to me, I love meeting new people!! And That I do have a band lol Gilly always jokes that I was never really fat and then I make her feel my port..

2nd Bandiversary!!

2011-08-24T21:12:00.000-04:00

8.24.09 Best day of my life.

Today I took these pictures with my Jared pants..these were skin tight...

Seams are busted..because they were so tight.

I am going going..back back to Chicago...

2011-08-18T19:34:00.000-04:00

Let me introduce myself..for those of you that might have forgotten about me ;)

My Name is Nicole ..My second Bandiversary is right around the corner 8/24..which now I can say with out a doubt the most important date of my life. I recently seperated from my husband in March..and by May 5th..my divorce was final.. OLE OLE..We are on good terms, he just didn't want children..and if people remember the reason I got my band was so that I would be at a healthy weight to get pregnant.

I have had the most amazing fun summer and I really owe a lot of it to my band. I have been dating, heading to the Cape most weekends and enjoying being in a bikini.

I am currently at 7.8 cc and haven't had a fill since last October.. I have seen 138lbs and even 136lbs (thanks to the divorce stress) Stayed 138 for a few months.. and now with the "summer fun" I have gone up to 144 for a few days and just recently got back down to 140..even saw 138 a few days last week. I am in maintenance mode..I still would love to get to 135..but for once in my life I feel control of my weight..thanks to my band.

I have been a role model, my high school friend is Angie she in boxed me on Facebook..I believe after my 5k pic I did last August asking me how I was losing my weight.. I have an old friend in San Diego that was just approved for her lap band.. And now a Co Worker is going through the process.

I have kept very active..I enjoy running..I have done a couple of 5K's..this picture is me and my sister last Thursday.. last year my time was 43 min..this year 34 mins! (she of course walked it lol)

I didn't know if I was going to be able to afford coming to Chicago...but I got a really great deal on a Ticket and I cannot wait to see my band friends that I had so much fun with last year in Chicago..

I will leave you with a few fun summer pictures..and PROMISE I will try blogging more so you will know who I am in Chicago ;) xo Nicole

Kristen's Wedding

2011-05-23T21:37:00.000-04:00

I was honored to attend a Fellow Bloggers Wedding on Saturday. Kristen got married on Saturday and she looked AMAZING! Her wedding was a blast!

I know I haven't been blogging as much, but this event reminded me of all the great relationships this blog has brought me and I love you all! xoxo

My best friend John..why are all the HOT guys not straight?

Cheers to being single, sexy & Healthy!

Dirty Thirty!

2011-04-04T10:59:00.000-04:00

My "Dirty Thirty" party was this weekend..I had a fabulous time.

Thirty, Flirty & oh so FABULOUS..thanks to the band..

These are the first pictures I have seen of my self and think wow, I am skinny. It's the weirdest thing to think out loud.

I had an aspirational goal for my 30th Birthday party...of 138 ..Saturday morning I weighed 138.2 and had even seen glimpse of 136/137 earlier in the week. This would out a doubt not be possible without my band. Have I worked my ass off, (literally I think I have).

My gay husband!

My best friends that threw my party

My Pretty! Came to celebrate

My Parents, My Stepmom & Dad

Last but not least, this picture that I didn't put onto facebook..

DAMN! Thank you BAND!! :)

I am alive..just overwhelmed

2011-03-30T14:21:00.000-04:00

The comments I recieved on my last post are overwhelming..I LOVE YOU LADIES!

Getting to attend the bandster brunch in NYC on 3/20 was amazing and lifted my spirits.

I haven't been on blogs much as I haven't gotten my wireless internet hooked up at my parents.

I have been trying to deal with my shit show of a life. It's hard. This past week has been extremely hard. I cry most days. My band is so tight from stress and having my period last week I could barely eat. Yesterday I saw the lowest # on my scale in my life (136lbs), and I didn't even care because I am just so sad and stressed.

Tomorrow will be my first holiday seperated ( my 30th GULP) Birthday. And it's sad knowing I have to make plans, not just automatically have plans with my husband.

Thank You for all the support, I will be getting back into blogging soon..I promise.

I am getting a divorce.

2011-03-15T14:37:00.000-04:00

I have been dreading this post. I haven't logged on in about 3 weeks, and the reason is I have seperated from my husband and we are getting divorced.

I haven't had the heart to log on here and share my news.. well because it's hard to write it out and actually say to people. And a part of me doesn't want to worry others because of the divorce rate related to WLS.

And I truly believe deep down that it doesn't have to do with me losing 100+ lbs. We had been trying to have a baby and my husband always talked about waiting..waiting for a house..waiting for the spring I am turning 30 and he turns 39 next month. And finally last month he said to me "You know if you get pregnant, it's all on you" And that right there folks is why I am getting a divorce. So with that repeating in my head ..I sat down and had a talk and deep down he really doesn't want children, he thought his mind would change (since I wanted children so badly) but the older he gets the less he wants them.

So is it because I am happy with my body and confident that I decideded to take a stand for myself and take a leap of fait to find a partner that wants the same things in life? maybe?

The next few months will be a rough road for me, I am losing the home I have made, and my best friend.

But ladies life is to short NOT to be happy.

I am so very looking to seeing everyone who will be in NYC for brunch this sunday and BOY do I need a margarita.

NYC here I come!!

2011-02-22T22:14:00.000-05:00

So thrilllllllllled to be coming for the NYC Brunch meet up!!

I can't wait to see some of my favorite bandsters!!

I can't wait for a prickly pear margarita and a side of guac!!

I will be traveling with Kristen and staying with Colleen Saturday night.

I will also be getting to see Angie! Who I haven't seen in 11 years since high school..And now we will both be bandsters!!

I love my band ..and this is why

2011-02-16T21:42:00.000-05:00

I <3 my band!

I know we all say it 100 or 1 million times but MAN do I REALLY love my band. I have been afraid to blog about it (for fear my band reads my blog)

My restricition is great, last fill was Oct. I believe I have around 7.8 ccs.

I hanging right around 143, 144 some days yesterday was 142. So EXTREMELY happy with how I am maintaining. I am still counting my calories. I log them in on my phone or just make a mental head note and do not go above 1k calories. I think counting calories and working out is helping stay where I am. I still step on my scale every single day.

A lot of my fellow boobs will remember this red dress.. I FINALLY had an occasion to wear it...with my hubby out on Valentines Day. This dress is truly magical hugs all my curves (even a good 10lbs less then in chicago). My friend gave me this dress and Kim K. owns this dress as well. It's truly a magical dress. I recieved so many compliments on Monday evening. As you know it is all couples out on Valentines Day, we were close to another table and the guy next to us leans over to Carey and says "Is she your #1? because she is #1 in THIS room!" I felt so embarresed for his wife, and then later on his says you look like Cameron Diaz..he made my night but I felt terrible for I am sure he made his wife feel uncomfortable. MEN!

Keep fighting the good fight ladies! I am here reading and cheering you on! With Martini's of course ;)

100lbs Down!..newest member of the Century Club..

2011-01-23T12:16:00.000-05:00

"You must do the thing you think you cannot do"~Eleanor Roosevelt

Today is the day I reached 100lbs down, a goal I never thought possible. At 243lbs reading that number on the scale in the DR office, I so well remember that moment. It wasn't a good one.

My first goal was 155, the weight at which I met my husband, the weight I had met doing weight watchers 2x before. (the goal I knew achievable)

Then with the help of my band I actually thought about 140's a weight I never ever remember weighing(except maybe in JR High)

My Surgery was August 24 2009. My goal of 155 was reached September 3, 2010 read my goal post here.

My aspirational goal of 145 was reached X-Mas Week..my own X-Mas miracle. I could never get a 145 on the dot closest I saw was a 145.1 and then I was 144.

But today I saw it, I saw something I only dreamed about. CENTURY CLUB

And BOY did that moment feel so good.

This moment would not be possible without my band and my support from Blog Land..

And REMEMBER if you can DREAM IT..you CAN ACHIEVE IT.

Spin, Double Date and Meatballs!

2011-01-08T15:03:00.000-05:00

I think I have mentioned before how much I love spin. I really really <3 it!

I feel like it really challenges me and I can really see a difference in my legs.. they are getting toned! Try it, it's hard but it's so worth it and just a little insentive...

I am so fortunate to live within 45 min of one of my favorite bloggers Kristen. We really have developed and amazing friendship and not a day or two goes by where we aren't emailing or BBMing and supporting eachother.. We had a double date on Thursday..

<3 my Pretty!

We had some delecious Cabernet! And we have been to XO before we love their Tapa's menu they have Cognac Meatballs that are to die for...

WOW 2010..you were amazing! A friend being banded

2011-01-02T20:16:00.001-05:00

I am sad to see such an AMAZING year go. It was truly one of the best years I have had in such a long time. (click on photo to make bigger)

I posted this as a note on Facebook..some of you have may already seen it..
Top 10 things I have learned in 2010 1.When a tragedy happens in your life, you find out who your real friends and family are, the ones that are their every day even two years later. 2. Carbs are overrated. 3. When a group of people go through the same experience, they create a bond that no one can understand. 4. Lock your rims 5. Starbuck's Skinny Vanilla Latte..was created just for me. 6. Working for a Non-Profit is TRULY rewarding 7. A well made cosmo can put a HUGE smile on my face. 8.Holding a baby the day they were born is truly special 9. You can eat Tuna every day for lunch 10.I am an inspiration. Thank You to all who were involved in making my 2010 so great, I <3 you all! Bring on 2011!

I can say # 10 for the first time in my life. My friend Angie from High School is being banded on Tuesday, because of me. A while back she sent me a private message on Facebook, asking how I was losing weight. And I told her all about the band. Below is a note she sent me last week.
Remember I am finally doing this because of you...you are my inspiration!! THANK YOU!!!

Please send Angie a message, as she starts on her amazing journey!

Cheers to 2011!!

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas!

2010-12-24T14:49:00.000-05:00

Wanted to wish you all a VERY Merry Christmas!

These are pictures from Carey's Christmas Party...they even had people there to draw you!

Wishing you all a safe and very happy holiday with you and yours!

Time for a picture post..

2010-12-11T21:57:00.001-05:00

I finally got around to uploading my Thanksgiving Day pictures..I was amazed at how much they changed even from last year. I remember Thanksgiving 09 I was THRILLED to be down 48lbs and you can tell by my smile..and after seeing pictures from this Thanksgiving..NEWS ALERT...someone has lost there booty...

Last night I went to the FIRST of my SEVEN Holiday party's I will be attending this year..YIKES! I am trying hard to kick up my work outs ( I <3 Spin!) and enjoy my self at the parties (but not to much!)

12/10 Holiday Party with my step mom

Thanksgiving 2009 thrilled to be down 48lbs (notice the booty)

Thanksgiving 2010 down 95lbs

Thanksgiving 2009

December 2010..my love and I.. and his silly faces he makes for the camera ;)

New Blogger being banded next week!

2010-11-24T20:28:00.002-05:00

New Blogger Tracy is getting banded next Wednesday, let's show her some support!
And she get's Thanksgiving as her "last meal" how lucky! ( unless she is on liquids!)

http://www.bandadventures.blogspot.com/, If the link isn't working she left the last comment on my last post.

This year I am Thankful for my health, for the first time in my life being a healthy weight (on the charts!!). For no longer needing medications due to my obesity. Good Bye Nexium, no more gurd! Good bye Metformin, no more borderline diabetes!

Hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Challenge Weigh In, 95 LB's down and a size 4

2010-11-21T09:37:00.000-05:00

My weigh in for the challenge is MUCH better than last week! I weighed in today for the Holiday Challenge 148.4, a loss of 3.2lbs this week, and a total of 95lbs DOWN!! I had pretty good restriction because of my T.O.M.

I <3 My Band!!

Yesterday I went shopping at my favorite store (J.Crew outlet) They had an additional 40% off their clearance..there had been a blazer I had been eyeballing and it was on clearance now and of course no size 8 biggest size was a size 4 for shits and giggles I brought it in to the dressing room. I almost DIED right their in the dressing room, the size FOUR fit and buttoned and get this was NOT tight.. I literally had to look at the tag 10 times to make sure it really said 4. Oh and best part I scored it for $24 I believe my workouts are really helping me lose inches!

After thinking the jacket was sized wrong I went and tried and XS sweater... I was drooling over it at $98 purchased for $32!

I did it I finally had the courage to purchase Skinny Jeans, these are Jeggings for $14! Size 8, I had to purchase the sequin top it was not on clearance but marked down to $30

Good Luck this next to all who are doing the Holiday Challenges, I am hoping to just maintain my great loss for this week!!

What I eat

2010-11-17T21:12:00.000-05:00

Lap Band Gal Did a great post asking everyone to post what they eat I am guilty of eating the same things a lot..this will be helpful maybe get some new ideas from other people.

Every morning I have a 1/2 cup of coffee with half & half and sugar or a Skinny Latte if I don't get coffee at home.

Breakfast M-F I have Chobani greek yogurt 140 cal 14 grams of protein, on the weekends my hubby makes me a sunny side up egg with a english muffin (if I am not to tight) or an eggbeaters omelet

Water I drink 3 32ounce Nalgene bottles so a total of 96 ounces a day

Snacks- Cheesestick 80 cal 7g protein or peanuts or my favorite slices of cucumber with two tablespoons of hummus YUM!

Lunch..a can of tuna with low fat mayo and pickles or a salad with a scoop or tuna and balsamic Vinaigrette or soup! ( I really need new lunch ideas) If it's crazy at work I eat a protein bar on the run 220 cal 15 g protein

Dinner- Grilled Turkey breast with squash, Chicken sausage with broccoli, turkey taco's, fish I love seafood, when I go out to eat I always order grilled salmon, turkey meatloaf, spaghetti squash with marinara that I add ground turkey too, turkey chili.

Dessert- I love skinnnnnnnnnny cow ice cream sandwiches, or yummy mint bars yum!

That's what I eat! What do you eat!!

gains, alterations, spinning galore

2010-11-14T20:31:00.000-05:00

So my weigh in for the challenge today was 151.6 that's a .8 gain BOOOOOOOOO!

This gain especially saddens me because at the beginning of the week Tuesday to be exact I saw my weight for the first time EVER in my life began with a 14 ..I was so thrilled and jazzed that I was courageous enough to try spinning..I hated and loved it all at once loved it even more that it showed I had burned 750 calories in an hour!

BIGGEST NSV that happened during Spinning class.. Instructor: Hey I haven't seen you before is this the first time you have come to my class ME: Yep this is my first time Instructor: You mean in my class?? ME no ever my first spin class ever Instructor: WOW really? you did really great! I about almost DIED with happiness..

So now that I am going to the gym I need new clothes, I was able to purchase a medium in workout pants and I went to the outlets today and the most expensive thing I bought was on a workout top!

I also found an amazing Tailor! This women is great and is helping take in suits and pants so I don't have to go buy all new stuff.. Here is a picture I snapped hemming my new Paige jeans!

This week I am going back to spin on Tuesday, I will go to 4 classes at the gym this week.And I will like I always track calories and try to stay around 1,000 to 1,100 and high protein

And I am going to try and stop ordering mudslides (it was so yummy though!)

Holiday Challenge/ My Jared Post!!!

2010-11-07T13:05:00.000-05:00

I know some people must be thinking..why are you joining the challenge? She must be nuts, she will never win!

I am obviously not in it to win it, I am in it to stay motivated especially around all the tempting Holiday treats. I am DYING to get into the 140's. My weigh in today 150.8, I am 5lbs below my goal and 5lbs from my aspirational goal and 7lbs away from 100lbs down..which I would really like to see.

I have been wanting to do my Jared post for a little while, I woke up this morning with the start of the challenge motivated and wanting to take a picture, even though I just woke and no makeup!

These are the jeans I wore every day of the last year leading up until my Surgery, they were SKIN tight on me! and I even have holes in the seams from them being stretched out.

And proof that these suckers used to be SKIN tight on me

Florida March 09/ 5 months before Lap Band

I have seemed to have fallen into a rabbit hole...

2010-11-01T21:09:00.000-04:00

So it's pretty appropriate that I was "Alice in Wonderland" for Halloween.

First let me explain that my new job, is CRAZY busy! I am not allowed to be on blogger with my company internet acess and really I don't have time for it! Non-Profit works you to the bone! I am also doing a lot of traveling with this new job as well. This job is a lot of hard work but in the long run will be great for my career.

One perk of my new job is my hours! I am out by 4:30 and walk to the downtown YMCA that my husband goes too and we workout! I have fallen in love with Zumba & CardioFusion!

I am trying really hard to break into the 140's but my scale is stuck on 153, and by no means am I complaining. Last year for Halloween I did not dress up, I did go to a pumpkin festival so I have a picture to compare too and I remember being THRILLED because I was down 30 or so lbs!

Halloween 2009

Halloween 2010

My first EVER slutty halloween Costume! (The hubby approved!!)

This journey is so much fun with the people that you meet and the friendships you develop! I had a double date with Kristen on Friday, we went to a Hockey game and out to dinner.

a couple of NSV that made me cry

2010-10-07T10:58:00.000-04:00

Tears of JOY! That is!!

I have lots of news to share!! I will do bullets!

I got a new job!! I will be working for a non profit, I believe I will be much happier helping people and my schedule rocks! I have been looking for a job since February so it's been a long time coming!!

I told my husband that I needed a new winter coat he said well last year you couldn't button it..(he is right it was a size 16 Jcrew coat that I wasn't able to button) MEN lol

December 2009 size 16 couldn't button!

October 2010 size 8 buttoned!

Next weekend I am attending a friends wedding my best friend gave me a size 6 Calvin Klein Dress to try on...I was like um this is not going to fit..guess what I was wrong..I cried on the way home from her house .I have never been a size 6

Chicago....BEST GIRLS WEEKEND EVER

2010-09-28T21:26:00.000-04:00

Ladies it was so amazing meeting you!! I wish it was longer! I am still exhausted.

I was to busy drinking martinis to take a lot of pictures but here are a few..

Angie also known as worlds greatest spooner

Views from our hotel room..AMAZING

Roomies!

Jen..I know you have the one of you grabbing my ass I want so I can frame it

A little karaoke ..

love these girls <3

Ending the night with a few rounds of champagne..he had a sexy accent to boot and Angie can tell you if he was a good kisser :)

Until we meet again....I hope it soon because I miss all of your faces!!!

BOOBS Question

2010-09-21T20:11:00.000-04:00

1) You’re trapped on a desert island and you can bring only 3 of your favorite foods along. What do you bring? 1) Rare tuna/Sushi 2) Trader Joe's pop chips 3) Starbucks Venti Skinny Vanilla latte

2) If you could meet any 3 people, living or dead, who would they be and why?
Elin Hilderbrand..my favorite author..My grandfather because I was 2 when he passed
and oh Tom Brady...(after he gets a haircut)

3) What is your stripper name? (take the name of your first pet and the name of the street you grew up on)
Buster Washington...hmm?

4) How old were you when you lost your virginity? Alternative question if you don’t want to answer this: What is your LEAST fav part of your bod since losing weight? Your MOST favourite since losing weight? I was 16 .. least inner thighs.. fav.my waist

5) Do you believe in ghosts or evil spirits? Would you be willing to spend a night alone in a house that is supposedly haunted? Yes.. maybe

6) What is your natural hair colour? If you dye it something completely different from what your momma gave ya, how come? Dirty blonde.. I highlight and color ..cause a girl can never have to much money, be to skinny or be to blonde :)

7) Boxers or briefs? Alternatively…bikinis or granny panties?
Boxers! Thongs and boy short

8) If you could only watch one movie for the rest of your life, what would it be and why? (Trilogies do not count as one movie, cheaterpantses!) PS I Love You... I just loved that movie..it made me cry hard

9) What is your guilty pleasure (feel free to go straight to the gutter with this one if the spirit moves you!)

watching Reality TV.. Jersey Shore..the Hills ETC

10) How many pounds gone forever are you celebrating?? :)
Last week 90 , today 89..damn T.O.M

Could you vote for my friend Nedah PLEASE at Lean Kitchen

2010-09-20T14:46:00.000-04:00

Hi Ladies,

I did a post a while back about my friend starting a blog. A Lean Kitchen blog, she focuses on dishes that are high pro-tein low carb. If you haven't signed up for her newsletter you should!

She has enter into a Food Blog Competion!

Please Vote she deserves it!!

Go Nedah!!

http://leankitchen.com/how-to-vote.htm

or (she is up at top lean kitchen!)
http://www.foodbuzz.com/project_food_blog/challenges/1/233?utm_campaign=pfb2010&utm_content=2&utm_medium=jswidget&utm_source=www.leankitchen.com

Thousand Word Thursday..

2010-09-16T15:21:00.000-04:00

I am noticing a trend here!

I am a very lucky girl and I love my hubby and my wedding rings..

And the coolest thing about being 90lbs down.. my fingers are smaller so it makes my bling look bigger SWEET! :)

I took this pic on our anniversary when I noticed my Diamond looking bigger..after a few cosmos

this is my manicure from last night! Essie's Rock Star SKINNY :) Love it!

Barium Swallow..anyone?

2010-09-15T17:01:00.000-04:00

Hey Ladies!!

Has anyone had a Barium Swallow? I went to my DR today and since I am a year post op they want me to do a Barium Swallow..oh I can't wait to call my insurance to see if they will cover this..ugh.

I held off on getting a fill today, even though I have been hungrier lately. I didn't want to be to tight with my period next week and with flying to Chicago!

I am getting so pumped ladies..get your party panties!!!

My new blog header! Thank You Jennifer

2010-09-10T20:32:00.000-04:00

Thank You so much Jennifer for sending me an email with this blog header!

This blogging community amazes me every single day!

GOAL!

2010-09-03T08:51:00.000-04:00

I have been quite lately...I have been keeping a secret... I have hit GOAL!!

I wanted to make sure that it was here to stay. I have seen 155 once last month and then bounced up all over the place had a nice 4lb vacation gain. And then last week I saw goal two days and a row..but I wanted to wait a week to make sure it was here to stay.

The past two mornings this is what I saw.. there are no words to say how grateful I am for my band. I thought I would be going crazy, but I am calm. I think I am calm because there is hope I can actually weigh in the 140's where I think my ultimate goal will be.

My mantra KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON :)

a package on my band anniversary...

2010-08-25T20:57:00.000-04:00

I arrived home from work on my one year bandanniversary to find a package waiting for me!

Angie made my day (along with all my wonderful comments on my blog!) and sent me a pair of J Brand Jeans!! So exciting as they fit perfectly and are a size smaller in Jeans that I am wearing now. (Excuse the messy hair and no make up as I didn't get home from work until 8:30!)

Angie you rock & I can't wait to spoon you in Chicago!!!

My ONE Year BAND ANNIVERSARY

2010-08-24T09:24:00.000-04:00

One year ago today 8/24/09 was one of the best days of my life. I was nervous and scared at this time I was hooked up to an IV and my poor hubby you could tell was nervous. They make you do a will before the hospital so it became real that there was a risk to doing this surgery. That day I was blessed with courage and hope to stop my fight with obesity once and for all.

I sit at my computer crying real tears of happiness, this year has been amazing.

I have met new friends from blogging that I have developed REAL friendships with we talk about everything our life, slime. pbs everything. I don't where I would be with out being able to BBM Kristen or Angie or my daily texts from Jenny. These girls have made my journey so much richer, I love you xo!

And to my husband who loved and supported me no matter what weight I was. He has truly been my biggest supporter and cheerleader. I love him and this journey has strengthened our marriage. I still remember the next day after surgery while I was resting that he came up and laid his hand on my back making sure I was still breathing, lol.

I have lost 85lbs I am currently 3lbs away from goal. It is my TOM and I am fighting with 4lbs of vacation weight and a crazy weekend. I have seen goal once, but have bounced all over the place. Goal would have been sweet today but no journey is perfect.

Thank You to the blogging community you are the BEST support system a girl could wish for so looking forward to Chicago.

If you are thinking about getting the band I have two words for you DO IT!

Ladies I lift my glass of Champagne to you and say cheers! What a difference a year and a band makes! Love to all xo

This is why I tell...PLEASE follow my friend on her lap band journey

2010-08-18T20:05:00.000-04:00

After my 5k picture was posted on Facebook, I had lots of people private messaging me about what was my secret..One of them an old friend from High School, so I told her sent her a lap band link and a a few blogs I follow, and received this message from her

Thanks Nicole! I am getting so excited. We did find out that our insurance covers all of the procedure. I am making my Dr appt tomorrow and getting this caboose going. I have never been this excited about anything (other than finding out I was going to be a mommy) Your blog and pictures are even more an inspiration to me and makes me realize that I am not the only one in this boat. Thanks for all your help!

My friend decided to make her own blog, please support her and let her know how amazing having a band is! http://bandedmommyjourney.blogspot.com/?spref=fb

Again this is why I tell, to simply be able to help people fight their battle with obesity once and for all.

Our second Anniversary Pictures..what a difference a band makes

2010-08-16T08:44:00.000-04:00

Our First Anniversary was a month before my lap band surgery, what a difference a band makes!! I heart my band!

First 5K Post Op

2010-08-13T13:40:00.000-04:00

Last year a week before surgery I walked a 5k race I was weighing in around 230( ish) I walked with my girlfriends and our time 1 hr 2 min, and that night I said I WILL run next year.

And I did! I am proud of myself as my friends and husband walked this year, and I decided to do it by myself and with no IPOD!

My time wasn't the greatest but I got an email from my hubby this morning titled race results and it said
"42 mins woohoo good job lady!!!"

Now I have a time to improve on! And improved my time last year by 20 minutes..helps being 85lbs lighter!!

Just bought my ticket to CHICAGO!!!

2010-08-11T21:02:00.000-04:00

BOOBS here I come!!! So very excited I purchased my ticket to Chicago. And cannot wait to meet all you fabulous ladies!!

Sorry ladies that I haven't been good about posting, I was on vacation last week and the week before was my Anniversary and dealing with my car drama.

I swear there is a black cloud following me while we were away on vacation a pipe burst in our kitchen so we were dealing with our condo association and came home to an ripped up kitchen that was inoperable.

I can't wait to do a post about our vacation and our anniversary and the best part compare photos from last year!

For now I will leave you with a picture of me on the beach the first day, before my 4LB vacation weight gain UGH.

My 2 year wedding anniversary! Wedding Pictures 7/26/08

2010-07-26T09:10:00.000-04:00

Today we are celebrating our 2 year wedding anniversary! What an Adventure it has been and will continue to be..here are some wedding pictures from our wedding day. I look back at these pictures now and feel sad, I would have loved to have had the band and lost all the weight before my wedding day! Carey always jokes that I can get my dress altered and take professional pictures again! I am hoping to renew our vows some day and have a sexy white dress to wear :)

A successful marriage requires falling in love many times, always
with the same person.Mignon McLaughlin

people make me sick

2010-07-23T09:54:00.000-04:00

I go out to go to work this morning and this is what I find! :(

My brand new car sitting on a concrete slab and the 4 rims and tires stolen worth over $4k

My new Car!

2010-07-18T14:59:00.000-04:00

Very Exciting I got a new car this weekend!! 2010 Honda Accord ex...bring on the HEATED SEATS! (well in the winter :) As for the scale a frustrating week :(

Shopping is SO much fun now..

2010-07-11T15:23:00.000-04:00

I still getting used to the feeling that shopping can now be fun! I have to keep telling myself your not a large pick up the medium. In a dress you might possibly be an size 8 try it on and see!

And news breaking...I bought shorts..I don't LOVE the way they look but it's been in the 90s-100s this past week and going to Cape Cod for vacation and August and will need to be cool!

And more breaking news, I bought a SIZE 8 dress at J Crew!!

Of course you know I am totally bargain shopper the dress at J Crew Outlet sold for over $100 and I bought it was $28! and the Shorts regularly $40 and I paid $13!

I moved my goal bag in my closet so I see it every time I go into my closet..OH so close..

Trader Joe's product RAVE!! low calorie..High protein..

2010-07-06T20:36:00.000-04:00

I just finished eating dinner and I HAD to run on and tell you about this great quick healthy dinner!!

I bought these Mahi Mahi Burgers a few days ago a Trader Joe's 110 calories 15 grams of protein! Carey cooked them on our Cuisinart Griddler.. AMAZING..we added cheese which brought it up to 220 cal 22 grams of protein, I ate it with a little tartar sauce. It tasted like a McDonald's fish sandwich! It's not every day that my hubby gives my healthy food a thumbs up!

Happy 4th..some date night pictures

2010-07-04T09:59:00.000-04:00

Hey! I wanted to wish you all a safe and Happy 4th of July!!

A few posts back I posted pictures of a gorgeous size 10 dress I bought for $15 bargain of the century!!
I finally got to wear it last week, one of our favorite restaurants was closing so our best friends went out to celebrate and eat good food for the last time! excuse the photo quality they were on my phone!

Lean Kitchen..you have to check out this website!!

2010-06-30T09:40:00.000-04:00

Hey Ladies!

My friend started a cooking blog, called Lean Kitchen. You can read about how she eats supportivley (High protein foods). Her recipes are amazing and I just had to share with you ladies as we all LOVE high protein healthy foods.

This recipe had me drooling.. check her out she sends exciting recipes almost every day!

http://leankitchen.com/pesto-faux-tucinni-with-chicken.htm

I heart Blogland, Thank You!

2010-06-20T16:40:00.000-04:00

I heart Blog land!! You ladies are amazing, the comments I received after my last post were so supportive. I wanted to let you know how your support helped me get through Thursday!
I love that I am apart of a community that supports my weight loss with the band but also of my every day life!

I have met some amazing friends in my journey BIG THANKS!

Something I need to share...My Mom

2010-06-17T13:56:00.000-04:00

This for me will probably be the hardest post that I ever write.

Two years ago today my mother committed suicide.

On June 17th 2008 it was a Tuesday, this would be the day that changed my life forever.

It was 40 days before our wedding. The last time I saw my mother was a few weeks prior in May when she flew up from Florida and threw me my bridal shower. One of the best days of my life, and now one of the saddest because it was the last time I would ever see her.

My mother had been diagnosed with Bipolar for 10 years, she probably had it a lot longer than that, hell probably my entire life.

My mothers controlling behavior throughout my entire life I feel played a part in my problems with weight. The one thing I could control was what and how much I ate. Food was my drug, it made me feel good. I still love food, I just can enjoy it and not be harming myself anymore. I am not blaming my mother for me becoming obese, but I feel in a way she definitely aided in it.

I have wanted to talk about this many times here, but today felt like the best day to me.

I am still angry, sad and every other emotion that comes a long when a friend or family member commits suicide. I am still deeply hurt, for the timing of it 40 days before my wedding, to me feels like a slap in the face. I think all the time how sad, I only had 27 years with my mother. I loved her dearly.

I still am shocked I was able to get married, I was on auto pilot until our Honeymoon where sadly I cried every day.

I will never be able to forgive her for what she did. My stepfather who had been her husband for 12 years had to find her. She also left my 9 year old sister and 3 year old brother (who was adopted from Guatemala)

Today is a sad day for me, and it will always be.

Here is a picture of my mom and I at my bridal shower

I love you Mom

bouncing scale

2010-06-13T10:58:00.000-04:00

my scale has been bouncing all over this week, last week I weighed in at 161 for hot summer meltdown, I saw 159, 160, 157 this week and now I am back at 161 UGH

So frustrating... as my goal bag just sits in my closet

Picture from date night and homemade chicken salad with greek yogurt

2010-06-06T21:25:00.000-04:00

I promised you a picture from my date night! so here it is!! It made me go into my snapfish account and go into June 09..I found a bachelorette party weekend I had gone to lots of photo's without one of me in it! And then I found 2 from a Red Sox game in June first weekend.. one that somehow I didn't delete not a full body shot, but you will get the jist!

Now here I am June smiling for my hubby.
the saddest part of this picture is seeing the next one as I know I looked at it and said take another.

this picture says so much, how unhappy I felt.

On to chicken salad!!

Rotisserie Chicken, red grapes, green onion and plain Greek Yogurt

Lunch for a few days this week! I also packed some Arugla lettuce if I wanted to have some with my salad.

Insurance has stopped paying for my FILLS :(

2010-06-04T11:36:00.000-04:00

My Fill on Wednesday went well I need at little tweak so my NP addeded .2

The not so good part of my visit was them letting me know none of my fills have been covered since January with my new insurance so I will be paying $250 per fill which will be $ 750 I owe to my surgeon.

My husbands insurance changed in January, I called and talked to the insurance in December making sure it would be covered. His employee opted for a plan that has NO baratric coverage. Now I am all types of worried, I need our insurance plan changed because what if something goes wrong with my band :(

I am on day 3 of liquids after my fill..feeling pretty good and def have restriciton!

Let hope this last fill takes me to goal!!

xo Nicole

PS Date night with my hubby I will make sure to get some pictures

Goal BAG!

2010-05-28T09:19:00.000-04:00

Getting to my goal is becoming more and more real ..6lbs away! Once I reach that goal I will do a little dance, and start using this bag that I purchased for reaching MY goal! Then I think I will continue on to what my nutrionist said should be my healthy weight 145. I have NEVER been in the 140's maybe in middle school? I still am checking blogs every day and trying to cheer you on. Things in my life have gotten hectic with the stress of my job and looking for a new one.

Memorial Day Weekend is here! My parents have a beach house in Cape Cod so most weekends we are free we are down the cape, I really really wanted to be 159. But I will TAKE my 161 and be happy and think of how last memorial day I was weighing in the 230's wearing a size 18. Today I will arrive in the cape in size 10 pants and only one bathing suit a BIKINI!

On another note, I am trying to wrap my head around almost being at my goal, I am scared. But am so ready for it!

So here is the bag I will be wearing in 6lbs! (Talk about motivation) And maybe I will resemble the model a little lol! ha yeah right!!

Hope you all have a wonderful long weekend!

my NEW little black dress..You can do side bends or sit-ups, but please don't lose that butt

2010-05-11T22:18:00.000-04:00

Wasn't even looking for a dress and stumbled upon this adorable little black dress...size 10..it's official I am down 10 sizes since getting my lap band in August. It's a tad snug, but should fit perfectly in the summer for a wedding or a special event. And best part it was $15! Gotta love TJ Max!

Baby got back! I believe my husband has been singing in my ear You can do side bends or sit-ups, but please don't lose that butt Baby Got Back was our Bridal Party dance at our wedding :)

Sorry I have been MIA...

2010-05-09T19:19:00.000-04:00

Hey Ladies! Sorry I haven't posted in a while, things in my life have been busy! And not able to be on blogger so much at work anymore.

I have had really great restriction lately (some times too tight) BUT it's showing in the scale! And I am making sure I get my protein in and shoot for 1,000 calories a day.

I went shopping this weekend and I bought a gorgeous size 10 black dress for $15 and a bikini!! (pictures to come) At the stores it was still odd for me to go to the Medium section and not the XL.

9lbs from goal..I am a little freaked out by this another reason I haven't blogged lately lol

I will leave you with pictures of me sitting not just sitting in bleacher seat but crossing my legs!!

7 Steps to Life Success...GREAT Article from Women's Health Magazie

2010-04-21T17:58:00.000-04:00

I read this in my Women's Health Magazine that came last night and these really hit home for me and thought I would share with you! These are Tips from Jillian Michaels

1. DEFINE YOUR GOAL "You have to know exactly what you're going after before you go after it" Jilliam says. Be specific. It shouldnt be " I want to lose weight" it should be " I want to be a size 6" Write it down and post it for inspiration all over your house.

2 BELIEVE IN YOUR ABILITY "A lot of times, people don't truly Believe that they can run five miles or that they are capable of losing weight"she says. Banish feelings of regret and guilt. Instead take that energy and redirect it toward a positive transformation.

3 STAY POSITIVE jillian cited a recent Nike Ad in which a woman take a dreaded physical trait "I have thunder thighs" and celebrates it. "The minute you turn around to bash yourself, reverse it and give yourself a compliment" she says. Readjusting self-flagellation inspires you to "Create experiences that allow you to believe in yourself"

4 IMAGINE YOUR GOAL "Visualization allows you to get comfortable with the possibility of change" If it's a house you want; what does it look like? How does it feel to walk through those hallways?"

5 GET EDUCATED "The reason so many people fail at weigh loss is because they don't know what they're doing" she syas. Studying up beforehand helps you "make powerful choices that effect change"

6 DON'T FEAR FAILURE "It is an intergral pard of success"Jillian says " It is part of the process and a way to learn and grow wiser."

7 GET FEEDBACK Don't be afraid of receiving constructive criticism-seek it out. Look for someone who's educated in the goal you're trying to achieve

I need to keep rereading this article and let it sink in!!!!

75lbs DOWN!

2010-04-18T19:21:00.000-04:00

Getting back to my sweet spot is helping the scale move. I weighed in yesterday at 168.5 and then saw 168 again. It's Sunday the day I change my ticker, and send in my weight for the bathing suit challenge so I am keeping it!!

I spoke to my husband about Chicago and he was very supportive so I just need to save up some money for a ticket and I should be able to go!!

Tomorrow is a very exciting day I am going to our first Red Sox game this year, so excited to be able to sit in our seats and be comfortable. Doing this 75lbs LESS than last season!! We share season tickets and when taking a lifestyles course before getting surgery we had to make a list and on my list was sitting in my Red Sox seats comfortably!

Ladies I need some good vibes I have an interview tomorrow morning at 7:30am

HOLY MOLY!

2010-04-15T13:51:00.000-04:00

I had to show you all what my scale said this morning!!

Looks like the fill I had is helping my scale get unstuck!

WOOT WOOT!

Birthday Celebrations caution food porn

2010-04-10T12:04:00.000-04:00

Here our some pictures from my Birthday celebrations! I asked my husband to crop this picture and he says WHEN was this I don't remember you looking like this, I said yep last year on my Birthday lol.
When the scale hasn't moved at a like it has done this last month I NEED to look at these pictures to see how far I have come. I apologize for not getting a good picture of me standing up. But hopefully you can see the difference!

My Best friend got me this AMAZING cake, it was 1/2 cheesecake 1/2 cake it was so amazing and I didn't have a problem with it :)

This was my dinner rare Ahi Tuna!

Fill....some cc's are missing, has this happened to you??

2010-04-05T12:45:00.000-04:00

What GORGEOUS weather we had over Easter!!!

My NSV for Easter, was over my parents and needed to borrow work out clothes to go for a walk/Jog and my stepmom says to me would you like to wear a pair of your dad's shorts and I said NO I can try yours and she hands over the Medium spandex work out pants. And THEY fit me :) take that needing dads shorts!

Had a MUCH needed fill this morning, last week I was SO HUNGRY and had barely any restriction. I asked my NP to pull out and check to see how many cc's are really in my band I am supposed to have 7.7 cc, today she pulled out 7.1cc. She said that some could be hiding in the chamber and just not able to be pulled out..Have you ever heard of this?? She gave me a big girl fill with .4 so hopefully this gives me my restriction back!

Just curious if others have not been able to find their cc's .6 is ALOT I feel like not to find, but she didn't seem fazed by this.

My birthday celebrations last week were a blast!!! Pictures to come soon

Thanks Gen!!! And it's my 29th Birthday today!!

2010-03-31T13:38:00.000-04:00

Blogger needs a Birthday calendar!! Amy W. posted that she was glad Facebook told her it was my Birthday, so I will let you know it's my 29th Birthday today.

Martinis will be had, desserets will be tried and I will not be counting my calories today :)
stay tuned for comparison pictures from my bday last year to this year

Gen graciously awarded me with a Gift Card to Victoria Secret for $50!!! Gen ROCKS!! Thank You so much!!! I was the winner of the last competition

My work rocks instead of cake we are doing a starbucks run and I am getting the Caramel Frappuccino® Light Blended Coffee 130 calories for the tall, Yummy!

100 followers! Thank You!!

2010-03-30T13:14:00.000-04:00

Thank You so much for following my blog!! You ladies have made my journey with the Lap Band so successful! And I have developed some real great friendships from Blog Land! Support and understanding is so important throughout this journey! Big HUGS xo

up close tummy pictures..ready for the challenge

2010-03-28T12:03:00.000-04:00

I think it was Gen who asked where my scars were on the bathing suit post I did.

Here they are 7 months post op! My stretch marks are getting weirder the more weight I lose UGH! But my scars are still there I had 5 incisions. I owe my scars looking pretty good from putting on Vitamin E oil everyday when I get out of the shower it's good for scars and stretch marks. I get mine at Vitamin Shoppe. After taking this picture I notice my port is sticking out and making a indent in my stomach.

Very excited to start the bathing suit challenge! Ready to kick the plateau I am on in the butt!

Was out with friends on Friday night and my husband and I were wearing striped shirts so I took this opportunity to sit on his lap, something I haven't done in a long time and I didn't smush him :)

6 Month post op Nutrionist visit ~ MedGem interesting tool

2010-03-23T12:05:00.000-04:00

Had my 6 month post op appointment today, a month late (as I was on vacation when it was orginally scheduled)

The best part when she came to get me I turned around and she said OH I thought you were a drug rep, not a WLS patient. :)

She said I need to eat more calories some days I go under 1000 and she said that can make you not lose weight.

She told me about this great machine there called MedGem that you breath into and it tells you how many calories a day you should be eating based on your Body Fat, she said if I hit a plateau that this would be great to do. She said it's $150 if insurance doesn't cover it. Interesting on the flyer it shows 2 women both weighing 153 one needs to eat 1,571 calories a day and the other 1,252. She mentioned a patient of her was told she needed to eat 2400 and was eating 1200 and that's why she wasn't losing weight.

Think you should check it out! See if your Dr office offers it.

http://www.mimhs.com/watchwt/solutions/mg-analyzer/overview/

My head needs to catch up with my scale...

2010-03-21T22:08:00.000-04:00

I have all these thoughts swimming around my brain so I figured I should blog it out.

Yesterday I had seen a lot of friends that haven't seen me in a while and I get a ton of compliments like I have been getting lately and EVERYONE keeps asking me "How do you feel?" And I pause and I say GREAT,(because I am doing great)But a part of me is thinking I am still me I still feel like me. They are asking if I feel different as a smaller person. Let's face it I do feel more comfortable in my skin, my ankles and knees don't get swollen from walking, I can cross my legs ( I still get amazed at this)

I am not sure if it is because I had WLS and they know this that they think I would feel different?

I have started to notice people looking at me, to the point I think to myself to look at my outfit make sure everything is intact. It's a weird thing to notice, having people really see you.

people are starting to be nicer to me, they smile at me, take returns easier, get more customer service. It makes me so sad that being heavy in this society we live in makes us be treated differently.

Florida Pictures last year vs this year!!

2010-03-16T21:42:00.000-04:00

We had a wonderful time in Florida. These pictures even shock me!
Tears come to my eyes on how great full I am to have this tool.
In these pictures I am a little over 70lbs down a little over 6 months since being banded.

And that my hubby loves me just the same at whatever weight my scale says.
Click on pictures to make them bigger :)

Cheers!!!

Bathing suit pictures....taken just for my blog friends :)

2010-03-14T22:19:00.000-04:00

Guess what I wore in Florida????? I was brave and put on my size 12 Bikini!

It looks sort of silly because my stomach hasn't seen the sun in a few years.

I am starting Kristen's Memorial Day Bathing suit challenge. If you haven't signed up you really should!!! I have done the past two challenges so since November and it really has kept me on track and losing at a great rate!

I cannot wait to compare this pictures with the ones on Memorial Day weekend!!

Below the Bikini photos is a picture from last March in Florida, the closest picture to me in a bathing suit with my cover up on.

My husband wanted me to show you this...

2010-03-12T12:05:00.000-05:00

I am back from Vacation and trying to get back on track with my 100oz of water and band friendly portions and food. So last night for dinner I made turkey chili in the crock pot.

My husband takes the camera last night to upload our vacations pictures. I hear him taking pictures.
I get an email this morning subject: for your band blog.
He wanted me to show you the 1 cup chili portions. I thought it was hysterical and had to share

excuse the dirty stove :)

I'm baaaaaaaaaaaaaaack.....

2010-03-11T13:10:00.000-05:00

Hellooooooooo!

I have missed reading your blogs and have so much to catch up on.

My vacation was great, spending time with my grandparents and sister and brother and stepdad. It was a little chilly in Florida,but we were able to lay out a few days and I finally went in the pool yesterday.

I will get my pictures up over the weekend..what a difference a year and a BAND makes :)

I noticed on vacation my portions got bigger and bigger as the time went on, but it's vacation right? And a lot of cocktails! I came back and amazingly only had a 2lb gain!! for a 9 day vacation I think thats great and it's currently my TOM!

I love my band!

FL on Tuesday...and nervous about vacation..and interview!

2010-02-28T15:56:00.000-05:00

Leaving 6am Tuesday Morning for vacation.. Panic has set in. Do I try to maintain, do I try to lose? Do I give myself a few lb gain?! We are staying with my grandparents and I plan on going to Publix (my favorite grocery store!!!) to stock up on my yogurts, cheesesticks, power bars etc.

I am feeling good restriction and just need to listen to my body and stop when I am full. Bringing my workout clothes along with my heart rate monitor to keep track of the calories I am burning.

I am just scared 9 days NOT on my routine YIKES!

Today my weekly weigh in was 171 lbs which is great I wanted 169 for Florida on Tuesday.. which MAY happen but I am okay with it not happening either because I am doing the best that I can!

I ALSO asked to borrow my step dads scale, I know what your thinking a scale on vacation but I feel I will feel better weighing in and keeping on track with that.

I have an interview at 8am tomorrow so think good thoughts, it's for a Non-Profit organization that I would love to work for.

6 month band Anniversary 70lbs DOWN!

2010-02-24T21:16:00.000-05:00

For my 6 month band anniversary my scale gave to me 173lbs... that's 70lbs DOWN!!

Truly Truly AMAZING.. I could NEVER have done this without the band. I have done weight watchers twice lost 30lbs once and 40lbs another time, to just gain it back. It brings tears to my eyes to think of what an amazing tool, I will have for the rest of my life.

I jumped into my Red Sox shirt for my 3 month, got into the same shirt that is big and very loose on me, tonight (forgive me bad hair day we have rain, sleet and snow in NH today)

I am in my 31 Seven Jeans, they have been in the back of my closet for 4 years waiting for me to fit back into them.

Giving my hubby a kiss..and kissing those 70lbs away

One month before surgery July 2009 at my best friends wedding

Our one year anniversary July 26, 2009, one month before surgery weighing 240lbs.

My secrets for Gen ..and a blog to keep Angie busy :)

2010-02-22T09:51:00.000-05:00

Gen I am so flattered you want my secrets..tips etc.

I feel I am really able to work my band as I think I may be at my S_ _ _ T spot, I am afraid to say it lol. I currently have 7.7 cc in my 10 cc band.

I Also want to lose this weight and get down to goal because I would like to get pregnant in July/August. The closer I get I am not sure if I can lose all this weight and then BAM get pregnant.

I also have this dream goal that I want to be in a Bikini by beach season in May! I may be a little crazy and still end up in a tankini..but a girl can dream of a black string bikini right?

I am a creature of habit I eat the same things over and over again. I don't eat unless I am hungry so some morning just coffee.. until 11 or 12 when I will have a protein bar or a greek yogurt. Some morning I am starving and need my yogurt first thing.

For lunches I have lean cuisine and Kashi meals, This post I talk a lot about my favorite foods and how I eat out of a 1 cup bowl for every meal ( I know depressing eh) or a salad plate and I am always measuring my food.
I do feel like I am dieting because I do restrict myself, BUT if I really want something I have it.(ie molton lava cake) So maybe I don't restrict myself lol? Obviously having a small portion.
When I go out for dinner I get the salmon and take home the leftovers for lunch or dinner the next day. I still have a martini or two once a week if we go out to dinner.

exercise my work hours are crazy so I do a lot of home videos 3-4 times a week. Biggest Loser, muscle, cardio kick boxing.

I step on the scale every day (it has me obsessed with it ) but if I don't step on the scale I would always gain. I always drink 100 oz (or try my hardest too)

I know I shouldn't feel that I am on a "diet" but I have a goal to meet quickly and I am on a mission.

I am having a very hard time with the scale as I get lower, but I just keep working it!

And I also pray to the scale fairy! ...some nights it works :) lmao

9 Days till Florida challenge to myself and photos from last years trip

2010-02-20T11:37:00.000-05:00

9 Days until Florida, usually vacations take forever to get here. But I feel like with the weight goal I have given myself it is quickly approaching. Currently at 175 wanted to be 169 when boarding the Airplane. So 6 lbs in 9 Days, probably a stretch but I am going to work my booty off in the exercise department and think of the 6 lbs when making food choices.

I can't wait to do comparison pictures from March 09 visit to March 10 visit.

I will leave you with what my before pictures will be eek!!

Also I may have forgotten the activities we did on Vacation but I remember I had fried Shrimp in that picture below with my Gramma. And the one with the Martini I had scallops. Am I alone at remembering what I ate a year ago?

I hope this vacation I will remember the activities, the food a little but the activities and fun more!

Valentines Pictures /caution food pics

2010-02-15T09:32:00.000-05:00

The dress I wanted to wear but had a run in my tights!

side view I should have sucked in my stomach!

My handsome husband wanted in on the photo shoot

My scallops I ate one before I took a picture!

Dessert we shared Molten Lava, worth every calorie :)

Carey and I with our Best Friends!

Hope you all had a wonderful Valentines Day!

Happy Valentines Day and oh is it HAPPY :)

2010-02-14T11:40:00.000-05:00

Happy Valentines Day Ladies!

Why can the silly # on the scale make us so happy?!? My scale is finally moving again.
What I did this week is made sure I had 100 oz of water and I guess that helped!

My weigh in today was 176.5 a loss of 4.4 lbs since last week for LOVE to LOVE myself challenge. That has my loss at 67lbs!! 50lbs since surgery woo hoo!

Tonight I am VERY excited my husband and I are going to a really fancy restaurant tonight for Valentines Day, we have a double date with our best friends. The menu looks amazing, it is a 3 course meal and they have a live jazz band. I will be sure to post pictures!

Hope you are enjoying today! Much love to you all xo

sad day..slow scale but NSVs!!!

2010-02-08T19:17:00.000-05:00

My mom passed in June of 2008 and today is her Birthday. No matter how hard I try to have a "normal" day it just turns into a no good bad day :( and tears are had.

Scale news..my scale is SLOWLY moving.

But this past weeked have HUGE NSV, I was able to zip my MEDIUM north face jacket.

Able to fit into my Arden B size 32 jeans, could zip my Sevens, but maybe in 5lbs or 10lbs to much muffin top for my liking!

And a bag of clothes I put away because they were to small, (which I have done many many times) but this time it was different I FIT back into most of the clothes!!

Staying postive and knowing that even when the scale doesn't move as quickly as we like the inches are coming off!!

Things that have helped me a long the way....And what has helped you?

2010-02-03T19:47:00.000-05:00

Hi Ladies!

I wanted to make a post about things that have REALLY helped me along the way.

Hope all these pictures aren't confusing! :) or the format!

I am really focused to get to my goal for Florida. I have been making sure I am drinking my water (80 oz) Getting my 60 grams of protein and getting in the habit of working out 3-4x a week. And have gotten back in the habit of writing down what I have been eating to make sure I am around 1,000 calories and my protein is up.

My scale, best $15 I have ever spent. I always make sure my total portion is not more than 6oz and when I am measuring chicken/fish it's always 3-4 oz.

My plates on the left, my husband's on the right. They are salad plates, makes my brain think I am not missing much! The hubby feels left out and on some occasions will eat on small plates with me :)

Next is my bowls that I use, they are exactly a cup of food, I got 6 of them at Target for $1.99, Kristen just went out and bought them after I told them about her and she measured out her chili for the week.

These are measuring scoops I have from weight watchers, I love them one is 1/2 cup and one is a full cup. Really helps me scoop out my portion correctly.

When my husband has pizza I a pull this from my freezer, It's frozen salmon from trader Joe's and is 6oz, 340 calories, 27 grams of Protein. It's delicious

During the work week for lunch I love lean cuisines! This one is one of my favorites totally band friend chicken and spinach! 22O calories, 18g protein.

And Kashi meals, this is I believe the only one that doesn't have pasta, this is delicious I believe it 280 calories and 22g of protein. Most days I can't finish the entire Kashi meal.

My favorite protein bar, Chocolate Peanut Butter 210 Calories 14 grams of proteins. I eat this for breakfast some days, always have one with me in case I need food stat!

What are some of the food/thing's that have helped you "Work" your band?????

Teeny Tiny fill and needle re call..clear liquids?

2010-02-01T12:32:00.000-05:00

Hey Ladies!

So I went to get a tiny fill, it's been 2 months since I have had one. I started getting hungier than normal so I called and they were able to fit me in.

The NP menitoned the recall on the needles, she said the old needle you could see the saline squirting out so she is glad their was a recall. She was like how did you know? I mentioned I follow a lot of blogs. The needle was bigger but felt the same.

So after every fill it's 2 days of clear liquids and 2 days of full liquids. Does this seem extreme to anyone? I can swallow pills still but I need to be on clear liquids?

Giving to the sisterhood

2010-01-30T16:45:00.000-05:00

Today I am washing clothes that are to be sent to Amy and Kristen (the next time we meet).

It's crazy that I have clothes size 8-18 in my closet. I mean I understand the 8 you always keep your smaller clothes in hopes of fitting back in them. But the bigger clothes? I had started a bag of "future Maternity clothes" am I crazy do you think a hopefully size 10 pregnant woman would wear size 16 or 18 pants? um no.

It just struck me that I am holding on to these clothes, because in the past I have lost and gained it back (and then some). Holding onto the clothes because I will need them later.
I feel that this is therapy, THIS time it WILL be different.

HAD to take a picture!

2010-01-29T09:47:00.000-05:00

Was driving behind this car and HAD to take a picture!

Happy Friday ladies!!

saying good bye to my old scale

2010-01-24T12:11:00.000-05:00

I purchased a new scale that Kristen recommended. Weight Watchers Glass Memory Electronic Scale. Even shows you how much you are down from start weight.

The new scale is spot on with the DR's scale so I know it is more accurate. It weighed me in at 182.1 this morning.

But I am sad to say goodbye to my old scale that had me weighing in at 180 this morning. I am sure I don't want to say goodbye because it is a lower weight. (DUH lol)
BUT this scale saw me at 243lbs (that weight that was just between us) and now today at 180lbs.. 63 lbs. Should I have a ceremonial burial? Or have my husband run as fast as he can to the dumpster LOL 2 scales this past week have been driving me nuts.

So I will take the 182.1 and look forward to the new scale taking me to GOAL! :)

Go in for a Fill..but I don't need one?!

2010-01-22T11:43:00.000-05:00

Today I went in for my fill and the NP thinks I am doing so well and in the "green zone" or (my sweet spot) that she wanted to leave me where I am at. And not to come back until after Florida. 8 weeks!! I hope she is right!!

NSV she told me I was shrinking :) it's the little things

Happy Friday!

My followers ROCK!!

2010-01-20T17:43:00.000-05:00

Just looked 45 followers!! How exciting!

Thank You ladies your support and following during this process has been amazing!

And I really feel the support we get from our blogs makes this journey so much more amazing and have us reach goals that we would never have thought possible.

Thank you for motivating me each and every day.

Much love to ALL of you xoxo

Weigh In...Vacation booked!

2010-01-17T17:38:00.000-05:00

Hi Ladies!

The scale has been very good to me lately! My weigh in today was 181.8, down 2.2 for our challenge.

We booked our vacation to FL, to visit my family and get a little beach time in!

So I have 6 weeks and would like to be down to 169lbs my stretch goal is 165lb if I make my stretch goal I will be 78lbs lighter than when I was there last March! That would be AMAZING!

Dinner with Jenny & Kristen

2010-01-13T22:07:00.000-05:00

So excited I got to meet Jenny and Kristen tonight at Dinner. How cool we were all banded during the magical month of August :) We are all doing great and even played dress up in the bathroom! It was so great to meet you ladies and we even talked about a trip to NYC we should have a lap band slumber party weekend!! Who's in???

60lbs DOWN! And SO excited for tomorrow

2010-01-12T20:31:00.000-05:00

Woo hoo! So excited 60lbs down. I am so excited goal finally feels reachable to me!

What an amazing tool the lap band is, and I am so blessed to have such a supporting lap band community. Each and every one of you inspire me!

I am so excited to be meeting Kristen & Jenny tomorrow night! Jenny was the first blog I started following and we were all banded in August!! And so very excited to meet Kristen we have become fast friends!

Happy New Years! Comparison picture this year vs last year!!

2010-01-03T13:06:00.000-05:00

Happy 2010, the difference of these pictures amazes me!!

woo hoo!

This is OUR year

2009-12-31T10:23:00.000-05:00

Happy New Years Eve ladies!!

I was afraid to make this post (that THIS is our year) so many years are wanting to lose weight. BUT I can say with out fear this year WILL be an AMAZING year for all of us!

This afternoon I am heading to my hairdresser, thinking of cutting a few inches and hoping that my hair becomes healthy! I have started taking Biotin and plan on buying Nioxin(shampoo).

The hubby and I are heading to my parents to ring in the new year and have a sleepover! We are expecting to get ALOT of snow this weekend!

The scale is being OH so kind this week 186.2 40lbs since surgery! 57lbs all together

Hair loss...what has helped you?

2009-12-27T12:37:00.000-05:00

Hi ladies!

Trying to get my 60grams of protein a day.

And I am still losing a lot of hair?!

What has helped you?? vitamins? shampoo?

HELP!

a "hater" on Christmas :(

2009-12-25T21:14:00.000-05:00

Holidays when we are so concerned with our water intake, not over indulging and trying not to PB at the dinner table. We never imagine facing a "hater".
My first hater experience happened today, from my Nana (stepmothers mom) who I have a good relationship with.

She says straight to my face I can't stand all those Lap Band commercials that are on TV, it's DISGUSTING!

I was so insulted, it was a slap in the face. I am 4 month post op and am down 36lbs since surgery 53lbs total.

Just sad where you need the support the most there can be ignorant people.

Gives me some fuel for the treadmill!!

Merry Christmas ladies! Thanks for listening to me vent

"Most wonderful time of the year"

2009-12-22T15:11:00.000-05:00

Is anyone else looking forward to after Christmas, when we aren't having to attend parties with all this food, cookies and cakes. I had 3 partys this past weekend and I bake truffles and cupcakes and didn't eat any of it.
Hoping I can stay strong Christmas Eve and Christmas!
Is anyone else's band feeling weird with potlucks or different things that you haven't tried before (HAM) ??!

The scale did not budge this week :(

2009-12-13T22:21:00.000-05:00

UGH!! This week was frustrating the scale didn't budge at all. I am only down .4 this week.
Really hoping this week will be better, even though I have parties to go too.

What do you ladies do when your scale has stalled??

Ladies I need your HELP!!

2009-12-09T20:38:00.000-05:00

I am invited to 7 holiday party over the next month! ahhh!

I need some band "friendly" and healthy recipes for the pot lucks I am attending.

Anyone have any ideas for me?!

I FINALLLLLLLLLY weigh less than my hubby!!

2009-12-06T15:30:00.000-05:00

Woo Hoo! I love my hubby. But it feels so nice to know I weigh less than him. He is 6'2 and has always been around 195 give or take a few lbs. I know this is a silly goal to have :) But I am sure for you ladies out there it's nice to know you are smaller than your partner (even if it's only by a few lbs)

3rd Fill

2009-12-02T18:31:00.000-05:00

Hey ladies!

Had my 3rd fill today with my NP. My doctor has us do 4 days of liquids after, 2 clear 2 full. UGH!!
Anyone else have to do this? I try to forget about it but it's hard to when people at work are eating.
What do you do to spice up your clear liquids phase?? I enjoyed some miso soup for lunch.

Pictures progress 3 months post op

2009-11-29T11:26:00.000-05:00

Tuesday was my 3 month post op anniversary. I remember seeing pictures of me with my nephew (clearly the only reason I was in a photo at all) back in May. My husband and I were on our way to a Red Sox game, hence my shirt. I know it's a little hard to tell but if it wasn't for my nephew I wouldn't have a picture of me at my highest weight(hubby distorted nephews face) And oh man it hurt to squeeze into those bleacher seats at Fenway. So looking forward to Opening Day 2010!

FIFTY!!

2009-11-29T11:12:00.000-05:00

3 month Band Anniversary

2009-11-24T21:35:00.001-05:00

Went for my 3 month nutritionist check up today, she was thrilled with my progress. I have lost 30lbs since surgery, down 48lbs total. I have lost 38% of my excess body fat. She told me I am losing at a rate that some Gastric patients lose at.
So this Thanksgiving I am thankful for being brave enough to have the surgery. Hoping to think of the Holiday for what I am thankful for, not all about food.
Stay tuned I am going to posting some pictures of my progress so far

Bandster Quiz

2009-11-23T20:44:00.000-05:00

1. How long have you been banded? 3 months (tomorrow!)
2. What was your highest pre-band weight? / Current weight now? / Total lost to date? 243/195/48
3. What is your best "go-to" food to get in your protein? fish! Low Fat String cheese
4. What is your favorite protein brand/shake? the smell of the protein makes me gag! But if I have to drink one I do vanilla protein powder with strawberries and 1/2 a banana
5. What food do you miss the most now being post-band? Bagels and Pasta
6. What is your favorite "mushy" food? Refried Beans, mashes potatoes
7. What was your worst PB experience? Hard boiled Egg, driving in a car YOWZERS
8. What has been the hardest part of this journey so far for you? when the scale doesn't move, clear liquids after fills for 2 days is killer
9. What is your best NSV to date? down 2 sizes in jeans
10. What is your top non-weight goal for your band? (top NSV maybe?) Bikini and fitting into desginer jeans!
11. What is your goal weight or size? 155lbs Size 10 or maybe an 8!
12. What band "rule" do you live by (i.e. don't cheat on)? No Bread, No Pasta, No carbonation
13. What band "rule" do you not follow as much or aren't so good at? coffee and alcohol
14. What is your goal "reward"? Jamaica in a bikini!!
15. In the spirit of Thanksgiving being right around the corner (US), what are you most thankful for, post-band? Thankful that I made the decision to have the lap band, tomorrow is my 3 month band anniversary and I feel great!

Why I chose the lap band

2009-11-22T21:32:00.000-05:00

In November of 2008, I was in my Dr. office going over test results. She had called me in because I was borderline diabetes, and I would need to go on medication. While in the office she said "You CANNOT get pregnant" At 27 years old and newly married this was devastating to hear that I was not healthy enough to become pregnant. This led me to seek out information about the Lap Band. The following month I went to an information session. And started my Journey on insurance approval, weight I needed to lose in order to get the surgery and scheduling my surgery August 24, 2009.