Ummm...yeah I can never come up with a title.

Tonight I attended a social hosted by the Austin chapter of Black Girls Run (BGR).  It was a lot of fun and I was able to get fitted an have a run test for a new pair of running shoes.  Did I need them...no...did I get them...yes.  The reason being is my running is increasing and I will need to break those bad boys in before my first race.  BTW...I've signed up for 2 5k's and I have the Austin 10/20 which is a 10 mile race with 20 bands set up along the route. It's going to be fun.  Let's just hope I'm ready. 

Our social was a kick off to our C25K program.  It's great having a group to train with if the mood so strikes me.  It won't because they usually run on Saturday morning and that is the only morning I can actually sleep in. 

The event was held at a local fitness store.  I did get a great sports bra tonight.  I'm so glad, because my last one is way to big.  I also finally broke down and purchased a heart rate monitor.  I can't wait to see the difference it has on my activity level.  The treadmills at my job have a program that allows you to sync your heart rate monitor to the treadmill so it will automatically increase the speed or slow it down based on your target heart rate.  Awesome!!!

WLS Support Group

Last night I went to my first ever support group.  True enough I have been a WLS patient since November of 2010, but I had never attended a support group.  I received all of the support I needed from the blogs...or so I thought.  I was wrong.  Being in a room with people who have gone through/are going through the exact same thing as me was an amazing experience. 

I talked non-stop...even though we all know I'm really shy.  LOL  But it was great.  I met some amazing people...who I have already interacted with some through a private FB group for Bariatric patients in my area. 

After attending just one meeting...I know I will become a permanent fixture at them all.  It's like there is so much there for me to learn and offer.  One of the awesome things they do is a clothing exchange at every meeting.  If the clothes aren't taken they are donated.  I plan on making their donations go to a better place than the salvation army and good will.  Those are great places...but how about the homeless shelter, the batter women shelter, dress for success....etc.

So how is everyone doing?  I hope all is well in your world and you are keep up the momentum of your new year goals.  I'm doing well.  Just needing to get my butt in gear with the exercise.  I'm starting the 30 day shred tonight (hopefully, I finish it this time.)  I will only do it Monday - Saturday.  Sunday is my rest day from all exercise.  If anyone has the DVD and would like to do it with me...let me know.

I get to have soft foods on January 23rd...I'm happier than a flea at the pound.

Happy New Year!!!!

It's a new year.  Are you excited?  Are you ready to make some changes?  Well as you all know I don't start my new year until my birthday.  I make my "goals" then. 

I'm super excited about 2013 though.  I love watching everyone work toward new goals...finding the thing that makes them happy and keeps them that way.

My all the time goal is to find a fulfilling job.  I want to get excited about going to work.  I need to make a difference.  However, I'm waiting on God to order my steps.

So today I'm exactly 3 weeks post-op revising my band to gastric sleeve.  Everything is going well.  I'm healing without any problems.  I am actually scheduled to workout tonight.  It's cold her in central Texas so I might have to take this workout to the living room of my house instead of the gym at my job.  I must admit I do miss my Bikram Yoga classes.  Unfortunately, the cost was just to much.  No worries though...I'm budgeting my finances to be able to pay for 1 full year of unlimited yoga.  That's my goal. 

I want to take this time to wish each of you a Happy New Year.  Last year is gone...let it go.  Today, tomorrow and the rest of the year is yours for the taking. 

A wonderful blogger has returned.  Grace has been gone for awhile, but she is back and ready to take back over her life.  She is going through right now.  Please stop by her blog and offer up your support.  Thanks!!

Ten Things Thursday

I haven't done one of these in awhile.  But I think it's just what I need today.  Thanks LauraBelle for starting this.

1.  I had my lapband removed on Wednesday, December 12, 2012. 

2.  I was revised to VSG a.k.a. the sleeve at the same time.

3.  My surgery went great.  I stayed in the hospital until Friday, because Thursday night when my doctor showed up I was feeling a little nausea so he asked me to stay.

4.  I've always hated being on liquids.  This is no exception.  I still ate it.  I will always hate it and I can't wait for it to be over.

5.  I took the kids to see Santa today.  My 1 year old (he will be 2 on New Years Day) took off running and my mom had to go catch him.  So I have a Christmas picture of on 2 of my 3 kids.  Nice.  This memory making stuff is hard as hell. Especially when the kids want cooperate.

6.  I go to my post-op appointment tomorrow.  I pray to all the WLS gods and goddesses that my diet is advance to Stage 2.  Did I mention I hate liquids.  LOL

7.  I am happy to say I paid all cash for Christmas this year.  It feels good..and it kept me from overspending.  Yup...I'm getting rid of all debt.  I want to be debt free when I start law school.

8.  I love my short hair...but I don't have much versatility as it grows out and that is boring.  I hate boring!!!

9.  That damn kid just threw a truck at me.  I'm telling yall...Bad ass!!!!

10.  Merry Christmas to you all.  May you remember that Jesus is the real reason for the season. 

Change is coming

Hello lovelies!!! 

This post is all over the place...you have been warned...

Change is coming.  The year is ending and a new year is beginning.  Many people will make promises that they don't intend to keep.  People who you thought were your friend will walk out of your life forever.  The person you thought you would always love you will move on.  Change is coming.  Change is a good thing my friends.  Let go of the past hurts and live in the present.  If someone walks out of your life...they were not meant to be there in the first place.  Keep on pushing on.

Change is coming for me too.  I'm thinking of going in another direction with my blog.  I once looked forward to logging in and talking with you all...but something is missing.  I know it's me.  So I have to find the direction that brings me joy...because I truly enjoy speaking with you.

In band related news...wow this will be my last time typing those words.  Tomorrow I lose my band forever.  Yup...big day.  There are many people who have lost their band and begin to speak negatively about it.  I won't be one of those people.  My band was an awesome tool.  I still believe the band is an awesome tool.  I think each journey is different...and I know that each person has to find their own way. 
Onward and upward my friends...this isn't the end...it's just a change!!!

In other news...a good friend of mine had a job interview today.  She is an awesome little slice of Texas sunshine.  I pray she gets the gig...because it is the perfect job for her. 

Are you all ready for Christmas?  I am.  It's even better because all gifts were bought with cash...no using credit for this kid.  My kids are really excited about Christmas.  I think I will take them to visit Santa on Monday.  I can't wait.  I'm hoping the youngest doesn't cry this year...but if he does...so what...still a cute picture. Also if you have kids who write a letter to Santa please take it to Macy's and put it int he mailbox.  For every letter sent to Santa Macy's donates money to the make a wish foundation. 

Banded for 2 years

Good morning babies!!!!  Friday marked 2 years that I have been banded.  It was an uneventful day.  My band has been completely empty since August 8th.  Three months of no restriction.  I've lost and gained the same 3 pounds over and over again.  I'm not angry. I still love my band...even though I'm having her removed next month.  Without my band I would never have met some of the most amazing women ever.  Even if our meeting is only in cyberspace...each of you have enriched my life for the better.

I encourage you to keep fighting the good fight.  For those who are stalled in their weight loss...don't give up.  NEVER GIVE UP!!!  Don't do it for your family, don't do it for your husband or kids...or to make people receive you better.  You have to do it for you...if you don't do it for you...it won't work.  Before anybody else can love and accept you...you must first learn to love and accept yourself.

I have ALWAYS loved me...sometimes to much in the opinion of my friends and family.  But I had to love myself if ever I expected anybody else to love me.  I'm still fighting the good fight...I'm still planning on meeting my weight loss goals.  It make take a lot longer than I anticipated. Then I remember it took years to reach 311 pounds...it may take years to reach 175...but I'll get there.

So onward and upward my friends.  I'm not giving up and neither should you!!!!

Peek a boo...I see you!!!

Okay.  I really need some adult conversation in my life.  I can't believe that is my title. LOL

What's going on my peeps?  How are you all doing?  I miss you so.  I'm reading blogs daily...your lives are so much more interesting than mine.  I'm reading on my phone so I don't comment often.  I have stopped reading blogs at work because they have decided to start monitoring our Internet activity.  Damn government!!!

So what is going on with Dawnya?  Not a damn thing.  Like seriously...all I'm doing is raising kids and trying to keep my head above water.  My kids are growing like weeds, which means they ALWAYS need something which means I can't shop for me.  No effing fair!!!  But they are so damn cute!!!

My husband received a promotion at work.  It's for a job he was already doing, but now he will get paid for it.  So that makes it worth it.  He is also in school working toward a undergraduate degree.  I'm extremely proud of him right now.

My band is still loosey goosey.  I will have a surgery date before the end of the month.  I will more than likely drink my Christmas dinner.  By the way...why did the damn year go so fast!!!  I can't believe it is almost over.

I have been trying to finish this year strong on the health and fitness front.  However, I have been under the weather for over a month.  Like seriously I have had the same cough for a month.  The cough was so forceful that I threw my back out.  I actually thought it was something I did at work...but I was wrong.

I'm on the mend now and determined to reach my health and fitness goals by my birthday in July. 

Okay...I guess that's it.  I will try to post more...but no promises.  Love you all and hope you are having a great day!!!

Strength, Courage and Wisdom

Strength, courage and wisdom it's been inside of me all along!!!  Those words speak to me daily.  Those words make it impossible for me to throw in the towel.  I will not give up on my dreams, my goals on me.  I have the strength, courage and wisdom to make it all happen.  Sometimes it takes longer than anticipated...but I'll get there.

Monday I pulled a muscle in my lower back.  Not sure how...I was at work filing...nothing strenuous...but bam...I was unable to stand up straight.  I finally broke down and went to the doctor yesterday.  She gave me the "good" medicine.  LOL  That crap knocks you on your ass.  Unfortunately, I can't take it while at work...and lawd knows I'm in pain right now and wish I could. 

In other news I'm starting a 7 day challenge on Sunday (if my back cooperates).  This challenge includes a meal plan for the week and 6 days worth of exercise.  I'll keep yall posted on how things go. 

Nothing to report in band news...it's still in there and it's still empty.  I've decided to have a revision procedure done.  I'm going through the process of getting all of my ducks in a row so when it's time to submit to my insurance there will be no need for a denial.  I'm prayerful that I will have my procedure done in the month of December. 

I hope everyone is having a great week.

SMOOCHES

A dollar makes me holla....

...actually I need more than a dollar to holla, but I loves me some Honey Boo Boo and that is her saying.

What's up my peeps?!?!  So I lost some followers after my last post.  I don't know who...because I don't keep up with who follows me.  However, I wish them nothing but success in whatever they do in life.

Now on to my money issues.  I LOVE TO SHOP!!!  This is not typical shopping for many females.  This is nonstop...I gotta have it shopping.  Online at work...online at home...in the stores...thrift stores.  It doesn't matter.  I always "need" something.  Ugh...it is ridiculous on so many levels.  My shopping has put my finances in a tail spin of fuckedupness (I know it's not a word).  Has that stopped me from shopping?  Nope.  Now I shop...bring it home...try it on...take pictures for future references...then I take it back to the store.  Don't judge me!!!!!! 

I swear 'fo buttermilk if they had a big girl strip club here in Austin...I would jump back on the pole to feed my addiction.  LOL

On a serious note...why the hell do my kids grow every month.  Like seriously...nothing fits them this month that fit them last month.  I bought a sewing machine to learn to sew...but they are still growing while I'm learning.  It's funny...because they rarely leave the house except to play...so they are always in too small stuff.  LOL...I take pictures and send them to their Godmother so she can feel sorry for the them and buy more clothes.  Manipulative...I know...but read the above statement about my financial fuckedupness.

Okay...exercise sucks ass...time to change it up a bit...again. However, I believe you should keep changing it to keep doing it when it starts to be a chore. 

I hope everyone is having a fantastic week.  It is my "Friday".  Yippie!!!  I wish I could sleep in tomorrow...but I have 3 Dr. appointments and a 5:45 am yoga class.

Delete me if you must...

Yeah...I might lose some followers after this...and I'm fine with that.

I'm reading a lot of blogs from people who travelled to Chicago this past weekend.  I'm seeing a lot of complaints about people not talking to them or being standoffish.

Well who gives a rats ass!!!!  I made sure to speak to, hug and shake hands with everyone at least once.  After that....whatever!!!  Life is what you make it...your weekend should have been about you.  I'm sorry, but I don't feel the need to go above and beyond to speak to anyone.  If you just stand there and stare at me like I'm a science experiment...then no...I don't want to talk to you.  I'm not about to kiss your ass to be your friend.  We are all adults...this is not elementary school...grow the fuck up.

On a more positive note.  It was a great weekend.  Some of the ladies that meet were a little shy...which could be expected.  All of the women looked BEAUTIFUL!!!! 
There were ladies there who I don't follow on the blogs...and I didn't know it.  I will start to follow some...others not so much. 

I hope everyone is having a great week!!! 

What I've learned this week

This week I have worked hard on getting and staying on track with my eating.  Of course it is easier said than done.  However, I can attest to doing a great job.  I did learn something though.

Having a completely empty band does not allow you to get full on 1 to 1 1/2 cups of food.   Nope.  No matter how hard I tried...bandster portions were not enough.  I measured everything and brought enough for the day...or so I thought.  I would get hungry exactly 1 to 2 hours after eating.  The next thing you know I have eaten all of my food for the day...and the day is only half over.  Needless to say it has been a rough week.  There have been a couple of trips tot he vending machine.

Next week I will plan my foods for my empty band.

Hope everyone has a great week.

P.S.  I hate the new blogger.

I choose to live!!!

Often times I try to remember why I decided to take this journey.  Then I remember that I was on a fast track to killing myself.  Although I was morbidly obese I never had any health issues or scares.  But how long would that have lasted?  I knew that I was not going to make it if I kept eating my life away.

My kids coming into my life was the deciding factor.  I had to live for me...but more importantly I had to live for them.  I choose to live and I'm glad I made that choice.

I say all this to say...that since my band is empty I have been eating like the old me.  The me who didn't care.  The me who didn't know when to stop.  It is such a slippery slope and easy to go back to the way I was. 

I refuse to be that person again.  I refuse to give up.  I choose to live...now it's time I did just that...live.  I'm taking back my health...one bite at a time. 

Exercise...no problem...eating...national disaster. 

It isn't easy...but I will never give up...every time I fall...I will stand back up...and keep moving forward. 

I hope you do the same.

WassUp?!?!

Okay...so I've been absent.  Shit happens.

I've decided I need to get back to logging my food...because honey...it has been a sin and a shame around these here parts.  I work out 5 times a week...but it doesn't matter if you are getting crap.  So I'm back on my hustle.  I log with my/fitness/pal.  If you want to be friends my handle is: lynnd719

Let's share our food sins together.  LOL

Other than that...nothing special going on in my life.

Maybe I will post something more important next time.

Tired of excuses

I've made all types of excuses last week of why I couldn't exercise...and I didn't.  It's a shame and a sin.  Now today I'm sitting here feeling extra plump.  LOL

Well this week I will get back to my regularly scheduled program.  At leas 5 days of activities this week.  No bullshit.  I might even try to get off the sauce (sugar) again. 

Here's to a healthy week. 

It's a new day

Today is a day that you can get it right.  Everyday is a time to start fresh.  Stop beating yourself up about what happened yesterday or last night...it's over...the past can't be changed...it's the past...let it go.

Have a great week!!!