I had to go to a conference for work. I knew the territory would be fraught with obstacles for my 1500 calorie diet and I did exceed the calories for 2 of the 5 days, but all in all, I am not going to beat myself up about it. I gained 2 pounds...but I returned home and I am right back on track.
I know that life is going to present these obstacles from time to time.....I think the difference is not letting that completely derail me as I have done in the past. The comraderie of the conference meant having a few cocktails with co-workers and a few desserts (only half) that were served with the provided conference meals. It was a challenge because it was a served lunch, not a buffet that offered salads and lean protein/veggies. Everything was stacked....rice or potatoes on the bottom, a veggie and protein on top with sauce. I separated where I could and left behind most of the starch.
I know the holidays are coming. I'm going to use some new low-calorie recipes to make the most delicious Thanksgiving menu. I am not giving out candy this year for Halloween. Last year we got like one child trick or treating....so no chocolate and candies around to tempt! I actually have an Options class that night (a make up class from missing due to the conference) and it's a good thing.
Do many of you struggle with events? How do you handle the holidays?
Well, I am definately one of the new kids on the block. I've been checking out the boards & topics and the blogs. I'm starting to feel like this is a place that will be a great way to connect with others that are considering or have gone through VSG surgery.
I'm in week two of a 12 week pre-op program with Kaiser - Southern California for VSG. I go to classes every week, one week with the behavioral therapist and the next with the nutritionist - back and forth. There are about 25 people in my group. I was put on a 1500 calorie diet and so far, so good. I've been doing Weight Watchers since summer, so it's not so different. I've lost about 14 pounds since mid August. The Options program at Kaiser asks that you lose 10% before surgery - so we are all working it!
I have already felt so much encouragement just by reading your stories and the various educational threads.
I'm 56 and I work full time for a large public University. I have 3 young adult children and 1 grandson. My kids have mixed feelings about me entering this program, both from a standpoint of concern for surgery, and I also think that they have only really known me as their overweight mom, but beautiful in their eyes. I feel good about myself - from the inside, and I know I have a great smile and a heart of gold, but my weight keeps me from feeling that I look my best, and I would love to have more energy and more longevity.
I look forward to this journey of mine....
Katie