Family pictures taken 11-28-10

Recent Pictures Of Me

Here are 3 more pictures of me. One taken in September with my Grandma Magsam in Wisconsin. This was a very special time for me. She did not recognize me, but did remember me! She kept saying "You aren't Eydie, you don't look like Eydie looks".

The next picture is Shelby and I when we went to St. Paul. A whole day of walking, and I did fine! Amazing what a difference 168 lbs makes! So glad I didn't have to carry all that for the day!

The next picture is one that has made quite the stir!!! I am always cold now! These are the greatest jammies! I feel like I should be in hunting camp though! Haaa! But they are so cozy and warm!

12-12-10 Up-date!

Just stopping in to give an up-date! Yay.... still on my journey! My weight now is 155 lbs! So I have lost a couple more since I last posted. I am feeling wonderful! I don't know if I will actually make my personal goal of 150 lbs or not, but that is ok. I am now 5 lbs below the goal that the doctor set for me. I just need to measure my success in how I feel, and the things I can now do that I wasn't able to do before, also the state of my health!

Just think of where I was last year at this time! I had my surgery on December 7, 2009! Just a year ago! I was in the hospital for 5 days. I was feeling SO awful at that point, but... was NOT sorry I had done it at all! I just tried to stay focused on where I knew I could go! Now... here I am. But, like I have said too... now it is KEEPING it off... staying healthy for the long haul! But, no problem, I am ready for the extended journey!!!

I also have wonderful news to bring your way! I am now a new student of North Dakota University-Grand Forks! I am taking Dietary Management-Medical Nutrition! I am doing the classes via Mail(correspondence school). It has been interesting trying to get back into the study mode, trying to zone into the schooling again, but I am really excited about it! I have been working with the hospital and clinic already, helping with some of the nutrition classes, and I really enjoy it! Nutrition has become a passion of mine now, so I really look forward to furthering my education in this direction!

Well, I hope each of you are enjoying the Holiday Season so far! Remember, with all of the parties going on, there is such a focus on foods, with the cookies and candies laying around! Try bringing a fruit or veggie platter. Make up a dip with Plain Greek Yogurt & a packet of Ranch Dressing. Mix and let sit in the fridge so the flavors blend, then serve! Yum, and with the Greek Yogurt, it is higher in protein! This is the perfect time to also remind you of my saying.....
*****NOTHING TASTES AS GOOD AS BEING HEALTHY FEELS!!!!!*****
All for now my Dear Family and Friends, my wonderful support system! Each one very special to me!!! Thank you!
Love.... Eydie :-)

11-10-10 Down yet another pound!

At this point, I am really not trying to lose any more weight. I really want to maintain, but I am now down 166 pounds from my highest. I now weigh 157 pounds, so that still is not skinny! I am 5' 7" tall. My personal goal is kind of set for 150 lbs... but will just see if we get there.

I am feeling so healthy! I am able to exercise now. Able to move, to feel alive again!

I am sure enjoying my place at the clinic and hospital here in Park Rapids. Helping with the Bariatric Department! I help out with the nutrition classes, visiting with other bariatric patients, etc. Pretty much where, and as they need me.

Well, I hope this is finding each one of you doing well. We are into November here nicely, and sure have had great weather! It is cold and rainy tonight, but that is ok... at least it's not snow! :-)

You take care everyone... more next time... love you... Eydie

Nov. 2, 2010 Back On-Line!

Hello My Dear Friends, Family, and My Wonderful Supporters!!!

I have been without my computer for awhile. Thankgoodness for my cell phone, but haven't been able to up-date my blog through that. But I am still on my program! 100%!!!

I am still 2 lbs below my goal that the doctors had recommended (160 lbs)... so I still weigh 158 pounds! I am feeling fabulous, so heatlhy still.

Yes, I perodically check my blood sugars, and they range from 80-95. My A1C is 6, that is down from off the charts over 15. My BMI is now 26, down from off the charts over 55 before! I take NO prescription medications! Just my daily vitamins!

I no longer journal my foods every single day... but again... perodically I will take a day and write every single thing down that I eat... just to see where I stand as far as calorie intake, protein intake, etc. I am always right in the range. I get at least 65 grams of protein a day. Around 1000 calories a day. Fluids are about 80-90 ounces a day.

I no longer weigh and measure every single thing I eat anymore... but again... perodically, I will take what I've set aside to eat. For example... I might dish out a half cup of yogurt, or cottage cheese... or maybe 2 ounces of chicken. Then I will get out the measuring cup, or my trusty scale, and see just where I am at. I am right on... so I am glad I still do that! I want to get what I need... but yet... my portions could gradually grow also, so I need to be careful!

I feel extremely confident that this is where my life is going to be! My eating habits really have NOT changed since I hit goal. I have NOT added any of the foods or drinks that I avoided before. I eat no breads, no pastas, no cakes, candies, or drink pop... caffeine, carbination, etc! These are foods and drinks that did NOT benefit me before, and I just do NOT want to go back to that point either!!!

Some people have re-added items to their diets once they've reached goal, and if they choose to, and are able to handle it... that is fine... but I have chosen not to, I feel SO good... which brings me right back to MY saying....

**Nothing Tastes As Good As Being Healthy Feels**

So.... I am maintainig my 165 pound weight loss!!! This is going to be the biggest part of it. The journey down through the pounds was incredible... but, it is going to be the day in and day out, the long-haul of maintaining that is truly the most important part!!! But again, I am very confident that I WILL be successful in keeping it off. I have a fabulous support system here with each one of you! Thank you... from the very bottom of my heart, it really does mean everything to me!

I have been doing volunteer work with the Bariatric Department at the clinic and the hospital. Working with the nutrition classes, visiting other patients that have gone through the surgery, and anyone that has questions about the journey in general. I have been helped SO much, so I want to do what I can in helping others be successful as well.

I have extremely special news to share... My Dad & Mom have moved back to Minnesota from Prescott Valley, Arizona! They will be living in Bemidji, Minnesota, about 55 miles North of us. (So much better than 2000 miles South) I am SO glad to have them back!

Well everyone, thank you again! Special love from Park Rapids, Minnesota!
Hope you are keeping warm and are enjoying the beautiful crisp days!
Love, Eydie

9-12-10 More pix

My precious kids and I..... this is just one of the reasons why I have lost the weight and have gotten healthy... for my kids!!!! But most importantly, for myself!!

Before & After Pictures!

Well.... I just wanted to add some pictures here to show the differences again! It seems just so strange even for me to look at these pictures! Was that really me? Really? Also... Is this really me now??? Really??
This is great motivation for me though.... I DO NOT WANT TO GO BACK TO THAT!!!!!! EVER!!!!!
So, starting weight was 323 lbs. Todays weight 159 lbs. Total loss 164 lbs!!! I now weigh less then what I lost! INCREDIBLE!!!!

I AM AT GOAL!!!!!!!!!

I have made it! I now have lost 164 pounds total!!!! I have lost 115 lbs since December 7, 2009 (9 months).... and the 164 since June of 09.
I cannot hardly take this in... I now have lost MORE than I weigh. I know I have not used any actually weights in these writings. I have not posted my beginning weight or present weight... but I am ready to share with you, as it really is amazing I feel!!!

My highest weight:
June 2009 ~ 323 lbs.

December 7, 2009 ~ Day of surgery ~ 274 lbs. (49 lbs lost)

September 8, 2010 ~ Hit goal ~ 159 lbs. (164 lbs lost)

The doctors finally set my goal at 160 pounds, (I am 5'7" tall) and on September 8, I weighed in at 159!!! I was SOOOO excited!!!

I was asked by a dear friend "Now what? Do you get to eat regular foods now that you are done?" Oh my sweetie... I am just beginning really! Yes... I have a great start, but... the journey is FAR from over! I will not be changing anything. I still eat my proteins, fruits and vegetables! The proteins & produce! The weight loss is really just leveling off on its own anyway, so don't think I'll have a problem with continuing to really lose. I am eating more calories in a day now. Somewhere around 800-900 calories a day. I really don't get hungry yet. Yes, there are times that I do feel the hunger in my tummy, but then I look at the clock and realize that I do need to eat something. But I can STILL honestly say that I am doing everything that I am suppose to... and not doing anything that I am not suppose to!!! I do realize that there are just things... foods that I cannot let back into my life, ever!!! They are not good for ANYONE... but especially me... so I want to be strong, and keep my body healthy!!! I AM WORTH IT! Only the very best nutrition is for me now!

Can you believe, that since my surgery, I have not had ANY pop, No candy, No potato chips, etc. The best part? I don't even miss them. I see those foods as complete junk! They really are so gross! They are NOT good for me... or anyone really!!!

Yes, the weight loss is awesome, being thinner feels fabulous, buying a different, more fashionable wardrobe is great... but... being healthy again... well... just hardly any words to describe it, it is WONDERFUL in every sense of the word! Just no feeling like it! To be able to breathe, walk, move, talk, etc... I don't have to worry every single time I walk into a room, Where will I sit? Will the chair hold me? Will I fit IN the chair? Will I be the biggest one in the room? Wondering what is being said about me... cuz I KNOW things ARE being said! Not caring... but oh yes, really I do care, and even though I smile, and chat along with everyone.... inside I am crying, hating myself for the way I look, the way I have let myself get to this point, and on I go!

But now... things are so different, and this is just the beginning! No I am not "done" with my program, I am LIVING my new life, every day, every meal! I have said it before, but I will say it again.....
NOTHING TASTES AS GOOD AS BEING HEALTHY FEELS!!!! NOTHING TASTES AS GOOD AS BEING THINNER FEELS AS WELL!!!!

Well, my great team.... I am going to keep this blog going as I can. I want to continue to share my journey with you. It is an ongoing process! In a way, this is going to be the testing period, to KEEP the weight off! So hopefully, by learning the ropes in these last 9 months... it has given me a firm hold, so I just need to keep my grip tight!!!

I want to say again.... your support has been grand through this all. Thank you SOOOO much! Please continue keep me in your thoughts, I need your support, I appreciate it SOOO much!
Love to each one... Eydie =)

8-20-10 Still on my journey!!!

Well... I am still losing... slowly, but surely! I hit these little plateus, but then it just starts coming off again. Yesterday I lost 1 pound, but then today I lost 3 pounds! Wow.... well... to say the least I was SO excited... I was psyched!! Now just a few left, and I will be at my goal! This is so incredible... I have lost weight through the years... quite a bit at times even, but have never come close to my goals! Now.... even though I am close to goal.... the journey is FAR from over... really it will be for the rest of my life! The true work is every single day! Maintaining a weight loss is just as important as the road down! I have full confidence that I WILL be able to do it though!!!! I have tried to understand the different things of those that have not succeeded... what happened... what went wrong... etc! I try to be such an optimistic person... but I want to learn from these things... so it doesn't happen to me! I am very involved in this program with other people too... so I think that will help me too! In helping even one other person... I am helping myself. Nutrition has become a passion for me, so I am looking forward to spending more time helping others with this as well.
So I am now at -159 lbs lost total, and -110 lbs lost in the 8 months since surgery! Wow.... just hard for even me to think about this! I really am so happy!! Incredible to feel SO healthy again!!
So my Dear Team members.... once again... thank you for your fabulous support here! It sure helps to know I have my team right here next to me.... holding my hand along the way! I love you all.... Eydie

8-8-10 Now 155 total!!!

Wow... and now that I've broken my plateau, I am losing again! Here I am 245 days out of surgery... that is 8 months! In that time I've lost 106 lbs, for a total of 155 lbs! It seems every day I am feeling better and better! I am still not eating ANYTHING that I am not suppose to! NO caffeine! NO carbination. NO sugars! Now that means I have NOT had even a SIP of pop... of any kind! NO candy! NO cakes! NO cookies! Nothing but good nutrition for me!!! I eat proteins, fruits and veggies!

How about my exercise? I am still working out as I can. I go to the gym here in town. Anytime fitness. I don't get there as much as I'd like to with the kids not doing too many activities the month of August. But... even though I am NOT looking forward to school starting on September 7th... it will be a time for scheduled routines! I will surely miss being with my kids everyday all day... but they are actually ready. So, when I drop them off at school in the morning, then my plan is to go straight to the gym from there!

Thank you again my great team!!! You're the best!! Love, Eydie

7-30-10 Still plugging away!!!

Well here I am just finishing up my 7th month out of surgery! I have hit another plateau. I have lost 102 lbs since surgery for a total of 151 lbs! I am feeling very good, so healthy, just amazing to feel alive again!

I am still exercising as I can. Going to the fitness center here in town (Anytime Fitness). I have been very slowly working my way up. I sure can tell that I have been out of shape for over 20 yrs! But.... little by little gaining muscle, and endurance! I am toning, strengthening, and building resistance! It really does feel great to be healthier.

I am still being hyper sensitive about what I eat also. I eat my proteins, fruits and vegetables! I eat no breads, no pastas! I just want to be SO careful to only put the best quality foods into my system! I want to be my very healthiest on the inside... as well as the outside!

Here is just another humorous little tid-bit. This is the first summer that the heat has not been a problem for me! In fact... I am actually freezing most of the time! I carry a sweat shirt in the van with me, and wear it many days! Also.... I end up wearing a sweatshirt here in the house too. With the A/C going for everyone else, I am just too cold, but that is just fine with me. This is the very first time the summer heat hasn't kept me at home, or seated in the van, while the others are out doing something!

It has been so fun to be able to shop now as well. I can go into a store, and just find something that catches my eye (yep, usually it's purple)! I have gone from the biggest size I could buy practically, to a basic Medium! A size 14. I can hardly believe it myself! I haven't worn a 14 since, well... don't even remember! As I lose even more, it may even end up being a 10 or 12!!! A new fun thing for me now.... buying skirts! I have worn dresses for YEARS! Now I have bought a couple of skirts... and even 2 jean skirts!!!

I am also still going to all of my surgery support groups, and the weekly dietary groups. I just want to make sure that this is front and center in my life! I just don't want to lose sight of where I am, or where I am going! Yes, I have 22 lbs yet to lose to get to my personal goal weight, but really.... that is when the test will start... keeping the weight off! This truly has to be a way of life!

Well... once again, I want to thank each one of you. Those of you who send your support, who follow me here, those of you who stop me in the stores... thank you so very much for your encouragement! It really does mean everything to me! It is very nice to know I have so many people rooting for me, cheering for me, so happy I am healthy again! Thank you!!!!

All now... until next time.... love to each in your own corners of the world!
Love... Eydie =)

More Comparison Pix

This is what one year can do. In fact... just less than one year! The bottom picture is taken June 28, 2009. This is one of my high school friends, Cheryl. We have reconnected through facebook, and I have really enjoyed our time together again. Her 2 boys are the same age as my 2 kids!
The top picture is taken this year... on June 19, 2010. Wow... when I look at these pix... I just can't hardly believe that this is really me. Was I really that big...and have I really lost this much weight????

7-3-10 151 lbs lost!!!

Well.... my Dear Family and Friends... my Team! I am still on my weight loss journey here! I can honestly say, it is going great! Yes, it is a full-time job... it has to be a constant way of life... forever front and center in my mind! I keep a food journal every single day (this is day #209 since surgery, and I am on my 4th book). I read labels, and keep track and think about every single thing that I eat!
I am feeling very good! I know so much of it is not only the fact that I've lost 151 lbs now (102 in the 6.5 months since surgery)... but because I am eating real foods! No junk is going into my body at all, and I know that helps tremendously!
I was to the doctor again on Thursday for my 6 month labs. Everything came back wonderfully!!! My blood sugar numbers, cholestrol, trigliceroids, the whole thing... everything is NORMAL!!! It is just amazing! Can hardly believe that just 7 month ago, I was in a completely different situation!!! I was taking 2 kinds of insulin, 4 times a day, my numbers on every single issue were completely out of whack!!! A few weeks before surgery, I was seeing the doctor and nutritionist, and I was actually crying because I was afraid I would die before I could have the surgery!!! I don't know if I have written that here before or not, but I know I haven't told that to very many people!!! I was SO unhealthy, and SO afraid that I wouldn't make it to surgery, to get the help that I needed! Yes, my kids and some family was afraid I would die on the table, die due to the surgery, but I knew I would die if I didn't have it!!! The surgery hasn't completely cured me... but it has given me the tools I surely needed to help myself!!! I know that the success or failure of this is up to me, and there is NO WAY, that I am going to let some kind of junk food hinder my health now!!! NOTHING tastes as good as I now feel!!!!
I am having fun with some new clothes as well. Kind of interesting, finding the kind of styles that I like. For SO many years... I haven't had any style... I have just had to wear clothes that fit, usually the basic tent type dresses! I was just lucky to find something that fit, and even luckier if I could find it in purple! :-) But now, I have been given a few things, and some are maybe a little "form-fitting" or maybe have a "waist". Seems pretty odd to me! I don't want to dress in kids stuff, or try to wear teen type clothes, but I can have fun things!! So this part of the journey has been fun and freightening at the same time!
I am enjoying part of the "giving back" now also! The clinic has called me a few times now, and I have gone to visit a couple of patients that are having trouble with their journey. Just trying to help them... motivate them... encourage them, etc! Just like all of you here have helped me in so many different ways! My team at the clinic is now encouraging me to go on-line to get my dietary technical degree? Not sure yet what that all will entail, but it is called DTR and I can do on-line schooling for that, then I can teach classes, etc. I am very excited to see where that will lead me! Right now I am attending nutrition classes every Wednesday, and then the support groups are Thursday evenings, 2 times a month. I am able to help out with the Nutrition classes, and I really enjoy that!
Well... my Dear Team.... thank you for your continued support here! I truly appreciate all of your enthusiasm along the way in my journey. Love ya all!!!
Eydie :-)

June 15, 2010 -145 lost & counting!

Still losing!!! I have now lost 145 lbs total! That is -96 since December 7, 2009. I am still feeling amazing! It seems I just don't stop long enough to get to my computer as often now! I don't nap anymore. I am able to go all day long with the kids, running errands as I need to... work on the house, etc! Yes, I do feel tired at night... but still tend to go to bed too late! (as right now it is pushing 1:30 in the morning). But... the tired, is a good feeling! I have my 2 kids that I need to keep up with! Ha... I have always said that Benjamin was 10 steps ahead of me, but now... he's only 5 ahead of me, and I am catching up!! =)
I am still going to the Anytime Fitness Center here in town! I am really actually enjoying it. It seems the strength training and stretching part of that is improving the most! As for the walking, the speed and distance is improving too! Just all the way around, I am feeling great! It's been 6 months now, but it has really gone fast, and I have learned SOOO much. So much about healthy eating, so much about myself, good things to a better life! It hasn't been easy, but it really has been good for me!
Thank you again... each one for your fabulous support! I really do appreciate each one of you so much!
Until next time... love to all! Eydie

140 pound difference!!!!

This is an incredible journey! One I am on with each one of you! It is a tough road... but the ride is well worth it!!! With each mile I go, the better I feel!!!
Thank you everyone!!! Hope you all have a beautiful, and wonderful weekend!!!
Love, Eydie =)

Comparing pix!!! Seeing the difference!

Ahhh.... the proof is in the pictures!
The first picture is me at my highest weight. I want to cry when I look at this picture now! I am usually happy, but I was tired here, and you can tell... I really am NOT happy at all!
The second picture was taken December 7, 2009... the day I had my gastric bypass surgery! My dad and I. I had already lost 49 pounds!
The third picture was taken in May when they were here! I have now lost 91 pounds since surgery. 140 pounds from the beginning!
Thank you each one for your part in helping me to succeed!!!
Love you all.. Eydie

6-3-10

I just have to post this picture! My Sis-In-Law Lora sent me this Happy Face T-shirt from The Bahamas! She said it would be great from exercising in.. and yes... it does work great! Thank You!!!
I have now lost 140 pounds! WOW.... yes, I am SOOOO excited! I do have a little bit left to lose, really don't know just how much yet, but still on the downward slope! I have not set a goal yet, as I want to just wait and see how I feel. I am 5'7" and my papers say the low end is 120 lbs, and the high end is 150 lbs. So... will wait and see when I get close to that... but I do think 120 would be too low?!?!
Anyway.... I am still working out at the Anytime Fitness Center here in town. I am starting to really feel a difference now. Doing the walking and the bike. But also the resistance and strength training too, and it is helping the muscles, toning and getting stronger. I had been doing some things here at home, but guess I just didn't have the right equipment.. or just wasn't doing it right... or long enough... or... whatever! But... it seems to be helping so that is the main thing.
It sure feels good too, having better health, more energy, etc. Able to work more around the house, feel better with the activities of the kids too. Not tired all the time! I used to say my kids were always 10 steps ahead of me. Well, now they are only 5 ahead of me, and I am catching up! =)
Well, all for tonight. Hope this finds you all doing good in your little corner of the world! Thanks again for your love and care and encouragement! It means the world to me!!!!
Love to all! Eydie

5-28-10 My dad was in MN

It has been SOOO nice having my dad here in Minnesota! We had seen him and my wonderful step-mom Glenda when we were in Arizona in March. But now... they are on their own road trip with their truck and camper.

I am still feeling great! I have now lost 139 lbs! That is 90 since December, for the total of 139. I am doing better with my fluid intake also. Trying to keep myself hydrated. I have gone back to a couple of my protein shakes so I can count that as part of my fluids. I have very little dizziness now, so that is nice!

I have started going to the fitness center here in town. The Anytime Fitness. I was using my treadmill and bike here at home.... but I can do so much more at the fitness center, strength training, able to tone up a bit more. The weight has been coming off slowly but surely... and the body is just toning up a little at a time, but I just feel so good!

I have checked my blood sugars a few times, and pleasingly.... the numbers always range between 80-90.

The weather has been SOOO nice now here in Minnesota! I am SO ready for the summer. It has been pretty nice... being able to work outdoors... working in my flower beds again. I haven't really done any of that for about 3 years now! So nice to be back amongst the living! Also... able to be out and about with the kids. I had gotten so if we had plans and activities in the evenings, then I would have needed to sleep more during the day, just to keep going for the evening. Also I am able to do more here in the house. Today, I tore apart Ben's room... moving the furniture, vacuuming, etc. Yes, I am tired tonight, but it does feel SO good to be ABLE to do it! Also... it was about 85 degrees today, and I didn't even have the air-conditioner on!!! I had the windows open, letting the breeze blow through the house!

My kids will be out of school on June 3rd. So, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday of next week, then they are home for the summer! Well.... home... but we have lots of activities already planned! They are in baseball right now... then a summer basketball program, and swimming, etc!

Well my wonderful team.... I want to let you all know once again... just how much I appreciate your support, your advice, your encouragement, your calls and emails, etc!!! They truly means everything to me!!!
All for tonight.... hope each of you are doing well, and enjoying the absolutely beautiful weather!!!
Love to all... Eydie

5-17-10 Week 23 pix

Wow.... now 23 weeks have passed since surgery! That is 5 months!!! Since my surgery I have lost 88 lbs, for a total of 137 lbs lost! It is kind of a strange feeling at times! Is it really me? Have I really done this? Have I actually had surgery? Just still very new emotions! I have to tell a little story here. I was at Walmart yesterday, pushing my cart, and I walked by a full length mirror. Fine, but.... the weird part was, I didn't recognize myself, I thought it was someone else! "Oh, I think I know that lady" Yikes... like I said... weird!!! I will have to say, I am enjoying buying clothes again. I am only buying a few things at the thrift stores so far, as I am still losing, but... I can just walk in and find something off of a regular rack!!! I am now wearing a regular Large! Yes.... there are no X's in front of the Large either!! Just a plain large size! How fun is that??? So... yesterday when at Walmart, they were selling off their winter stuff... sweatpants, sweatshirts, etc. So I did buy a pair of purple sweatpants... in a size medium!!! Yes... getting ready for next fall. I didn't notice, but I think the only color they had was the purple... like I said, I didn't notice any other colors! =) They were really nice ones and only $3.00.

I have spent quite a bit of time outside now.... working in my flower beds. I have neglected them terribly the last 3 years, just wasn't able to dig around in there... hard to bend over too. So it's fun to be out, and even getting a great tan now! =)

Well.... all for tonight my dear support system!!! Thank you so much for your continued encouragement!!! It does mean SOOOO much to me!
Love to all.... Eydie

5-16-10 Sunday

We had company here from Oklahoma! My Auntie Marlys, and Uncle Bill! So nice to have them here overnight... a special visit!!! This picture right above is of Bill and Marlys with my 2 kids.. Shelby, and Benjamin is kneeling in front.

I am still feeling very good... things really seem to be leveling off. I haven't had very many dizzy spells lately so that is good. They think it is dehydration issues! My body just needs more fluids to survive! So I have gone back to having a couple of my protein shakes. One at breakfast, and then sometimes later in the day. As long as it is liquid, then I can count it as part of my fluid intake for the day. My blood pressure was running a little low, and after quite a few tests... they found all was normal enough (for me anyway) so that was good. Just need to keep pumping in the liquids! So, water, Powerade Zero, G2, Lifewaters, and Crystal Lights are pretty much staples with me at all times!

Eating is going very well too. I can eat pretty much all foods now.... meaning I can eat a steak, raw veggies, etc. No... that does NOT include Mountain Dew... candy, chips, cookies, etc!!!! I eat Protein (turkey, chicken, cottage cheese, tuna,etc) and Produce (fruits and veggies) strawberries, cantaloupe, raspberries, broccoli, cauliflower,cucumbers, etc. Have you ever tried the Greek Yogurts??? Oh.. they are SO good!!! They are a little higher in proteins, so that is always good too. I have tried the strawberry and blueberry ones, and they are very creamy... very, very good! I have tried the plain greek yogurt as well... then added some ranch seasoning... and it makes a wonderful dip... for the veggies!

Well... I am still losing weight. I have now lost a total of 137 lbs! I am doing lots of exercising now too. Walking, stationary bike, and toning exercises for strength!

Well.... hope this is finding each one of you enjoying the beautiful weather!!! I think spring is finally here to stay... even here in Northern Minnesota!!
Love to all... Eydie

5-8-10 I'm back

Yes.... it feels good to get back to my computer here. We've been off-line since Tuesday, the 4th. I have been able to access my emails and facebook through my cell phone, but haven't been able to get to my blog here! Still feeling fabulous. Have now lost -133 lbs!

I have noticed a few days ago, that I have been quite emotional at times. Not sad days, but almost... don't even know the word to use.
It is starting to sink in that I have lost over 130 lb now! I now wear a size large! I was thinking that I would end up wearing a large, but will most likely wear a medium. But for now... I wear a large ~ I just can't hardly take that in!! I am feeling so incredible and I just want to shout from the roof tops.. to tell everyone about what I am doing so they too, can be healthier in their lives!

I am also just amazed at my support! Yes, I know I had lots of friends but... the phone calls, cards, emails, etc... that come in so personal.... I am just overwhelmed and then in town, people I don't really even know, but have seen at the stores for years, will now stop me and tell me how good I look.... how healthy I look now!Ok.. this is what I mean... emotional.. I now have tears streaming down my face... not sad... just amazed... happy tears!

I want so badly to help others to feel their best too! But for now... so thankful for each one of you, for your incredible support! I love you all!

Tomorrow is Mother's Day! Oh yeah... such a precious day for me! I have 2 children who are my complete life! I love the home-made cards that they made at school for me! They also brought home little flowers that they have planted a month ago, and are now sprouting!

Well... all for tonight... hope you all have a wonderful day tomorrow! Happy Mother's Day to each one of you too!

Love always... Eydie

Summer 2009 Bike Ride

These pictures were taken last year, summer of 2009. I have a 3 wheel bike, and we were able to go riding a couple of times, not far, but was nice to go. I am SOOO looking forward to riding farther, and easier this year! My kids think I need a different bike? Will see! Just can't wait to go!
More later.... love to all... Eydie =)

4-25-10 week 20 pix

Good afternoon my Dear Friends and Family!!! Here we are enjoying the April showers! Yes, we've had just the most beautiful days, and now yesterday and today some rain, nice gentle showers, but so nice... you can just see the grass greening up, and the flowers are sprouting up, and the trees are budding, the fresh new green leaves about to burst! Ahhh, the joys of spring here in Northern Minnesota! One of the things I am SO excited about, is getting my bike out again. This summer, I will be able to ride it SO much better. I had gotten one of those 3 wheel bikes, and we had gone a couple times last year, but I was only able to ride a little ways. In fact... I have a picture that was taken then, I will see if I can post it here. Ok... that didn't work, so will post the picture of our bike trip in another post.

Anyway, I am now -130 pounds lighter! (-81 since surgery December 7, 2009 - 20 weeks ago)YaHoo!!! I just can't wait now until my weight loss and my actual weight meet! To actually lose a whole person! Kind of a neat thought!!! I am enjoying so many new moments. Things I just don't think of everyday, but then have a "WOW" moment! I was at the clinic last week. After I got registered in, I was headed for the elevator, then realized, I've NEVER taken the stairs in the new building (built last year).... now I could probably do it with no problem! So, up I went... YES!!!! Then back down when I was done with my appointment! So now just will use the stairs! Another "moment" I had last week. The kids had an activity, I was standing chatting with some other parents, no place to sit, then a while later I realized I had been standing there for about a half hour!!! Any other time, I would have had to go back to my van to sit down because I wouldn't have been able to stand for that long!!! Oh yeah, this is just so great! So many great things, but... one that I am SO pleased with? Not only for myself, but for others. So many have written that I have helped inspire them to eat healthier, or to exercise, etc. Oh I just am so thrilled. If I can help even one person to be healthier... how awesome is that?!?!? So, I have been working on another project, along this line. I have been in the process of creating a health newsletter on-line. It is to share some thoughts, ideas, information, tips. etc on the things I have learned through reading,classes and experience. So, I have my newsletter here, a work in progress and I have titled it "HOPE".

H = Health
O = Optimism
P = Perseverance
E = Energy/Exercise

Our news these days are SO full of dramatic things, discouraging stories, things that bring us down. I want to have a place where others can be up-lifted, and inspired, bring a smile into their days! I include healthy recipes too. So please feel free to check this newsletter out as well.

http://hope4younewsletter.wordpress.com

Well everyone.... I hope you are enjoying the spring time too!

Here is a thought: There is no danger of developing eyestrain from looking on the bright side of things.

Love to all... Eydie

4-20-10 Tuesday

Ahhhh.... such a fabulous day! Our temperature was all the way to 71 degrees!!! Can we actually think it's summer time in Minnesota??? Everyone is getting into the planting mode. We just want to see the bright green sprouts appearing! We hardly dare to though, as we can still get snow and frost in May! Oh well... we sure are enjoying these wonderful days!

I have lost yet another pound! Slow and steady! I am now at -78 since surgery... for a total now of -127.

I want to include a little saying here that I found, and it goes along with our sunshine!

"It's the Songs you sing and the Smiles you wear that make the Sunshine everywhere."

Have a wonderful day!
Love, Eydie =)

4-18-10 Sunday

This is a picture of the kids and I and one of their friends (William) on Friday evening. This was our first picnic of the season! It was such a beautiful evening! Notice everyone else is in their t-shirts, but I was actually very chilly, so I have on my sweatshirt. Oh well.... still enjoying the spring time here in Minnesota!

Oh... in this picture I have my own food. I have roast beef, and a few pieces of cauliflower and broccoli. The kids have chicken strips.

I have lost another pound! YeeHaa!!! It is going a tad bit slower now, but slow and steady wins the race! I surely am NOT discouraged at all. I am still on my program... guess you could say. Not really following a diet at all... just a whole new way of eating! I eat protein, and produce! So... proteins... then I will eat a tiny bit of fruit or vegetable. We were to a picnic on Saturday, and I had 1 hot-dog, and 2 baby dill pickles. That was my complete meal, and I was very full! Today we went out to lunch with some dear friends, and I had 1/4 cup cottage cheese, and a little vegetable dish (tomatoes, green peppers, cucumbers, onion and baby carrots). There was maybe 3 pieces of each item, and then I didn't even eat all of that.The extremely awesome part of it all? I just am NOT hungry! I am completely satisfied!

So, I have now lost -126 pounds total! That is -77 since surgery in December!

Well, I hope this finds you all having a wonderful spring! It feels SOOO good to be able to get outside and enjoy these bright and sunny days! The kids start their baseball season tomorrow night! So begins our spring time sports!

All for tonight... you take care and I look forward to sharing more soon! Thanks once again for your love and support! You are the greatest team!
Love, Eydie =)

4-15-10 Thursday

Where is the time going? Wow.... seems I just am not getting to my computer as much anymore! I actually think it is due to so much more energy! Is that possible??? In the evenings, when I get my precious little kids to bed and they are sound asleep... then it is my "mom time". That is when I would come out to the computer, and here I am! Now... they are off to sleep.. and mommy is off to work... around the house! I have gone through some of my cupboards. Also, have gone through my closets again! So it is actually kind of fun to see what all I am getting done around here! But... I am going to keep this blog going!

I have been doing fabulous still... feeling SOOO great! I have had some little issues with low blood pressure now. Feeling light-headed... a bit whoozy! But, doctors now think I am still getting dehydrated! I am getting in the recommended amount (64 oz a day) but they think my body just requires more! Yikes! I just have trouble eating what I should, then to add all this water... it just fills me up SO much! But.... still doing great! I have not had anything that I am not suppose to have! No caffeine... No sugar... No carbination! My foods??? Protein and Produce! I eat a lot of turkey, chicken, roast beef, cottage cheese and protein shakes. Then I do add a little fruits and veggies. My calorie intake now is around 400-500 a day. Doctor says I can be as much as 600-800. Maybe in time but I am not going to rush that at all! Right now I am completely satisfied, so thats so good! Who woulda ever thought 500 calories A DAY would be ok for me??? Before 500 calories was just a good start to a MEAL!!!! Anyway... I am onto a whole new life... a whole new way of looking at food! I have NO cravings at all. AMAZING!!!

Well my support team here... thank you again for your encouragement, I truly appreciate each one of you!!!
Thank you.... love to all... Eydie =)

4-9-10 new pix

I just had to post this picture! I have been asked by SO many people if now that I've lost weight, will I wear pants, will I buy my first pair of jeans now? Ha, no I won't buy jeans. I like my dresses, but I do wear pants, or shorts, or like these capris... while I exercise! So yes, I do own a few pairs of "pants".

Also, I have been asked if I've cut my hair... since it doesn't really show in my pix! I always wear it up in a clip, so no... haven't cut my hair, it is still long, about waist length.

Well.... so glad to be back in touch on here. I have even up-dated my weight loss charts, and added a new one for April now. I am at -76 loss since surgery, and a total loss of -125. I can hardly believe it! But as always... it is all about my health, I feel SO good! Weight loss is just an added bonus!

All for now... love to all... Eydie =)

April Weight Loss Chart 2010

So far I am at -75 loss since surgery on December 7, 2009 for a total loss of -124

Date:
April 8, 2010 -76 -125

4-8-10 week 17 pix

Hello again my Dear Purple Team!! Wow... it has taken me a bit to get back into the swing of things here on my computer since getting back to Minnesota! I came home to 658 emails.... tons of pictures to go through, and some are still getting processed, so anxious to see those as well when they come back. Guess I should have had a digital camera with me! Oh well.. next time! When I got back, the dryer wasn't working, the built-in microwave doesn't work, and the propane tank is bone dry! This morning it was 59 degrees in the house! Yikes... so this week I've been on the phone, getting everything put back together. So far, we have heat again now that the tank is filled, the dryer is working again (just a loose wire on the heating element... an easy, cheap fix... ha, haven't gotten the bill yet though!) the microwave is another story, needs parts, expensive, but still less than a new microwave, so it's gunna get fixed, parts are to be in on Tuesday next week.
I am back to my nutrition classes, and support group now as well. Feels good to be back to that too. Dietition says I am doing good, still on program and feeling great. I have had some problems with being light-headed... a bit dizzy at times, but maybe that is just all due to being "blonde"? When I get those "spells" of being dizzy, I just eat a little bit of fruit, and that helps somewhat. I am to see my regular doctor though as soon as I can, and try to get to the bottom of that issue. But all in all... I am feeling fabulous! I still HAVE NOT eaten anything I am not suppose to! No caffeine, No carbination, No sugar!!!! So... no pop, candy, chips, etc!!! Easter was NO problem at all. We were even at a big pot-luck! I had my 2 ounces of turkey, and 1/2 cup of mango! I ended up with about 1/4 cup of the mango though, as Benjamin kept coming in a swiping it! He just loves Mango! Hmmm... so sweet and juicy! But anyway... no desserts... and this year.. no Cadbury Eggs either! The best part... I don't even miss them! At this point, there is NOTHING that can ever taste as good as I feel right now! I am exercising. Doing some toning, strengthening, etc. Just feels SO good to be healthy again!
Well my Dear Friends and Family.... thank you for sticking by me here! Your love and support means EVERYTHING to me!!!
Oh... I just HAVE to share a moment here with you!!! Last night, we were getting ready to go to our bible study, I went to put on my nice shoes and took a step and my shoe literally flew off of my foot! I yelled, and everyone came running wondering what had happened to me! MY SHOE FLEW OFF!!! What happened???? It was SO big! I tried on 3 more pairs of shoes and the same thing.. they are TOO BIG!!!! So, I HAD to go to Walmart today and I bought another pair! I have gone down 1 1/2 sizes in shoes now! Clothes I am now down 6 sizes!!! Oh yeah!!!!
Ok.... all for now... take care ya'll. Love ya! Eydie =)

Pix from our trip

Here are a few picture from our trip.
One of Dad, the kids and I
One in front of a huge cactus in Arizona, near Phoenix
Then one in Texas, at the Palo Duro Canyon

We are back from the South!!!

We had a fabulous trip to Texas, New Mexica, Arizona & California!!! Oh, so wonderful to see family! Got to meet so many new people. Finally got to actually see where dad and mom live!!! Dad and Glenda have been married for over 4 yrs already! Now can picture them in Arizona.
I am still feeling great, still following program perfectly!!! I managed to eat well while gone! Everyone worked so hard to help and encourage me! A very special thank you to each one!
I now have lost 124 lbs total. That makes 75 since surgery December 7th.
Well I hope to be back on here regularly again now that we are back home!
Thank you also for all of your emails... still helping me!!
Love to all! Eydie =)

3-15-10 week 14 picture

I am now at 14 weeks and still feeling fabulous!!! With each passing day, I am feeling healthier inside and out! Maybe some of that also is the bright and sunny days... feeling like spring is just around the corner... or maybe it is because we are packing... and heading South to see even more sunshine, and warmth! Oh Yeah!!! The kids and I are going to Texas, then across to Arizona, and California. Will be SO nice to see family again! Dad hasn't seen me since my surgery, so will be interesting to see what he thinks! =)
I have now lost -64 lbs since surgery... for a grand total of -113! I am at Day #99 since surgery. I have kept track, and have written everything down that I eat! It helps to keep track. I am now able to get in MOST of my proteins, and my water now, so that helps in how I am feeling as well.... just wonderful to be on a healthier track now!
All for now... love to all... Eydie =)

3-7-10 week 13 pix

Today is Sunday, March 7, 2010. Tomorrow will actually be my 13 week mark, but I was dressed up a bit today, so had Neal take my pix today since he will be working tomorrow. Anyway, I am at -107 total loss... with -58 since surgery. I have to point out here... has anyone noticed that I don't have many purple clothes now?? Yes, feels strange! I have run out of most of my purple items, and just don't want to buy too many things. I have bought a few things now at the thrift stores, but again... not much purple, so having to just buy what I can find. But... I really do like most other colors too, especially bright colors. Just feels good to be able to go into a regular store now, and find things that fit!
Well, another beautiful sunny day here in the Northern Woods of Minnesota! Enjoy your Sunday! Love you... Eydie =)

3-6-2010 Broke my plateau!!

OH YEAH!! Maybe on the move again! This is crazy, but it was suggested that the stall could be the lack of enough protein/food. Well, yesterday I did try to eat a little more. I just hate that thought though... eating when I am NOT hungry! But, I did eat more often, and tried to get in more of the protein, must have worked anyway! I lost 1 pound, not so much, but down just the same!

Hope everyone is having a great weekend. It's been so nice and sunny here, we are SO ready for spring. It even rained a little bit today, which is helping get rid of our snow piles!

Thank you again my dear friends and family! Love to all... Eydie =)