Thursday, February 24, 2011

Phase 3

weigh in:  165.4 lbs
no change...

Since there was no change I didn't dose this morning and tonight I will be able to add a little more protein and maybe a little cottage cheese?  Now... of course, if you are taking injectable form HCG you have to go 72 hours on VLCD after your last injection.  I have heard you can (and have done) only 48 hours VLCD without HCG when taking homeopathic form HCG.  I can't imagine going 72 hours honestly?  The departing HCG (and therefore cessation of fat stores calories being consumed) is definitely felt by me after 2 days and I start getting very hungry.  So, I take 48 hours on VLCD after last dose.  

I am both excited and nervous.  Maintenance is not easy or very tangible.  I have been looking for a more comprehensive guide, but it really does vary.  I really like the Maintenance link I have in my sidebar, but even that can be a little hazy.  So, I will do what I usually do and must do- just keep weighing and go from there.  Keep those steak, apple & cheese and egg days ready. :)  My monthly is coming up on Saturday- ugggh!  Just need to not get too discouraged during this first week because I will have the added TOM to contend with while trying to stabilize.     

Thank you so much for all of the advice and support!  I am happy with my decision.  I am getting there.  This summer I will be looking incredible and feeling great!!!!.... (oh, and did I mention both my husband and I have a little thing called class reunions coming up this summer!  His 20th and my 10th!!!  Crazy!)  Just a little incentive to finish my weight loss journey to the full extent- initial goal of 130 pounds (and then possibly lower if need be???)

So without further ado- bring it on Phase 3! :)   

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

...3

weigh in:  165.4 lbs
loss of:  0.8 pounds

Oh, boy!  I am so done!  Well, I think I am...  I didn't dose last night or this morning.  I will be coming up on 24 hours of being off of HCG this evening.  I am just not sure I want to go another 3 days and then another 2 on top of that???  I know by doing this I am giving up, but I have been pushing through this diet for 33 full DAYS!!!  I have lost a total of 25.8  pounds!!!  Almost 26 pounds in 33 days!  That is an average loss of 0.8 pound a day!  Pretty good...

I would love to get to 30 pounds lost, but you know... I am just feeling like I am done and the next 3 + 2 days could really just be a waste (and possibly disastrous and disappointing- trust me I know... have done this before)  if I push myself unnecessarily.  So, I am going to go pick up my daughter, continue to think about it and decide if I am going to dose before lunch or not.  So weigh in your thoughts (I guess I still technically have until tonight to decide one way or another too).    

Which ever way I decide I am going to take 4 weeks off on maintenance... an extra week in there, just because of my past experience.  I don't really want to start another round too soon.  I want to really get to a point where my weight is stable and then proceed.  I am also starting an exercise routine, which will feel great!  

Anyway, I will be back later and let you all know the verdict. :)  Thanks for your support and encouragement!!!  

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Whoa!!!

Okay- not a weight loss post, but wanted to share anyway...

My wonderful Grandmother (those of you who have followed for a long time know I absolutely adore this woman :))... anyway, she left me a message today.  She told me they had a good trip and during their travels they stopped at a rest stop and picked up the following 2011 Wyoming Official Travelers Journal.  She said while she was reading it to my Grandpa, who was driving they came to an interview and low and behold it was "our Caitlin!"  

So, I called her up and asked what in the world she was talking about? :)  Well, turns out I was chosen as a "Local Insight" interviewee for Southeastern Wyoming in the aforementioned magazine!  I had completely forgotten about it, and thought I was not a pick because I didn't hear back.  I had to get one!  I found one at the gas station that used to have the big, green dinosaur out front (soon to be at the Chamber- not the dinosaur, but the magazine lol!... and I am sure it is at other gas stations too).  Lucky for you guys it is online too!  See below...

It isn't too big of a deal, but I am definitely excited!  They used all of the material I wrote in the email interview, too- in my typical flowery style and all. lol!  But you all wouldn't know anything about that now would you? :)   

Just thought I would share and you don't have to take my word for it, but Wyoming is pretty amazing. :) (I got a little Reading Rainbow on you guys there... haha!) 


Click on the above link and I am on page 80!

...4

weigh in:  166.2 lbs
gain of: 0.4 pounds

Okay, if you find yourself starving, not feeling altogether great and craving abnormal things like plain chocolate chips out of the bag (which you indulge yourself in).  Take a step back and EAT SOME PROTEIN!!!!  I put down the bag, finally and boiled myself some eggs and felt a ton better and in control again.  Yep- it took me this long to figure that one out. :)  So, that explains the gain.  

Still feeling just fine though- even though I am behind.  If I don't make it to 160 I can live with it, if I try at least. :)  I still have a long road ahead of stabilizing and then subsequent rounds, so I can't get too bogged down on this.  The goal is at least helping me get through with something to concentrate on.

Until tomorrow...  

Oh, and thanks for all the sweet comments about my little boy. :)  

Monday, February 21, 2011

Laughing baby!

 
(Paine- 3 months old) 

Love it!  This little guy makes me happy.  Life is a-ok.  Enjoy! :) 

...5

weigh in:  165.8 lbs
loss of: 0.0 pounds

No change!  Not sure why?  But oh well, that's how it goes- you lose a lot, but it evens out eventually. :)  Am not too concerned.  I will just keep going and do the best I can! 

I am so happy how far I have come already and feel positive regardless.  I have 5 days to go and I am definitely not going to let this get me down. :)

Happy start of the week- by week's end I will be done!!! (well, for at least this round ;))

Sunday, February 20, 2011

...6

weigh in:  165.8 lbs
loss of:  1.6 pounds!!!!!!!!

YES!  I was totally freakin' happy to see this!!!!  I weighed myself 3 times.  Well, I usually do anyway, but this time it was out of excitement, "Oh this can't be real- let me see it again!"  And, sure enough that number popped up 3 times!   

I have come a long way in 30 some days!  I feel better this morning- my stomach is still not feeling "normal" (and thanks Autumn Rose- I think you are right :)) and my head is stuffed up- but who cares!!!  I lost 1.6 pounds!  I was on track before, but now I am a little ahead.  I ate cleanly, of course- drank more tea yesterday than I usually do and took a detox bath that felt wonderful!  I can do this!  6 more days counting today and then I am on to maintenance and stabilizing!!!!  Can't wait!  Sure a lot of exclamation points in this post!

Got to ride those highs! :)  Oh, and I have taken a million laughing videos of little Paine and it is so stinkin' cute I can't stand it!  He just busts out with uncontrollable giggles.  It is not only contagious, but I think a little therapeutic. :)  Oh, I love him!  I will have to share one here too, since I am sharing them everywhere else.  

I am just all giddy!  However, I can't let it go to my head- have to keep buckled down and do the best I can for the next 6 days.  I am going to make it to my half way mark- I believe I can!  
Happy HCGing!      

Saturday, February 19, 2011

...7

weigh in:  167.4 lbs
loss of:  0.6 pounds

Truckin' along. :)  Weight loss kind of decreasing in 0.2 increments?  Hopefully it won't continue to be a trend.  Feeling okay today- woke up with sharp pains in my abdomen.  Have real no idea what it was???  It finally went away, but without a BM or anything like that... so anyway just going to keep an eye on it and see what happens.

On another topic- so far, I really like this countdown concept I decided on, because I have had urges to eat off protocol... but the thought of making every day count for this final stretch of this round keeps me straight.  Only 7 more days to go!  I will make it! 

Have a lovely weekend everyone!

Friday, February 18, 2011

...8

weigh in:  168.0 lbs
loss of:  0.8 pounds


Well, it doesn't seem like I am going to kick this cold soon. :(  Not feeling so great this morning.  Hopefully, weight loss won't slow too much, but we'll see!

Happy HCGing!  

Thursday, February 17, 2011

No Exercise??!

Here is a short link outlining the reason for avoiding high impact and strenuous exercise while on the HCG diet:  Why You Should Refrain from Strenuous Exercise

Explains it better than I could. :)  I would also like to add:

"Can I exercise on the HCG diet?
  1. If you already exercise and have been doing so regularly for at least 2 months prior to starting the HCG diet, you can usually continue your exercise routine as long as it doesn’t include heavy weight lifting or extreme exhaustion. Just listen to how your body reacts AND watch the scale. If your weight loss is slowing or stopping all together, we suggest stopping all exercise except walking.
  2. If you want to start something new, you can start walking (or other low impact exercise like yoga, swimming, etc- I would add). A brisk walk each day is great for anyone. Don’t start walking 10 miles on the first day though."

   Thanks for the question, Kelli- definitely a good question! 

...9

weigh in:  168.8 lbs
loss of: 1.0 pound

I was so happy to see that pound loss because we were traveling yesterday and stopped for dinner at a restaurant.  It is the first time I ate out in quite awhile.  I just had them make me a grilled chicken breast and I tried to eat some plain spinach.  Not the greatest, but it worked.  I also, wasn't tempted in the least when before all this we stopped for fast food for my husband.  I'll admit the smell at first was hard, but then I just kept talking and driving and soon forgot all about it.  I think if one bit of fast food hit my mouth I might throw up anyway.  That stuff is evil! :)

This morning I woke up with a sore throat and stuffy head.  So, hopefully I can nip it in the bud with some Emergen-C.  I love it!  It has kept me from getting really sick all winter so far (and my kids- *knock on wood*).     

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Operation 160- Countdown from 10

I like the view from sitting in the wagon much better than bouncing along behind in the dust and muck. :)  (Thanks for the analogy and encouragement, Jack Sh*t, Gettin' Fit!).  And, thanks to you all for your outstretched arms pulling me back up.  I am back at 169.8 pounds this morning.  

So, what exactly happened number wise, you may well be wondering?  Well, this is the sad truth:  I gained 2.6 pounds to land me back at 172.4 pounds.  Yesterday morning I dropped a pound to 171.4 and this morning another 1.6 pounds to return me to my lowest weight thus far.  I really think light activity really helps in increasing weight loss (yesterday I walked, did yoga and was just overall more active).  And, on the days I really loss a lot more I was more active- albeit light activity, but activity nonetheless.  I am going to try and test my theory further the next days and see what happens...

My plan of attack is as follows:  The following days will be called Operation 160 (attempt to get to 160 pounds for round 1).  I am going to countdown from 10 (10 days) and see where that lands me.  I am not going to worry about what day I am on at this moment- just the next 10 days.  I will add whatever I lose in the next 10 days to what I have lost to date and then if I am still not at 160... I will consider going a little further.    

Well, that's it!  That is what I have planned whether it is successful or not depends upon little ole' me. :)  Wish me luck!  Thanks again and I am thinking of all you too!     

Monday, February 14, 2011

Happy (kinda) Valentine's Day...

Disclaimer:  I want to apologize in advance for writing a downer post on what is supposed to be this lovely day.  So, if you are riding high today don't read the following (not that I am that self-absorbed to think I can have an adverse affect on someone's day- (poor attempt at humor :())...

Some of you who follow my blog know I am for the most part typically happy and positive (at least I like to think I am).  You also know I can get downright low about some things and I have crappy days, as we all do.  Well, yesterday was one of those crappy days and it is oozing into this day.  I don't know what it is about seeing a different number bracket on the scale that makes me throw it all away.  I don't know if that was really it anyway.  There are some things I can't really talk about on here and then there are just those everyday, monotonous things that eventually you just want to break free from.  I am a stay-at-home mom, and I love my work and I LOVE, no I ADORE my children!  However, sometimes after weeks and months of constant need, need, need- whine, whine, whine- cry, cry, cry- no sleep, no sleep and no break from the little kiddos I just want to run and scream!  Instead I indulge my poor mood into food and ignore the fact that I really should just ask for help and get out of the house.  So, last night I just said, "Screw it!  I don't care right now!  It's not fair!  Why do I have to fight and struggle and claw for a healthy weight?!  I am going to feel sorry for myself..."  

I knew I would feel this way this morning- defeated by my own self, guilty and just blah.  But, I did it anyway and I threw away my hard work and effort the past few days all just to fill my belly.  And, that is all it did- filled my belly... and now for Valentine's morning I feel like a slob and an idiot (hopefully I can turn things around for the rest of the day).  

Anyway, I probably should just keep my lowness to myself, but in real life and no one wants to take time to listen to a whiny baby complaining about what in the grand scheme of things is really not that big of deal.  So, I chose to write this and cast it into the ether (and so please accept my apology for doing so).  The truth is:  SO WHAT, that I have to diet and put myself through all this to lose some pounds!  
At least I am healthy!  At least my family is healthy!  At least we have food!  At least we have a roof over our heads for the time being!  At least we have love and happiness!  At least I have this beautiful, wonderful family!  

There is a lot worse out there that I could be dealing with right now, and I guess this makes me feel better and worse at the same time.  I am not trying to beat myself up here (well I guess maybe I am).  I mean I don't want to, but sometimes that is all I can do- if that makes sense.

But I can put all this aside for the moment to let you all know how grateful I am to have you "in my life."  And, I also send wishes of love and joy to each and every one of you today (even within this "thumbs down" post).  I also send it to myself and of course to the one I love!  Love you babe!
Love yourself.  Love your loved ones.  Love life. 


Me and my Valentine a long time ago in Jackson a long overdue time alone without our first baby- taken before I became pregnant with our second child... (just so you all know I photo shopped this picture- I was actually around the weight I am now.  I photo shopped it long before I knew about HCG- I am such a vain dork!  
but who cares- I love it!)      

Sunday, February 13, 2011

My HCG Survival kits

 Personal Care Survival Kit

  • Biolage Shampoo & Conditioner
  • Alba Botantica very emollient body lotion- I just started using this lotion (I put a link in an earlier post about a lotion from diyhcg.com- so would try this first), because I was desperate.  I have been struggling with really, really dry hands and lips this round and I thought I would just try it.  Now, I only lost 0.6 pounds yesterday (but it was worth it because I got some relief)... so not sure if this is the reason or if it was because I was having difficulty drinking enough water yesterday.  Sometimes I just get sick of drinking and drinking and drinking... as you all well know. :)
  • Epson Salt- A must have for detox baths!
  • Naturally Fresh  deodorant crystal
  • Bamboo Wear Powder- Thank you so much SuperMommySometimes!  I read your post about it and decided to check it out for my own use and sure enough it will work for this diet... and it so happens I have fallen in love with it!
  • Organic wear mascara- for those times I do put on makeup (like I said I usually like to go natural while on protocol for the most part)... I use my usual eyeliner, eyeshadow and eyebrow pencil.  Haven't noticed any affects from them.

Supplemental Survival Kit
  • My HCG of course!
  • Vanilla Creme Stevia- first round I bought flavored stevia and I am in LOVE!  I want to get some other flavors too.  I put it in my coffee, tea and water!
  • Silicae- for constipation and also hair and nails
  • Whey Slim Shake- it really doesn't taste all that great... but I have only tried it a couple times so far, maybe it is an acquired taste?  Oh, and this could be a possible culprit for only losing 0.6 pounds, too?  I don't know for sure?
  • Weight Off- an appetite suppressant (not really sure if I am sold). 
  • Clinical Nutrients for Women- just an overall nutritional vitamin
  • Smooth Move, Super Dieter's Tea & Green Tea- got to have these!
  • Ultra B-12- used for energy, etc...
  • Stevia Dent- this is the first round I have ever used this product, too and I do like it... however, don't use it while around food (remember my red velvet, cream cheese frosting cupcake fiasco :)).  Chewing gum increases saliva and the desire to eat.  I like to use it when I am out and about or doing household chores, etc...  
So, there you have it!  Just thought I would share what I cannot live without while on protocol.  

Day 24- Milestones


weigh in:  169.8 lbs
loss of: 0.6 pounds

Total release to date:  20.4 pounds!!!

  1.  I am in the 160's!!!  Yay!
  2. I have lost a little over 20 pounds so far!!!
  3. I took a picture of my actual scale reading! :) (yeah, and my feet look weird- perhaps I should try weighing in heels... haha!) 
I really feel like my scale is alive (lol! :)) and if I get on it with any sort of expectations, well it is quick to dash them.  So, usually I like to get on it right after I get up and I am still really too sleepy to care.  So, this morning when I got my camera, turned on the lights and was prepared and conscious stepping on the scale, I was nervous:  "Now that I am expecting to be 169... something- today won't be the day."  Well, fortunately my scale decided to go easy on me today and showed me what I wanted to see. :)
The reading only stays visible for about 3-4 seconds and so I am glad I was quick this morning (I have a cheap scale).  But whatever, it has served me well since that first day in late July of 2009.  

Getting there!
Happy dieting and happy weekend!!!

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Day 23- Jumping for joy!

weigh in: 170.4 lbs
loss of:  1.0 pounds

Total release to date:  19.8 pounds!!!  So in 22 complete days almost 20 pounds gone! 

In the past four days I have lost 3.8 pounds!  I love it when my body starts responding nicely towards the end.  Not that I am deciding this is the end, yet- but you get my point.  That middle section is pretty difficult, but once you get through that part eventually it starts evening out at some sort of pretty consistent loss.  

And, to answer Karyn's question in the previous post:  ...do you think that 155 with HCG looks different than 155 without (as in measurements?)  

YES, Absolutely!  That is why I LOVE HCG!!!  HCG takes the weight off in ways I never could get it to come off in more mainstream ways of losing weight (I wrote in a post a long time ago sometime) something to the effect of: I would lose the initially in my lower legs while exercising and eating right and still have a belly and large arms... Great!  That is the place where I least needed to lose.  Now, if I would have stuck to some program I am sure I would have had better results, but I always ended up not following through... (that is why I think it is awesome when people do not give up and keep on going... see below). 

Also, during my journey before I LOVE and still love to read other conventional weight loss blogs (highly respect these people and can learn a ton from them especially in regard to conquering lifetime maintenance!).  My point is, since I was losing pure fat (and HCG proportions your body- ie. fat coming off proportionally) it seemed that my body would look starkly different from not only what I have had it ever look like, but also when in comparison to another woman's body around same height and weight- it would look smaller.  At 147 pounds I was a size 6.  That was never possible for me before.  I would be a size 10/8 typically.  Anyway, I have always commented that HCG has done more for me than merely move the scale.  It gave me a waist and beautiful arms (two huge problem areas for me before HCG).  Here is a short description explaining further this phenomenon (for those of you not familiar with HCG):  HCG in Fast Weight Loss  

At this point I really, really want to make it to at least half way- 160 pounds.  I am not going to be unreasonable and say I will preserver, I am determined... and blah, blah, blah... because ultimately there is a possibility I may fizzle out (I am not going to kill myself over this).  The following days are unknown territory.  I have never ventured on VLCD past 23 days... so we will see what happens!  Right now, though I want to ride these losses to their full extent!

Friday, February 11, 2011

She put on some jeans and makeup!

...granted holey jeans, but hey you can't go spending tons of money on clothes when you're losing at this rate. :)  I am kind of glad I kept some of my "big girl" clothes. :)  I have had these jeans for about 5 years now.  Yikes!  They are still pretty tight, but I got 'em buttoned!
  
Anyway, I had my daughter take a picture of me before we went out to the store this afternoon (highlight of my days haha!), because it is really the first time in awhile I have made myself "presentable."  (and btw, this is Wyoming people- so this is pretty dressed up... lol!)  Before it was the excuses of just having a baby (and being overly chubby) and then it was how in the heck do you get out of the door with 3 kids and have showered, put on clean clothes... and don't even mention makeup. :)  Lately it has been the excuse of, since I am on my diet I can't be putting on makeup all the time (even if it is protocol makeup- I kind of like to keep myself completely unfettered with such things during protocol).  So today, on Day 22 when I found myself in the presence of other human beings did not a one runaway screaming in fright and disbelief. :)   


Seriously, I have so far to go to be at a healthy and desirable weight, but it just feels nice to not be completely and ridiculously stuffed and overflowing in my clothes. :)  Anyway just thought I would share... tomorrow is the big 23!  I am not sure what I am going to do yet (because as you all know I was planning a long 46 day round).  I have never done such a long round, but I am kind of thinking I would at least like to get to 165 so I can maintain (or lose *cross fingers*) from there?  Anyway, we'll see what the morning brings!   

Day 22- Bad English

weigh in:  171.4 lbs
loss of: 1.0 pounds

Total loss to date:  18.8 pounds

Still truckin' along...  And, I meant to mention yesterday I upped my water intake by 2 liters from 3 to 5 liters a day.  I think that really helped jump start weight loss again?  We'll see if it is just a fluke or what? :)

On other topics... so glad to hear from some of you guys yesterday!  You all mean so much to me- old and new and little comments left behind from each of you brighten my day!  

Oh, and I bet y'all think I am an illiterate ignoramus?! :)  Last night I came out of the bathroom with a scowl on my face and I asked my husband, "Is p-a-y-e-d a word?"  And, he said, "Uh, NO!"  I started laughing because I already knew, "OMG, sometimes I am an idiot!" :)... so anyway what I meant as the title of my Day 21 post is "It PAID off!" LOL!  English is kind of stupid.  I am re-learning this more and more as I try and help my 5 year old learn our crazy ways (maybe I should resign my position :))...  Yes, honey it sounds the same, but is spelled in two different ways.  Or, yes you can't hear that letter, but it is there...etc.  haha!

So thanks to you all for putting up with my dashes and dot, dot, dots and misspellings and use of too many prepositions to really master the art of run on thoughts and "bad" English! :)  

... or rather "poor" English. lol!      

Thursday, February 10, 2011

Make new friends, but keep the old

This is technically my 4th round.  I like to call it a second 1st round, because I had a year in there of being pregnant after my first 3 rounds.  Round 1 & 2 were immensely successful and got me to the after photo displayed in the sidebar.  Round 3 was basically a disaster.  It was around Christmas and I went into it too quickly after round 2.  Each round I learn something and expand my knowledge not only about the HCG diet, but also about me and who I am.  I also gain so many friends and fellow dieters.  I am reminded about the Girl Scouts song, "Making New Friends." (Yes, I was a Brownie. :)  Just one year, but I still remember...)   


Make new friends, but keep the old
One is silver, and the other's gold.

A circle is round that never ends,
And that's how long I'm gonna be your friend.  
  
I have been so excited to meet new friends and follow their stories as they follow mine.  I have also been overwhelmed with the comments of encouragement and support!  You guys rock! :)  I also, think about my old friends, too and wonder how they are doing and miss them...  I started to make the following list and didn't realize there were so many of us back then: 

These were my first followers and I miss you both- hope you are well!
Kayla's Big Journey (taken down)

Hope you are well, Christy!  You are awesome and I miss you!
Christy in Seattle

Loved these blogs!  
Wee Skinny

Completely miss your posts! :)
Miss Mary's This and That

Always there to uplift the spirit and give one inspiration!  


I hope you are okay!  Miss your posts... not an HCGer, but loved her story...
Confessions of a + Sized girl (taken down)

Miss you so much!  Always the most encouraging and insightful comments!
hcg&meontheroadtofindout (lavenderdiva!)


A truly best friend in this journey!  Miss you so much!  
Hormonally Changed Gal

Other wonderful blogs...
Chica Bonita Gets it Together (taken down)
Time for HCG

Still hear from these three lovely women! :)  They are all wonderful inspirations and hugely successful in their weight loss journey!
Journey to Me Via HCG
Autumn's Rosier Days
Random Thoughts and HCG
 
I also, have the support of real life friends and bloggers who continue to lift me up and amaze me with their support. :)  Love you guys!

Anyway, my point is I am so thankful for my old and new friends... I keep trying to post to alert people to a new wonderful blog and new friend to add to the circle.  Blogging has really kept me honest and has given me something to focus on and provide a place to put down my successes and failures throughout this journey.  I know I was MIA there for awhile and we all quit blogging for some reason or another, but just want you all to know you have not been forgotten and you are missed. :)  You all got me through my initial fight to a healthy, strong me and I appreciate it more than I can express.   

So, if anyone of you see this- drop in a line!  Hope you all are well!    

Day 21- It paid off!

weigh in:  172.4 lbs
loss of:  0.8 pounds

Total loss to date:  17.8 pounds in 20 days...  average of 0.89 pounds lost/day

So after 20 days complete and 18 days on VLCD- I need to keep it in perspective and pat myself on the back. :)  I pushed through yesterday's disappointment and frustration, and here I am on the other side just that closer to getting out of the 170's.   Keep it up, Caitlin! :)

Thinking of you all!  Happy HCGing!

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Day 20- Touch each line

weigh in: 173.2 lbs
loss of: 0.0 pounds

Total loss to date:  17.0 pounds

What the hell?!! In 6 days I have only lost 2 pounds (since reaching my 1st 15 lost).    Dieting can suck- whether you chose HCG or any other way to get the pounds off.  You push yourself and walk the line and what do you get sometimes- zilch, a big fat 0!  I can't think of any reason for no loss???  I drank a crap load of water.  I ate on protocol.  I didn't put anything on my face, hands or anything that would halt weight loss.  I drank Smooth Move last night, but nothing yet... maybe that's it?  I am going to test my HCG too...  My very first round of HCG I lost 24 pounds in 23 days- now there are some differences that I am not sure would make such a difference or not:  1) I am on birth control this time.  2) It is winter (summer during my first round)... and freaking cold at that (negative temps).  Your body really does like to keep its insulation in the winter.  3)  Bought my HCG from a different supplier this time?  4)  Maybe your first time is just that, your first time and you really shouldn't compare???  Who knows?!   

Regardless, I am not giving up!  

I was thinking about all those years of early morning basketball practices when it would come time for good ole' conditioning.  That meant among other drills "suicides" and "sweet 16's."  You learned real quick you better touch each damn line or face more torture in your future.  If you cheated or didn't go all the way to each line and bend down to touch each line you ended up having to do more until you got it right.  So, it got to the point I reveled in doing each down and back perfect and faster and faster.  I knew these were for our own good and therefore would pay off in the end.  Even when I had days where my body felt like mush and my mind was even more mushier... persevering and completing the task made me just that much better.  When it seems pointless and like you are spinning your wheels... things are still happening- to make you stronger.  

Okay, so what the heck is my point... keep going... touch each line... push yourself!  

I am going to get through this day, not making any excuses or justifications.  Tomorrow morning I am going to get on the scale again and if there is still no movement downwards I am going to do it all again!  I will be half way done with 46 days on Saturday.  At that time I will reevaluate and move on from there.  4 more days (today, Thursday, Friday and Saturday) to reach line one.  I can do it!   

P.S. Thank you all so very much for the comments on the below post!  You all are so wonderful!  I said I wasn't going to share those pictures until I was very, very far from my before pictures... but it really does give me motivation and inspiration!  And, besides I post my weight so why not pictures to go along. lol!       

Tuesday, February 8, 2011

ONLY 15 pounds!

I can't believe I am sharing these pictures?!  But, I am going to... I have been contemplating sharing them, and decided I am just going to do it.  I cannot believe what ONLY 15 pounds gone looks like!  I love HCG!  It just melts that fat away!!!  The following are before and during pictures...

  • Photos of me in the gray shirt were taken on Day 2- January 22, 2011.  I was 190.2 pounds.
  • Photos of me in the white/purple shirt were taken on Day 15- February 5, 2011.  Only 13 days after the first set were taken.  I was 175 pounds. 
I am shocked (and happy :)) to see such a difference!  I was pretty mortified after I took my before pictures and now I can relax a bit, because I am on my way to a more slim and healthy me! 

Love-handles starting to disappear and arms not as huge :)...

Well, post baby belly I am sorry, but you have got to go!  

Posture even improving!

OMG!  This one really freaked me out!  

Goodbye, back fat!!!  You don't stand a chance!

Besides the decrease in rolls and such... I love how there seems to be a confidence in my during pictures gradually re-revealing itself- even if it is just 15 pounds away from my first pictures.  Oh, and the first pictures I am in maternity clothes. ick! :(  Not in the second set... granted still a long way to go, but I can't tell you how much better this makes me feel- to see PROGRESS!!!   

Keep up the fight! :)

Day 19- Back in the saddle...

weigh in:  173.2 lbs
loss of: 1.0 pounds

Total release to date:  17.0 pounds in 18 days!  Still pretty good.

That's more like it... I will try to post later on today, but feeling good about getting "back in the saddle."  You may be thrown at certain times, but you got to get back on.  :)  I bet you couldn't tell I miss horses. :) :)  Ahhh... someday...

Monday, February 7, 2011

Day 18- yep, you gotta pay at some point...

weigh in:  174.2 lbs
gain of:  0.6 pounds

Total loss to date:  16.0 pounds

Okay, yes I am disappointed, but I knew at some point I was going to have to deal with the consequences of cheating.  You just can't cheat! :)  And, no matter how many times I do this diet or read it from others... I always have to relearn and relearn that one on my own.  However, yesterday I ate cleanly and had no inklings towards cheats and I am going to get out of these 170's if it is the last thing I do! :) 

I still have 28 days left so I am not worried about a minor setback.  I can do this!  I want to do this!  So all things considering, gain and all I am feeling pretty positive.  Also, wanted to say thanks to Karyn and Sunny, I will try to concentrate on the successes rather than slip ups here and there- and here is to finishing strong!  :)    

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Day 17- Runaway!

weigh in: 173.6 lbs
loss of: 0.2 pounds

Total release to date: 16.6 pounds

Well, this 0.2 loss is probably not real, but at least I did not see a huge gain this morning.  I slipped up yesterday. :(  My daughters wanted to make these red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting.  I am sure you know where this is headed...  I thought okay well I will just chew a couple pieces of some stevia gum through the whole baking time period and I will be fine.  Baking and being on the HCG diet do not mix well for me, and I know it.  I just couldn't resist "just a taste."  And before I knew it I had eaten almost 3/4 of a cupcake with some extra tastes of left over frosting. :(  I felt awful about myself and then felt even worse when my stomach started doing flips in protest to the shock of sugar hitting my system.  Also, in the morning I was light headed and was experiencing blood sugar problems (this usually happens to me around this time).  I should have corrected the problem as described here or here (thanks Less of Me! :)).  But I did not.  Instead I shoved a cupcake in my mouth.  :(    

So, to try and compensate I shoveled snow until I almost passed out (not advisable either).  And, I just had an apple for dinner (I did eat on protocol for lunch), didn't take my evening dose of HCG (thought it would be wasted)... and then to make things worse I had a little bit of the corn bread I made for everyone else. :(  Jeez, Louise!  I just couldn't help myself and here I am today hoping severe repercussions won't be felt tomorrow.  See, when I allow myself to accept the need to "take a break" I feel so much better about the situation.  I am still in control, I guess is really the difference.  Yesterday I was not in control of myself and I end up feeling lousy.  I feel like I am on a runaway horse... 

However, today is a new day and this is part of the learning process.  If I didn't have to diet then I wouldn't have struggles with food (typically), but I do and therefore need to learn how to change my patterns and habits.  When I took my afternoon break awhile back I could feel weakness coming on and instead of just allowing myself to continue helpless on a runaway over the cliff I took hold of the reins and decided to steer away from the ledge in favor of a more healthy and self preserving path- one that I decided.


Now we really are in this on our own and there really is not a tall, dark handsome cowboy to rescue us (see picture below), but I really liked this painting- so it will do. :)  It reminds me of the stories told about my Grandpa and Grandma (my father's parents) in their courting days.  He would come racing towards her as she waited outside her home, swoop down and pick her up on the run with one arm swinging her up onto the saddle with him. (I am told, she had hair the color of a brand new penny (she was extremely beautiful and was encouraged and almost begged to enter the Miss Wyoming competition in her day, but she was not a woman of that kind of world and chose to marry my Grandpa and settle down instead)... he had jet black hair with blue sparkly eyes... I miss them. :))  So romantic! ...and a fond image I have of them in my mind.  So in the spirit of upcoming Valentine's Day and to really deviate from my initial point this is where I will close... :) lol!  Hope you all are doing better reining-in that runaway then I am at this point in time! :)  

Saturday, February 5, 2011

Another HCGer on the scene...

My HCG Journey

Another HCGer on the scene!  Just wanted to put another link to a relativity new blog out there to check out... :)  You're doing great!  

Day 15 &16

Day 15

weigh in: 175.0 lbs
loss of: 0.2 pounds

Today: Day 16

weigh in: 173.8 lbs
loss of:  1.2 pounds

Total loss on 2nd 15:  1.4 pounds
Total loss to date: 16.4 pounds

The day before yesterday was disappointing.  I stayed on protocol, but did put a little lotion on my dry, cracked hands (I am going to order some protocol lotion from this site:  HCG Diet Lotion)- and I didn't eat lunch for various reasons.  This is obviously not advisable. :)  But I guess today made up for it. :)  I haven't decided whether to just post how much of a total loss overall or just focus on my 2nd 15 pounds that has to go?  So, I posted both this morning.  Both make me happy, so I guess for now I will continue to post both.

I would like to answer a comment below.  Thank you so much, btw!  If you haven't already check out the links in the sidebar (under "Great HCG Resources") and especially the link to Dr. Simeons' Manuscript.  This is where I would advise anyone to start.  Also, if your health is compromised in any way I would talk with a doctor.  After you have read the document you may have more questions, but I am willing to bet many will be answered. :)  Just know this diet is not easy and I just hate to see people get into it and then try to treat it like another diet (or worse yet, a miracle diet) and fall short of success.  But if you understand the concept behind the diet and the paramount importance of following protocol then this diet may be just what you are looking for. :)  Please feel free to ask further questions, too!  I know there were some things that were not clear to me and had to seek out the answer.        

Happy HCGing!   

Thursday, February 3, 2011

Day 14- Goodbye 1st 15!

weigh in:  175.2 lbs
loss of: 1.6 pounds

Total release to date:  15.0 pounds!!!

Back on track!  My 1st 15 pounds, exactly has been lost and all in 13 days.  Very happy with that!  Will take a picture today to mark the occasion.  

Now on to the next 15!    

Wednesday, February 2, 2011

Day 13- ready, again!

weigh in: 176.8 lbs
gain of: 0.2 pounds

Total release to date: 13.4 pounds in 12 days

Thank you HCG gods!  I was so happy I only gained 0.2 pounds after a little afternoon break. :)  Seriously, guys every single round I think I am going to beat the odds and end up losing way more than pound a day, and every single time I am reminded that this really is not possible for me.  It always evens out and I end up losing an average of a pound a day or less (on previous rounds I have not done so well and had less to lose).  But, hey- why am I always surprised?  A pound a day is freakin' awesome and I will take it! :)  

And, you know what I am so glad I took yesterday afternoon, because I feel so ready again!  I didn't allow myself to struggle or feel badly and therefore I could take a little time, regroup and now feel ready to move on.  I have only had a gain of 0.6 pounds (yesterday and the day before) and that is great!  Besides my cramping and bleeding have subsided and I feel my body ready... I just can't fight it and be successful.  I am learning.  Each and every round I learn something. :)  

So, here I go back at it and ready for some losses again! 

Tuesday, February 1, 2011

It is decided...

... taking a break this afternoon.  Still drinking plenty of water, but that chocolate and blueberries looked too damn good and with what is going on with my body (first period in forever- I need it! :)).  Also, I have found from previous rounds if I try to deny I am having issues then they just keep getting bigger and bigger and pretty soon I gain 3-4 pounds or something... so I am just going to accept that my body needs an afternoon off and in doing so I feel so much better.

So- will check in tomorrow, hopefully not a huge gain. :) 

Thanks, btw to all of you for the wonderful comments!  I love and appreciate your support!  I am pretty relaxed this round and it is helping me not get down on myself, which is Awesome! :)   

4- 15's

While I was soaking two nights ago and kind of getting bogged down on thoughts about how much I have to lose- it just kind of hit me.  Break it into smaller parts...

I am almost to the 15 pound loss mark and so I started thinking about it.  I really have just 4- 15's to lose (190 lbs to 130 lbs).  It doesn't seem as extreme as putting it in the context of 60 POUNDS TO LOSE!  So, I am going to start breaking my weight loss into 15 pound increments.  I will take pictures every 15 pounds lost and just go for each 15 pounds.  So, once I lose my first 15 I will put it behind me and look to the next 15 and the next.  I may get close to losing 3 of the 15's this round and then once I get down to 130 lbs I can just take it easy and if I lose another 5-15, so be it!

It will look like this:

1: 190-15 = 175 lbs
2: 175-15 = 160 lbs
3: 160-15 = 155 lbs
4: 155-15 = 130 lbs


So this is what is making sense in my mind and easier for me to grasp and accept.  I guess, it seems simpler and more manageable.  I like that I am not hung up on increments of 10 or getting into another 10 pound bracket.  I am not sure how it all will play out and if I will use this break down through my whole weight loss adventure, but I guess that is the key- don't be afraid to be flexible! :)

It is worth a shot!  What do you guys do to make weight loss seem not so insurmountable?  

Day 12- First gain on VLCD

weigh in:  176.6 lbs
gain of: 0.4 pounds

Total loss to date: 13.6 pounds

Darn!  My first gain this round and I didn't even cheat yesterday.  I tried to drink extra water, too because of the extra water retention experienced during TOM.  You just never know how and when your body may react and stall.  I am trying to just remember that is all it is and soon enough losses will occur again.