Good Friends and Arkansas Pie

Day 10

My mom told me that my great-grandfather used to call gravy over bread "Arkansas pie." When I was growing up, my family called it "gravy bread." (We were usually more creative with names, but wanted to be sure there was no mistaking what we were talking about.) Even into adulthood, don't give me mashed potatoes or rice, just give me a piece of bread slathered with gravy--my mouth is truly watering as I write this. I, however, carried it beyond gravy. When my mom would make steak or chops, I loved loved LOVED to use a piece of bread to mop up the drippings. We called it "soppy." I think I loved soppy bread even more than gravy bread. It was rich, usually a bit salty, meaty, and sooooo bad for me. 

Tonight I went to dinner with my friend, Julie, and her kids. Julie is also on the Xyngular plan (and has had amazing results).  We ended up at a wing place and were pleasantly surprised to find grilled veggies on the sides list. Although I am on my second day off, like I said in my last post, I neither needed nor desired to eat anything "crazy." I wanted to be smart.  I ordered a mushroom burger with some Swiss cheese and veggies. Julie, because of where she is in her Ignite cycle, knew she was going to not eat the bun. I decided I wouldn't either. Do you know how much more you can taste the hamburger when it's not surrounded by the huge sesame seed bun? I'm digressing; I'll move on.

Anyway, supper progressed. It was tasty. The kids were crazy. Despite lackluster service, everything was great. Until--cue dramatic music--I looked down. There, on the bun, lying on the plate, looking at me was the bun, splattered with the juices from the burger. (See, the first paragraph did have a purpose.) For someone who loves bread as much as I, turning down the bun should've been hard, but it wasn't--initially. Once I saw the juices on the bun, well, even though the burger was gone, I wanted to eat it. I, instead, pecked at it, pinching at the spots bathed in the juice. But I did it subtlety, or so I thought, because I did not want the kids announcing it and making me feel guilty about it. (That's a conversation for my therapist, I'm sure.) Julie, at one point, giggled and asked if I had taken a bite out of it. She was not judging me or even making fun of me. We had a laugh, and I asked if I could put the bun one her plate, away from me. We finished our dinner.

See, it was not a big deal. I could've eaten the bun; it was an off day. I could've eaten the bun, even if it wasn't an off day; it would have just slowed my progress some. It would not have been devastating, no big deal. Why I've held you in rapt attention with this story is simple: there will always be temptations, whether it be chocolate, a plate of pasta, or "soppy bread" (or bun). It is a lot easier to stick to the plan--no matter what yours is--when surrounded by good friends!

Thank you, Julie, Drew, Libby, and Sydney for a great evening!

I Learned My Lessons

Day 9

Well folks, the results are in. After 8 days on the Xyngular Ignite program, I have lost 11.7 pounds and 9 inches. I've never experienced results like this before. It's hard for me to tell much of a difference when I look in the mirror, so I'm relying on the scale and tape measure right now. On Sunday when I start my next Ignite cycle, I'm also going to add in monitoring body fat percentage and actual body fat pounds. I think it will be interesting to see how that changes, as well. I'm hoping I'll learn even more about nutrition and my body as I chart the continuing changes.

When I started out today, I was a bit disappointed. The inches weren't what I had hoped. Until......I remembered that the first time I measured I was not wearing my...uh....foundational garment that adds more boost and padding than I realized. When I measured again without it, I was 3 1/2 inches smaller. So I chuckle and praise Cacique for making a great garment. Lesson 1: Always measure in the same clothes, or lack of clothes, as much as possible.

Today was the first of two days that are "Off" days, meaning I don't have to follow the eating plan. However, when I woke up I really did want my LEAN shake. I could've had cereal, an egg, a breakfast biscuit, whatever. I wanted my shake. And at lunch I really wanted my salmon, brown rice, and green beans. One of my colleagues teased me and said that I should be eating a burger and fries, not that healthy food that I eat on the complex carb days. Same thing at supper (dinner, depending on what part of our country you are from). When I began the Ignite plan, I promised myself that if I made it through the first cycle without a major bump or without straying, I'd allow myself to get a Pizza Hut Personal Pan Pizza--super supreme. (I had one a couple weeks before beginning the plan and developed an affinity for it.) Supper time came, and I didn't want it. I told myself I could have it, but then answered to myself that I really didn't want it. I ended up eating about half of a taco salad, but couldn't finish it. I've been satisfied, and not wanting all of what I used to eat. Color me surprised. Lesson 2: Xyngular is not only changing the way I eat, but also changing the way I think and feel about food.

It's been an exciting few days, and this blog is really helping me process a lot of what I am experiencing. (Not to mention it is helping ensure that I write for at least 15 minutes a day.) Thank you to those that are following my journey, sticking with me, and allowing me to entertain and--dare I say--maybe even inspire you a bit.

Water Water Everywhere---That I Have to Drink!

Day 8

Well, today was the last day of my first Ignite cycle. I made it! And now I wait until the morning, so I can weigh and measure myself to see the results. I weighed this morning, after an eating day, and had lost an additional pound. That brings my 7-day total to 10.4 pounds! It's hard to believe.

Today's goal for me was to make sure that I drink the right amount of water. I've got about 6 cups to go. (My word of the year is courage, and this next statement takes a bunch) I have to drink approximately 150 ounces of water a day. That's over a gallon! (Thanks, Google, for helping me figure that out!) I drink nothing but water, so that's not a problem. What is rough is the amount. I took a two quart pitcher to school to keep in my office area. That made it easier, as did the spicy beef jerky that was my snack today. (I pause now to refill my cup.) It's when I'm home and not doing a lot of talking, I don't get as thirsty, I guess. I have another hour or so, I might make that goal yet!

A couple of people at work today commented that I look different. They weren't specific, but it served as a motivator for me and made me smile. It's the little things... .

I can't wait until tomorrow! If you'll excuse me now, I must go drink... .

An Epiphany

Day 7

Eating day number 3. These days drive me crazy because I feel I haven't worked hard enough. I am comfortable that I only put healthy, good things in my body today, so I've done my job! 

Today was a great day at work, and I attribute it to Xyng. I had energy to teach those middle school-ers theatre. I played the acting games with them, instead of just observing and coaching. I picked up necessities from Kohls right after school, walked the dog for 15 minutes as soon as I got home, vacuumed the floor, rearranged living room furniture, organized the kitchen some, listened in on a business call, worked on the business some more, contacted three people about Xyngular, got everything ready for work tomorrow, took another short walk with the dog, and am now blogging. I say that, not to brag, but because 3 weeks ago, that would not have happened. Then, it was home, begrudgingly taking the dog to do his business, so I could get back up to my third-floor apartment, so I could eat my fast food, check Facebook, and crawl off to bed for nights of restless sleep. I'm doing nothing different, except the Xyngular products, and I think Xyng is key for this component. 

I hesitated writing this because I thought to myself, "Maybe it's a fluke. I must've had a good day today." Then it hit me that this was defeatist. I need to recognize what was going on and celebrate it, not wait and expect it to fail. I think it's a turning point for me. I need to work on my thought patterns, while the Xyngular products work on my body. As my friend just texted me, replace the old tapes with new ones!

If your interest is piqued, and you'd like to hear more about Xyng, please do not hesitate to email me at MyXyngJourney@gmail.com, or inbox me on Facebook. I'd love to share more! 

Celebrating Progress of Friends

Day 6

Well, Sebastian and I returned to Lexington today. I choked back the tears as much as possible as I told my mom and dad, sisters, brother-in-laws, and nieces goodbye. I munched on my homemade beef jerky and drank my water and envisioned what it will be like once I reach my goal. Once I got home, I was met with some wonderful motivation!

I was hanging with my friends, Heath and Julie, when I got back, and they have just finished their second eight day cycle of the Ignite plan. Holy cow! What a difference! Heath, Julie, and I have been friends since Newberry College about 20 years ago, so they were the ones to share the miracle that is Xyngular. I have Heath's permission to share his pictures, so take a look:

I am so proud of Heath and Julie both, and it feels great great to know real before and after people. Oh, Heath's not done yet, but he is looking great and staying with the plan and is 27% of the way to his goal. We were discussing tonight what our favorite Xyngular products are. He loves Xyng--an herbal blend that boosts energy and metabolism, promotes focus and general feeling of well being, and elevates mood. Naturally! 

Sometimes I feel infomercial-esque, but I cannot help how excited I am to have found Xyngular and a great Xyngular family for support. I want to share it with everyone--everyone who has struggled with weight, everyone who wants to tone up, everyone who wants to feel better, no longer need their medication, get rid of aches and pains, migraines, arthritis, gout, etc. I've never felt this way about anything else!

Ok, school starts tomorrow, I must calm down and go to sleep. Before I go I will update you on me--holding steady at 9 pounds! That's nine in five days, I won't complain that I didn't lose any more. As long as it picks pack up--hahaha!

One last thing, I mentioned Sebastian. You must see him, because he'll probably be creeping up in many posts.

For the Love of Tacos--Day 5

Happy New Year! 

Technically this post is for 12-31-2012; I'm just a night owl, and this is when I like to write. Making myself write more is one of the purposes of this blog, so if you see poems in the near future, don't be too frightened!

Down to business. Halfway through cycle one, after 4 days, I've lost 9 pounds. NINE! It's unbelievable, and I question the scale, which has been acting wonky, but I got the same weight three times, so I'm going with it!

Almost had a meltdown today. As I said before, I never feel deprived or hungry. I didn't even have a hard time turning away my sister and brother-in-law's birthday cake with that really good icing. Then came today, my last day with my family. Day Five is an eating day. I had some yummy pasta again--which I probably will on most eating days until I learn how to make quinoa--lots of veggies, and my protein for lunch. In the past, on my last day at home my mom makes tacos. They are not fancy. They're probably not overly authentic. (She uses Old El Paso.) But something about the way my mama cooks the meat, cuts the veggies, I don't know what else, sprinkles in love maybe, makes her tacos the best thing in the world to me! 

I told mom I'd be able to eat the meat and veggies--not the shells, cheese, or sour cream--and it was fine for me at 1:00. But come 5:00, it was another story. The thought of not having cheese or shells made me a little bit sad, but no sour cream?!?! For those of you that do not know me well, sour cream has been almost its own food group for me in the past. The thought of having a taco without any of that rich, creamy goodness drove me to the cliff. Then I thought--no shell??? My mind went to a little negative place for a minute. I even texted my friend, Heath, to make sure I could not have shells. I knew better than to bring up the sour cream. He assured me that I could not, told me to take a Xyng, drink my water, and smile. Foiled!

I wish I could say that I sucked it up, ate meat and veggies while everyone else munched on those crispy corn shells piled high with the same meat and veggies I was eating plus a slathering of sour cream topped with cheese. Sadly, I can't. I did not cheat, however. For this, you may shout, "YAY!" My mom, with a late in the game save (tried to come up with a witty sport metaphor), changed the menu! Thanks mom! She is being so super supportive! I'd like to give her one of those Burger King crowns to wear! What's more, my dad didn't even complain. She's a miracle worker!

I write all this because a.) it was a little comical, and b.) to show you that it's not all a cake walk. It's sad to give up some of my favorites, especially when I am sure that, for some reason, those tacos have become a comfort food for me. Tonight may have been an ecellent chance for me to do some personal growth, but Mama realized that Ive been working and growing a lot lately, and she swooped in and rescued me a bit. We all need someone to be our support. (I'll be yours, if you need me to!)

When I stop and think, I realize the rewards of sticking with the plan are going to be so much bigger than this small sacrifice. Also, I realize that I am thankful for those two days in between each eight day cycle when I can eat what I want, sensibly. And  it's just two days away. Now I'm not going to go insane, but I have my niece's birthday party on Saturday. It will be my second off day. I might just stop by my mother's for a hug, some support, and a taco.

Happy New Year!

Day Four--Excitement Abounds!

And the heavens opened up. . . .

I felt like I did nothing, but eat yesterday. Day Three is only a Lean shake at breakfast. A 500 calorie lunch with complex carbs, and all protein at supper. To tell you the truth, I kind of missed them. Look at how yummy my plate looks:

   


                                          And that's less than 500 calories!

But this is Day Four, and I want to say another 1.4 pounds, bringing my total to 7 pounds in 3 days! Can I get a WHOOP WHOOP!

Since I'm still on winter break and tend to sleep in, I've made my snacks coincide with my family's lunch and supper. This way the effect of the social aspect of gathering at the dinner table was not difficult. From what I understand, with Xyngular you work it with your schedule. Follow the structure in the way that works. If it stops being as effective, I'll more strictly adhere to the schedule. 

Xyngular is changing me, and I'm not just saying that. I believe it. I feel it. I'm seeing it!

Tomorrow: What is this Xyngular that you speak of? 

Day Two and Day Three--A Little Late

 Carbs, oh how they call to me! And my eagle eye can find them even in the dark. Day Two really made me see what an emotional eater I am. The Xyngular Lean shakes really satisfy my sweet tooth. However, I got a bit emotional, was not hungry, but some uncontrollable urge turned me into a rabid beast. I'll say it again, I wasn't hungry! 

I stayed true to the course, even when my family was eating leftovers from Christmas Dinner--turkey, mashed taters and gravy, baked mac and cheese, pineapple apple casserole, chocolate chip cookies. I will admit that I did succumb and had a teaspoon of the mac and the casserole, then immediately texted my friend because I felt I had derailed myself. (Really, a teaspoon. Full disclosure, here!) 

Fast forward to midnight, a surprise visit from my sister and brother-in-law from Kentucky, and a table filled with goodies. I was good, and it wasn't that hard. Typically I would've mindlessly eaten although I wasn't hungry. I took the opportunity to get in an extra 12 oz. of water. (And I did ask my mom to cover up one of the snacks that was calling to me, which she did. Thanks mom!)

Day Two was a bit harder than day One, but I in no way felt deprived. And when I weighed the morning of Day Three, I had lost another pound!

On to Day Three--

My first eating day, only 1 shake (breakfast). I felt like I did nothing but eat all day. Today I really felt, or paid attention to, the effects of Xyng. This is the first time since my surgery that I have felt like I had enough energy to get through the day. As I write this, I realize I have not written my story yet. Topic for tomorrow's post? Maybe....

My mom surprised me by going to the store and buying me Egg Beaters and a couple of other things that she knew I could eat today--100% wheat pasta! (Have I told you how much I love pasta?) She's been so supportive, and plans to order her Ignite kit in the next couple of days.

It's been a crazy busy day that has already turned into Day Four. Tomorrow: my story and maybe even THE CHEAT SAGA!!!!!

                       

              

Day Two

  This just in. . . . 

After day 1, I've lost 4.6 pounds! Dancing and hopping around followed morning weigh in. More later today, still working on my story. Check back often, and follow my journey!

In the beginning. . .

My path with Xyngular begins today. My story will follow, but I will suffice it to say that I initially considered using Xyngular products because of Xyng. My lack of energy since surgery in September of 2012 had been constantly troubling and, more importantly, frustrating me. I decided about two weeks ago that I was going to take steps to actively change this. Two of my "besties" began using Xyngular Ignite about ten days ago, and in one week, achieved significant results, so I decided to go whole hog, so to speak, and begin my journey with Xyngular. And it begins today.

Please check my blog often, as I post results, recipes, and share stories, joys, and struggles as I add a little Xyng in my step!