KMAC & Maintenance ;)

[KMac]

Well here I am, never thought this would happen- but I'm in maintenance. The past few days I was floundering between maintenance & re-feed. Its hard to even accept now, re-feed seemd to be a blurr now that I think of it. Its been like a roller coaster and then the end comes up faster than you expect.
My goal now is to lose about 5 lbs- I weighed in today at 143. I like being under the 140- a buffer zone.
I signed up for a half marathon, so I'm going to have to figure out eating & training:thinking: The training started mid January but I had to finish DC + re-feed so I must start soon. I'm excited to see what exercising/running will be like after the weight loss. When I did the triathalon I was 215, ( thats with a 10 pound weight loss from training). Hopefully I will have a pep to my step and be able to finish.:praying:
Any tips for maintenance would be greatly appreciated.
Have a great day :party1:

[KMac]

I am going to a Mexican resturant tonight-with my son's basketball team. I avoided this place for 11 months!! So I'm a little excited but nervous I am going to dive into the blue chips and salsa and not come up for air!! lol I have a goal for next week which is on my mind, so I'm bartering with myself- good today, and then next Sat. I can have an off night? I finally getting to that anniversary night in NYC w/ my hubby Sat night ( I was on re-feed and couldn't meet him in the city last month) and then meeting our daughters boyfriend for Sunday brunch- :) I'm excited. So having just typed that, I realized tonight I MUST distance myself from the dive into the chips & salsa & focus on next weekend - thanks gals your the best!!!!

[KMac]

Well Valentines weekend is over and with my weigh in this AM- I am returning to
DC1 this week M-F. I need to get my head mentally back on track and I am hoping this
will do the trick. I must say I miss the "My Progress" section- I guess because I was progressing...lol

[Key]

Hi KMac! I so agree that refeed is like a blur. Dayanira said if she did refeed again she would do every day... I agree, I'd do them all too. But there's got to be some thought behind Dr. Cohen's reasoning for not doing every day of refeeding.

Fear not, my friend... you will progress regardless of where you do your posting. You're a survivor whever you go.

[KMac]

I think if I did re-feed again I would go back to DC1 on the off days- I thought that was how it worked but I was wrong.
This week (M-F) I'm doing re-feed, I did some lb damage up at the hospital with my Dad( chocolate & pizza) & the Mexican restaurant-( chips, beans, chicken taco's) so today I weighed in at 141.2- which Monday it was 146.4. I went to the DC webpage and saw Chris's pictures- she looks great. It also has
a weight calculator to see what you goal weight is and mine came up 135! I remember mine being 140-144. I played araound with it, 1 inch shorter, half a size shoe bigger it all plays into the goal weight- shoe size, that surprised me. I would like to get to 135, because of the 5 lbs buffer weight. I know when I get to 140 its back to basic's time, but if its 140 and I go up to 146.4 like I did- its so close to 150- does that make sense? I know, I'm nutty ;O
Hope your having a great week- still reading Joann's brownie message - lol

[KMac]

Hello and happy weekend everyone!
I weighed in today at 140.0 today- even w/ a non-DC day yesterday. Its weird Thursday I had a lot going on stress-wise and I was good- stuck to my Cohens plan- which worked great all week for me. Yesterday, (Friday) I did not have a DC day. I left the house early and ran around till 10pm. Had 2 slices of pizza one for lunch & one for dinner- that kind of day, so today getting on the scale I was nervous but it was all good. I get on the scale saying.. time to own up to what I did. BUT- the more I thought about it - I guess that is what maintenance is, eating and being responsible for what your eating. Tonight I am going into NYC for my post anniversary & a company fundraiser with my hubby, I went out and bought a new dress.. get ready for this ( drum roll please) I got a size 4 Calvin Klein ;O Never in my life would I have thought it was a possiblility- such joy ;)
Hope you have a great weekend :)

[Aqua Eyes]

How AWESOME is that??! Size 4!!! Keep up the good work! Have fun tonight too!

[Ms. CrackerHead]

I've been here lurking lately but just want to congratulate you and how well you are doing! Good job and stay here to inspire others...you are good at that! :)

[Sharon]

Sorry about the delay in writing to you but congrates big time,
{congrats}
You have worked so hard to get here and you should be so proud of yourself
Looking forward to reading of your journey

[Key]

Hi KMac! We want to see pictures of you in that new Calvin Klein dress!

I know what you mean about maintenance. It's all about having an awareness of moderation in addition to the tricks we learn to keep insulin from spiking. I'm weighing myself every day - never have done that before - it makes me accountable for what I eat and if I goof up, I'm never too far away from the wagon to get back on easily.

Congratulations. And happy belated anniversary!

[KMac]

Hello All,
How are you? It has been a hectic week. The city was great, we had a lot of laughs. I have to remember I can't drink as much as I use to- open bar and my everyone getting each other drinks.. lets just say- I didn't enjoy the long cab ride..lol
I actually returned the Clavin dress- it was too dressy for this party- I think I just wanted it because it was a size 4, but I did get a nice blk & white dress, size small:) I wore it w/ blk leggin & blkk boots , I felt good & comfortable.
I have been trying/ struggling with finding my nitch with food- :thinking: not a easy task, but I'm sure with all of us
working on this together we will find some answers. Last week I did the Cohens dc1 Mon- Thurs and that got off the extra pounds I wanted. I keep thinking of the 90-10 ratio, I just have to keep my 10 a 10 and not a 20-25!
Tomorrow is Monday- a new week, new slate I need to start training for my 13. mile run in late April- time is a tickin' so I better get kickin'.
Have a great day:party1:

[KMac]

Good morning,
I'm starting up dc1 again- I'm thinking maybe Monday - Friday but maybe longer..
Those sweets get me, I have to be more disciplined with myself.. they are TROUBLE- ( with capital letters!)
So Good Luck today - Lets make it a positive one

[Key]

Those sweets get me,

Hi KMac,

You're not a lone with your problem with sweets. I've never been a sweet addict... but I have noticed that after the diet I REALLY like the taste of sweet things. I wonder if there was something that happened during the diet that make our tastebuds respond to sweet? It's not like I have a sweet tooth now - I don't crave these things - but when I taste something sweet I have to have another bite. And another bite. And then I have to get away from it $: ) . I'm going to have to learn not to take that first bite.

[KMac]

Hi Key,
I know what you mean.. the sweets- they get to me. I was good all day yesterday- dc1.. then about 8pm, I was chilly and wanted tea & I allowed myself some cookies, silly I know- but definetly not necesary. I have my "friend" now, so I'm not weighing myself- maybe thats why I had the cookies? Its behind me now ( hopefully not on my behind-lol) This morning I ran into an old friend who had lost a lot of weight ( gastric bypass) she has put 50lbs back on, I don't want to be that person who is not in control of what is going into her mouth. I want power/contol over food and not to surrender to whatever whime I "FEEL" ( those feelings, get us in trouble) I'm entitled too - it was a real wakeup call- be accountable, be sharp and don't let your guard down when it comes to sugar & sweets- they are just not good for me.
Your right when you say I'm going to have to learn not to take that first bite. - I'm an all or nothing type person, if I'm eating one cookie- its going to be 4,5 etc.. its just my way- so I have to go back to my old motto...NO! Re-train myself, 1st reaction- No, 2nd reaction No. Its funny I never felt deprived when I was doing that- but now that I'm not I feel, I'm depriving myself of feeling good & being proud of myself- funny huh?
Well yesterday is yesterday- today I am ready to feel good :)

[Key]

Hi KMac - I think I am always going to have to be on guard. It's like alcoholism but with food. I need to be in control of what I eat and like you, I can easily lose that control - if they are available, one cookie (or whatever) will always lead to more. So, I can't make them available unless I have a very good reason (like I'm having a party).

I'm so glad I am able to bounce these thoughts off you. We are not going to be like your friend and gain back any weight - we are in control of what we eat. Remember how Dr. Cohen says food is our medicine? It still is - but not like it was on the diet. Now we need to be concerned about the wrong medicine that makes us lose control.

[mommabear]

I agree KMac this is a fight that all of us are going to have to fight for the rest of our lives!!!! And each one of us has our own personal demons that made us get as FAT as we were! I have nightmares about gaining all of my weight back. I don't ever want to be FAT again. It scares the he#$ out of me. One day at a time...

[KMac]

ok fellow Dieters.. another day to start fresh :)
lets get ready to rumble those demons ;O...
give yourself a positive day today :)

[Dayanira]

Hi KMac,
I think it takes at least a year in maintenance until we figure it out how to control those demons! But if we survive 6 months, 9 months, a year on the diet, we can do this. I keep repeating myself "I can do it, I can do it, I can be skinny for the rest of my life!"

Hugs,
Dayanira

[KMac]

I agree with you Dayanira, it will take time to figure out life after dc 1.
The early lesson learned for me is to weigh myself everyday, be accountable and not in denial. In the past I had gone years without weighing myself, I was to scared- I dreaded going to the Dr. because I knew then would weigh me. Just like on dc 1 we didn't learn everything right away, my journey took me over 3 sessions- I wouldn't trade it for anything- I learned a lot about myself & this maintenance will teach us all something too- in its time not ours.
I know I have to work on the "turn off switch" being able to say ok, I had enough, or I'm not hungry. I know its all mental strength and if I can do 40 weeks of Dr. Cohen- I can do this, I just have to be kind to myself and be patient.
Have a great day everyone :)

[KMac]

Hello All,
Yesterday I had a tooth pulled, hopefully now my jaw & teeth problems will settle down.
I can only eat soft food and really enjoyed a peanut butter & jelly sandwich yesterday. I have to slow
down when I eat because I could have had 3 of them. For dinner I had pancakes, again- I need to slow down, I feel like I'm
always running out the door (which I am) I eat fast & then wonder why I intergestion?? nutty I know.
I feel guilty about eating the bread & pancakes- but they were soft & so good. I will make a nice soup for lunch & maybe dinner too.
Happy Friday :)

[Aqua Eyes]

I couldn't even have pancakes in the house! My weight has really climbed up there. I have about 16 pounds to lose!! Don't let this happen to you. Go very carefully.

[Key]

Hi KMac, hope you're feeling better! Funny, I have never experienced a love for pancakes - after eating them I always felt like there was a boulder in my stomach so I never eat them. Rest and heal, my friend!

[KMac]

Hello All,
Thank you for the well wishes, I am on the mend. So far so good this week- yeahhh. The past 3 weekends were b'day celebrations for 3 of our kids.
This past Sunday I went to Hoboken NJ to Carlo's bakery- from the show Cake Boss, and then onto Katz Deli in NYC for lunch- talk about being full & the lb's.
I am happy to wrap up my b'day season for awhile, next celebrations in the city is in April- so I should have total focus until then.
Key your right about the pancakes, good but total belly bombers & they put me right to sleep.
Hope your all well & happy :)

[Sharon]

Hi there KMac, glad to hear you are on the mend,
Peanut butter sandwiches and pancakes!!! real comfort food, I don't have a waffle iron in my house cos I would do the same if I had 1 of those, and of course you have to have the obligatory maple syrup and cream.
All the best for the total focus, I know you can do it.

[KMac]

Thanks Sharon I needed that ;)

[KMac]

Hello All,
I read this and thought about myself and all my DC buddies who struggle:

Today, choose to focus on the future and release past hurts through forgiveness. Draw a line in the sand and say, "I am a child of the Most High God, and I'm not going to live my life negative and defeated. This is a new day, and I'm taking back what belongs to me!" That's having a restoration mentality!

We are all winners, we need to hold our heads high- I have been beating myself up because when I step off the DC1 path, w/the strick boundries and try to incorporate other foods into my diet I feel guilty that I'm cheating someway. I guess its the unsure feelings of figuring life out and eating more than 600 calories a day that I have to deal with. I was talking to a woman I use to meet at the gym, she happens to be a nutritionist and I was telling her of my troubles in maintenance. She told me that because I had eaten a certain amount of calories per meal.. 3 meals a day, eating more than 3 meals, and more food I was like overloading my digestive system. I don't know if any of you get this but sometimes & certain food feel like they are hard to digest &are just sitting there. The woman said if I continue to struggle and feel I'm putting on weight I should see a nutritionist ( to bad she's not in private practice).
It helps to read how everyone is dealing with maintenance- it would be great if Dr. Cohen's sep up an outline or something - its great we lost the weight-but this is really is an on going issue.

[KMac]

I was just on Dr. Cohen Face Book page and someone asked about feeling nervous about putting on weight after dc1 this was the repy:

it’s normal to feel a bit nervous. The best tip I can give you is to study and then apply Dr Cohen’s rules for Life After the Diet found in the back of your Re-feeding Guide. These rules will help you to keep your hormones in a correct balance so that you do not gain weight again. Remember it's about what you do daily that counts.

I posted a question, hope they give me a response :)

[fitby26]

Hi there:)

I am still a few months away from my own maintenance journey, but I recently had an experience where I had to go off plan for a few weeks, then took a few weeks off on my own accord. I was advised to eat a diet very un-cohen and I continued to eat "normal" for the entire time including some bad stuff. What surprised me was that I initially gained 5 pounds within days, and then another few pounds the following week and then I plateaued for an entire month eating when and what I wanted:thinking:.
I was just wondering if it is natural to gain back 5-10 pounds just because we are eating a healthy amount of food again, and if there is any truth to that, should we just expect to gain 5-10 pounds after maintenance?

ps..I can do with out the pancakes....but french toast :drool:

[Aqua Eyes]

Perhaps what you experienced is the norm for 1 PDers that don't follow the maintenance per Cohen rules... you gain 5 to 10 pounds back. I have gained 16 - 18 pounds back, and hovering right there. I would like to lose 10 of the pounds I put on. I continue to read this forum, be inspired by everyone here and give my eating lifestyle more thought as to what direction I'm going in. One thing I have found out though... if I go too much off the Cohen plan, my body rebels with terrible gas. It's embarrasing. Before the Cohen diet, I had difficulty digesting some foods, and now afterwards it seems that there are more foods I can't diegest as well anymore. The refeed is designed to keep our hormones balanced and to get our bodies used to increased foods and to see how well our bodies will digest the foods. Interesting. Gives me much to think about in my own direction with all of this.

[fitby26]

JoAnn, that is really interesting that your body seems to be rebelling more foods after the plan...
While I was off plan I experienced some very uncomfortable IBS symptoms and that is not normal for me. I used to have an iron stomach!
hmmmmm?
Sorry to go off topic Kmac :)

[Key]

it’s normal to feel a bit nervous. The best tip I can give you is to study and then apply Dr Cohen’s rules for Life After the Diet found in the back of your Re-feeding Guide. These rules will help you to keep your hormones in a correct balance so that you do not gain weight again. Remember it's about what you do daily that counts.

Hi KMac - I think given where we are now and coming from that fat place where we both used to live, a little fear is a healthy thing. I'm hoping that the fear will eventually turn into good habits.

JoAn - have you thought about taking a probiotic?

[KMac]

Hello All,
Yesterday I was searching the web looking for info-( structure I guess) to help me. I did find a Cohen's webpage ( I think its for Australia & the clincs)
http://www.cohens.com.au/ which has a newsletter link( I signed up for the newsletter)- it was interesting, you should check it out, it has 1 recipe per monthly newsletter.
I am going to go over the maintenance info and set something up for myself to incorperate exercise- I've been flondering enough- time to step up to the plate and hit this out of the park.
Key I'm hoping my fear turns to good habits too- I just want that mental peace- ya know? To be on a path, organized & controlled in my eating- I need that back in my life. I think I'm over thinking a lot which leads to frustation- which isn't helpful.
Joann I think your right on with not following the maintenance and putting on the weight- thats me BUT no anymore- right? We can do this!!
Happy Monday everyone :)

[Aqua Eyes]

KMac... I'm with you. My mother is in the same situation as I am. I told her we both need to stick with this program and get this excess weight off and review the maintenance plan more closely.

Key... I haven't been consistant with my probiotic capsules. They have to be kept refrigerated and I forget to take them. Thanks for the reminder. If I took them more often they might certainly help my guts.

KMac... I'm with you... the weather is getting nicer and I always get this energy surge and start doing drastic changes with my body. Last year it was to start this program. This year it is to start exercising and getting this excess weight off. I see a fabulous looking body in my future that is dying to be shown off in a 2 pc swimsuit. :D

[Chris68]

K,

You were asking about books, I have not read this one, but it got a pretty good review in the O Magazine. It is called Women, Food, and God by Geenen Roth. Oprah says "this book is an oppurtunity to finally end the war with weight and unlock the door to freedom." Apparently it can be applied to any part of our lives. Let me know if you decide to read it and if it turns out to be any good.

Chris

[KMac]

Hello,
Well I had a very crazy week. I went on a bender.. eat,eat & more eating- I couldn't get enough sugar & salt. Then as I took another spoonful of ice cream I realized.. I'm giving this ( weight loss) away. I worked so hard, and I'm handing it over & giving this demon my power- I had the power/control & if I had it once I can get it again. I hoped on my Elllpitic machine and did 2 miles, everyday since that- I have walk/ran at least 2 miles. I like walking the half the track & then jogging the other half, it breaks it up and I feel I'm getting it over with faster. So thats my week, really just focusing staying close to dc1.
Hope your all enjoying the outdoors.. swimsuit season is right around the corner for us east coasters.
:)
Chris thanks for the tip on the book, I'm going to look :)

[KMac]

Hello All,
Well I'm still working this thing called maintenance.. it really is trial & error, those errors are a bummer.
Trying to figure out how many more calories to add daily along with exercise, to lose some weight - is what I am focusing on.
I'm awaitng my TOM and then I will get on the scale. I am trying to drink all the water, I have to help the fat flush from my body ;) (hopefully)
I put a question of DC facebook, but they never answered it and when I posted a comment about them not answering- they deleted it my post- I thought that was fresh. Maybe I'm just looking for a diet plan like dc1, but like dc2?... Is that to much to ask for? lol
I have to get excited about the food again. There was a time when the saltines & tomatoe w/ cheese would get me excited. I have stewed apples in my frig, in the past that wouldn't have lasted a day! I must FOCUS!! Pick my friends and chocolate is not one of them- its a very, very slippery slope for me.. 1=4=7 etc..
I hope everyone else is doing well, and thanks for letting me vent.
Happy Friday everyone, I have to remember the cheese trick if I go out this weekend- how much cheese do you have to eat?
:)

[Sweetieface214]

Hey Kmac! How do I get the ticker working on this thing?

[Key]

KMac - I try to eat one little Babybel cheese (the kind wrapped in red wax) before I drink any wine.

[KMac]

Thanks Key, I love helpful tricks.
Sweetieface, I'm not the best person to help with the ticker, try the link on the message boards- it was always a pain in the butt for me to change mine- sorry.

This week I am going back to DC1- I currently have TOM & feel so bloated- ughh
I have a very important dinner on the 4/9, I am meeting our daughters futute in- laws, as well as her Mom's( my husbands ex-wife) new husband - so I just want to
go into this with a good head- calm, level hormones- so I pulled out the scale this AM & I WILL push through all the sugar/bad carb demons/ urges.. I have to - I remembered something Phylisis use to say all the time... "cheating is not a option"

Hope your all happy & well,
:)

[KMac]

I completed 1 full day of strict dc1-- :) no sweets, goodies- Thank You God!
Onto day 2.... getting "back in the saddle again", keeps playing in my head :)



**** Cheating is Not an Option****.... past post from Phyllis.. ty :)

[KMac]

Ok onto day 3... triple yeahh :) :) :)
Last night my family my husband I took our kids (5) future son in law & a cousin to this ice cream cafe.. home made icecream - great food. It was a real test, but I stay'd in my dc1 groove & while everyone was eating the goodies a nice d.coke was good enough for me. My step-daughter who I am so proud of did not deviate either- she has lost 35 pounds and looks so beautiful I am so happy for her.

**I just notices.. DEVIATE = DEV(vil)+ I + ATE = deviate- lol

[KMac]

hello all,
pretty quiet in maintenance land- hope everyone is doing well. I am struggling, having dreams I put the weight back on- it was really upsetting- but a relief
to wake up and realize it was just a dream ( like the food cheating dreams on dc1)
figuring out how to feel good mentally & food wise is really tough. I was even thinking about joining WW- just to get a plan.
I realized something yesterday, a women was asking me questions about the diet & it dawned on me - I took the time to take my medicine. I baked the squash, bought the food - I'm not doing that- I'm winging it- whatever I have and then trying to justify it.
I started this morning out thinking- I 'll have a breakfest bar & coffee & run out the door- I really had to stop, think and grab my frozen veggy patty out of the freezer and cook it up with my egg-- and I enjoyed it. I have to take the time and take care of myself- I cant give the 40 weeks on this diet away- I worked to hard for that.
I hope your all well, and adjusting and having happy days.
:)

[KMac]

hello all,
I'm back on my dc1- I need to lose the 10 lbs I have put on ;(
I was just on the DC facebook page and read this Q & A and thought it was good info- most information about maintenance that I have read.

Has anyone here been successful going back on this diet after regaining weight?April 12 at 7:47am ·

Dr. Cohen's 1st Personal Diet We have many clients who lose weight and who manage to maintain the weight loss until something happens ie: they become pregnant and gain back some weight. In this even, the best is to go back on diet as soon as possible and to shed the excess weight, reach goal and do the Re-feeding Program. If you just gain weight back, it simply means that you... See More were not applying the Life After Diet Rules correctly or often enough, in this case, do not allow more and more weight to come back. Rather start with a new diet and then, make a point of keeping a food diary after the Re-feeding Program so that you can see how your body is affected by certain foods and so that you can be sure to follow the rules for Life After the Diet.
April 12 at 4:26pm · Report

Last night I was having my sugar withdrawels -I went to bed at 9pm, but I had a really good nights sleep ;D
I baked my squash, steamed up my cauliflower, sauteed the onions, mushrooms& green pepers yesterday- it was nice to take the time and
cook for myself.. yes I'm putting myself back on the top of my list! lol

Have a great day everyone :D

[Dayanira]

Hi Kmac!
I'm with you this time! I've just re-printed my original plan and put it on my fridge again. I'm going to kick off those nasty pounds forever! Thank you for the above info, I had completely forgotten that we need to do re-feed again if you go over 5 pounds :(

We are the experts now, we can do it!
Dayanira

[Key]

Hi KMac. You know, I don't think I ever really left the program ... except now I don't weigh my food and I do weigh myself $: ) I thought I'd be eager to eat different foods but I still buy the same way I did when doing the plan. Maybe it's because I don't have to feed anyone else and don't have convenience foods around?

You know you can do this!

[Aqua Eyes]

I'm like you Key... I buy strictly Cohen foods. I am still measuring and eating closely to my plan was, but it doesn't take much to make the weight go up by a couple of pounds. A dinner out here, a wine tasting there, a festival over there... and I'm struggling with a few more pounds. I need to be good for a whole month again.

[KMac]

Hello All
Hope everyone is happy & healthy. Sorry to be away so long, licking my weight gain wounds +20lbs ;(.
This is tough. Its something I was scared of, and repeated the same old routines.. avoiding the scale, and not putting myself & my diet needs ahead of anything else. My family has a busy life, my husband works a lot & 3 boys in sports & everything else is up to me( which I love) but I more on my game I guess you can say when I was eating right. I didn't' have the stress about worrying about gaining weight back. I was just reading MamaD's posts, 105 pounds, what a powerful force! It reminded me of when I was there- I can do this, just cut the crap, the head games- eat right, take the time, go against the flow, and do your own thing. Losing 85 lbs ( now 65) I feel that a lot of people are waiting for me to put he weight back on. My friend just told me she ran into an old friend and the 1st question was did I put the weight back on? I don't want to give this back, I worked so hard- and it feels like a free-fall when I don't have a program. I joined WW to see if the points could work along with DC, but the bread gets me into trouble- I just want more ;(
I just finished my egg & mushroom, black coffee.. lets hope I catch that force of mental strengh to push me through the day & you too :D

[Sharon]

Can so relate to the weigh gain and the thought that there are those sitting there waiting for it to all go back on again, like you I have gained and not happy about it, for me it is about 18lb. I'm great at work - have cohen for breakfast lunch and snacks - all weighed out, but when I get home I head for the crackers - I know they are reduced fat but I don't stop at a couple, and on my days off I shout myself too many treats at the moment. I too seek that mental strength that will push me through my days, my grey matter turns into smoosh at 4pm.
Will be thinking of you, you have worked so hard, we have both been there done that so I know we can do it again.
Hope you day went well.

[KMac]

Hi Sharon-
thank you for much for the kind and understanding words, I needed it.
I didn't have the force today- I skipped breakfest ;( Feeling like crap the rest of the day- ughhhh why do I do this to myself? I could cry.
BUT the only thing I can do i pray the next meal is a good one. Plan it out- no quick fixes- must really distance myself from the carbs- its the gate way to trouble for me- I hope it sinks in soon.
Hope you had a forceful day ;)

[KMac]

good morning!!
Just had my egg, mushroom & black coffee & 4 saltines... yeah
1 meal down 2 to go! May the force be with me for the rest of the day & you too!

[Banjo Lady]

KMac
One day at a time, one meal at a time. Tomorrow is always another chance to eat a clean breakfast and start the day off right. You seem to know that carbs are your trigger, and if you can say no to them for the amount of time it took you to lose 84 pounds, then you can say no to them for one day. One day will lead to two days, and before you know it you will be controlling your food instead of your food controlling you. Surround yourself with friends that support you, and leave the toxic ones behind. YOU CAN DO THIS!
BL

[mamaduckling]

KMac,
As Yoda says, "Do or do not, there is no try!" You have the force behind you "to do" because you have done it before. I have nothing but the utmost faith in the force to get you where you need to be. As Banjo says, one day will lead to the next, etc. You lived without those carbs before, you can do it again. You are truly an inspiration for so many others and I know that you can find the strength to get back on track and succeed. As far as the 'naysayers' they are just jealous of your outcome. There are those friends (overweight or not) who want to see us fail and gain it all back because they are comfortable with us the way we were. We have changed the 'status quo' so to speak and now the spotlight is on them. I know it is awfully hard to hear from your friends when they say "I wonder how long you'll be able to keep it off", you just want to smack 'em and walk away. But, turn it around and show them that it will not be coming back, nor will the 20 pounds be sticking around much longer either!

I am by your side on this one - let's get these pounds gone!

[monkeyface]

Kmac,
I have been reading your posts that have given me so much strenght and information these past few weeks.
I have been a self sabotager to the max...In fact, I started around June 1st and poked the diet with a stick (why???????????????????????? you might ask????????????that is my demon) for the first week or two...now I need to weigh in, but on vacation and not near MY scale...so have a few more days. Anyway, I have been on track the last several weeks and feel fantstic, but do fear my results won't be great since I blew it the first few weeks....That is what I get!
Anyway, this thing works...Identify YOUR demon and BEAT IT UP! You deserve to be thin, fit a fabulous!

[KMac]

Thank you so much ladies!!! I needed that, your right mental strengh is up to me- I WILL ( not hope or wish) WILL have a successful day :)
Enough of this crap- giving my weight loss back- NO WAY, it stops today. Like Phyliss use to say " NOTHING TASTE AS GOOD AS THIN/FIT FEELS"
3 meals a day 5 hours apart, 3 meals a day 5 hours apart... its like riding a bike right? lol

Thanks again- your the best ;)

[KMac]

my goal this week; continue no carbs & get on the scale!!
I've been so nervous about the scale- I make it mentally worse for myself ;(

[Sharon]

Hang in there - I know you can do it - you've done it before I have every faith in you, all of us have one thing going for us - we have all done it before - so we know we can
Just need to keep hopping on that bike you were talking about cos you will get there, if you don't you wont - eh
My bike has had its tires pumped and I'm getting back on too, when I think of wobbling I will think of you to steady myself.
(I too like Phyllis's words of wisdom and I say it to myself frequently - it is so true)

"Keep on a-peddlin"

[ls_dreamer]

Hang in there you are very strong! I took a look at your photo albums today and WOW! You are an inspiration!

[KMac]

Hello All,
I am happy to report 3 full days of dc1 under my belt!! yeahhhh
Next demon to squash is that dreaded scale to see what I'm up against.
I am so relieved to be back in my food plan, I've had a lot going on and to be getting set in my boundaries with food is one less thing to worry about.

Thank you so much for the encouragement- I could not have gotten back in the saddle without you gals and I hope I can
help push you along the way you have me :D

[monkeyface]

Thats what this is about isn't it!
You're doing great! Yes, planning the food takes all the "work" out of that part...then it is just the part between our two ears that works on me sometimes :)
Is it the fear that this could work? What if I run out of "new" clothes to wear in my closet and I have to buy some new ones.....like single digit sizes how great would that be?
Kmac...you can do it!!!!
Yeah to summer veggies and farmers markets :)

[Sharon]

Well done KMac, three days of dc1 peddling under your belt and they are suppose to be the hardest - fantastic work,
I too have had three days and this morning I started day 4 with my yogurt and thoughts about how you were doing and I am so glad you are hanging in there.
Don't worry about the scales, I have been looking at them over the past few months asking myself "WHAT THE *** ARE YOU DOING" but the damage done IS the damage done and all we can do is be positive, have faith in ourselves that we know this familiar dc road and all we have to do is follow it, and repair the damage - and don't ever give up.

HI monkeyface
Planning is a huge part of the puzzle, right to the end and as you may have noticed - after, keep on until you get to the end it is soooo worth it,
And it is absolutely fantastic buying those small size clothes you only ever dreamed of - it is a better feeling than any food can taste.

[monkeyface]

Thanks SHaron,
I have a tough week of parties everyday with this major gold event I am attending with my husband...I felt empowered at the buffet table tonight and great in my dress!

[KMac]

Hi Girls,
Smaller sizes are so nice, I remember calling my huband from the dressing room after I tried on a single digit pair of jean- I said pleae tell me this is not a dream!
Guess what I dreamt last night... cheating with a chocolate mousse cake!! Haven't had one of those dreams since I started dc1 last year.
Sharon I'm thinking of you & your pup and hoping for good days.
Monkeyface way to go, handling a buffet table, thats terrific & I bet you looked fantastic.
Have a great day girls :)

[KMac]

Hello All, How are you? I've missed you my DC buddies- I've been MIA.
I was doing the diet, fell off, start again, fell off- talk about yo-yo. Well today it stops!! I need the strength mentally and physically that comes from being on a plan/course- it works for me.
So I'm back ( plus a little more of me than I would have liked)
Hope your all doing well,
I have to catch up and read everyone's posts.

Hope you have a great day,

[KMac]

Hello Day 2-
Got through day 1, no cheats nothing- enjoyed being on program again.
I know the crankness will be hitting me today- my sugar withdrawal. I've made some sauteed apples, ready to take care of the sweet crave.
Haven't hit the scale yet, maybe next week ;/
have a great day ;)

[KMac]

Hello Day 3
Things are good getting into the groove- happy that I am actually looking forward to my salads & fruits.
Its so nice to be on a plan, the past month food & weight were always on my mind. I'm gaining, I'm gaining.. I shouldn't have
had that, or what should I eat?? Its taken care of- I need those boundries. I couldn't sleep last night, just restless.. I think its the detox of sugars from my body- I feel pretty good today ( so far-lol)
HOpe all my DC'ers are all OK
:)

[KMac]

day 4
All is well, feeling good except for sleeping. In the past I use to sleep so well, but maybe after the 1st week it will get better.
Decided I will weigh myself when I feel good, I know I should have never avoided the scale, its been so long since I weighed myself.
I have a habit of making things worse mentally then it actually is, so I'm hoping that is the case with this.
I had some sweet urges last night and had my orange and crackers- love it
I have to watch the crackers, they are good.

Enjoy your day,
:)

[Sharon]

Hi there and great to hear form you,
You are not alone unfortunately with the added pounds, but the big difference is, is when we don't give up but keep on with the battle of the bulge and you look like you are doing a fantastic job at getting yourself back on track, hang in there I know you can do it - you have done it before.
Look forward to hearing about your progress and know that I am cheering you on.

[KMac]

Day 5 and all is well! lol
Thank you Sharon, just know I am here cheering you on too!
We can do this, we've done it before :)
Have a great weekend
;)

[KMac]

Day 6
hitting the 3 day weekend, so far so good~ yeahhh
I was tempted to weigh myself this morning but didn't, felt a little bloated.
I made the spagetti squash, cauliflower,green pepper,mushroom, onion gulosh-- so good, even to spread it on a cracker.
Its really nice with an egg in the morning.

Hope all is well with fellow dc'ers
:)

[KMac]

day 7 - yippie!! :)
Last night I was tempted and am happy to report I pushed through and resisted :)
For some reason I decided to make chocolate cupcakes with vanella icing for my kids.
(Not to mention I had 2 bottles of terrific wine chillin in the frig;O)
I don't know why I tested myself like that, maybe for the smell- they did smell really good.
The other day at Traders Joes, I purchased mini smoores for my son. Chocolate covered mini graham crackers & marshmellow... the smell
of them was awesome- they probably smelt better then they tasted, right? Thats what I have to keep telling myself-lol

Hope your all well,
;)

[Sharon]

Goodness me you did challenge yourself - and you ploughed on through - awesome power.
I keep telling myself - the food benefits are transitory but health benefits last, but temptation still rears its tasty head.
Keep up the great work.

[KMac]

day 9
all is well, nice long labor day weekend.
kids are back in school today- hopefully this will help me
out with walking, or some sort of mild exercise.

Sharon I like that quote- its going up on the refrig!
thanks for the support :)
Have a great day :)

[Sharon]

Day nine, great work,
I think the exercise even mild is of benefit to body and soul, I always found I ate healthier and less liable indulge when I exercise - as long as I keep up the snacks and not let myself get overpoweringly hungry, then you are" doomed....doomed...." (like Mr Smith - lost in Space)
Keep up the fantastic work and I'll meet you at the finish line.

[KMac]

Hello All
day 10, doing well.
Changing things up a bit, to much chicken so I switched to turkey- yummy.
Did a little Palates, felt good
Enjoy your day :)

[KMac]

Day 11 ;(
Not feeling so good, I gave into some sweet cravings last night and feel horrible this morning. I'm hoping a long walk will help
me get back to feeling good. It was so silly I should have made the cooked apples but I thought I better not because I had
to many crackers already.. and then I LET the sweet cravings attack. I should know better, but I need to dust myself off, put on my big girls
pants and keep going. I liked a saying I read once, it all depends how you fall, if you fall forward and get right back up moving in the same direction
that's great- but falling backwards and laying there, wallowing in it- that's a reason to feel bad... so upward and onward!!
the plan was to weigh myself this morning ( maybe that's why I subconsciously cheated?) but now I will wait.
Have a great day :)

[Sharon]

I like what you have written about the falling - it is so right, and sounds like you have gotten right up and gonna keep going forward, we all can be tempted its what we do after it that is just as important as being able to stick to the program in the first place.
Keep up the great work, hang in there and have a great day.

[KMac]

Day ? lol
I've lost my way this weekend, ughhhhh ;(
Not prepared, being selfish, feeling entitled.. basically eating every emotion I had - very disappointing.
This morning I'm back on plan- I just have to keep myself busy, and stay away from anything non- Cohen.
Hope you had a much better weekend than me
Have a great day :)
wish me luck ;)

[KMac]

still on track, yesterday was tough- I was cranky..lol
had to many crackers but everything else was good- I'll work on the crackers.
I have my step-daughters wedding and I would love to be able to pick out a
nice dress, that I feel good in & not pick out a dress because I can't find one that fits me
right. The wedding is in late Oct. so I have some time to get this dc. going.

Have a great day :)

[c2lamoreux]

Are you doing the program again?

[KMac]

Hi c2
Yes I restarted the program again. I would like to lose 20 lbs. I ignored the scale, ate- and mentally drove myself crazy-
and the end result was about a 18 lb weight gain. I needed to get focused again, with good healthy food & putting myself back
on the list. When I reached my goal and then went onto re-feed & maintenance, I slipped back off the list, and ate quick,fast and convenient food.
So here I am, with all my dc buddies doing the best we can everyday.

Good news I weighed myself this am.. I had no idea what the scale would read- but it did relieve a lot of stress I had about it, so I'm happy I'm scale friendly again.... yealhhhh

Have a great day :)

[c2lamoreux]

Wow, at least you realized you needed to stop slipping before you put on a ton. Kind of a Welcome Back I guess :]:angel:

[Sharon]

Hi there, glad to see you are hanging in there KMac,
Know what you mean about 'the dress' wanting it to be one that looks nice not cos it fits, I'm a bit like that with my clothes at the moment, have some lovely clothes but they don't fit me nice,
Sounds like the scales sung the right tune for you and you are on the right track for the wedding, and I'm positive that you will be absolutely gorgeously slim trim healthy you.

[mamaduckling]

It's all just such an emotional roller coaster that the operator forgets to stop sometimes. It's amazing how we let food control so many things in our lives. I think I subliminally was sabotaging my weight loss for the fear of reaching re-feed and eventually maintenance. I would have an extra apple here or there when I would get close, or eat extra crackers (damn those things for tasting so good!) that would put a stop to the scale moving. I think I finally got to the point that I wanted to move on and experience a different journey. I was so surprised when I woke up this morning at my goal weight - I had to take a picture of the scale so I could believe it!

You can do this KMac, and you know exactly what it is going to take to get you there. You have been an inspiration to so many and I know that you will be successful. Hang tough!

[KMac]

Hello Gals,
Yeahhh MamaD reached her GOALLLL!!!! I am so, so happy for you- enjoy this, it is a major accomplishment- hugs & cheers to you!!

Still plugging away- its that TOM so avoiding the cravings.. just keeping busy

Thanks for the encouraging words, I need all the help I can get! lol
Hope your all pushing past your demons

Have a great day :)

[Cynthia]

Why is this the first time I've posted on here? I feel like I know you! Hahahaha! It's been a real help to me to be able to come here and read about your journey. Thank-you for you honesty! It's a good reminder that life isn't perfect after the diet and that there are temptations in the world that we are not ammune to, but we do have solutions and somewhere to turn. Keep up the great work!

[KMac]

Good morning,
I'm excited about cooking up some DC food- I love how the house smells when spagetti squash is baking
in the over :) Went to the market yesterday, cauliflower, pepper & sp. sq for my breakfest pattys- love them
Watching my crackers, boy do I love them!

Have a great day :)

[KMac]

Hi Cynthia,
Thanks for the kind words, it really is a journey! lol
You are doing wonderfully- congratulations
I loved your pictures- you look like your glowing.
Have a great day :)

[Dayanira]

Hello fighter!
How are you? I'm so glad to find you here fighting, kicking those monsters as me.

I started the plan this morning but everything turned into custard when I realized that since we put our clocks forward (day light saving) I was not going to make the three meals. I still tried to eat sensible, though. We'll see.

We are going to pass this stage Kmac. We need perseverance and the support of each other. So I'm here forever!!!

Take care,
Dayanira

[KMac]

Hello All!!
Hope everyone is happy and well.
I am back- I have been struggling- food and its mental demons- it just makes me un-happy ;(
I would start and then go to a party, or wait to long to eat and eat pizza- not putting MYSELF first is the culprit.
The dreams about putting on the weight came back- and just not handling food mentally well- I would really beat myself up
if it wasn't Cohen's food, even if it wasnt bad. That is a big issue of mine- the balance. But for now I need to lose the weight
I have put on- my old 'new' cloths don't fit- so I am not buying bigger sizes- no way!! I'm just squeezing uncomfortably into what I have.
I started this past Monday- so far so good- except those crackers--love them!!!
Have a great day :)

[Sharon]

Hi there KMac,
great to touch base with you, ditto - NO BIG CLOTHES.
And crackers!!! - put cheese on them and I'm a gonna.

[KMac]

Hello Again & Again, & Again...lol
Good Morning all, hope everyone is staying on track & happy. I would love to come here to give you all postiive & happy tidings from KMac- truth is I am lost- once again. Same old, same old- i'm good, good, not good, bad- good, good, bad, bad, miserable. Crazy cycle/ ride- get me off!
This is a wonderful time for me- my son had graduated high school, year end parties, and tonight is his prom. I am so emotional about everything - him growing up so fast, my youngest starting high school next year.. time has moved so fast- I know how precious time is, & I am eating all those emotions. This is a happy time, why am I so nervous? anxious about whats next for my family- so I eat. I need to get a handle on things. My family life is busy- 3 boys/ young men at home- colleges, graduation, travel baseball, travel lacrosse,basketball, family & friends - my calender is very, very full- but I have no plan for myself - I have to get myself together. I'm there but I'm sure my kids would want me there- happy, not feeling fat, bloated- its sad, it makes me cry. I've definelty hit bottom with the food/diet-I just have to get it together. I've been reading old posts, I had such strength- a small force that had boundries- I have no boundries, I need to work to get them back.
All your posts are laying a great foundation of strength for me- so thank you xo

[Cruvalcaba]

Do you still have the program for the refeed? What if you try using South Beach Diet recipes to get you back on track? It has similar foods as what is allowed on refeed with just a tad bit more variety? Try the first 2 weeks and see how you feel?

[Dayanira]

Kmac!!!
We are busy mums and our kids love us to accompany them in their activities. Don't give up my friend!
Dayanira

[PattyA]

:hug:

Hi KMac! I have three boys too! They're all grown up now, but that "MOM" hat never really comes off. I know what kind of running around it takes to keep up with them, even when they got older! And it was hard to manage to do things for myself. Things do change when they start leaving the nest, but the best things only get better. My guys are really really wonderful people and they are so supportive of what I'm doing with my diet. They do love to see me doing well.


ALL MOMS ARE TRULY HEROES!!!!

That's for sure. You deserve the best and WOW - You lost 84 pounds before. I have not a doubt in my mind that you can get back to where you want to be! Have fun with it! It's all part of the big adventure!

:flying:

[Aqua Eyes]

Hi KMac,

It's good to see you here, as well. I was wondering if you or anyone else have noticed that when the weight comes back on it goes to your stomach area? I never used to have a belly but that's where it's going now... guess that is what is known as "Middle Age Spread". I hate it! I have 4 days to try to get some weight off before my Belize trip. I'll see if I can follow the plan more closely. Seeing both you, Dayinara and Sharon helps me feel more motivation. Glad you stopped by for a visit too.I should change my ticker tape too. O.k... maybe next time.

[Dayanira]

I think all the 14 pounds I'm over weight are on my stomach. My idea of going up 5 pounds over my goal weight was because my face looks so ghastly, I have veins on my forehead popping out that only remind me when my great grand mum was ill and dying. But NO! These stubborn pounds are spread on my lower tummy and they look awful!
Dayanira

[Sharon]

Hi Guys,
All I read is so true true true,
Busy lives, children, work, not enough time
How can we stay on track for everything????
How do we slow ourselves down physically and mentally - smell the roses stuff
truth is I am lost- once again. Same old, same old- i'm good, good, not good, bad- good, good, bad, bad, miserable. Crazy cycle/ ride- get me off! - KMAC know you are not alone.
You have done so fantastically and by coming back here I know you still have the faith in yourself - hang on it there my friend, we all have our good times and not so good times, we just need to change the ratios to be in our favour.

As far as the weight around the middle - tell me about it{scream}
It just adds to that so attractive muffin look - NOT
Thinking of you all

[KMac]

Hello All and thank you so much for all your kind words and inspiration!
I was traveling with the boys & last week I was just so tired of being sick and tired I cooked up the food and away we go.
Sometimes its just easier to climb the wall instead of having the pain from kicking it!!! lol
Connie I will look into South Beach Diet- maybe that will help.
I too have gained the weight in the belly- ;( can't stand it!
I hope you don't think I was complaining, or pulling out the busy mommy card-( maybe I was a little..lol) I just loved that feeling
of having control over the food. I'm slowly getting back there- building up self confidence with every no to bad choices.
I wish the best for us all- mental peace with our bodies & food :)
Have a great day!

[Dayanira]

Welcome back Kmac!
We are here together, don't forget that. No matter where we are we are all humans with our imperfections. We've already tasted the sweet waters of being at goal, so we must pounder that in our minds all the time.
Hugs!
Dayanira

[KMac]

Hello Ladies,
Thank you for your positive & kind words. My summer traveling for my boys sports is over- and this morning I actually weighed myself. UGHHH ;(
I have to forgive & move on- I earned every pound I put on- so no complaining - I just have to lose it. I was so scared of getting on the scale that I was going to take a picture- while not looking and view it at the end of the week- talk about procrastination! I put aside my crazy idea and just looked- I have my work cut out for me, but I'm glad I looked at the scale - it took the power away from not knowing. I've always had the fear of the scale issue but when my weight & food are under control its no problem- but when I go for weeks, months without lookingat the scale and the clothes are getting tighter and tighter- its a bad cycle.
So enough of the past, onward & upward for all of us!!
KMac ;)

[KMac]

Hello All,
Day 3 on DC1- and happy to report I am doing well. Its weird- it feels good to be strict with yourself. I guess its like what they say about kids they need boundries to feel safe, I like the feeling of boundries with my food, no more free falling.
Hope you all have a great day ;)

[KMac]

Hello All & Happy Friday-
Day 5 of dc1, its going well. I love & have missed that peace of mind you get while following this diet. I hope I get some new insights to it and I can bring it into my life after Cohen's. I peaked at the scale this morning, I lost 7lbs~ yeahhhhh
Hope we all have a good food wise weekend :)

[Dayanira]

Kmac!
Day 5!!! and 7 lbs!!! Congratulations!!! You'll see great results when you finish your first week. Well done!!!

[formydaughter]

Kmac, that's really great! Keep up and you'll reach your goal weight in no time. :)

[Sharon]

How awesome Kmac, keep up the great work, 7lb is fantastic. - You go girl.

[KMac]

Good Morning!
Today is 1 week on dc- and all is well except for the weekend. I have to remember to drink all my water.
I realized last night I really didn't drink any water all day and decided to drink a lot last night, not a great idea before bed.
I still have to watch the crackers, and caffine- I do love my coffee & diet coke.
Onto week 2, I wish you all a happy & blessed week :)

[Sharon]

I hope the last few days have gone well, personally I think if you ar drinking no cal all day its basically water - I must admit I drink alot of coffee and tea, I am lucky that the caffine has no effect on me, sometimes I wish it would for night shift, not so much of the diet fizz these days so I easily keep well under a litre.
Good luck with those crackers, you get a real feeling on these threads that they are many peoples downfall, I don't keep my favourite ones in the house cos I just want to put cheese on them.
All the best for the weekend and keep up the great work, I hope you are not having too many disturbed nights.

[PattyA]

Saltines taste like pastry to me! Yup. They are dangerous. :eyebrow:

[KMac]

Good Morning All,
It was a rough weekend here in NY- hurricane Irene, but thank goodness all is well in my area, I feel for the folks who are flooded and without power.
I got off track, not being home- we had to evacuate, so I really should have planned better. But it is what it is and I am back on track.
I'm trying some different crackers (before the weekend), more fiber in them- they fill me up more than the saltines. I let you know how I make out with them.
Kids start school next week- boy did this summer really fly, maybe once they start I can get some walking inn.

Have a great day,
:)

[PattyA]

Glad to hear your home and family are okay, KMac!