Yes. I did. The sad fact is that after being honest with myself, I admitted defeat. Defeat in the fact I cannot do it alone. I’ve tried. God knows I’ve tried.
My battery ran out. I’m defeated! I’m out of energy! I need to plug myself in!
And the wake-up call was when I saw a side-view photo of me at Oona’s wedding. I sunk into an all-time low. I wanted so badly to lose a few pounds before her wedding but the stress kept calling my name. As did the carbs.
Mmmmmm. Mmmmm. Carb heaven. Don’t forget the butter!
And the sweets.
Momofuku Milk Bar Birthday Cake in progress. And there’s no birthday to celebrate! It’s a Pity Party Cake!
And anything else I could stuff into my mouth to make me momentarily calmer.
Share Size my ass. This is just for me and only for me!
And in the long run, I didn’t lose weight but lost willpower.
Yeah. I’m emotionally lost. I need to find myself–I’ll start at the thighs!
Now, a few weeks back I was contacted by NOOM, a strategic weight-loss, healthy eating company. I filled out the application the marketing people sent me and I was rejected! REJECTED! This. After they contacted me.
When I posted this news on Instagram, the marketing people got back to me to inform me an error may have been made and to reapply.
Sorry NOOM, you lost me. Forever.
But I knew that something had to be done. I wasn’t feeling right. I was feeling sluggish and being at a desk job where “sitting is the new smoking” has me all freaked out that I’m going to get very sick because I sit all day.
WTF??? Sitting is the equivalent to THIS??? I shoulda been a Park Ranger.
My Lifetime Membership at Weight Watchers does come in handy. If you aren’t aware, back when I was going through my divorce, my weight hit a high of 180. I joined Weight Watchers lost over 40 pounds. Slowly weight kept creeping up and I would lose it and two years ago I ended up at 162 only to bring it back down to 140-ish.
My weight AFTER Christmas of 2016. And I was freaking out! HA!
I stayed there for quite some time but over this year I figured I had gained around 15 to 20 pounds. It’s in my thighs and gut and now my chin.
So, I figured I would go back to Weight Watchers. My big dilemma was figuring out what day of the week to go. Monday was out due to weekend bingeing. Thursday would seem like a great day because it’s at the end of the week right before the weekend when I most like would weigh less than Monday.
They spelled my name wrong but I don’t care. Call me what you want but don’t call me late to dinner!
Instead, yesterday, I figured “screw it” and I drove back. I was ready. I was emotionally ready.
Hello old friend! I’ll be marking you up all week with the old adage: If you bite it, write it!
It was time to get on the scale and come to grips. And what I found out was that it wasn’t all that bad. My weight as of yesterday was 155 pounds. Exactly 15 pounds as predicted. But the good thing was that I was at my old goal. My goal is to lose the 15 pounds gained but my newer goal is to lose 10 of those pounds before we return to Paris at the end of November.
Got my new Shopping guide that’s in my bag already…..
…like Double Mint gum, it’s two books in one–the Dining Out guide is on the flip side.
I’m not going to beat myself up over it and I’m taking things sensibly.
The Mini Zero-Points food guide is also in my bag!
My clothing still fits, albeit very tightly. It’s all good.
My outfit today. The pants were purchased exactly a year ago. They were loose. Now they are tight. They JUST fit. Thank God for stretch! The oversized tee with the tuck hides the overlapping gut! It’s a great weight-loss ensemble!
What surprised me is that Weight Watchers has rebranded into WW. Now, I’ve heard a couple of different stories. One being the focus is on health and wellness and the other is that it is more politically correct to omit the word “Weight” due to insensitivity and shaming.
Note the change. WW–no longer Weight Watchers but “Wellness that Works”
I’m gonna go with the first story of wellness and health. I have issues with the second story simply because there is nothing offensive about “Weight”. I gained weight. I wanna lose weight. That’s why I’m back.
Another great dress to wear during weight loss–a loose fitting shift by Lilly Pulitzer. I forgot. This is a summer dress. I remembered. I’ll wear this in a snow storm to a meeting just to weigh lighter!
I am not a lean (I won’t use the word “skinny” so as not to offend those who are) woman by nature. My bones are not slight. They are not small. My frame is large and therefore I can carry more weight. But at the weight I am, it is not comfortable. The thighs are starting to jiggle and my gut is overlapping like the way batter overlaps in a cake pan when filled too much.
My pre-meeting booty!
Regardless, the meeting was great. And that’s my motivation. Going back to the meetings.
Tracking everything I eat is also helpful.
My dinner this evening was a two-egg omelet stuffed with tomato, chives, a bit of mozzerella chees and half an avacado on the side. I used 15 points today total. Excuse the paper plate please. Our dishwasher died and Monday the new one will be delivered!
Knowing my free points is a tremendous asset as well. Why?
From Zero Points…..
To a two-point dinner (I am so making this on Friday). I’m saving myself for our aperitifs!
Well, I feel like a lush but during the weekends, I want my aperitifs. And there’s 10 points in each drink when measured out properly. That’s two each on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. A total of 60 points. So, I gotta play a bit with Math. 28 extra points are allotted each week and I can carry over a total of 12 unused points from Monday through Thursday. That’s 40 extra points. So, I still have to figure out where those other 20 points are coming from!
Nope! Not giving this up!
But one thing that stuck out in my mind was this little Weekly card I received last night. It’s about making room for happiness. It was a great message because no matter how hard we can be on ourselves, if we feel defeated, if we feel not up to par, there’s always room for happy!
Sometimes the message hits you when you least expect it! Right???
Wanna do this with me? I’ve decided to make a weekly progress and it would be great if some of us could do this together! Who’s in?
I have had great success with Weight Watchers. I am only 5’1”, and at my highest, I hit 191! Yikes! I did it online because I despise those meetings. So, the husband went along for the ride. We both did quite well, but, as you say, the weight creeps back on. I don’t really like the new format so I’m using my knowledge of zero points and what is ok and what isn’t. So far, down 9.6 pounds in a month! My big question…why can’t broccoli be 200 points and cheesecake be zero? Pinterest is full of low point meals. I also use skinnytaste.com for additional recipes. Good luck! I’m in this (again) for the long haul not just because of the number on the scale, but, like you said, because I just feel so much better!
Dang! Marsha! Congrats and good for you!!!! That’s incredible!! You are lucky that you can do it without the meetings. Going to the meetings makes me more accountable. I have to revisit skinnytaste. LOL. When I told my daughter I was “going back” because it was successful, she replied with “if it’s successful, then why do you have to go back”? Kids! I like your stance on the broccoli and cheesecake! XOXOXOXO
Well, I should have also included in my comment that 30 pounds come back and go off on a regular basis…that’s a really big yo-yo! I know how to keep it off, and then along comes Christmas! I don’t like to cook, but I love to bake. And, someone has to taste test that dough! Anyway, we’ll diet along together!
If one is not a lifetime member…what is the cost per week or month,..whatever is easiest to share.
Hi Nancy, it depends on whether or not you go digital or “in person” or both. I believe it can be as low as eight bucks a week depending for how long you join. Head to the website for a better price point. There’s tons of info!!! XOXOXO
I’m in although I’m not real happy with WW.
But I’m drinking wine every night and I need to lose weight
Maggie, the first time I tried Freestyle I hated it. Now I understand it a bit more. The “aha” moment was when the “coach” I think that’s what they call meeting…oops! I mean, workshop leaders now. She said that all other foods with the exception of the Zero points have a much higher point value now. That was the magic sentence so now I THINK I’ll be ok! We’re all in this together!!!!XOXOXOXO
Oh wow! There must be something in the air. I joined WW last night. My all time highest weight was 173 while I was working and very stressed. After I retired, I gradually lost ten pounds and weighed 163 for a long time. Then I had back surgery a couple of months ago. Because of the metalic taste in my mouth from anesthesia and antibiotics making me sick, I lost 10 more pounds in about two weeks. For the last six weeks, I have maintained my weight at 153 being determined not to put any weight back on. I would love to lose a bit more, so I am definitely with you, girlfriend!!!Mary Ellencurlygirl55@cfl.rr.com
Ellen. We’re in the same range! Although you’re a couple of pounds less but this is good! I hope that your back is better and you are healing quickly! I want to watch your progress! XOXOXOXOXO
I’m more interested in your silver wig than weight watchers! Can you share information on it?
Glad you are on track to feel better about yourself!
Hi J. Yeah!!! It’s Jamison by Estetica Designs in Silver Sun RT 8. Cycterwigs.com, The Wig Company, Vogue Wigs, Wigs.com all sell it. It’s a beauty isn’t it?? XOXOOXO
Thanks for your quick, informative response!
Me too, I just rejoined online. I need the accountability and the tracking. Feeling confident I will loose what I gained and continue on to my goal!
Hi Gerri! God bless you and all the others who’ve joined online! I’m so bad at the online WW. I’ve done it before and it didn’t work for me. I really need to go to the meetings, which, BTW, I learned they are now called “Workshops” This new branding is killing me but as long as it works!!!! XOXOXOXOXOXO
Cathe…I rejoined WW last month online and paid for 3 months. Did it for a week and fell off the wagon. Now, I’m awaiting a date for gallbladder surgery so, of course, now I’m stress eating. I need to drop 15 pounds and it’s been a struggle. You now sound motivated and I’m sure you will do well.
Toni! That’s why I can’t do online. I NEED the accountability of the meetings. My brother had gallbladder surgery early this summer and lost a TON of weight in no time. The recovery took a while but he was up and dancing at Oona’s wedding. Best of luck with the surgery and you’ll definitely drop poundage!
Hi Catherine,
I’m in! I haven’t done WW before but I’m on my knees. .. I need help! I’llfind out how to sign up.
Thanks for the inspiration🌻🌻🌻
Best,
Helena
Sent from my iPad
Helena. DO IT! We can do it together. I’m going to try to post some things that I ate when I post next week and hopefully post some progress!!! XOXOXOXO
I’m joining you now ! Healthy eating and exercise all the way . Christmas is coming and we all love a new party dress or two ! Although I have some pretty dresses in my wardrobe with the tags still on ! All in a size less than i am now . Have a great day and by the way i love your instagram you are a real star and make my day all sparkly and happy xx
Hi Jacqueline! OMG! I’ve got two dresses like that and a pair of pants. So come on over and we’ll do this for Christmas! Ohhh thank you. I’m thrilled that you enjoy my Instagram! It’s so much fun!! XOXOXOXOXOXO
I am with J above! What a fabulous wig!
Thanks Nancy! It’s a goodie!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! XOXOXOXO
The trick here is of course to spend all the calories you have absorbed and to not eat more than your body can burn. This is getting more difficult as we age as our needs change and we need less calories. Hence our food intake should diminish. It’s all about portion control, really.
There should be three proper meals, especially at lunch time. And by meals I mean sit-down for at least 30 minutes. Eat slowly and be aware of what you’re eating as it takes 20 minutes for the info of fullness to reach your brain. No lunch standing at the kitchen counter or driving.
Lunch should include protein (equivalent of 1/4 plate) carbohydrates(1/4 plate) and green veggies (1/2 plate). Do eat potatoes (boiled, not fried). No fried food in general. Forgo all sauces and especially ready made dressings; a home made vinaigrette will do nicely. No cheese or sauce on broccoli or potatoes, unless it’s a small pat of butter.
Do have a small portion (about 30 grams, 1 oz) of real cheese once a day, if you like. Rounds up perfectly your lunch or dinner. If you have a craving for dessert prefer a piece of chocolate or half a brownie or half of any cake. Commercial portions in the US are way too big. Keep the other part for the next day. Or better, bake your own.
Evening should be light, soup, salad, fish, chicken breast, green beans, broccoli asparagus etc. And a small slice of artisan bread.
Use a small dessert plate so visually it seems like there is a lot of food even if the portion is smaller. Perception is a powerful thing!
Concerning breakfast, no liquid stuff like smoothies or protein shakes. That is just not satisfying and lies heavy on the stomach. Cereals are too sugary and don’t tide you over till lunch, unless it’s oats (cooked or as homemade granola with only a small amount of sugar). No doughnuts, danish or other sugary items; they can be once a week treats. Bread is good, self made as you do or artisan whole meal, seeds and such with butter and jam. You have the whole day to eliminate these calories. Tea or regular coffee, not that Starbucks stuff that has enough calories to take the place of lunch.
No snacking unless it’s fresh fruit, or a handful of almonds. No skipping meals!
There also should be lots of fluid during the day. Herbal tea, water and no soda.
And last, and I know this is difficult for you guys, it’s to walk more and not take the car all the time. I know it’s easier when you live in the city but try to get in at least 5000 steps (10 000 would be ideal) of rapid walking every day. Think of it as “you need to get to the store before it closes”. 😉
You’ll see, you will be able to have that apéro and that bar of chocolate! 😊
Sending lots of encouragement.
Hugs
Hey B! THANK YOU! I copied your reply, printed it and am carrying it with me! It’s inspirational!! Everything you write is on point! I don’t like fried foods so there’s a plus already and you are correct about our portions in the USA being so ridiculously large. Portion control definitely helps. Thank you so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! XOXOXOXO
Oh wow, thanks for the vote of confidence, Cathy! All the tips I listed are actually just (French) common sense.
I can add some more tips, like to not add salt to your cooking. I very rarely add salt, preferring to use lots of spices, depending on the dish I prepare, cumin, middle eastern spices like four spice (quatre épices), ras el hanut, zatar, thyme, oregano, paprika, curry etc.
I watch Bon Appetit (American cooking videos) on YouTube, and while they have some very interesting recipes and ideas, I am appalled by the amount of salt they throw into their dishes!! Especially Molly, and Andy if someone in this community knows who I am talking about.
I do add salt to omelettes and homemade mashed potatoes. I don’t add salt to pasta cooking water, especially if there is meat sauce or cheese. The salt in the sauce or cheese will be sufficient. Too much salt will retain fluids in the body and it’s all round unhealthy.
No salt in a vinaigrette either as I add Dijon mustard.
I regularly bake and have some very yummy American recipes, choc chip cookies, brownies and peach cobbler amongst others. But I have to say that when I convert them into grams and millilitres, I have to cut out more or less 1/3 of the amount of sugar that goes into the original recipe.
Guys, too much sugar!!!!!
Concerning everyday dessert, the French like their yaourt and fromage blanc. We like them too in our family. I buy the skimmed milk variety, « nature » ( I add homemade jam if I want it fruity) or sometimes with vanilla. I never buy with artificial sweetener. I don’t buy ANY product that contains artificial sweetener. Also our pot de yaourt contains 125 grams and I remember noticing that in the US containers are 200 grams. So, we’re back to portion control…..
Hugs Brigitte
I’m in – I’ve been comfort/stress/misery eating for the last few months- I may or may not be married still, I may or may not be moving soon, I could really do with a kick
OMFG. Juliet! Are you serious???? Holy $hit! First off, I hope you are ok. Secondly, I hope you are ok! Oh man, I’ve been through your stress/comfort/misery eating and it’s damaging..but the good thing is that you realize it when you are ready and it all turns out much better. Girl, I’m pushing for you. I feel for you and wish I would just wrap my arms around you and give you the strongest and comforting hug ever! XOXOXOXO
I’m close to my goal of losing 10 pounds (1 FRIGGING POUND to go) crazy, that it has taken 9 LONG weeks! I did WW initially but, switched to South Beach as my weight loss just stalled after losing 4 pounds, ugh. I’m back in the gym and feeling a lot better…more energy! Anyway, I’ll be joining you…hopefully it will keep me mindful on my maintenance going forward!! And, thanks to Miss Bougie …lots of greats tip, too!
You got this!! I am also a WW lifetime member. I had my wake up call in March 2019 . Even my blood test numbers were bad on top of being at an uncomfortable weight. I made myself go 100 days without sugar, on top of using the WW program and attending meetings. I love that there are so many O point foods. It all worked , lost over 25 pounds and blood work was good too. Still follow program most days as I am not going back to school uncomfortable and you get the app for free if you weigh in every month. My nighttime dessert is plain unsweetened yogurt 1/2 cup with a mashed banana. I mash banana 1/2 first with a Tablespoon of unsweetened dark chocolate powder. I add some other cut up fruit and one tablespoon of something crunch( cereal) if I have points left , sometimes it’s a few chopped walnuts . I snack on edamame at work in the pm.
I don’t like WW but I am trying to lose weight and there is strength in numbers so I am in but doing it my way. I have added cardio 3 times a week for 30 minutes and that is helping and making me feel great. I do Curtis Adams and Leslie Sansone videos on YouTube. I did Curtis Adams for a number of weeks first before I tried Leslie Sansone. Now that i have the cardio down I need to start watching the food intake. I will be keeping up here because I need the support. Thanks for the post and I hope you exceed your goal, Catherine, and all you commenters too.