Birthday!
Na-na-na-na-na-na you say it's your birthday! Yup. Today's the day. I know most women dread birthday's but in reality I feel better in my 40's than I did in my 20's and 30's so I can't really complain.
My cake (knitted by my Mum) has no calories, fats, carbs, or sugars!
I've got some yummy weight loss surgery friendly food planned today, a manicure and a pedicure and I've got guests coming so the weekend should be filled with fun adventures. Will take pics and report back.
P.S. The winner of the blog giveaway will be announced later on today!
My cake (knitted by my Mum) has no calories, fats, carbs, or sugars!
I've got some yummy weight loss surgery friendly food planned today, a manicure and a pedicure and I've got guests coming so the weekend should be filled with fun adventures. Will take pics and report back.
P.S. The winner of the blog giveaway will be announced later on today!
Life After Weight Loss Surgery Q & A - Alcohol after weight loss surgery?
Questions and answers, a new blog post series, one post-op's thoughts on life after weight loss surgery. Question #2...
Question: Can you drink alcohol after weight loss surgery?
Answer: Most doctors will tell you to avoid alcohol and I agree. I had my first post-op alcohol in October 2006 so... err math... I was 4 months out. It hit quick and hard, like major buzz hard after only one drink but the feeling lasted about as quickly as it hit, so I had another. You can see how that would be a recipe for disaster if it became a habit.
In the first few years post-op, I had a few party girl nights, recapturing my youth, trying out the new body I guess, alcohol was involved in all those evenings (3 or so in 6 years) and each time I...
A.) Made some questionable decisions. I rarely regret stuff (life is an experience) but I do regret a few decisions I made while I was drinking.
For example: I might have commandeered an entire wheel of Gouda cheese from a hotel kitchen with a male partner in crime (sort of a D-list celebrity) who I shared said cheese with then engaged in a semi-public make-out session.
Not one of my finer moments. Now no real harm was done but questionable decisions made while drinking could also be deadly ones.
B.) Felt like crap during and especially after. Alcohol is basically sugar so it's self-induced dumping which for me = sweats, shakes, chest beating fast, woozy. Yeah, that's attractive. Not.
C.) Consumed way too many calories that day. Here are the average calorie counts for common drinks:
80-150 calories per glass wine
140-200 calories per beer
150-200 calories each shot
300-800 calories per mixed drink
and that is not including the hunk of aforementioned Gouda ;) or any other not so wise, under the influence, eating choices you might make. I plan my meals. When you drink booze, plans can get tossed aside. That is just not an option in my world.
Alcohol consumption to excess is a problem for some in our community. There is debate whether surgery type (rerouting of the guts) makes us more susceptible physically or whether it is a transfer of an addiction to alcohol from food. I tend to believe it's probably a bit of both.
I think the question most people have to ask themselves is why they are drinking...
habit
taste or enjoyment
how you define fun
self-esteem/body image
peer expectations
culture/lifestyle
escape/alter state
social anxiety
lower inhibitions
transfer addiction
self-sabotage
I'm sure there are more... anyway... understanding your why is important because a few of these are issues that need to be dealt with versus trying to drown 'em.
Some articles for further reading:
Alcoholism after gastric bypass: Is it in your mind or gut?
Prevalence of Alcohol Use Disorders Before and After Bariatric Surgery
Weight-Loss Surgery Increases Risk of Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol abuse increases after weight loss surgery
Weight Loss Surgery's Weird Alcoholism Risk
Alcohol Metabolism Changes Considerably After Gastric Bypass Surgery
ASMBS Position Statement on Alcohol Use Before & After Bariatric Surgery
Alcohol Absorption Modification After a Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Due to Obesity
Alcohol and the Gastric Bypass Patient
Popular Surgery Linked to Alcohol Problems
How Alcohol Affects Your Body
I lived and learned. So now a sip of champagne at a wedding or New Year's or a sip or two of wine is about all I do. I make a great Chicken Marsala but most of the alcohol burns off and a delicious Flan that does use a little Kahlua (you could omit.) The last time I drank anything was last year in New Orleans (1 watered down cocktail) while walking down the appropriately named Bourbon Street. No Gouda was consumed this time but I felt crummy and ended up calling it an early night. Worth it? Nope.
It's hard at celebrations people drink (beer at BBQ's, wine at dinners, toasts of champagne) it's a part of our culture. I have found holding a glass of water with lemon is something I tend to do, people assume its something more and it avoids questions. But try and remember... a celebration is more about who you are with than the food or drink that is consumed, if it's more about the food and drink maybe you need better company.
If you are struggling with alcohol: Resources
Did you miss Question #1? Here it is.
Question: Can you drink alcohol after weight loss surgery?
Answer: Most doctors will tell you to avoid alcohol and I agree. I had my first post-op alcohol in October 2006 so... err math... I was 4 months out. It hit quick and hard, like major buzz hard after only one drink but the feeling lasted about as quickly as it hit, so I had another. You can see how that would be a recipe for disaster if it became a habit.
In the first few years post-op, I had a few party girl nights, recapturing my youth, trying out the new body I guess, alcohol was involved in all those evenings (3 or so in 6 years) and each time I...
A.) Made some questionable decisions. I rarely regret stuff (life is an experience) but I do regret a few decisions I made while I was drinking.
For example: I might have commandeered an entire wheel of Gouda cheese from a hotel kitchen with a male partner in crime (sort of a D-list celebrity) who I shared said cheese with then engaged in a semi-public make-out session.
Not one of my finer moments. Now no real harm was done but questionable decisions made while drinking could also be deadly ones.
B.) Felt like crap during and especially after. Alcohol is basically sugar so it's self-induced dumping which for me = sweats, shakes, chest beating fast, woozy. Yeah, that's attractive. Not.
C.) Consumed way too many calories that day. Here are the average calorie counts for common drinks:
80-150 calories per glass wine
140-200 calories per beer
150-200 calories each shot
300-800 calories per mixed drink
and that is not including the hunk of aforementioned Gouda ;) or any other not so wise, under the influence, eating choices you might make. I plan my meals. When you drink booze, plans can get tossed aside. That is just not an option in my world.
Alcohol consumption to excess is a problem for some in our community. There is debate whether surgery type (rerouting of the guts) makes us more susceptible physically or whether it is a transfer of an addiction to alcohol from food. I tend to believe it's probably a bit of both.
I think the question most people have to ask themselves is why they are drinking...
habit
taste or enjoyment
how you define fun
self-esteem/body image
peer expectations
culture/lifestyle
escape/alter state
social anxiety
lower inhibitions
transfer addiction
self-sabotage
I'm sure there are more... anyway... understanding your why is important because a few of these are issues that need to be dealt with versus trying to drown 'em.
Some articles for further reading:
Alcoholism after gastric bypass: Is it in your mind or gut?
Prevalence of Alcohol Use Disorders Before and After Bariatric Surgery
Weight-Loss Surgery Increases Risk of Alcohol Addiction
Alcohol abuse increases after weight loss surgery
Weight Loss Surgery's Weird Alcoholism Risk
Alcohol Metabolism Changes Considerably After Gastric Bypass Surgery
ASMBS Position Statement on Alcohol Use Before & After Bariatric Surgery
Alcohol Absorption Modification After a Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Due to Obesity
Alcohol and the Gastric Bypass Patient
Popular Surgery Linked to Alcohol Problems
How Alcohol Affects Your Body
I lived and learned. So now a sip of champagne at a wedding or New Year's or a sip or two of wine is about all I do. I make a great Chicken Marsala but most of the alcohol burns off and a delicious Flan that does use a little Kahlua (you could omit.) The last time I drank anything was last year in New Orleans (1 watered down cocktail) while walking down the appropriately named Bourbon Street. No Gouda was consumed this time but I felt crummy and ended up calling it an early night. Worth it? Nope.
It's hard at celebrations people drink (beer at BBQ's, wine at dinners, toasts of champagne) it's a part of our culture. I have found holding a glass of water with lemon is something I tend to do, people assume its something more and it avoids questions. But try and remember... a celebration is more about who you are with than the food or drink that is consumed, if it's more about the food and drink maybe you need better company.
If you are struggling with alcohol: Resources
Did you miss Question #1? Here it is.
Post Weight Loss Surgery Menus: A day in my pouch
My yesterday in post weight loss surgery eating...
Breakfast: I have a handful of free samples to try, protein shakes, bars, new vitamins. One of the cool things about going to these weight loss surgery bariatric conferences is the big bag of freebies you come home with. If you are joining me at the Obesity Action Coalition Event in Dallas bring an extra bag to bring home the fun stuff you score. For breakfast, I mixed up a sample of Big Train Fit Frappe. Milk, ice, 1/2 a packet of mix whizzed in the blender made this yummy very lightly coffee flavored, frappucino-ish protein shake. Verdict: Delicious. It was down the hatch and I was out the door...
First stop was the Farmer's Market to procure some fresh fruit and veggies for the week. The haul consisted of: apricots, apples, strawberries, zucchini, onions (which are destine to become that zucchini & onion pasta this week), garlic, a bunch of basil, and a wedge of feta cheese from one of my favorite vendors this very cool, distinguished old, Greek man.
I dropped everything off home and then spent most of the rest of the morning running errands. I'm still trying to play catch-up from being away for a few days at ASMBS.
Lunch: I grilled some chicken to have on hand this week (toss them in the fridge, easy quick protein source, dipped in yogurt dip, chopped up on salad, etc.) I served a piece with cilantro cole slaw.
Shelly's Cilantro Slaw
1/2 a 1 lb bag of Cole Slaw Mix (Shredded Cabbage, Carrots)
1/2 cup Greek Yogurt
3 Frozen Dorot Cilantro Cubes
Salt to taste
a few twists of Black Pepper
Nuke frozen cilantro cubes (fresh, finely chopped, cilantro can sub of course) covered for 35 seconds. Mix in yogurt, cabbage, and seasonings and mix till well combined. Set in fridge till ready to serve. This is great with chicken, fish, grilled shrimp or scallops skewers.
Dinner: I've got family coming into town for my Mum's birthday next week so I cleaned the patio in preparation (swept, brushed cobwebs, hosed off furniture, etc.) After my work I thought I'd christen the newly cleaned patio with what I like to call "Tidbit Parties" I make or gather a bunch of different protein packed "tidbits" it's fun and surprisingly filling. 2 people nibbled off this spread and there was a little left. The tidbits: artichoke hearts, cucumbers (my crackers), these compacted date walnut discs from Trader Joe's, nuts, provolone, salami, brie, goat cheese with red pepper jelly, and these stuffed apricots...
Shelly's Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Apricots
3 Apricots, quartered
Precooked Bacon
1/4 cup-ish Cheese (this time I used Blue Cheese)
This recipe is really adaptable sometimes I use figs instead of apricots, sometimes I change the blue cheese to brie, feta or goat cheese. I used the fully cooked bacon (Jimmy Dean or Oscar Mayer makes you need one slice per of these they are smaller) or you could cook regular bacon (1/2 a slice per) ahead till almost crisp but still bendy and let cool.
Quarter the apricots. A little trick: cut the apricot in half, the opposite side to the natural groove in the fruit. The stone will just pop out. Then cut each half in half again.
Fill the cavity in the fruit quarter with cheese. I use less than a 1/2 teaspoon per piece and wrap with a piece of bacon.
Place on a baking sheet and cook for 10 minutes in a 350-degree oven. Till crispy and cheese is gooey. Serve warm or room temp.
Snacks: Too much coffee and 1/2 a leftover Peanut Butter & Jelly Quest Protein Bar I had sitting on my counter in a snack sized Ziploc for a few days.
I nuked it for 10 seconds and it was warm and gooey PBJ yumminess.
Hope everyone is having a nice weekend. I'm still doing yard work. Today I trimmed shrubs and pruned roses. I sawed some tree branches. My arms ache. I really kind of enjoy being single except when I'm doing yard work ;)
Breakfast: I have a handful of free samples to try, protein shakes, bars, new vitamins. One of the cool things about going to these weight loss surgery bariatric conferences is the big bag of freebies you come home with. If you are joining me at the Obesity Action Coalition Event in Dallas bring an extra bag to bring home the fun stuff you score. For breakfast, I mixed up a sample of Big Train Fit Frappe. Milk, ice, 1/2 a packet of mix whizzed in the blender made this yummy very lightly coffee flavored, frappucino-ish protein shake. Verdict: Delicious. It was down the hatch and I was out the door...
First stop was the Farmer's Market to procure some fresh fruit and veggies for the week. The haul consisted of: apricots, apples, strawberries, zucchini, onions (which are destine to become that zucchini & onion pasta this week), garlic, a bunch of basil, and a wedge of feta cheese from one of my favorite vendors this very cool, distinguished old, Greek man.
I dropped everything off home and then spent most of the rest of the morning running errands. I'm still trying to play catch-up from being away for a few days at ASMBS.
Lunch: I grilled some chicken to have on hand this week (toss them in the fridge, easy quick protein source, dipped in yogurt dip, chopped up on salad, etc.) I served a piece with cilantro cole slaw.
Shelly's Cilantro Slaw
1/2 a 1 lb bag of Cole Slaw Mix (Shredded Cabbage, Carrots)
1/2 cup Greek Yogurt
3 Frozen Dorot Cilantro Cubes
Salt to taste
a few twists of Black Pepper
Nuke frozen cilantro cubes (fresh, finely chopped, cilantro can sub of course) covered for 35 seconds. Mix in yogurt, cabbage, and seasonings and mix till well combined. Set in fridge till ready to serve. This is great with chicken, fish, grilled shrimp or scallops skewers.
Dinner: I've got family coming into town for my Mum's birthday next week so I cleaned the patio in preparation (swept, brushed cobwebs, hosed off furniture, etc.) After my work I thought I'd christen the newly cleaned patio with what I like to call "Tidbit Parties" I make or gather a bunch of different protein packed "tidbits" it's fun and surprisingly filling. 2 people nibbled off this spread and there was a little left. The tidbits: artichoke hearts, cucumbers (my crackers), these compacted date walnut discs from Trader Joe's, nuts, provolone, salami, brie, goat cheese with red pepper jelly, and these stuffed apricots...
Shelly's Bacon Wrapped Cheese Stuffed Apricots
3 Apricots, quartered
Precooked Bacon
1/4 cup-ish Cheese (this time I used Blue Cheese)
This recipe is really adaptable sometimes I use figs instead of apricots, sometimes I change the blue cheese to brie, feta or goat cheese. I used the fully cooked bacon (Jimmy Dean or Oscar Mayer makes you need one slice per of these they are smaller) or you could cook regular bacon (1/2 a slice per) ahead till almost crisp but still bendy and let cool.
Quarter the apricots. A little trick: cut the apricot in half, the opposite side to the natural groove in the fruit. The stone will just pop out. Then cut each half in half again.
Fill the cavity in the fruit quarter with cheese. I use less than a 1/2 teaspoon per piece and wrap with a piece of bacon.
Place on a baking sheet and cook for 10 minutes in a 350-degree oven. Till crispy and cheese is gooey. Serve warm or room temp.
Snacks: Too much coffee and 1/2 a leftover Peanut Butter & Jelly Quest Protein Bar I had sitting on my counter in a snack sized Ziploc for a few days.
I nuked it for 10 seconds and it was warm and gooey PBJ yumminess.
Hope everyone is having a nice weekend. I'm still doing yard work. Today I trimmed shrubs and pruned roses. I sawed some tree branches. My arms ache. I really kind of enjoy being single except when I'm doing yard work ;)
ASMBS Wrap-up
Back from the ASMBS, American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Annual Meeting. The event is for bariatric surgeons, patient coordinators, nurses, nutritionists to get together to learn about new techniques, recent studies, new products and services for the care of the bariatric patient. They attend seminars and classes and then in between they can visit the exhibit hall where vendors show off their goods: cutting edge surgical tools, computer patient tracking systems, vitamins, supplements. Monday I manned the Obesity Action Coalition booth...
Speaking of the OAC. Be sure to watch the invitation video to get an idea of what the Your Weight Matters Inaugural Convention will be like in October. I hope you can join me there. I'm excited. One of the night events will be a Halloween party!!
Tuesday I was able to walk around and visit the vendor booths and say hello and thank you to some of my favorite companies who make the bariatric products that make my post-op life better. I scored a few samples of new products I'll let you know what I think as I try them. Some products are winners and a few err not so much. Here's an impromptu video product review I did with my fellow blogger pal Melting Mama of "Protein Cheese Sauce." It was a fail, the cheese sauce that is, the video is actually kind of funny.
I'm still not sure why you would ever want or need protein cheese sauce. Even if it did taste good (it didn't) I don't see the point. Cheese is protein. Why wouldn't you just make a sauce with it? Cheese = protein + milk = more protein + a little spelt flour roux or cornstarch to thicken and viola protein cheese sauce. So yeah, some not so good products and some great ones.
Tuesday night I met up with a few local friends and had a great dinner at Cafe Sevilla, a Spanish tapas restaurant in the Gaslamp District of San Diego.
Dinner was yum! I had the most unbelievably delicious mini chicken skewers and these little stuffed Piquillo peppers: one stuffed with seafood, one stuffed with braised short rib, one with sauteed mushrooms inside. I had a few olives, some nibbles of Spanish cheese and one bacon wrapped date I am still dreaming about. I love tapas because everything is small plates, perfect for our weight loss surgery, rearranged guts crowd, everyone orders a few and we have more than enough for others to taste. Highly recommend the restaurant. Service was sweet (nice guy) but slow so go when you have nothing planned after. Foursquare had a deal for a free tapas when you check-in at the restaurant.
Wednesday I grabbed the train back toward home. While I was waiting for the train this guy tried to pick me up with this line, "Girl you are hot as hell. If someone ain't stirring your pot they should be." I had to laugh at the unintentional cooking reference. I suppose if any cheesy pick-up line ever did work on me, it would be one with cooking references in it. It didn't work.
Speaking of the OAC. Be sure to watch the invitation video to get an idea of what the Your Weight Matters Inaugural Convention will be like in October. I hope you can join me there. I'm excited. One of the night events will be a Halloween party!!
Tuesday I was able to walk around and visit the vendor booths and say hello and thank you to some of my favorite companies who make the bariatric products that make my post-op life better. I scored a few samples of new products I'll let you know what I think as I try them. Some products are winners and a few err not so much. Here's an impromptu video product review I did with my fellow blogger pal Melting Mama of "Protein Cheese Sauce." It was a fail, the cheese sauce that is, the video is actually kind of funny.
I'm still not sure why you would ever want or need protein cheese sauce. Even if it did taste good (it didn't) I don't see the point. Cheese is protein. Why wouldn't you just make a sauce with it? Cheese = protein + milk = more protein + a little spelt flour roux or cornstarch to thicken and viola protein cheese sauce. So yeah, some not so good products and some great ones.
Tuesday night I met up with a few local friends and had a great dinner at Cafe Sevilla, a Spanish tapas restaurant in the Gaslamp District of San Diego.
Dinner was yum! I had the most unbelievably delicious mini chicken skewers and these little stuffed Piquillo peppers: one stuffed with seafood, one stuffed with braised short rib, one with sauteed mushrooms inside. I had a few olives, some nibbles of Spanish cheese and one bacon wrapped date I am still dreaming about. I love tapas because everything is small plates, perfect for our weight loss surgery, rearranged guts crowd, everyone orders a few and we have more than enough for others to taste. Highly recommend the restaurant. Service was sweet (nice guy) but slow so go when you have nothing planned after. Foursquare had a deal for a free tapas when you check-in at the restaurant.
Wednesday I grabbed the train back toward home. While I was waiting for the train this guy tried to pick me up with this line, "Girl you are hot as hell. If someone ain't stirring your pot they should be." I had to laugh at the unintentional cooking reference. I suppose if any cheesy pick-up line ever did work on me, it would be one with cooking references in it. It didn't work.
Eggface Goody Bag Giveaway
The best part of going to birthday parties when I was a kid was the goody bag you got to take home. Today begins a 2 week celebration in my world. The 6 year anniversary of my weight loss surgery (Open RNY 6/20/06), this blog's birthday (also 6 years) and my birthday (41 years ummm I mean 29 on 6/28) so I'm celebrating with a BIG GIVEAWAY!
The Prize: A BIG BIRTHDAY GOODY BAG filled with oodles of awesome protein powders and some of the products I use to jazz up protein shakes and make protein ice cream!
2 - (3 lb tubs) SEI Nutrition Max Protein. One Chocolate and one Vanilla.
1 (1 lb tub) - CLICK Espresso Protein Powder in Mocha flavor.
2 (6.5 oz jars) - PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter in Regular and Chocolate flavor
5 boxes of Sugar Free Jello Pudding Mix - in SF Pistachio, SF Lemon, SF Butterscotch, SF Cheesecake, SF Banana Cream
3 single serving packets of Celebrate Vitamins ENS (each shake contains a high potency multivitamin, 500 mg of calcium citrate, 4 g of fiber, and 25 g of whey isolate protein in each serving, one of each flavor Vanilla Cake Batter, Chocolate Milk, Strawberry)
4 - 150 ml bottles of Sugar Free Torani Syrup in SF Raspberry, SF Hazelnut, SF Caramel, and SF Vanilla.
1 Yellow 20 oz. Blender Bottle Shaker
and a $25 Amazon Gift Card - Use it toward a blender or a protein ice cream maker or whatever your heart desires.
As always, if you make the purchase after clicking through any of my Amazon Links on the left the blog will receive a small % of the sale which helps insure the blog will continue for many more years to come.
If you are the lucky winner you'll have all the ingredients to mix up protein shakes, protein ice cream, and more.
Shelly's Girl Scout Thin Mint Shake
How to Enter: Like The World According to Eggface on Facebook. Come back here and LEAVE A COMMENT (include a name and an email addy) on this blog posting. Scroll down to # of comments to leave yours.
Contest periods ends: Wednesday June 27th, midnight (Pacific time)
Thursday, June 28th I'll draw a name using a random number generator and announce the winner here on the blog! I will also email the winner at the address posted. You'll have one week (7 days) to respond to my email or another winner will be chosen. Remember winners MUST be a Facebook friend of The World According to Eggface. One ENTRY per person. Blog comments are moderated so there may be a slight delay (up to a few hours) in seeing your comment/entry post. Giveaway is open to anyone in the United States (48 contiguous, Alaska & Hawaii.)
Shelly's Malted CLICKball
***Want extra chances to win?*** Do anything listed below and leave me a comment letting me know what you did! For up to four more entries per person!!
* Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway: Hey everyone enter the @Eggface Goody Bag Giveaway http://tinyurl.com/7fabd5h
* Post about the giveaway to your pals on Facebook or some other social networking or support forum you frequent.
If you are a blogger:
* Blog about this giveaway and include the link to the contest (send me the url so I can enjoy your post!)
* Place my super snazzy badge on your site.
The Prize: A BIG BIRTHDAY GOODY BAG filled with oodles of awesome protein powders and some of the products I use to jazz up protein shakes and make protein ice cream!
2 - (3 lb tubs) SEI Nutrition Max Protein. One Chocolate and one Vanilla.
1 (1 lb tub) - CLICK Espresso Protein Powder in Mocha flavor.
2 (6.5 oz jars) - PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter in Regular and Chocolate flavor
5 boxes of Sugar Free Jello Pudding Mix - in SF Pistachio, SF Lemon, SF Butterscotch, SF Cheesecake, SF Banana Cream
3 single serving packets of Celebrate Vitamins ENS (each shake contains a high potency multivitamin, 500 mg of calcium citrate, 4 g of fiber, and 25 g of whey isolate protein in each serving, one of each flavor Vanilla Cake Batter, Chocolate Milk, Strawberry)
4 - 150 ml bottles of Sugar Free Torani Syrup in SF Raspberry, SF Hazelnut, SF Caramel, and SF Vanilla.
1 Yellow 20 oz. Blender Bottle Shaker
and a $25 Amazon Gift Card - Use it toward a blender or a protein ice cream maker or whatever your heart desires.
As always, if you make the purchase after clicking through any of my Amazon Links on the left the blog will receive a small % of the sale which helps insure the blog will continue for many more years to come.
If you are the lucky winner you'll have all the ingredients to mix up protein shakes, protein ice cream, and more.
How to Enter: Like The World According to Eggface on Facebook. Come back here and LEAVE A COMMENT (include a name and an email addy) on this blog posting. Scroll down to # of comments to leave yours.
Contest periods ends: Wednesday June 27th, midnight (Pacific time)
Thursday, June 28th I'll draw a name using a random number generator and announce the winner here on the blog! I will also email the winner at the address posted. You'll have one week (7 days) to respond to my email or another winner will be chosen. Remember winners MUST be a Facebook friend of The World According to Eggface. One ENTRY per person. Blog comments are moderated so there may be a slight delay (up to a few hours) in seeing your comment/entry post. Giveaway is open to anyone in the United States (48 contiguous, Alaska & Hawaii.)
***Want extra chances to win?*** Do anything listed below and leave me a comment letting me know what you did! For up to four more entries per person!!
* Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway: Hey everyone enter the @Eggface Goody Bag Giveaway http://tinyurl.com/7fabd5h
* Post about the giveaway to your pals on Facebook or some other social networking or support forum you frequent.
If you are a blogger:
* Blog about this giveaway and include the link to the contest (send me the url so I can enjoy your post!)
* Place my super snazzy badge on your site.
Fun at the Fair
The theme of the San Diego County Fair this year was "Out of this World" all space and science fiction stuff. Sci-fi isn't really my thing (I'm a romantic comedy or British classics type of girl) but even I got into the fun and I won 2nd place in the Candy Box Division for my Out of this World Chocolate Box filled with all Sugar Free Homemade Chocolates.
Top Left: "Total Eclipse of the Sun" - Sugar free dark chocolate dipped dried apricots
Top Right: "Bark at the Moon" - Sugar free white chocolate toasted pistachio and cranberry bark
Bottom Left: "Protein Planets" - You all know these as Shelly's Espresso Protein Truffles
Bottom Right: "Moon Rocks" - Sugar free dark chocolate with toasted unsweetened coconut and almonds
If you are a local SoCal pal and headed to the fair be sure to hit one of the gift shops or gift tents and pick up this year's fair cookbook where my last year's first place winning Ghirardelli Chocolate Covered Cherry Protein Smoothie (it's weight loss surgery friendly too) is featured on page 36.
Top Left: "Total Eclipse of the Sun" - Sugar free dark chocolate dipped dried apricots
Top Right: "Bark at the Moon" - Sugar free white chocolate toasted pistachio and cranberry bark
Bottom Left: "Protein Planets" - You all know these as Shelly's Espresso Protein Truffles
Bottom Right: "Moon Rocks" - Sugar free dark chocolate with toasted unsweetened coconut and almonds
If you are a local SoCal pal and headed to the fair be sure to hit one of the gift shops or gift tents and pick up this year's fair cookbook where my last year's first place winning Ghirardelli Chocolate Covered Cherry Protein Smoothie (it's weight loss surgery friendly too) is featured on page 36.
Life After Weight Loss Surgery Q & A - How do you deal with food?
Questions and answers, a new blog post series, one post-op's thoughts on life after weight loss surgery. Question #1...
Q: I'm pre-op and I'm realizing that so many things in my life are centered around food. How do you deal with that after weight loss surgery?
A: That is the reality of the world we live in. Most family get togethers, celebrations, and work parties are food centered. It's important we learn to continue making healthy choices, even in the face of a sea of unhealthy ones.
A few thoughts...
There are lots of delicious party foods we are still able to eat post weight loss surgery. In fact, most non-ops won't even realize any difference. So start bringing foods you enjoy, that are in your plan and share your new healthy choices with everyone at your next family get together. You'll be surprised how many people will choose the healthier choices over the unhealthy if given the choice.
Shelly's Red & Green Holiday Shrimp Cocktail
Shelly's Deviled Footballs
Shelly's Caprese Skewers
Shelly's Bites (crustless quiches)
Shelly's Individual Antipasto Salads
Focus on connecting, talking, sharing stories, sit away from the buffet and be ready with your answers when people ask you to partake in something that isn't healthy.
"Oh thank you Aunt Sally but...
I ate before I came
I am saving room for (insert food you can eat)
I'm good for now
Your famous (insert food you'd rather not eat) looks absolutely delicious but I've been looking forward to your (insert food you can eat)
I'm not hungry just yet
I'm full, I couldn't eat another bite"
Stay strong and remember...
Don't trade what you want most, for what you want at the moment.
Get a few willing family members to head out on a neighborhood walk (kiddos will love this) I especially love this at Christmas time, bundling up to look at the holiday lights. Bring a thermos of No Sugar Added Cocoa.
In the summer, host an active get together like a beach day (sand castle competitions, Frisbee, long walks, bonfires) or backyard picnic (field day stuff: potato sack races, tug of war, balancing an egg on a spoon, badminton tournament, hopscotch, I am in love with this game.) Serve healthy food choices (Shelly's Beach Bean Salad, Shelly's Award Winning Jazzy New Orleans Muffaletta Salad, Shelly's BBQ Baked Bean Casserole, Grilled Chicken, Shrimp Skewers, Shelly's Strawberry Cannoli). Focus on the activities. Make and give out awards. Start new family traditions.
You will be faced with challenges and decisions. This is a lifetime war against obesity. Like any war you head into each battle hoping to win. Sometimes you do and sometimes the enemy gets the upper hand.
"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." ~Winston S. Churchill
P.S. We'll do this Q & A again next week. I get a bunch of emails asking about post-op life I figured (this just dawned on me after 6 years of blogging LOL I'm slow on the uptake) that if I just blogged my answers it might help someone else who might have the Q too. Of course it's just one post-ops perspective and **we're not one size fits all** but... I hope it helps :)
Q: I'm pre-op and I'm realizing that so many things in my life are centered around food. How do you deal with that after weight loss surgery?
A: That is the reality of the world we live in. Most family get togethers, celebrations, and work parties are food centered. It's important we learn to continue making healthy choices, even in the face of a sea of unhealthy ones.
A few thoughts...
There are lots of delicious party foods we are still able to eat post weight loss surgery. In fact, most non-ops won't even realize any difference. So start bringing foods you enjoy, that are in your plan and share your new healthy choices with everyone at your next family get together. You'll be surprised how many people will choose the healthier choices over the unhealthy if given the choice.
Focus on connecting, talking, sharing stories, sit away from the buffet and be ready with your answers when people ask you to partake in something that isn't healthy.
"Oh thank you Aunt Sally but...
I ate before I came
I am saving room for (insert food you can eat)
I'm good for now
Your famous (insert food you'd rather not eat) looks absolutely delicious but I've been looking forward to your (insert food you can eat)
I'm not hungry just yet
I'm full, I couldn't eat another bite"
Stay strong and remember...
Don't trade what you want most, for what you want at the moment.
Get a few willing family members to head out on a neighborhood walk (kiddos will love this) I especially love this at Christmas time, bundling up to look at the holiday lights. Bring a thermos of No Sugar Added Cocoa.
In the summer, host an active get together like a beach day (sand castle competitions, Frisbee, long walks, bonfires) or backyard picnic (field day stuff: potato sack races, tug of war, balancing an egg on a spoon, badminton tournament, hopscotch, I am in love with this game.) Serve healthy food choices (Shelly's Beach Bean Salad, Shelly's Award Winning Jazzy New Orleans Muffaletta Salad, Shelly's BBQ Baked Bean Casserole, Grilled Chicken, Shrimp Skewers, Shelly's Strawberry Cannoli). Focus on the activities. Make and give out awards. Start new family traditions.
You will be faced with challenges and decisions. This is a lifetime war against obesity. Like any war you head into each battle hoping to win. Sometimes you do and sometimes the enemy gets the upper hand.
"Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts." ~Winston S. Churchill
P.S. We'll do this Q & A again next week. I get a bunch of emails asking about post-op life I figured (this just dawned on me after 6 years of blogging LOL I'm slow on the uptake) that if I just blogged my answers it might help someone else who might have the Q too. Of course it's just one post-ops perspective and **we're not one size fits all** but... I hope it helps :)
Friday Five
A weekly round-up of tidbits, tips, ideas, news articles, random cool things...
1. Motivational thought for the week:
2. Plan ahead: The Obesity Action Coalition put out this great video invite for the Your Weight Matters National Convention being held this October. I'd like to share with you. I hope it encourages you to attend. I will be there. Hope to meet some of you! The agenda is AMAZING.
Oh and if you have questions or want to join the discussion about the event, the OAC has an event Facebook page. I can't wait to hang out. Since it's October there will be a costume party too :) I might have to break out my favorite costume!
3. Some articles I read this week that were worth checking out:
Gastric bypass patients keep the weight off: 2 year study - Bottom-line: Weight loss surgery is only the first step in a lifetime battle. Every day it is up to us to continue to fight (healthy eating choices, moving the body, working on the head.) FOREVER.
All 7 episodes of the University of California series, "The Skinny on Obesity" are now available online.
and a few of WLSers made the papers...
Head injury and sudden weight loss blamed for sudden change in personality at time of theft - You've heard of the Twinkie Defense? How about the Weight Loss Surgery Defense?
Steakhouse offers post-surgery weight-loss menu - This is too cool. The chef is a fellow WLSer. If you are in New Jersey be sure to show him some love.
The Real Housewives of New Jersey Lauren Manzo on Weight Loss Surgery (Lap-band) - Best wishes to Lauren.
Texas teen loses more than 150 pounds with gastric bypass - Amazing transformation.
19-Year-Old says gastric bypass surgery changed her life - Awesome.
4. Spotted these on the shelf the other day. Thought they were an easy grab and go high protein breakfast option. I bought all 3 flavors. Not sure if they have more.
Alta Dena Fit to Go Cottage Cheese with Strawberry
Serving Size: 1 container 5 oz, Calories: 140, Fat: 2.5 g, Carbs: 15 g, Protein: 14 g
Alta Dena Fit to Go Cottage Cheese Small Curd with Pineapple
Serving Size: 1 container 5 oz, Calories: 130, Fat: 2.5 g, Carbs: 13 g, Protein: 14 g
Alta Dena Fit to Go Cottage Cheese Small Curd with Cucumber and Dill
Serving Size: 1 container 5 oz, Calories: 110, Fat: 2.5 g, Carbs: 6 g, Protein: 16 g
5. In celebration of my blog's birthday (6 year's this month, WOW I talk a lot), my weight loss surgery anniversary (June 20th, also 6 years), and my birthday (June 28th, 41 years, ummm did I say 41, I mean 29) be sure to check out the BIG GIVEAWAY STARTING NEXT WEEK.
Shelly's Strawberry Protein Ice Cream Cake
Oh one more cool thing... The World According to Eggface Facebook Page reached a milestone this week: 8000 LIKES :) I am honored to be on this journey with all of you. Thanks for never letting me feel alone.
1. Motivational thought for the week:
2. Plan ahead: The Obesity Action Coalition put out this great video invite for the Your Weight Matters National Convention being held this October. I'd like to share with you. I hope it encourages you to attend. I will be there. Hope to meet some of you! The agenda is AMAZING.
Oh and if you have questions or want to join the discussion about the event, the OAC has an event Facebook page. I can't wait to hang out. Since it's October there will be a costume party too :) I might have to break out my favorite costume!
3. Some articles I read this week that were worth checking out:
Gastric bypass patients keep the weight off: 2 year study - Bottom-line: Weight loss surgery is only the first step in a lifetime battle. Every day it is up to us to continue to fight (healthy eating choices, moving the body, working on the head.) FOREVER.
All 7 episodes of the University of California series, "The Skinny on Obesity" are now available online.
and a few of WLSers made the papers...
Head injury and sudden weight loss blamed for sudden change in personality at time of theft - You've heard of the Twinkie Defense? How about the Weight Loss Surgery Defense?
Steakhouse offers post-surgery weight-loss menu - This is too cool. The chef is a fellow WLSer. If you are in New Jersey be sure to show him some love.
The Real Housewives of New Jersey Lauren Manzo on Weight Loss Surgery (Lap-band) - Best wishes to Lauren.
Texas teen loses more than 150 pounds with gastric bypass - Amazing transformation.
19-Year-Old says gastric bypass surgery changed her life - Awesome.
4. Spotted these on the shelf the other day. Thought they were an easy grab and go high protein breakfast option. I bought all 3 flavors. Not sure if they have more.
Alta Dena Fit to Go Cottage Cheese with Strawberry
Serving Size: 1 container 5 oz, Calories: 140, Fat: 2.5 g, Carbs: 15 g, Protein: 14 g
Alta Dena Fit to Go Cottage Cheese Small Curd with Pineapple
Serving Size: 1 container 5 oz, Calories: 130, Fat: 2.5 g, Carbs: 13 g, Protein: 14 g
Alta Dena Fit to Go Cottage Cheese Small Curd with Cucumber and Dill
Serving Size: 1 container 5 oz, Calories: 110, Fat: 2.5 g, Carbs: 6 g, Protein: 16 g
5. In celebration of my blog's birthday (6 year's this month, WOW I talk a lot), my weight loss surgery anniversary (June 20th, also 6 years), and my birthday (June 28th, 41 years, ummm did I say 41, I mean 29) be sure to check out the BIG GIVEAWAY STARTING NEXT WEEK.
Oh one more cool thing... The World According to Eggface Facebook Page reached a milestone this week: 8000 LIKES :) I am honored to be on this journey with all of you. Thanks for never letting me feel alone.
A day in my pouch
My yesterday in post weight loss surgery eating...
Breakfast: I had to squeeze a bunch of stuff in the AM because I was having work men come at 1 PM. I grabbed an Oh Yeah Vanilla Creme RTD (Ready to Drink) and ran out the door. I love the convenience of these things. 18 grams of protein in a few sips of yum.
I finished almost everything I needed to do. I was running close to that window of time they give you (between 1 PM and whenever the heck they want) and though they NEVER show at the beginning of the window of time knowing my luck lately they would be prompt. They actually were quite prompt. I was impressed. Super nice guys and bonus: easy on the eyes too, gotta love that.
What I had done... the ceiling fan broke sometime around the end of the summer last year. I went to pull the cord to turn it off and the whole chain came out. Grrr. It was the END of the summer and it didn't effect the light so we just dealt with it. It's getting warmer so I finally called someone to come fix it. I also had a fan installed in the garage for my kitty Charlie who seems to have taken up residence in there.
Lunch: I hate hovering over workmen. Our house is small so I always feel like I'm hovering if I stay inside. I loaded up my bento box with some leftovers mostly and set myself up on the patio.
Pink Box (top left): Spinach, Cucumber, Tomato Salad with Shelly's Basil Yogurt Dip
Green Box (top right): Leftover Chickpeas with a sprinkle of Za'atar
Blue Box (bottom left): Leftover BBQ Chicken from the other night's dinner
Orange Box (bottom right): Shelly's Espresso Protein Truffles (ate 1, shared 1 with one of the guys)
Shelly's Basil Yogurt Dip
1/2 cup Greek Yogurt
3 Frozen Dorot Basil Cubes
Salt to taste
a few twists of Black Pepper
Nuke frozen basil cubes covered for 35 seconds. Mix in yogurt and seasonings. Makes a great dip for meat, fish, veggies, mixed in chicken salad instead of mayo, or a dollop as a high protein salad dressing.
More Bento Lunches
After the hottie hot workmen left I was able to head out and finish the last of my errands. It's a busy week and things are getting shoved together because early next week I'll be in San Diego (I'm slightly north of San Diego) for a few days at The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Annual Meeting. I am excited to be manning an information booth for the Obesity Action Coalition in the expo hall. I am proud to be an OAC member. I'd like to encourage you to Join! It's only $20/individual membership.
If any weight loss surgery pals are local enough to come hang out Tuesday night, June 19th we're meeting up between 6-7 PM in the pool area of the San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina 333 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, California. Fellow WLS blogger Beth (aka Melting Mama) will be there. After that we'll (and anyone that wants to join in) will be wandering the streets of San Diego (Seaport Village or the Gaslamp District) Hope you can come hang out.
Dinner: I had a few blog readers email me asking me about tofu recipes but I rarely use it. It's a great protein source but the whole pressing it, draining it process, annoying and I have used silken tofu in smoothies, it's OK. The other day when I was in Trader Joe's I spotted Baked Tofu in the refrigerator section. I was intrigued by it and thought what the heck. Each 150 calorie piece (2 pieces per package) contains 16 grams of protein. I took 1 piece, cubed it and added a few more ingredients to make a Asian-Style Slaw Salad.
It was yummy. It would be great on a picnic (lack of dairy.) For those who wanted some tofu recipes here you go...
Shelly's Asian Slaw
1/2 a 1 lb. bag of Cole Slaw Shreds (green & purple cabbage, carrots)
3 Green Onions, sliced
1 cup of Steamed Edamame
2 Tablespoons Toasted Sliced Almonds
1 slice of Trader Joe's Baked Tofu, cubed
2-3 Tablespoons Storebought Asian Sesame Dressing
1/2 teaspoon (or so, to taste, it's hot) Wasabi Paste
Salt to taste
a few twists of Black Pepper
Mix everything together. Tastes even better if you make it a hour or so in advance.
Snacks: Oodles of Coffee, some Cherries, and one of those Protein Popsicles I made the other day.
Breakfast: I had to squeeze a bunch of stuff in the AM because I was having work men come at 1 PM. I grabbed an Oh Yeah Vanilla Creme RTD (Ready to Drink) and ran out the door. I love the convenience of these things. 18 grams of protein in a few sips of yum.
I finished almost everything I needed to do. I was running close to that window of time they give you (between 1 PM and whenever the heck they want) and though they NEVER show at the beginning of the window of time knowing my luck lately they would be prompt. They actually were quite prompt. I was impressed. Super nice guys and bonus: easy on the eyes too, gotta love that.
What I had done... the ceiling fan broke sometime around the end of the summer last year. I went to pull the cord to turn it off and the whole chain came out. Grrr. It was the END of the summer and it didn't effect the light so we just dealt with it. It's getting warmer so I finally called someone to come fix it. I also had a fan installed in the garage for my kitty Charlie who seems to have taken up residence in there.
Lunch: I hate hovering over workmen. Our house is small so I always feel like I'm hovering if I stay inside. I loaded up my bento box with some leftovers mostly and set myself up on the patio.
Pink Box (top left): Spinach, Cucumber, Tomato Salad with Shelly's Basil Yogurt Dip
Green Box (top right): Leftover Chickpeas with a sprinkle of Za'atar
Blue Box (bottom left): Leftover BBQ Chicken from the other night's dinner
Orange Box (bottom right): Shelly's Espresso Protein Truffles (ate 1, shared 1 with one of the guys)
Shelly's Basil Yogurt Dip
1/2 cup Greek Yogurt
3 Frozen Dorot Basil Cubes
Salt to taste
a few twists of Black Pepper
Nuke frozen basil cubes covered for 35 seconds. Mix in yogurt and seasonings. Makes a great dip for meat, fish, veggies, mixed in chicken salad instead of mayo, or a dollop as a high protein salad dressing.
More Bento Lunches
After the hottie hot workmen left I was able to head out and finish the last of my errands. It's a busy week and things are getting shoved together because early next week I'll be in San Diego (I'm slightly north of San Diego) for a few days at The American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Annual Meeting. I am excited to be manning an information booth for the Obesity Action Coalition in the expo hall. I am proud to be an OAC member. I'd like to encourage you to Join! It's only $20/individual membership.
If any weight loss surgery pals are local enough to come hang out Tuesday night, June 19th we're meeting up between 6-7 PM in the pool area of the San Diego Marriott Marquis & Marina 333 West Harbor Drive, San Diego, California. Fellow WLS blogger Beth (aka Melting Mama) will be there. After that we'll (and anyone that wants to join in) will be wandering the streets of San Diego (Seaport Village or the Gaslamp District) Hope you can come hang out.
Dinner: I had a few blog readers email me asking me about tofu recipes but I rarely use it. It's a great protein source but the whole pressing it, draining it process, annoying and I have used silken tofu in smoothies, it's OK. The other day when I was in Trader Joe's I spotted Baked Tofu in the refrigerator section. I was intrigued by it and thought what the heck. Each 150 calorie piece (2 pieces per package) contains 16 grams of protein. I took 1 piece, cubed it and added a few more ingredients to make a Asian-Style Slaw Salad.
It was yummy. It would be great on a picnic (lack of dairy.) For those who wanted some tofu recipes here you go...
Shelly's Asian Slaw
1/2 a 1 lb. bag of Cole Slaw Shreds (green & purple cabbage, carrots)
3 Green Onions, sliced
1 cup of Steamed Edamame
2 Tablespoons Toasted Sliced Almonds
1 slice of Trader Joe's Baked Tofu, cubed
2-3 Tablespoons Storebought Asian Sesame Dressing
1/2 teaspoon (or so, to taste, it's hot) Wasabi Paste
Salt to taste
a few twists of Black Pepper
Mix everything together. Tastes even better if you make it a hour or so in advance.
Snacks: Oodles of Coffee, some Cherries, and one of those Protein Popsicles I made the other day.
Healthy Snacks: How to Make Protein Popsicles
When I was little I lived on a dead end street (no outlet.) It had it's advantages... I could play stick-ball and kickball smack dab in the center of it and rarely had to move mid game. I could ride my Big Wheel (I had the deluxe one with the hand brake) like a racer at the Indy 500 straight down the middle.
Living on the dead end had it's disadvantages too. We rarely got trick or treaters. My parents saved a lot of dough on candy and would probably consider this a good thing but I wanted trick or treaters. No one would make the walk for 3 houses. This also meant we never got an ice cream truck either. Well once, in 17 years. I thankfully had chance to buy one or I might have needed therapy.
Who needs an ice cream man when you can make one of these healthy frozen treats at home...
How to Make Protein Popsicles
What you need:
1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (I use Plain)
1/4 cup Protein Powder (any flavor)
2 Tablespoons Sugar Free Torani Syrup (any flavor)
Small Dixie Cups
Aluminum Foil
Popsicle Sticks (Michael's, 99 cent store, Dollar Tree)
Mix yogurt, protein powder, and sugar free syrup together till well blended. You can add chopped fresh fruit just be sure to chop it fine.
Fill the Dixie cups about 3/4 full. Each batch makes 4.
Cover the top of the cup with foil. Insert a stick through the center of the foil. The purpose of the foil is to hold the stick in place while the pop is freezing and catch drips when eating :) Put Popsicles in freezer for a few hours.
Remove the pops from the freezer and peel off the Dixie cup. Enjoy, yum!
I used a variety of protein powders and sugar free syrups. I even combined a few flavors. OMG You must try the Celebrate Strawberry & Chocolate Milk ENS combo. Perfect for newer post-ops.
Here's a few more protein packed, weight loss surgery friendly ways to cool down...
Protein Ice Cream
Protein Ice Cream Cakes
Frozen Yogurt Drops
More Frozen Yogurt Drops
Living on the dead end had it's disadvantages too. We rarely got trick or treaters. My parents saved a lot of dough on candy and would probably consider this a good thing but I wanted trick or treaters. No one would make the walk for 3 houses. This also meant we never got an ice cream truck either. Well once, in 17 years. I thankfully had chance to buy one or I might have needed therapy.
Who needs an ice cream man when you can make one of these healthy frozen treats at home...
How to Make Protein Popsicles
What you need:
1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (I use Plain)
1/4 cup Protein Powder (any flavor)
2 Tablespoons Sugar Free Torani Syrup (any flavor)
Small Dixie Cups
Aluminum Foil
Popsicle Sticks (Michael's, 99 cent store, Dollar Tree)
Mix yogurt, protein powder, and sugar free syrup together till well blended. You can add chopped fresh fruit just be sure to chop it fine.
Fill the Dixie cups about 3/4 full. Each batch makes 4.
Cover the top of the cup with foil. Insert a stick through the center of the foil. The purpose of the foil is to hold the stick in place while the pop is freezing and catch drips when eating :) Put Popsicles in freezer for a few hours.
Remove the pops from the freezer and peel off the Dixie cup. Enjoy, yum!
I used a variety of protein powders and sugar free syrups. I even combined a few flavors. OMG You must try the Celebrate Strawberry & Chocolate Milk ENS combo. Perfect for newer post-ops.
Here's a few more protein packed, weight loss surgery friendly ways to cool down...
Protein Ice Cream
Protein Ice Cream Cakes
Frozen Yogurt Drops
More Frozen Yogurt Drops