So says a disheveled Ron Burgundy in the movie "Anchorman" as he's called back into action.
That's the way I've felt recently. After rummaging through some old smaller clothes and finding inspiration in a couple of things that fit really well, I decided it was time to throw away some old fat clothes and buy a few new things.
My pants had gotten to the point where the crotch was hanging down to my knees. I had to cinch my belt down so tight that the pants were punching up around the waist. I no longer felt comfortable because of the huge legs and baggy bottom. Most of my shirts were too big. As narcissistic as it may sound, I didn't feel like I could show off my progress as well in the baggy clothes.
So with a fresh payday in hand, I went shopping.
And I was greeted with much more inspiration.
I'm down 3 sizes in pants. And 2 sizes in shirts. I'm actually down to a XXL t-shirt now in some brands - which just tickles the poop out of me. Honestly, I never thought I'd see these sizes again.
AND! I'm able to wear some of the 8 Nike Alabama T-shirts I've purchased over the course of the last month. I "cheese" so bad wearing these things, but it feels great! I know it rings silly to some, but being able to sport this gear has been one of the greatest enjoyments I've gotten out of the process thus far.
I've had lots of compliments from people I see as of late. And those are certainly appreciated. But there's so much to be said for looking in the mirror and seeing the change yourself. Along with all the physical improvements (blood pressure, more energy, etc.), there have been many mental improvements as well. The biggest mental advancement has been my confidence.
For so long the fat kept me in a shell of self-loathing and pity. As the fat continues to disappear, I feel that shell weakening as I grow stronger. It's a very liberating feeling.
Eating
I'm able to eat just about anything these days. I haven't had any type of episode in recent weeks. The only thing I'm real weary of at this point is overindulgence. I find that when something tastes really good to me now, I have a tendency to keep eating it until I get sick. So I'm trying to place a lot of focus on eating slowly and allowing my body to tell me when I'm full.
Aside from that, I'm perfecting steak and chicken on the grill. Those are the two meals I eat the most of currently. I'm going to have to cut back on the red meat at some point, but right now I'm allowing it because it keeps me from eating carbs, which are my arch enemy.
Most days I eat between 1000 and 1200 calories. Of course, after walking I burn at least half of those calories, so my net caloric intake on a daily basis (except weekends) hovers between 400 and 600 most days.
For those that know about BMR, mine is 2800. That means I burn 2800 calories a day sitting at my desk and working on a computer. Add another 600-700 calories being burned while exercising, and I typically burn 3500 calories a day.
So you can see how one might lose weight quickly after this procedure. The gastric bypass gives you an awesome tool to help you normalize quantities with very real consequences if you fail to do so. What you do with that tool is your choice. You can continue to eat bad and still lose weight, but likely not maintain it in the long run. Or you can change your lifestyle, eat right and exercise, and posture yourself for future success. I've chosen the latter route.
Exercise
Last week I walked 12.7 miles over the course of 5 nights. That's a person best since I started two months ago. Making it even more of an accomplishment, my legs still felt strong at the end of the week. I took Saturday off to let the legs rest, but walked last night to get a head start on the week. Oddly enough, I've found I have difficulty taking two days off in a row. I feel guilty because I'm not out sweating.
I'm not sure, but I think that's a good thing.
Either way, it has become a family event. My mom and dad are both walking now, determined to find better health. My brother is busting his ass to drop weight and perform better during his next PT test for the state. My sister-in-law is jogging and is doing awesome. My cousin-in-law joins us most nights and is pacing us step-for-step to tone up and shed a few pounds.
I love it. Seeing everyone driving to better themselves inspires me to keep going.
Promises Promises
I know I promised some photos last week, but I forgot. I will get some up at some point this week.
Weight this morning: 358.6 (-83lbs)
Regards,
The Vanishing Taylor
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