The Weigh Station Forums

Reminding myself what is important..

Kristina — Wed, 02 Jun 2010 13:01:00 GMT

Hey yeah I know… I am behind. Stress has gotten to be a bit. My Dad had surgery and they had to remove his whole kidney. But Thank God. He is now cancer free. That then Mom had chemo… I put them before me… It is hard at times. I have slacked on myself. It is so hard to put myself first. Something I need to work on. I felt good for a few days. But this week and starting middle of last week that funk of depression has been trying to sneak back in and I am starting to feel that easy feeling of slacking on myself. I have not been drinking enough water. I need to duct tape a water bottle to my hand I swear.

I was sitting her kicking myself. And that is not going to do anything to help me. Only thing I can do it keep on keeping on. And do what I know. Do what I know is going to fix it eating right. Follow the diet Follow the diet And Drink the water.

We all have stress and struggles. The thing I have to rember is I feel much better on the diet And yes the stress is always going to be there. It stays there. But I can handle it better when I feel better. I can function and do something about it. Than off of it, and not feeling better. And I really do feel better!! I feel like such a more active person. And there are times it is such mind over matter for me. I sabotage myself. I say no I can cut corners. And well this is more important.

But no really the diet is more important if I ever want to lose the weight. If I ever want to be where I want to be. If I ever really want the outside world to see the person I know that is on the inside of me. We all have that person that is on the inside that we are dying to show the outside world. That chooses not to accept you if you don’t look a certain way or are a certain size. I don’t care for there approval anymore. Cause if you cant like me now. I know then your true feelings for me. But… I want to change the outside for me for my family. So that I am around and healthy. And so that I am able to do all the fun things in this world with my family and loved ones. And I am not sitting things out watching them being done without me cause I am short of breath.. To big to do it… Or unable to cause I can’t.

I just need to remind myself who I am doing this for … Me.

Pray for me.. As I will be praying for you..

Kristina

Trying new foods And I like em!!!

Kristina — Mon, 17 May 2010 01:58:00 GMT

Hey .. How are you guys? I am doing good another 5 lbs down this week yes! .. I must be doing something right .. Haha..
Well I am starting to try new foods .. And I have to tell you.. I was at my cousins moms house.. Her mom has done the diet also .. And she fixed us lunch.. And I grew up as a kid that would never eat my veggies much. but I was so hungry .. And it was so good! the whole mikey try it your like it thing .. Maybe ant so bad.
I despised green veggies
I hated them with a passion .. I never would try them .. couldn’t make me if you lied and told me they tasted like sugar .. I would not touch them.
Anyways she took spinach sweet onions and mushrooms and saut'ed them .. Then scrambled some eggs into them .. Then sprinkled a little bit of cheese on top .. OH my goodness.. It was soo good

I got the stuff and I have made it at home now.. I love it.. And my daughter does too. I am just so grateful that my child doesn't fight eating and trying new foods .. Unlike her mother.

So I thank my stars for that .. But this week will be stressful my dad has surgery .. Mom has chemo.. And I am trying hard to stick to my guns and keep this life style change at the fore front . But I am amazed and learning still every week. But I am proud that I am trying new foods and keeping with the diet .. Water Water .. Cant get enough in me .. I swear

But I am going to keep at it . That is what we all have to do .Pray for me as I will be praying for you ..

Take care

Kristina

Don't Quit

Kristina — Sun, 02 May 2010 14:52:00 GMT

The Preacher at the church I attend read this poem a few sundays back.. And it has been on my heart and mind ever scince then..And I wanted to share it with you..

Don't Quit

When things go wrong as they sometimes will,
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill,
When funds are low and the debts are high,
And you want to smile, but have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit--
Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is funny with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns;
And many a fellow turns about
When he might have won, had he stuck it out.
Don't give up though the pace seems slow--
You may succeed with another blow.

Often the goal is nearer than
It seems to a faint and faltering man;
Often the struggler has given up
When he might have captured the victor's cup;
And he learned too late when the night came down,
How close he was to the golden crown.

Success is failure turned inside out--
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems afar;
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit;
It's when things seem worst that you mustn't quit.

--Leo Piggott, 1931

This Poems Speaks to me .. In Volumes ..

There are plenty times I want to give in give up. But when I think of that… I read this poem… And things seem to fall into place… I grasp peace and regain some faith in myself. And what I am doing. There are times that yes I am not going to be the best. Times I am going to give in. But Rest… Don’t Give up.

Yes there are tons of stresses out there that get to me… But I am going to Rest and not give up. I want this too much for ME. I want to be the person on the outside… That I am on the inside. Some see that others don’t. There missing out… But I am missing out… On my life ,by keeping this weight on me… And I want it off. I want to be Healthy. I need to be healthy for my loved ones and more for me. More than anyone I need to be Healthy for me…

I hope that this Poem reaches someone else out there this week… I lost one pound J Take care God Bless… Pray for me as I will be Praying for you…

And I also would just like to say… If you are out there reading this and it touches your heart … Please leave me a note. I would love to know and get some feed back or some support… I could use it… God Bless

Kristina

Getting organized … Work in progress

Kristina — Sun, 25 Apr 2010 15:54:00 GMT

I need to .. Working on it I been feeling so much better .. I tell ya .. Just a little bit of weight off me and I feel so much better .. Really ! But this week was a bit ruff Cause of it I gained 2 pounds.. .. I am not eating enough… I get where I am not hungry… And I don’t eat… And I need to just eating something.. I know I need to do it But I get in these moods where I just keep going. And going and going… Then I am starving… Not good… I know
My cousin was telling me how I need to get my meals together the night before. And prepare them ahead of time so when I am in such a hurry I wont mess myself up. Cause that is my hardest problem. Anyone out there got any ideas?

I don’t get hungry and then when I do. I am stressing… What to eat…
And well I have to fix this. And I am upping my exercise… Been doing a lot of cleaning and… Walking… And I can tell such a difference in my moods and I don’t tire out as easy. I am not sitting down as much.
Such a difference. I can’t imagine how I going to be when I get another 15 -20 pounds off … I am focused on my goals. I am worried about not eating enough and drinking enough water… I have days. I kill it… I keep moving and keep going and water just comes right along with me… Then I will have a day where I can’t keep it up… I loss track of time… But I have to remind myself I am human. And I am going to have days like that. And not kick myself so hard. Just keep going keep moving. And remind myself ok yeah. You can do better and you know you can… So just do better now.

I think sometimes we can be our biggest cheerleaders. And then we can also be the biggest person to sabotage ourselves. And that we can either keep ourselves down. Or we can pull ourselves up from the bad thoughts and tell ourselves to get over it and keep moving on. The choice is ours if we really want it…
How bad do you want it?

Pray for me as I will always be Praying for you

Kristina Sarver

Hey!! .. GUESS WHAT?? ~grins~ … I LOST 14 lbs!!

Kristina — Sun, 18 Apr 2010 15:09:00 GMT

Hey!! .. GUESS WHAT?? ~grins~ … I LOST 14 lbs!!
Yes I did. No I am not kidding! 14 lbs! The meds are working. I am so happy! I am working hard on my goals. This week has been good. I kicked off my Monday off with the 14 lbs weight loss. And I have been strongly motivated on my goals. I also Have face book. And I have a huge cheering section there, and I tell you what… Everyone has been so wonderful and supportive. I only had one negative response. And it stung a bit… It really did. It made me upset. I responded back with an educated response. And also gave the link to the website. I explained that I am seen by a Dr on a weekly Basis. My Blood Pressure is checked weekly basis. And all .

And I talked to 2 dear friends about my anger. (Thank you .. You two you know who you are ~hugs~) Towards this person for saying the things they said
And you know what they told me.? People are going to be judgmental. People are going to Question my life style change and my choices . They reminded me, They are MY choices. I am doing this for ME. Not for them not for anyone except ME . Ok , And my Child. I want to see her grow up and be healthy and happy. And I want to live a long healthy life. And be around to see that.

But They made me see. Someone is always going to be negative and there always going to question and that is normal. Yes 14 in one week is a lot. But we all know. We are not going to always have weeks liked that. And that there are weeks we will lose as little as 1 pound or nothing at all. Maybe just inches.

But I AM the one with the POWER of how I am going to let someone words effect me. I AM the one who can say. Hey I understand your views. But this is what is working for me. You can support me or you can not. But I WILL NOT let you bring me down. This is my goal this is my DREAM. This is MY choice. I feel happy. Healthier. And this is working for me. So Thank You for you concern, your views, But I am doing what I think is best for me. And I will not let YOU bring me down. I will not let your negative views. Destroy me. People can be cruel at times in this world. And when someone sees someone successful in there choices there views there goals. There is always someone who will be your storm cloud. And try to rain on your Happiness. And it is up to YOU if you are going to let them. ARE YOU??

Me personally I REFUSE TO. I am not going to let anyone or anything stand in front of me and my goals this time around. So either Join me or get out of my way. Cause I am coming thru. And if you want to support me then… I thank you … If you don’t. Keep it to yourself. Why ruin other folks when you see them doing something healthy and that is helping them? Maybe you need to do something for yourself too. If so then do it.

Thank you again to those who give me the courage and the picked me up when I was down .. I love you . I know who has my back.

Pray for me as I will be Praying for you

Kristina

I am a stress eater!! Are you ?

Kristina — Sun, 11 Apr 2010 17:25:00 GMT

Ok this week was ruff… I didn’t lose, I gained. But one my thyroid is out of wack I stared meds for that. And I am starting to have more energy. And feel more human. Not so tired all the time. I try not to get down on myself. I am keeping in good thoughts and keeping my chin up.
I am a Stress eate Am I the only one? I highly doubt it. But the only way I am going to get thru it is admit it, pray about it. And find other ways to deal with it. It is nice and lovely out. Going for a walk or finding something to do out side is the best way to handle my stress. Instead of stuffing my face. Another thing I have to do is remind myself how much I have eaten. And food journals are the best way to keep up with that.

The worst thing I do is I get Stressed out. Stop eating I get to where I am not hungry. Then I sit down at dinner and I am starving and wanting to eat more than I should. So I have to remind myself. Hey I know I am stressed but. Even if it is something small. Something Just something. Then the less likely I am to over eat later on. It is hard and there are days. I try to do too much and get overwhelmed but I have to still remind myself to eat something. And take my pills and Drink. Drinking all the water if I start out early in the day .Then I do really good about it. But if I don’t keep it up… I fall behind

I know I am not the only one that does these things. We all have busy lives. But I tell you what. The days I get it all in… Every bit of it the meds the Water the walking. The right sizes of meals… All 3 meals.

I feel like a new woman. I feel so much better. About myself. Who I am. And what I have gotten done that day. This is an uphill battle. But bit, by bit. Day by day. I am going to come out ahead. I am going to reach my goal. I am going to be lighter. Healthy and Happy. About whom I am and what I have done. For me

So this week I have admitted my Dark secret. I am a stress eater. But I have tried so see the signs and make the changed to keep myself from being sabotaged. And hopefully we shall see if they helped on Monday

Take care everyone
Pray for me as I will be Praying for you
Take care
Kristina

Happy Easter All..... Count your blessings

Kristina — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 21:48:00 GMT

Yes it is another week.. I know I am a bit off .. Ok .. A LOT Off ……this week .. My Dad is sick.. Sometimes when you think wow you been thru a lot .. Then something happens and you think goodness Dear lord can I take much more.?. Well .. I am sorry to say .. That Now My Father Has ..Renal Cell carcinoma.. BUT….. God is with my Dad. And he is blessed. Cause he got Diverticulitis.. And with out that .. We never would have found the tumor on his kindey . So God is good .

But ya know what???.. I am not going to let this stop me… I feel more at home … I feel better about myself… And who I am when I am with the Family… My Family at the Weigh Station. And I know that they will support me back me Pray for me… And be there for me every week… If you are New to this program… I can’t tell you enough Welcome! And you have made the best choice you have ever made.

You will never have a more caring team of Doctor’s staff… And Doctor… They are Amazing… And trust me I know… If you just need a hug that day… If you are having a bad week, or you are struggling with weight loss… Everyday life or just pretty much anything… There is always someone who will give you give a hug… Or care enough to help you figure out what you are doing wrong… That is keeping you from losing that last few pounds or get you out of a plateau I know they will always be there willing to give you the support you need ..

As for me this last week which was my first week back was a loss of 5 pounds!! .. Woot! ~ does a little snoopy dance ~… I am blessed… I am loved… I am going to get thru this… I am going to Not let this beat me… I will not put my weight loss off… I will not let this make me falter… I will not let this get me down…
Everyone has hard times… And I have realized… I am stronger… More empowered… And Loved… At the Weigh Station… And I am where I need to be… This is my Family… And this is what I am going to get thru this…. I will not let… This beat me…

Pray for me as I will be Praying For you ... Happy Easter ... :)

Kristina Sarver

YES IT IS ME !!! 3-22-2010

Kristina — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 23:55:00 GMT

Yes… It is me… I can give you tons of excuses… Reasons, explanations… My mother was Sick… Another Cancer Scare… Yes more surgery… And I took time to care for her… Cancer is a scary thing… And I have never had to deal with it until these last few years…

But when we get down to the bare bones of it… I had to take care of me… And I had to get back into the Mind set that… I want this… I WANT THIS!!!! You know what is another Killer beside Cancer? .....Obesity
… I am tired … I have gained back … A good amount of my weight… Not all… But More than I would care to admit to …

People would ask me… Example
The ladies at the store… Krissy… You still on that diet? When I would walk up there with my Cheese Danish and my Pepsi.. (Yes my Cheese Danish and Pepsi!!!) And I instantly would get that ashamed kick in the gut… No I would say… But I am going back.

Well, Time is a wasting.. It has been 6 months … How have you been?

Well, me I ..... have felt cruddy, down, tired; I have given up, and given in… And you know what I have to show for it? Umm I can get into my jeans I was so proud to wear. I can’t wear the cute stuff I had gotten into… And you know what? It it is funny they way people treat you… I have gone from Invisible to fully Visible … to well…. I just flat Disappeared again… BUT I AM HERE… I just want to scream it… I AM HERE!!! … CAN YOU SEE ME NOW?? HEHEHE… If you don’t?? I bet you something… GIVE ME a Few weeks… And YOU WILL…

I AM SICK OF IT!! I AM BACK!! And you are going to know it… I am going to be a Rock Star… …As I am going to be here every week… EVERY WEEK… Pouring my heart and soul out… Cause you know what?

I WAS where you are… And I am there again… And you know what … If I can lose it once… I CAN do it again! Yes it sucks… It sucks to have to do it again. But I am 31 years old… I have fought this battle . All my life… And it is something… I may never be free of... But I am not letting it.. NO … I REFUSE TO LET IT GET ME DOWN …

And if you are like me... YOU are not going to let it get you down too … ARE YOU?

Take care God Bless Every One!!
And let’s make this a Great week

Pray for me.. As I will be Praying for You

Kristina

Are you interested in joining a support group?

Mary Ann — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 18:19:00 GMT

Last night I was invited to go to a meeting at the Weigh Station to share your journey since reaching the Maintenance Stage. There were about a dozen people there who attended in addition to the dietitian, one of the nurses and a personal trainer.

At first I was a little nervous meeting with people I didn’t know, but once we started chatting about the things we all have in common – our successes and our challenges we quickly bonded and everyone opened up and it was very engaging. The dietician broke us up into small groups to do an activity that led us to start talking in small groups; then each group went around the room and shared the groups thoughts about the questions, the next thing you knew we were all sharing with one another. We talked about coping strategies, how to overcome pitfalls and the importance of incorporating physical activity into our daily lives and started sharing recipes. We’ve decided to meet bi-monthly.

I continue to be impressed with the dedication of the Weigh Station staff, the program and the support they are providing, not only in during the weight loss process, but afterwards as well. If you’re interested in joining the group contact the Weigh Station to get on the list to be advised of the next time we meet.

All I can say is that it was awe-inspiring and I hope you will join with us.

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give. -Winston Churchill”

Inquiring Minds Want to Know

Mary Ann — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 13:56:00 GMT

“Are you still on that diet?” I get that question all the time from my friends, colleagues, and family.

Well it depends on how you look at it? For me, I do not consider myself on that diet, but I do consider myself as having new healthy eating habits that are an outcome of having gone to the Weigh Station, following the diet program (which is amazing) and somewhat following their guidelines for maintenance.

Everyone has to find and determine what “maintenance” means to them. For me personally, I know that maintenance means that although I have added back whole wheat and sour dough bread on occasion, that having bread every day will not work for me. There are other foods that I've been able to add back successfully - grilled corn on the cob, baked sweet potatos, and dark chocolate. On an occasion I do treat myself to things that I was restricted while I was on the WS diet. It’s all about portion control and keeping a healthy balance.

Our family went on vacation to the beach this summer. It’s a tradition to go to “The Scoop” for ice cream. When we went, I had decided that I was going to pass on the ice cream. My family said “You’re on vacation, you’ve worked so hard to lose the weight, and you should treat yourself.” So, I did have a child’s size serving of ice cream. You know, it was good, but not as good as I remembered. It was more about the tradition of doing this with the family than eating the ice cream.

When you get to the maintenance stage of the diet it’s up to you what you decide to do. For me, I now physically feel better than I have in a long, long time. I like the size I am. I’m happy with myself. I like enjoy my healthy eating habits. I worked hard to get where I am today and I don't want to go back to where I was before.

And yes, inquiring minds do want to know: Yes, I am maintaining my weight loss, I am fluctuating between 56-58 lbs total weight loss.

I’m blessed to have gone through the program so successfully. I’ve shared my experience with a number of friends and colleagues. Some of my friends are now attending the Weigh Station - even my Mom and Dad. It’s working for all of them and it will work for you too!!!

I am Still Here... I promise!

Kristina — Sat, 11 Jul 2009 16:04:00 GMT

I have had a huge responsce of prayers and people contacting me or trying to :)... Anyways I am ok.. Yes I am human. I am trying to take a deep breath and just get back on.. For some reason.. getting on my Horse out in the field after we both took a tumble seems eaiser than this... My Mom starts chemo this Comming friday. I am tryin.. Trying to get my head on straight and get my house back together. I have so many things that need to be done. I just keep looking around and going.. OK where do I start.. I start once place and then I get frustrated and move to something else. But I am getting now where... Funny how my life and my diet. Are in the same boat... I am not going to stop as long as Dr. Shafer will stand by me.. And I hope he sitll will.

I have always done things the hard way in life.. I guess this is no diffrerent. To the rest of things that I do I fill like I am just spinning wheels. .I always have to do it the hard way. I dont know why that is. I want to lose. I want to be healthy. And right now. I need to be more than ever. My family my child my whole family needs me. I just try to keep that going in my head,

Thank you all for the coments. E-mail's thoughts and prayers. I am just trying to weather the storm right now. If you want to contact me personally

Hayleys_mom_2@yahoo.com is the best way. Thank you again for all your prayers and thinking of me. I want this soo much.I just got to get my Cowgirl hat back on right. And hop on.

Kristina

Where is Kristina??? ........ Really I am trying to find out myself

Kristina — Sun, 05 Jul 2009 12:55:00 GMT

I feel like the Prodigal Son Wasting the gift of knowleage that Dr shaffer has given me. And Now with starting to come to my senses returning and begging for Dr. Shaffers mercy. I dont blame him. Also I could see the day that he could turn and and say Kris.. I dont know what more I can do for you... He Already told me this last week what more can I say to get you to understand. I dont want to die young from a heart attack Well I am Guilty.....

I am a stress eater. I cant blame anyone anymore but myself. You have to point the finger in the right direction. And I have to turn in around to myself. I should be done. With this program. I should be skinny Liven like a rock star... But If I can't walk the walk. I shouldnt talk the talk. Yes I write nothing but the trurth. But I need to do more, Walk more, MOVE more.

I have hit rock bottom. My mother has colon cancer. We are starting Chemo soon. And I have just lost it. I have layed in bed and cried. I have ate things I know I shouldn't have, My back hurts. I have gained. I am going to the Dr to have my meds uped. I am on medication for my deperssion. And I need help.. I need alot of help. I am lost. I am sorry I have been distant from my writting but I guess it is that I know . I know this is suposed to be uplifting. And if I can't uplift myself. How and can I write and ask others to be upliftied?? I am sorry if you think or stop reading what I write,. I am honest. And it is time that I am bluntly honest with myself. I want this... I want this more than I have ever wanted anything in my life. So why do I mess it up so bad??

I want better..... I know this diet inside and out. And I smack myself mentaliy and I am like stuipd stupid stupid. I know better. Why cant I turn it around??

Pray for me. Please I feel so lost. Maybe I have turned everywhere but where I need to My God.. And my listeners.. Please... Is there help for me?

Being able to do more but realizing how much more I have to go...

Kristina — Thu, 21 May 2009 23:05:00 GMT

This week.. I have been doing work around the house. My baby cousin is graduating soon from High school. And the only thing she wanted. Was the barn to be fixed. She wanted 3 working stalls for her horses. So this week I have been helping with that. My father who is in his 60's and I. We tilled the floor in the stables because they haven't been used in 20 plus some years. There were holes that needed to be filled. The gound was hard like concrete. I ran the tiller back and forth through the ground. Several times. And my dad stood there watching me. Waiting.... I tilled and tilled and tilled. He finally smiled at me and said, "I am waiting on you to give out!!" I tilled for a bit longer and we are talking about a 20 to 30 min period here. And then I finally gave it to him. My heart was beating out of my chest. For anyone who as tilled a garden or anything else my hat goes off to you.

For that was my first time... And as I sat there taking a short rest. I thought to myself two summers back. I wouldn't be doing this!! I would be in the house in the air conditioning. Not even daring to do this. We did alot of other work. But I won't bore you with details. The main factor is, I realised wow how much I had done to help. How fast it got done. How I didn't have to sit down near as much as if it would have been a few years back. And how far I have come... But I did have to sit down and I still did wear out. I am proud of myself. But ..... I know I can do better.... And I want to... That is why I am asking. Please pray for me. This program has been a huge blessing in my life.. I know I am no where near where I want or need to be. And I need to keep going. And keep on keeping on. My family is my biggest cheerleaders. Out side of my family at the weigh station.... It was an eye opener to me. Yes I have lost weight. Yes I look better. Good even, BUT.... I am not where near where I want to be and only I have the power to change it.

Thank you

Finding me ... The quest..

Kristina — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:45:00 GMT

My health, And my Family... should always come first. I am learning still I guess that what life is about. You make mistakes and if you are lucky you get the wake up call you need. And hopefully you can get things where they need to be. I guess that I had always just gotten used to my weight and got comfortable with my size and shape. But I now 90 lbs lesser. Are still learning and still growing. Yes I have lost weight. Yes I need to lose more. Yes I am still trying, But I had to maintain for a while, And learn who I was. My husband got importable with how much I had lost because he was worried that I would leave him. Or be happy to be thiner and want to change my whole life. I have heard stories. Some good some bad, About how it has happened. But I love my Husband and I love my child. I know or lives are not easy but that is not me.

But I did go Thur a phase, Of who am I now? Am I a house wife? Am I something more? I am still finding out what all I am now. I feel like it is now my time to step out of the shadow of my child and my husband. I am now starting to learn that I need time for myself. To recharge my battery's. And really get to how am I ? I am learning that I am more than a house wife, I am an inspiration to others. And I have no idea how I did that. I still feel surreal about that.. I am happy to know that others hearing my words out there are inspired to keep going.. I am trying so hard myself. It still amazes me that others get so much from my words. I need to give more back in return. But I have been so hard on myself. I have failed. But where there is failure. There is a chance to start again. SO I am starting again. I am Dusting myself back off. Praying for strength. And Hoping for sauces.

I have started to run a small business on my own. And I am so glad to look at myself in the mirror now. I can smile at myself. I know I still have weight to lose but even now when I put makeup on I can smile and I feel better about myself and I can say wow you know what? I am worth this. I am worth it! For people to listen to me, I am a good. person. Will find my way Thur this. I will lose this weight and I will... Write my blog on a weekly basis.. Without having to be reminded. I am blessed in so many ways. Thank you

Update on Maintaining

Mary Ann — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 11:29:00 GMT

Greetings Everyone!

It will soon be three months since I started maintenance and I've still managed to lose weight. I've lost 58 lbs. I seem to be holding steady at this point. I still feel great and I'm very thankful for the guidance of the Weigh Station staff in my weight loss efforts. Following the diet for weight loss was easy. You just follow the rules and just eat what's on the list, drink your water and you lose the weight and inches. Maintaining is a little more challenging as it's a little easier to be tempted to have just a bit of this or that. One bite won't hurt. Right? Wrong!

As I mentioned in my last post, you know you can add items and some carbs back into your diet, but you still have to be very careful. You can't over indulge. Actually, as I started maintenance even though I had this new freedom to eat some things that I used to eat, I was very hesitant to do so. Then over the course of the next two months, I started adding a few more things. Yesterday, someone brought donuts to the office. They’ve done this before and I wasn’t even tempted. Today, for whatever reason, I had to have a taste, so I used a knife to cut just small taste of the one. OMG! It was like a sugar rush – just that one bite. It was so sweet, I could hardly stand it. Why did I do this I thought? It really wasn’t worth it. However, it could have just as easily gone the other way…it could have been really good and I could have wanted another bite and another bite which would lead to disaster.

I don’t consider myself to be on a diet anymore, I consider this my new “Healthy Lifestyle.” Now if I can just get myself to the gym or outside walking so that I can incorporate more exercise into my “Healthy Lifestyle.” Stay tuned!!!

Updated my Bio ...About Time

Kristina — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 00:33:00 GMT

Hey you all... I posted a new pic... and I added abit of new detail to my Bio.. other than that not much has changed on my site.... But I am still alive and kickin!! I took on a new Job a while Back I said good bye to lunch lady land... And Back to babysitting... I stay with a almost 2 year old Aiden... And I have a 7 month old Mckensie. And life is getting better me and My husband have become closer and have been on a couple of dates ! And I am learning who I am now. And starting to know what I want... #1 on that list is to lose more weight!!! ALot more... But anyways... I hope everyone is doing well. Just wanted to say HI!!!
Take care and God Bless I will be writting much more soon!!!

Kristina Sarver

The Smallest of Blessings

Kristina — Sun, 08 Mar 2009 14:06:00 GMT

Hey everyone!! I am so excited warmer weather is ahead of us. Oh I can’t wait Saturday was enough of a teaser to get me going!! I am ready to clean my house.. And play outside!! The sun is out and it is a wonderful motivation!! I am ready to walk out side and play with my kids and enjoy my life, Ride my cousin’s horses. And brush them and play with them.. And pray I don’t get stepped on this year!! Lol

I did something that I never thought was possible, my little girl had been harping me to get out my wedding dress. Something that I haven’t seen in 12 years come this July I was like why hunny?? And she says because you can get into it!!! I know you can mommy!!!

My little one is 6 years old for her to say that to me

She must really think I am down to that size. Because all up until today, she has seen of this dress are photos. And home movies .And I am not so sure that I was ready but she loves to play dress up so much ….. So for her I decided to suck it up and do it…. And I was so shocked I am almost into it meaning like we are talking maybe 4 inches in the back to zip it up all the way to the top!!!

And I had a full body thing on when I wore the dress for my wedding. You know one of those things that suck you in all over. And you walk around straight as a stiff stick?? Yeah those body briefer or what ever else they call them that suck you in all over and make you horribly uncomfortable. And takes and act of congress to get you out of to have to go to the bathroom… If you are a man read this …. You have no idea what we ladies go thru!!!! Anyways Guess What??? This was 4 inches people without one on meaning to me that I might have been able to get all the way. If I wanted to roll around on the floor for a half hour trying dance, twist, and shimmy to get myself into one.

But that is not how I wanted to spend my Sunday… Not really a fun thing to do… LOL.. So I will rather wait it out a few weeks and then try again. I really am more motivated to now surpass this dress size and be in a much smaller size because it is a 20/22. And I was in a 30/32 when I started the weight station. I am so Happy!!!! And This really made me smile today.. Sometimes it just goes to show you. Even the smallest person can have huge effects on our lives…. My child has always been a huge blessing my life.

Just wanted to share this with you all.

God Bless,

Kristina

Maintaining Your Weight Loss

Mary Ann — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 21:09:00 GMT

By the end of this week I will have been officially on "maintenance" for one month and I've still managed to lose weight. This morning when I weighed in, I was down 54 pounds! I remember when I started the program and the success I was having. I kept telling myself that this is a lifestyle change not a diet. I’m on maintenance and I’m pleased to report that I still have the same attitude – this is my new lifestyle. You’ve heard the saying “You are what you eat” well, I believe it. I’m eating healthy and I feel great, and I am still amazed when I look in the mirror. I wouldn’t dare go back to my old unhealthy eating habits. It’s just not worth it!!! I love feeling great and having the energy to do things with my nieces and nephew.

It’s nice to know that I can have items from the expanded list of foods with the maintenance program. However, like I mentioned before but “in moderation” You have to find what works best for you. I do believe that each individual’s metabolism is different and different foods affect us each differently. Find what works for you.

I’ve recently made the commitment to exercise regularly. I often take time to walk for exercise, but now it’s time to make exercise a regular part of my daily life. I have no excuse, as the YMCA is very close to where I live. I have to pass it every as I go to and from work. No more excuses. Summer will be here before you know it, and I this year I’m excited about picking out summer clothes and yes a swim suit!

Are you considering maintenance or are you on the maintenance part of the program yet? If so, I’d love to hear from you. How is it going for you?

02-15-09 Starting over .....

Kristina — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 15:36:00 GMT

Life has it's ups and downs. And I am loving the rollercoster that it can be at times. Sometimes we laugh in sheer delight at how things work out and other times we cry with our failures and sadness of defeats. But we have to keep going and as some have told me, life keeps going. And I have to learn not to let myself become obsorbed with my sadness. The sun is starting to shine again in my life and outside and I am embrassing it full force. I dressed me and my baby girl warm and we went outside and walked around. Played with the dog. Loved on the horses. And visited with them. I can't wait for warmer weather so I can get back to riding!!! I miss it so much!!!

Anyone who doesn't know, I live in the country and I help exercise my cousins 4 horses. And I love it so much!!

But anyways after that we walked around. And then me and my husband went out the the school and went for a walk, and talked. Really talked.. Andy I and have been going through counseling and a very hard time. Just in general. But we are starting to turn the corner. And I think for the first time in a long time I see the hope and happiness I can, did, and could have again. We had been letting things come between us and not making time for us. Rather..... I had not been making time for us. And you have to do that.. we grew apart and I chose to hide in the computer with friends, and behind activites. And keep my distance soon we had nothing to talk about. Nothing in common. While we walked I remember why I fell in love with him, cause he listened to me...... he really listened.. And that is what I had missed the most and have been delving into the computer for. But It wasnt just him I started to hide from my friends, my loved ones..

But I am beginning to realize that I can't hide from my problems. I must face them and work them out. My weight, my husband,...ect. Speaking of my weight!!! I lost 4 pounds!!!! Go me go me!!! Ha ha!!I am walking daily. If I have too I take the kids with me... they like it too. or we just go outside.... And walk around, And making sure I just dont turn the computer on first thing. Have like a mental check list I have been doing..

1. Get my kids settled. Get settled in for the day... find out what I need to do... What needs to be taken care off. 2. Fix my self up. even if it is just fixing my hair a bit, put on just a touch of make up and spray on a touch of body spray. It makes me feel 10 time better about myself!! Than if I mope around no make up and hair all over 3. then I pick up the house, my 19 month old I keep loves to help!! He loves laundry. I dump it in the floor and let him put in the dryer. 4. Random dancing... Some times the kids are as bored as I am.. Some times I just keep music on as we clean. And we just break into dancing. Makes them smile and it is good for you too!! We dance while we fold laundry too. he he.. I hate laundry keeps me happy and then I forget I hate is so much !! ha ha. 5. Plan meals... Lunch.. some times it sneaks up on me when I have two or three of the kids. So I try to have a back up plan for a quick fix for me!! 6. Then I try to get the kids down for a nap.... Then I might get online... while they are asleep then I am off again. 7.Pick up and play time then when moms come home and get babies sometimes we all walk... Soon I will be going to the gym :) so excited. 8. I try to stay away from it when I get home spend time with Hayley and Andy.... 9. When hayley goes to bed then i give myself 30 to 45 min... then it is Andy and my time. 10 . I try to get him to tell me about his day. Or something we read this wonderfull book a friend gave us called love languages. And we try to read it together, taking turns reading it out loud to the other one. Just talk to each other and be together...And I am also reading a book on forgiveness

Well that is what a normal day is like for me... And that is what I am trying to stick too... of course there are days where..I dont get everything done. Or I falter and stay on longer than I wanted too. Or don't get it all done. Or I can't get all done. But I am learning that that is life....And I can't beat myself up for it and I can't always get it all done!!! And there are days when the kids (he he) are less than happy about my plans or my ideas of the day... he he.... But that is what I love about it. Somedays they throw me curve balls. Aiden doesn't want to do dancing with me. And no he might feel bad and want to lay down early or vaccum the living room with his toy vaccum cleaner and when I don't let him bang the toy into the wall and I take it away. He may just decide to go to the real vaccum cleaner and lets say take the bagless part off. And dump it in the floor!! But that is what kids do, they are kids!! And unpredicable and fun and full of life....And they make me feel good again... Cause at the end of the day and I get those hugs bye bye and those kisses. They make the whole day worth it all. And that makes me smile when I go home and it helps me to share that with my family. And that my kids are my little blessings. Truely they are making me realize what life is about and seeing it thru their eyes again makes me smile!!!

And it helps in making it easier to deal with my own little girl. Yes she is ADHD and we are working on treament for her too. And God help me. Please be soon. But I can handle her better now at the end of the day. And she has gotten real close to my mom. And they have there own routine which is very important with her, And I am learning that more and more about how to deal with her. Kids don't come with instruction manuals and I am so out of my league with her. And she is my own kid!! And I can't fix it sometimes. I know that all this blog is really alot of just what is going on with me. And I am sorry.....Just alot on my mind guess I need to share....

Pray for me and as I am always praying for you. But I feel as though things are comming together and with the good lords help they are :)

Kristina

Looking Back -Looking Ahead

Mary Ann — Fri, 06 Feb 2009 17:35:00 GMT

Next week I will complete six months with the Weigh Station Program and I’ve lost 50 pounds! It has been an amazing journey and I am still in awe of what I’ve accomplished with the support of everyone at the Weigh Station. I’ve learned to manage my weight and eat healthier! For me the program has worked very well. I followed the program… ate only what was on the list that I liked (and I’m a really picky eater) and made sure I drank my water. I wasn't a big fruit eater and when I did it was summer fruit, so I had to make myself eat some of the fruit on the list. Now I love apples! You know that saying; “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away,” it must be true. I’ve eaten more apples in the past six months that the past six years!

When I Dr. Shaffer and I looked back over my weight loss we did see a couple patterns. One I mentioned in an earlier blog, one week I’d lose more pounds than inches, the next I would lose more inches than pounds. Another pattern we observed was that about every six weeks, I would hit a plateau – not a completely flat one, as I always managed to lose, but just not as much. If you’re on the program, take a look back and see how far you’ve come and see if you see if there are any patterns that that you can anticipate or try something different to break the pattern. Should you get discouraged, look back and see how far you’ve come with your weight loss. Be thankful for what you’ve accomplished and know that the program does work and you can be successful.

A few weeks ago, I met with the nutritionist to get a glimpse into what I could expect when I’m ready to move to the “maintenance” part of the program. I was excited to learn what I could try to start adding back into my diet, but I was afraid to move forward with it. I had made up my mind that if I could be equally happy just eating what I’ve been eating as I’ve been very satisfied.

Two weeks ago, I decided I would try to move on the maintenance part of the program, gradually adding some things back into my diet. At first it was odd; I felt like I really shouldn’t be eating a piece of whole wheat bread or have shredded carrots on my salad. Actually, I was sort of scared that just a taste of these things would cause me to slip back into my old eating habits; and the Lord knows I didn’t want to go back there! I made a promise to him and myself to eat healthy, to take care of myself so that I can be here to care for my family and others.

Everything in moderation…I can do that! And that I did!! During the past two weeks I had a few “treats” per say (i.e. ¼ small baked sweet potato, some whole wheat bread, and carrots on my salad, a few peanuts, and yes a piece of dark chocolate). Of course this was over the two week period and I didn’t have these every day – it was in “moderation.”

Today when I weighed in, I was a little anxious so I had prepared myself that if I didn’t lose anything this time, that it was because of the “treats”. That I am still happy that I am where I am and that it’s about “maintaining.” I’m pleased to report that even on maintenance – I still lost 2 pounds! So now, I’m more confident I can handle maintenance – a maintenance plan where I continue to make healthy food choices, one where I can look back , see how far I’ve come, use what I’ve learned, look forward to an active lifestyle with good food choices.

Pounds vs. Inches: Which is better?

Mary Ann — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 14:22:00 GMT

When you think about losing weight, it’s all about the pounds. When you set a goal for how much weight you’d like to lose you set a goal weight and determine the pounds you must lose to get to the desired weight. The thing that amazes me the most about my weight loss since I began this journey is the inches that I’ve lost!! Yes, losing the pounds is the desired outcome, but with this program you lose INCHES! Personally, I think the inches are much more visible than the pounds!

The best thing about this program is that you lose the inches in the areas that are you problem areas. I’ve always been a “pear” shaped person, heavier on the bottom. With the Weigh Station Program, I’ve lost 8 inches on my waist, 7.5 inches on my hips and 5.5 inches on my thighs. Can you imagine how great this makes me fill? That puts me down 4-5 sizes in my clothes (depending on how they are made)! Now that’s what I consider to be impressive and very visible. Over all, I've lost 28 inches!

One week, I’ll lose more pounds than inches, and then the following week I will lose more inches than pounds. I consider the inches to be at least equal to and maybe even more important than the pounds. Stick with the program and you too will not only lose pounds, but you will see the inches melt away too.

Remember inches are just as important as the pounds!

Getting the kick in the butt I needed ……..

Kristina — Sat, 31 Jan 2009 14:33:00 GMT

I have been lax in my dieting. My life has kind of spiraled out of control…..But I am tired of the kidding myself. I am tired of being the girl that I am, I now want to be come the woman I can be….. I know what I want… I know who I want to become….And for a while I let others and loved ones make me comfortable and cloud my thinking. Not that they meant to or that they do it to harm me or to do it to hurt me. I am not the weight I was when I got married or at least very close to it. And so most people think ok she is where she was…. But no I am not done. I am not finished… And I have let myself. Get controlled by others thinking. And I think I have went into self protect mode. For the last few weeks. But NOW I am over it I know I have been saying this but YOU have to want it. And my heart wasn’t into it..

Until, I finally called my friend. We have known each other science we where in high school. I guess I was ready to give him the sob story and for him to listen to me. And give me a pep talk and dust me off. And make me feel better…. And guess what …..He chewed me out….Don’t worry he is in the army so he does it very well and… He got my attention…..He told me and reminded me of how bad I wanted this. How I talked about it with such passion. And How I wanted this more than anything…. And you know what??? I do and the only person that can change that is me. Yeah me. Not my family, friends that are trying to support me either way. They just want me happy…… But he asked me….He didn’t baby me he didn’t pet me or coddle me… He flat out asked me, Are you happy??? NO KRIS!!! ARE YOU HAPPY…????? And you know what…. NO I AM NOT!! But I know how I can be!!!! AND I know what I have to do to be!!!

SO I AM DOING THIS FOR ME….I CHOSE TO EAT RIGHT!!! I CHOSE TO WORKOUT!!! AND I CHOSE TO BE THE ONE TO CHANGE ME!!! AND …..YOU CAN LOVE ME OR YOU CAN MOVE OUT OF MY WAY!!! God please help me. Please push me and help to push me and show me what I can be and what I can do….Cause I am coming thru world I am tired of living this way. I am tired of the plus size me! I know. I am loved; I know that I can live my life this way. Safe and protected but you know what I am tired of it!!! DONE NO MORE!!! I have seen the hint the clues you have left I just now have to follow the breach crumbs!!! (really bad pun) To follow the right path…..

And the biggest reason I think I feel bad and have been this way. Cause I let myself down. I am so not used to keep pushing…. I have never finished much in my life… there are times I let things go. But you know what…… I am not going to let this go! The fire has been relit. The torch reignited! I WANT THIS… And I want this for me. Not anyone else, and with the love of the weigh station… My friend that I will be saying thanks but not thanks too. And I know they will back me up 110% and a few others I know I can do this!!! And thanks to a few new friend and an old, old friend who had to give me the jump start to remind me of what I have always wanted….And like someone else told me. There is always something else…There is always life, you just have to keep going.. And I am ready to do that!!!!

Special Thanks goes out to my sisters here Crystie Currie and Gloria Stout for the pep talk and the Bitter pill of truth when I really need it…you too are my back bone here at home!!! And to Staff Sergeant Thomas Lyttle at Fort Campbell Ky. For the Kick in the pants. I am not Army Strong… But with the good lords help and Tommy he is trying to make me be!! And his girlfriend Private First Class Shoshanna Maya who I have never met yet ….but already cares enough about me that I talk to daily by phone or computer. I can’t wait for you to come home to the states!! You are my sister!! I love you!!

And to my mediate family my mom, Dad, Hayley, and my wonderful husband… I know things have been tuff but baby we are going to make it!!! And for trying to help me when I need to help myself..I am sorry I have taken it out on you. I LOVE YOU !!

And to Dr Shaffer, his family and staff I will make you proud!!! I want to make me proud And to God for Forgiveness… And helping me find the help I have needed and the Family and Friends I need… I am Blessed! You may say why am I a success story?? Stick around and you will find out!! :)

Pray for me as I will be praying for you

Kristina

Build a Loving Relationship with Your Scales

Mary Ann — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 20:41:00 GMT

Six months ago, I wouldn’t go near the scales. I knew that I didn’t want to face the reality that I was way over weight. I didn't want to see numbers on the scales. It made it oh so real.

Now, I can’t wait to get on the scales. I love my scales!! I weigh the first thing in the morning when I get up. I weigh after I get my shower and dressed for work. As soon as I get home from work I weigh again. I weigh several times during the evening and just before I go to bed. I guess it's a good thing I do not have scales at work. (LOL) You would be amazed at how much your weight fluctuates throughout any given day it's from 1-2 pounds. I must confess that sometimes if I get up at night to go to the bathroom, I’ll check it again. It's reassuring to me that I'm really losing the weight.

Actually, you may not want to become as obsessed with the scales as I have, but it does help keep me focused and keeps me encouraged, especially I see the weight on the scales go down. Every time I cross over to the next lower set ten pounds I get so excited. Some of my friends who are in the program or have done the program said they only weighed once or twice a week. Find the happy medium that works for you, one that will make you happy and keep you motivated.

A New Year – A New Me! How about You?

Mary Ann — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 13:17:00 GMT

It’s late January and the time of year when many people who have resolved to lose weight have just given up. The beginning of the New Year offers a chance for a fresh start, being optimistic and a resolve for accomplishment. I’m sure you’ve been there before, resolved to lose weight. You start off with a bang and then burn out just about as quickly as you started and then end up frustrated and back to your old habits.

This year I’m pleased to say that I do not have to make a new resolution to lose weight because I’ve already had such great success with the program, one that I’ve resolved last fall. I started the program on September 10, 2008. As of January 23^rd, I’ve lost 47 pounds and 27 inches! Isn’t that amazing? Every week that I’ve weighed in I’ve lost weight. One week I would lose more weight than inches. The next week, I would lose more inches than pounds. Either way it’s still a loss. Personally, I think the inches lost are more visible than the pounds. If you stick with the program, you will be successful with your weight loss. The program does work!!!

So… if you’re considering starting the program I encourage you to start NOW. Do not procrastinate. If you’re new to the program you should be seeing the results. If you’ve been with the program for a while I trust you’re experiencing the same success.

Make your new year start today!

Forgiveness, And Getting rid of dead weight.

Kristina — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 15:36:00 GMT

I am learning I am a new person....... I am not what I was...... I am not the person I used to be. I am starting to see who I could be…

And for the first time in a long time I want better of me, for me, by me.

Along with my weight that I was carrying around I was carrying around a huge dark cloud and it was chained to my neck. I can really say that until I joined this program I carried all my pain of my past with me at all times. I carried all my faults and my blame. But I am changing. I am not done yet. I have a long way to still go. And I know I can. And I will. I am not done. Nor will I quit till I am. I have been trying to find myself. And yes I have hit huge road blocks lately. But I will get past it

I have been having problems with my spouse; He is trying to very hard. We are seeking help. We have been introducing to a wonderful guy Named Jerry. He talks on Friday night at the Weigh Station Meeting room. If you are thinking of Coming PLEASE DO!!! Friday Nights !! 7pm... Go in the doors where The Depot is. You won’t regret it!!! I loved it. And I am going to be there... If you are curious to meet me and ask me questions are a great time to do it!!

The changes I see in me are I am starting to have more and more independence in myself and in my words to where I am not so worried of what others will think of what I say or if or second guess myself. And I will use spell check before I post anything from now on!! LOL. One insecurities that I have carried around with me for years is the fact that I am dyslexic. And I really have a time with my spelling, at times, and then other times my brain gets ahead of my fingers and I get totally lost. LOL and one thing I am teaching myself it that I have to read over and sometimes read aloud to make sure I get my point across. I have always been a passionate writer when I would sit down and right. But I wouldn't listen to anyone who was trying to help me. I thought. I was no good. And gave up it was easier.. Than trying…

And a lot more than the weight I have lost, I have carried guilt around for so long. I have needed to work on myself as a person. And I am now to that point where I am learning now I have to deal with the underline problems the guilt and the bad feelings I have has towards others and myself. That all the years I used food to protect myself from the initial things that had hurt me, and the things that I was not willing to forgive much less forget....People can be cruel. But you know what is worse not letting yourself be what you really can. It can be better I am realizing that now.

It is going to be hard I have to change my way of thought. I have to be more positive. I have to be more willing to bend about some things...... The biggest I have to forgive others and the Hardest is I have to forgive myself..... And that is the one thing that will take me that longest I am sure …I can forgive and forgive others…But forgiving myself it something that I keep talking to myself about..

I always thought that I had given up on my life as a teen. Because I went down the wrong path for so long. And in the end when I got turned around, I have had so much anger and blame on myself, And coldness for the world and people around me. Blame for not doing something more with myself, That my time was over this was what I had and this is what I get...... that I just lived for my family , my husband , And My girl Hayley when she came along. I thought that being a mother and a wife was it for me.

I was so wild in my teens that when I deiced to marry Andy at 19 everyone told me we wouldn't last!! And 11 years later I am still married and they are divorced 1 or 2 times over and have little ones tore up from the choices they have made. I am not proud that I have lasted longer than they have. I feel for there kids. I hurt for there pain. That I thought God gave me Andy. And he blessed me to stay with it, and that is all there is for me. I had accepted that my marriage and my Child were my blessings and that was all I deserved.

And for all the pain Inflicted on my Family that was it. And then over the last few years its been so hard so many bad things, one after the other, Mom getting worse with her disabilities, My uncle dying, Money problems. That was it and I guess I just felt like I had to keep control. Try too. That is all there was for me. All that I should have.

I did pray. I did, not enough, Not often enough and not for help, More for strength and not to go crazy. I felt over the last few years for all the years that I had been such a bad person, to my family. That I deserved it. I deserved all the hard times that where brought on my family. That I had caused them, and they where paying for me, I know better now......... Well I am ......beinging to know better. I wont lie I have a long way to go. And I look back and a lot of my pain came from my weight my depression of being over weight and being up happy, because I couldn't do what I wanted to do. I see those things now. I have a long ways to go and grow. But I am grateful where I am not from where I was then. I hope this has touched someone and that you can relate to where I am….

I will keep in touch.

Pray for me as I always will for you. And I hope you think about coming Friday night

I hope to see you there

Kris

Update I heard this song a few minutes Ago this is so How I feel

"Let It Go" *Tim McGraw*

I've been caught sideways out here on the crossroads
Trying to buy back the pieces I lost of my soul
It's hard when the devil won't get off your back
It's like carrying around the past in a hundred pound sack

[Chorus]
Today I'm gonna keep on walking
I'm gonna hold my head up high
I'm gonna leave it all behind
Today I'm gonna stand out in the rain
Let it wash it all away Yeah wash it all away
I'm gonna let it go Oh yeah
I'm gonna let it go Oh yeah

Skeletons and Ghosts are hiding in the shadows
Threatening me with all the things that they know
Choices and mistakes, they all know my name
But I'm through holding in and holding onto all that pain

[Chorus]

I know I know I know I've been forgiven
I know I know I know I'm gonna start living