tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77689543966907626802024-03-13T09:54:55.419-05:00Welcome to Robin's Nest.....Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.comBlogger258125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-12709822488754111682015-08-04T10:15:00.001-05:002015-08-04T10:17:21.278-05:00It Was Only Just a Dream.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gJZmA0xfrIU/VcDJsbSf6TI/AAAAAAAAA1E/saH-1ubF73s/s1600/Just-A-Dream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gJZmA0xfrIU/VcDJsbSf6TI/AAAAAAAAA1E/saH-1ubF73s/s320/Just-A-Dream.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Until it wasn't. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I woke up today thinking - it can't possibly have been a year since I had surgery, but the calendar doesn't lie. I am still in awe every single day that so much about me is new and different and still changing regularly. For a long time I would look in the mirror and it still didn't seem real, but recently I find that when I look in the mirror I don't see the "obese, gross, fat girl" that I always considered myself to be. In fact, it is interesting that for years I ran from the camera and now I find myself wanting to take pictures all the time. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AWfMsdKUkhE/VcDMJbvYnSI/AAAAAAAAA1U/hPv3-sZ97TI/s1600/4th%2Bof%2BJuly%2B%2B1%2Byear%2Bapart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AWfMsdKUkhE/VcDMJbvYnSI/AAAAAAAAA1U/hPv3-sZ97TI/s320/4th%2Bof%2BJuly%2B%2B1%2Byear%2Bapart.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These pictures were taken one year apart on July 4th, 2014 & 2015.(Look, I have a jawline!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Crazy what a difference a year makes. Not only am I healthier physically I am also healthier mentally and emotionally. Loving yourself is hard when you can't even stand to look at yourself in the mirror. Loving yourself is much easier when your whole self image is not warped by hating what you see when you look in that mirror. I hesitate to say that because I don't consider myself to be "caught up in myself" or to think "I'm all that" but my perspective is no longer clouded by my own negative thoughts about my appearance. I never could grasp that what I looked like on the outside was not what other people saw when they looked at me. They always said "we just don't see you that way" and I always thought "Yeah, right!". My judgement was so skewed, simple logic would have said, why would people think of you that way when you don't think of others that way. Again, my vision of me was so messed up. Thankful that thru the process of considering, preparing and having the surgery my vision is much clearer now. My husband even giggled and smiled recently when I mentioned that none of my clothes fit. I asked why he was giggling and he said "You have never said those words with a smile on your face." God has been faithful and true!!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0f4YY_2jBxg/VcDPVZSoWJI/AAAAAAAAA1s/DrqL6QblqkE/s1600/comparison.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0f4YY_2jBxg/VcDPVZSoWJI/AAAAAAAAA1s/DrqL6QblqkE/s320/comparison.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pictures on the left were taken before surgery and the right were taken 1 year later. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After the surgery I spent quite a few months just adjusting to the new me. Almost daily in the beginning I would notice little things I could do that I hadn't been able to do in many years. It still happens even now but not quite as often. I knew I needed to lose more weight because my goal to be under 200 lbs was still out there. The dream was hanging out on the sidelines but I really felt like I needed an adjustment period to just enjoy life and figure out this new me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">In May, I realized I was ready to work towards meeting my goal to finally reach "Onederland". I determined that I would be 199 before the end of 2015. Funny, because I have made that decision about 100 times in the past 25 years or so and well I never made. This time something was different, I was different, it seemed reachable for the first time since I was 18 years old I BELIEVE that with God's help I could commit and finally complete the process to make the dream a reality. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On May 26, 2015, I began to reach for the dream and am now just 14 pounds from reaching Onederland! I am beyond excited because I can see the goal line and I am running for the touchdown. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Keep me in your prayers as I continue the journey. I saw my doctor yesterday and he has "tweaked" my eating plan a bit because I wasn't getting enough of some food groups that he feels are necessary. I am a bit nervous about the changes because the plan has worked so well and don't want to affect the rate of weight loss but I also trust my doctor to know what is best for my health. I am okay with the rate slowing as long as it doesn't stop. I refuse to go backwards ever again. I am a new Robin (as my best friend Wendy always says) and I really really like her. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />Now just a few more photos because I am still in awe of the fact that I am not repulsed by seeing full body shots of myself! </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lZjYgzpiNp8/VcDTRObIU1I/AAAAAAAAA2I/taFUtwlFLsU/s1600/kim%2B%2526%2BI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lZjYgzpiNp8/VcDTRObIU1I/AAAAAAAAA2I/taFUtwlFLsU/s320/kim%2B%2526%2BI.jpg" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kim & Robin, August 1, 2015 </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FHJG69Tm37s/VcDTREOvDaI/AAAAAAAAA2A/EFzqdk3n8Xs/s1600/me%2B%2526%2Bkim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FHJG69Tm37s/VcDTREOvDaI/AAAAAAAAA2A/EFzqdk3n8Xs/s320/me%2B%2526%2Bkim.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kim & Robin, August 1, 2015</td></tr>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RvRUPBfpG6c/VcDTRPlBQeI/AAAAAAAAA2E/JjWZTWdlOd8/s1600/vburg%2Bwelcome%2Bcenter.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RvRUPBfpG6c/VcDTRPlBQeI/AAAAAAAAA2E/JjWZTWdlOd8/s320/vburg%2Bwelcome%2Bcenter.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Re-posting my list of things I dreamed of doing but couldn't. Some are on my bucket list so they may take a while to accomplish.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Key: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;">Red = completed</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: blue;">Blue = completed since last post</span> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">Black = still on list to complete</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">T</span>he dreams of the skinny girl hiding
inside of me...</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></i></span></div>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">buying clothes off the rack of any store</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></span></li>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">seat belts that fit correctly </span></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: red;">ability to wear a seat belt in all cars, not just some
makes and models</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">enjoying a day at the water park without shame and
embarrassment</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">being comfortable in movie theater seats</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">para sailing</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">playing softball again</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">underclothes that fit like they are supposed to</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">taking pictures without trying to hide behind everybody
else </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="color: blue;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">picture taking without having to find the best angle
for my face not to look fat</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5 mile hike at Cade's Cove in Gatlinburg</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">not choosing the handicap bathroom stall because the
others feel to small</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">feeling beautiful even if nobody tells me I am</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">speaking in front of people without wanting to crawl
under the podium because I feel like a cow</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">not dreading going to the doctor because I know what
they are thinking even if they don't say it.</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
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night on a cruise and being comfortable and confident doing so.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">not needing a seat belt extender on an airplane</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">not wanting to hide in the locker room at the gym </span></span></i></li>
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<span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you to all of you have been my cheerleaders and prayer warriors. I couldn't have made it where I am without God providing me with such an amazing group of people to gather around and lift me up with encouraging words and prayers on the rough days and to cheer for me on the good days!! Love you all more than words could ever properly say! </span><br />
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Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-7447241501898227672015-01-07T12:47:00.000-06:002015-01-07T12:48:51.003-06:00To Do List.....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1IIqsxt330Q/VK1-e160hnI/AAAAAAAAAzg/XlthBKrzyQ0/s1600/r%26r%2Bsept%2B2014%2B20th%2Bfriendaversary.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1IIqsxt330Q/VK1-e160hnI/AAAAAAAAAzg/XlthBKrzyQ0/s1600/r%26r%2Bsept%2B2014%2B20th%2Bfriendaversary.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rock n' Robin September 2014 (Blowfly Inn)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">If felt good to tell my story yesterday. I mentioned a list of things I dreamed of doing after weight loss. Today I am posting that list so we can see just how many things I still want to do or have already been accomplished!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Key: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;">Red = completed</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: red;"><span style="color: black;">Black = still on list to complete</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">T</span>he dreams of the skinny girl hiding
inside of me...</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></i></span></div>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">buying clothes off the rack of any store</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">seat belts that fit correctly </span></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: red;">ability to wear a seat belt in all cars, not just some
makes and models</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">enjoying a day at the water park without shame and
embarrassment</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">being comfortable in movie theater seats</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">para sailing</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">canoeing</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">white water rafting</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">playing softball again</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">underclothes that fit like they are supposed to</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">taking pictures without trying to hide behind everybody
else </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">picture taking without having to find the best angle
for my face not to look fat</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">5 mile hike at Cade's Cove in Gatlinburg</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">bike riding</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">not choosing the handicap bathroom stall because the
others feel to small</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">feeling beautiful even if nobody tells me I am</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">speaking in front of people without wanting to crawl
under the podium because I feel like a cow</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">not dreading going to the doctor because I know what
they are thinking even if they don't say it.</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
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night on a cruise and being comfortable and confident doing so.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">not needing a seat belt extender on an airplane</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; tab-stops: list .5in;"><i><span style="color: red;"><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">not wanting to hide in the locker room at the gym</span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></i><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><i><span style="color: blue;"></span></i> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li>
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</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">How exciting! There are other things that I wanted to do but they somehow didn't make this list, they clearly weren't on my mind at the moment. So now I will list the things I can do now that I couldn't do before that seem very insignificant to somebody who take for granted that they can do it</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">painting my own toes!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">tying my shoes </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">jumping jacks (just because I wanted to be able to, not because I like doing them)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">sitting in a booth at a restaurant and not having to move the table to fit</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">taking notes or filling out a form using my lap </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">crossing my legs</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">just plain being comfortable in my own skin</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">not always having to find a wide path in a room full of tables/people </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There is no way to put every thing that has changed into words. I am beyond thankful that God's plans were better than my own. I am amazed at how He laid it all out and each piece fit perfectly together. My life will never be the same. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There are still struggles because it was definitely not an instant fix to the food problems. In those times there is this beautiful reminder (my scar) of what God did for me. On bad days He has even reminded me not to lightly esteem (disregard) the the gift that He has given me. His grace is unending and I will praise, worship and serve Him all the days of my life. He is the Lord of my life and I am thankful not only for my scar but for the scars that Jesus bore for my healing (spiritually, physically, emotionally). </span></div>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-90521734537598616332015-01-06T16:04:00.000-06:002015-01-06T16:04:01.619-06:00The Year 2014 - Caterpillar to Butterfly<br />
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....<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">as always the year began with lots of positive thoughts and plans. Thinking about how much weight I could lose before cruise #8 and plotting about how to do it and of course its really all about getting healthy and fit right? Okay, so yes, that is a good motivational tool, my health is important but the plain true reality was I just wanted to feel good about what I see in the mirror and what others see when they look at me. Baby steps were what I needed to find the "real girl" in me and I wasn't even sure what exactly that meant, but God knew exactly what I needed. So, the journey to find the "New Robin" began. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As always, because health is truly important I went to my annual appointment with my "girl doctor". Unlike most I don't dread this appointment, I actually look forward to it. The procedure is not comfortable but the encouragement and support I get from my doctor has always given me a lift and motivation to focus on where I want to head that next year with my weight. Over the years she has always been understanding and praised me when I lost and encouraged me to get back on the wagon when I gained. She always reminded me that as long as I kept trying I would succeed, the only way to fail is to quit. In years past she had talked to me about gastric bypass and about lap band and different things she thought could help me lose the weight. By personal choice I never felt that is was what I was supposed to do. There were several reasons I felt that way, number one I knew that if I had the surgery and didn't change my habits that just like anything else it would not work. I had seen others have it, lose the weight and over time gain it back. I was doing a great job of doing that exact same thing all by myself. Second reason was that I was terrified of having surgery, the thought of being put under anesthesia and people seeing me NEKKID was beyond frightening, not to mention that pain and I do not get along. I was always honest and up front about feeling like I had to do it on my own. <i>(Disclaimer: I do not think that gastric bypass/lap band surgery is wrong in any ways, it was just not right for me.) </i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">For those of you that haven't known me very long, I managed over many years to lose and keep off around 100 pounds. I often lost a lot and then gained some back and then lost it again and gained some back, it was a vicious cycle. But, I never gave up, so even when I gained weight back I always caught myself before I gained it all back. Due to up and down loss of the weight and my body style I had a lot of excess skin and what I not so affectionately referred to as my "hangy downy". The technical name for it is the panniculus (or apron). In all reality it was just plain gross and it held me back in every area of my life. Below are pictures of my reality, that I can't even believe I am sharing but for the impact of transformation to be real it is necessary. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Now, let's continue with my doctor visit in early January of 2014. This visit was different, my heart was eager to hear what she had to say. I was excited because though I had not managed to lose and keep any weight off in 2013, I had actually started the new year at the same weight as the previous year that was huge in my eyes. </span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wait, there is a another bit of back story before I continue. At some stage during my weight loss journey I had lost a good bit of weight and was quite comfortable where I was but was beginning to see saggy skin issues in the mirror. This raised conflicting emotions, for one it looked bad and why in the world was I doing all this work if my body was still going to look bad? At this time I had never heard about having surgery to remove excess skin and didn't even know how that worked or what it looked like and then there was a day that I was at home sick and watched an episode of Oprah. This particular episode was all about people who had been obese and had lost all of their weight and wanted to have "skin removal" surgery but could not afford the procedure. During this episode they showed before and after pictures and I was so completely freaked out by what I saw that I went on an eating frenzy. It was easier to look at my obese body in the mirror than their awful skin sagging (looked like that hairless cats but with wrinkles,not cute at all) bodies after losing all of the excess weight. Of course, because it was Oprah she had them on the show to share their stories and surprised them with free skin removal surgeries. Now you have to remember that I had an extreme fear of surgery so this began another bout of gaining weight because now I was very conflicted about which body was the one I could handle looking at in the mirror for the rest of my life. Next thought was, "Rocky is used to this one and I'm not sure he could deal with one that looked like "that" one". I never asked his opinion I just assumed. </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Okay, back to the doctor visit. She came in, praised me for not gaining any weight and did the exam. During the exam I mentioned some issues I was dealing with due to the "hangy downy" and she prescribed something to help. This led to a conversation that changed my life. She told me that she wanted to refer to me a plastic surgeon. I looked at her like she had grown an extra head. She kind of laughed and began to explain that I didn't have to do anything but she thought if I went for a consultation it might be the motivation I needed to get back on the weight loss wagon. In my head, I was like this woman is crazy, but my heart said "she has never steered you wrong". I cautiously agreed to the consultation. I went home and told my husband about it but I knew on the inside I wasn't going to go to this appointment. I also shared with my best friend what my doctor wanted, I could hear an excitement in her voice and something changed in my heart and my head. In the course of one conversation with Wendy, I knew life was about to be different. </span><i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span></i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">They called the next week and I had an appointment for sometime in February. I was not ready but I did not cancel I just asked them to postpone it until after our cruise in March. New appointment date was March 26, 2014. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During those first few months of the year Wendy began a quiet campaign (or maybe not so quiet) towards bringing out this "New Robin". I am not sure exactly how it happened but I found myself spending more time shopping and looking at shoes, clothes and jewelry. Clothes shopping created emotional outbursts in dressing rooms so that was not working for me. The shoes I liked were outside of my budget. Suddenly, I felt myself drawn towards accessories and a new love for all things "bling" was born. It started with earrings and has grown into necklaces and bracelets too, now I rarely leave home without accessories. We did manage a shopping trip prior to our cruise that ended okay with a few nice dressy blouses to wear on formal nights. Wendy began dreaming of the day we would shop and I would enjoy it, I still couldn't imagine that could happen in my world. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">We cruised and had a fabulous time. Now, it's March and slowly the day is coming and the dreaded appointment is near. I am starting to reconsider and freaking out because I am still just not sure because I still have so much weight to lose and I watch all these TV shows and know that you have to have lost a certain amount to be a "candidate". I was going to the appointment expecting to have appeased my doctor. I knew that I was not walking out of that surgeon's office with any good news but at least then I would have an excuse not to consider surgery. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">But God. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Wendy went with me to the appointment so she could ask all the questions that I would never remember to ask. I was a nervous wreck because I was so embarrassed and ashamed of what the doctor would see because I knew he had to do an exam to be able to tell me he couldn't help me unless I lost at least another 50 - 100 pounds. From the moment Dr. Mani walked in the door to the exam room I was put completely at ease. He was kind, considerate and well spoken. He made me comfortable and never once did I feel ashamed. In fact, I liked him so much that I hated that I probably wouldn't see him again because I just knew I was not a candidate for this surgery. After the exam Wendy came back into the room, all the questions were asked and surprisingly he told me that because I had lost the 100 lbs and for the most part maintained it over the years and because I had been the same weight for the past year that I indeed was a candidate for a "panniculectomy" (removal of the panniculus and the subcataneous fat within it) and we could schedule it and do it immediately. For a moment I thought I might pass out. There was a hope that wasn't there before and just as suddenly all I could see was $$$$ in front of my eyes. I calmed myself and asked the question. He told me that they would write it up and bring it back in for me momentarily. When they came back and handed me the paper with the cost there was a peace that could only have come from God. I looked at Wendy with tears in my eyes and we both knew that I "WAS" going to have this surgery. I told Dr. Mani that I would have to discuss it with my husband and figure out exactly how we would pay for this surgery but that I would be in touch to schedule the surgery. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Rocky and I talked and agreed that I would have the surgery and that God would make a way to pay for the procedure. I only told a few people because it was so personal and honestly because I was so used to being ashamed of my body and tried never to call attention to it that I kept it on the down low for the most part. We talked and looked at our calendars and schedules and decided that the best time for both of us would be on August 4, 2014. Soon thereafter, I was talking to somebody about the procedure and told her that I knew God was in this from the word go and trusted that it was all going to go smoothly. She then proceeds to tell me that she had been telling God for months that she wanted to bless somebody with a certain amount of money and that now she knew who to bless. She paid for my entire surgery (she prefers to remain unnamed). I can never repay her or say thank you enough. God is faithful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">During the months leading up to the surgery I spent a lot of time praying and reading His word because as excited as I was I still had this dreadful fear of being put to sleep and the unknown of the "recovery" aspect. As the time grew closer the fear was less and less. I found myself looking forward to the entire process and even convinced myself to be thankful during the pain that would likely accompany this type of surgery. I actually had very little pain and again I am thankful! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Finally, it's August 4, 2014 and I am sitting in the waiting room with my parents, my husband and the ever faithful Wendy Kaye Warren at a ridiculously early hour. I still can't believe it is happening but I was ready and thankful that God was with me and would care for me and bring me out safe and sound. I was truly ready to move onto the next step in finding the "New Robin". They called me back, put me in a gown, gave me some drugs and that is the last thing I remember until about a week later. Well, there are some things I remember but most of that first week is blurry and vague. Rocky kept me drugged exactly as prescribed and I am thankful for all the fabulous nursing he did during that first week after the surgery. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was in shock when they told me they had removed 22 pounds of skin & subcataneous fat from my body. Apparently after the doctor told me I proceed to repeat how that was "alot" over and over again. I am thankful that I made Rocky & Wendy promise not to take any videos while I was under the influence of any drugs. They respected my wishes but have regretted it ever since, they say I was pretty funny and at one point I even made sure my dad knew how sexy I was now. Really? Glad I didn't have any deep dark secrets for them to ask about because I clearly would have said anything or told them whatever they wanted to know. The surgery went perfect, no complications and I was home and in my own bed by about 2:00 p.m. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Recovery went smoothly, the incision is not nearly as bad as I thought it would be when I initially saw it. I remember thinking oh dear that is awful (was like day 2 and still swollen and gross looking but I didn't realize it wouldn't always look like that) but immediately was thankful because I knew how different things were going to be from that point on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">At about 3 weeks I was ready to get out and about and NEEDED clothes because nothing in my closet fit anymore. Wendy scooped me up took me out and we shopped till I about dropped. It was the first time in my adult life that I didn't cry or get disappointed and even tried on things that were too big!! I actually enjoyed myself but not as much as she did (I was still moving slow and sore). It was another new thing for the "New Robin". </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j01v6fYklXg/VKxDslAnG5I/AAAAAAAAAyw/2CcTdRn9aTQ/s1600/5%2Bweeks%2Bpost%2Bsurgery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j01v6fYklXg/VKxDslAnG5I/AAAAAAAAAyw/2CcTdRn9aTQ/s1600/5%2Bweeks%2Bpost%2Bsurgery.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">5 weeks post surgery. Shopping alone with no tears!!</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I began taking note almost immediately of the things I could do now that were either improbable or ridiculously uncomfortable before the surgery. Here are just a few pictures:</span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OKAM42Arso0/VKxDNuGelXI/AAAAAAAAAyY/OozxQ55XCgQ/s1600/laptop%2Bon%2Bmy%2BLAP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OKAM42Arso0/VKxDNuGelXI/AAAAAAAAAyY/OozxQ55XCgQ/s1600/laptop%2Bon%2Bmy%2BLAP.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Laptop on the LAP I have never had!!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dF413mx6vfQ/VKxDPfQ6JtI/AAAAAAAAAyg/mKNe0SORkeM/s1600/space%2Bbetween%2Bme%2Band%2Bsteering%2Bwheel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dF413mx6vfQ/VKxDPfQ6JtI/AAAAAAAAAyg/mKNe0SORkeM/s1600/space%2Bbetween%2Bme%2Band%2Bsteering%2Bwheel.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Look...there is space between me and the steering wheel!!</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I0HW8sQ2eI8/VKxDQ_ABESI/AAAAAAAAAyo/vU4yXtibZjU/s1600/sitting%2Bin%2Ba%2Bbooth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I0HW8sQ2eI8/VKxDQ_ABESI/AAAAAAAAAyo/vU4yXtibZjU/s1600/sitting%2Bin%2Ba%2Bbooth.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Yup, that is right I am sitting in a booth and there is more than enough room!!</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have a long list of things I dreamed of doing. Some of them have already been accomplished simply from the surgery itself. Others will be marked off as life and more weight loss makes them possible. But that is for another day and another post. If you made it this far then I thank you for taking in interest in my transformation from a caterpillar just going thru life to a butterfly who is choosing to spread my wings and fly! </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Z7CZRZUHlQ/VKxJ11oLtTI/AAAAAAAAAzA/DEaIg8sB_PM/s1600/beach%2Bsept%2B2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8Z7CZRZUHlQ/VKxJ11oLtTI/AAAAAAAAAzA/DEaIg8sB_PM/s1600/beach%2Bsept%2B2014.jpg" height="225" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The "New Robin" being footloose and fancy free on the Beach! (Sept 2014)</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></td></tr>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-30994358523524524472013-07-26T08:28:00.002-05:002013-07-26T08:28:32.689-05:00Today is the day.........<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">my first weigh in and I lost 6 pounds. It felt good to not fear the scale this morning, because I knew no matter what it said, I had done what I needed to do to start my path to a healthier me. I've been up and down so much in the past 3 years that I am not sure I've lost weight 2 weeks in a row since I started the gradual uphill climb, but I am determined, my mind is set and my feet are steadfastly planted on the ground. I will continue to progress this coming week. This week I will continue to work out at least 3 times a week, cardio and strength and stay within 1500 calories per day. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you God for never leaving or forsaking, for being that small still voice that never fails to remind me that I can do all things thru Christ who strengthens me and that I can cast my cares upon you because you care for me. You are faithful and I am blessed beyond measure because of your love, grace and mercy towards me. </span>Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-27051056946090377682013-07-25T08:44:00.000-05:002013-07-25T08:44:47.789-05:00Tomorrow...<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">...is my first weigh in and I'm excited and nervous. I'm choosing today not to be moved regardless of what it says. I've noticed the older I get the harder it seems to make the scale move, but I know I've been dedicated to the plan and I've put in the work and I feel good so that is what I will focus on. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span>Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-28508072684835766762013-07-24T08:43:00.002-05:002013-07-24T08:43:30.644-05:00Five days down.....<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.....221 days to go! I found a you tube video of the Sky Course on the ship and it motivated me instead of freaking me out. This is progress, its nice when my head and heart are both linked with God at the same time. I'm not sure exactly what I thought a ropes course 8 feet off the ground would consist of but I was surprised. Instead of being discouraged by what I could not accomplish today I have decided to keep moving forward so I will be prepared and ready to conquer it! Reminding myself that God says He made me more than a conqueror (Romans 8:37). </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H7fM0KwvTtI/Ue_WGqT48RI/AAAAAAAAAwk/HKybWP-hrtg/s1600/victory+possible.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H7fM0KwvTtI/Ue_WGqT48RI/AAAAAAAAAwk/HKybWP-hrtg/s320/victory+possible.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Last night I was watching a weight loss reality show and was so emotionally moved by the struggles this woman faced in her life that I wanted to crawl into the TV and poke somebody's eyes out. There is a way to encourage and motivate somebody to be all they can be and its not by tearing them down and pointing out their flaws. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The trainer on this show is so compassionate and real and allows himself to connect to his clients to the place where you can see that he truly cares. He inspires me to go for my dream, to follow in his footsteps. The next 221 days are about getting myself ready to follow this new dream of becoming a personal trainer who cares about the people she is working with, not just the paycheck. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The client on this episode also reminded me how easy it is to fall even when you've had great success. I've fallen into that trap more times than I can count. I am praying that God will keep me alert and focused and that when I stumble along the path I wont fall, I will call upon Him to regain my balance and continue on the right path. I'm exhausted from all of the rabbit trails I have followed over the years. The past 5 days have been peaceful. When you are on the right path there is hope and rest because there is no guilt or shame hanging around your neck. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Look out world, the Robin God intended me to be is emerging and I think you are going to like her!!</span></div>
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Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-12978013428594276622013-07-22T09:45:00.001-05:002013-07-22T09:45:22.320-05:00Recurring Dreams...<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Reminding myself of the dreams of the skinny girl hiding inside of me...</span>
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<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">buying clothes off the rack of any store</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">seat belts that fit correctly without being manipulated</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">ability to wear a seat belt in all cars, not just some makes and models</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">enjoying a day at the water park without shame and embarrassment</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">being comfortable in movie theater seats</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">para sailing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">canoeing</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">white water rafting</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">playing softball again</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">underclothes that fit like they are supposed to</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">taking pictures without trying to hide behind everybody else </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">picture taking without having to find the best angle for my face not to look fat</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">5 mile hike at Cade's Cove in Gatlinburg</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">bike riding</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">running a 5k (not walking)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">not choosing the handicap bathroom stall because the others feel to small</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">feeling beautiful even if nobody tells me I am</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">speaking in front of people without wanting to crawl under the podium because I feel like a cow</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">not dreading going to the doctor because I know what they are thinking even if they don't say it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">wearing a pretty dress and semi high heels for elegant night on a cruise and being comfortable and confident doing so.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">not needing a seat belt extender on an airplane</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">not wanting to hide in the locker room at the gym</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">changing clothes in the gym and not doing it in the bathroom stall
(not that i would necessarily but i'd like to be comfortable doing so if
i did)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Sky Course on Carnival Sunshine </span></li>
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Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-45175404303392095662013-07-22T09:04:00.000-05:002013-07-22T09:12:31.044-05:00Remember How Far You Have Come<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FBSqDfoayeU/Ue04DKJdp4I/AAAAAAAAAwE/HQOtlsXvHYg/s1600/remember+how+far+you+have+come.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FBSqDfoayeU/Ue04DKJdp4I/AAAAAAAAAwE/HQOtlsXvHYg/s320/remember+how+far+you+have+come.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">This was a lovely reminder from God this morning. How quickly we forget how far we have come when things seem to be going backwards. The slightest setbacks in my past and present tend to throw me off track and onto the wrong path. Which in turn gives place to an enemy who is dead set on destroying me. I am thankful that the Holy Spirit lives on the inside of me and never leaves or forsakes me, so when I'm done with the pity parties He is always waiting patiently with arms wide open ready to guide me back to the path that leads me to the destination God has planned for me. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thankfully for the first time in a few years, I feel like my heart and head are in the same place. I see the path before me, I'm on it, I'm taking steps and trying not to run so fast that I end up not finishing. I'm not looking for short cuts, I'm creating a pace that takes me to the end. In 223 days I will be doing the Sky Course on the Carnival Sunshine! Although I just looked at this picture and well......okay....I can do all things thru Christ who strengthens me!!! Right????? </span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ucf1QUwm764/Ue06xr9wubI/AAAAAAAAAwU/Pop_6tO0Z6s/s1600/Sky+Course.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ucf1QUwm764/Ue06xr9wubI/AAAAAAAAAwU/Pop_6tO0Z6s/s320/Sky+Course.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The weekend went well, I stayed on track with calories and water. I did have carbonated drink on Friday night but none since then. So I can still have 2 more this week. I will be going to the gym at lunch today. This will be a weight machine day, which always makes me uneasy because I fight feeling self conscious if there are other people out there. I will remind myself of the above statement....remember I'm not where I want to be, but I'm also not where I used to be! Heading towards a happy healthy me!</span></span><br />
<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-36049181672870501822013-07-19T09:38:00.001-05:002013-07-19T09:38:06.059-05:00226 days.....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jiCX_euelXM/UelKYjTn_2I/AAAAAAAAAvk/NHLcIZY8gQE/s1600/2013-07-19+07.57.27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jiCX_euelXM/UelKYjTn_2I/AAAAAAAAAvk/NHLcIZY8gQE/s320/2013-07-19+07.57.27.jpg" width="240" /></a>.<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">...until we board the
Carnival Sunshine. My long term goal is to start and finish the ropes course on the ship. To do that I must trust the process (thanks Ms. Tammy for putting words to my thoughts). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I just took a full faced picture of myself, no
special angle, no camera in the right direction to avoid the extra chin
that I have, a true picture of what my face looks like right now. I am also uploading a full length from this past weekend. These will serve as my before pictures (may take a better full length picture later). </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A-hU0Vfox5I/UelKfWg5I5I/AAAAAAAAAvw/MLc8BRAcMQU/s1600/2013-07-13+14.10.06-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-A-hU0Vfox5I/UelKfWg5I5I/AAAAAAAAAvw/MLc8BRAcMQU/s320/2013-07-13+14.10.06-1.jpg" width="116" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I woke up today thinking about food, this troubled me after the lengthy discussions I had with God yesterday regarding this particular problem area in my life. I began to pray and ask God to help me focus, help me to remain steadfast and to reach my goals. His grace as always was more than enough for me to get thru that moment when my flesh cried out and wanted me to jump off the wagon that would be my transportation to health and happiness. His reminder was that "I am an over comer by the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony" (Revelation 12:11). He is faithful to lead and guide us if we will be faithful to listen. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's still early in the day, but I feel confident that I will follow thru with the vision I have before me, 1200 calories and a minimum of 30 minutes of cardio. I'll check back in later to verify that I did what I set out to do! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks for reading, thanks for praying, thanks for loving and not tiring of my journey! </span></div>
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<br />Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-27216759627806750002013-07-18T10:06:00.000-05:002013-07-18T10:06:08.644-05:00Does this even need a title...or can you guess about the content?<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I just read my last post from January of this year, and it made me cry because I've failed miserably at getting where I wanted to be by now. This journey towards loving me always circles back to the same thing....FOOD. I've been crying out to God for answers, for strength, for supernatural will power and yet I keep failing and ignoring and going in circles. What is the definition of insanity again....oh wait I know its doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I keep searching for an underlying factor that causes me to keep turning back and maybe the reality is there isn't one, maybe I just love food and can't seem to keep hold of the fact that it will control me for my whole life if I don't make permanent changes, not just temporary ones. The pattern of my life has been to do great, feel great, lose a ton of weight and then get complacent. It's like I forget that if I slide back into the bad habits even slowly I will regain the weight. Then it seems it takes years to pull myself together and crawl out of the pit I feel I am in now, disgusted and sad about where I've allowed myself to get. I say the right things, I act like I have it together, I know God has set me free yet, here I am, again. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I read a devotion that a sweet friend posted on facebook this morning. I'll share it with you so you can understand the impact that it had on me without me trying to remember of paraphrase it:</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>"</i></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}">KEY IDEA. Just because change is hard doesn’t mean it is unnecessary.<br /> <br /> Ringo Starr probably isn’t among your list of notable thinkers. His song It Don’t Come Easy is, however, a profound st<span class="text_exposed_show">atement
about change—change isn’t easy. Because change isn’t easy, you might
think it’s unnecessary. After all, we live in a culture where we want
everything to be easy, right?<br /> <br /> Anything worth having is worth
working for. Change is worth the effort. When you begin to change,
you’ll discover a world of opportunity you never dreamed possible. If
you resist change, you’ll find yourself living far below your potential.<br /> <br />
The Israelites were resistant to change. In spite of God’s continual
mercy and grace, they stuck with their old ways of thinking. A
generation of them missed out on the opportunity to experience the
Promised Land because change was too hard(Numbers 14:11-23). Refusing to
change always has consequences."</span></span></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">Knocked my eyes wide open. I do not want to be like the Israelites and spend the entirety of my life wandering aimlessly because I refused to change. I do not want to live my life living below my potential. I'm tired of missing out on things because I'm not comfortable or don't feel like I'd be able to do or enjoy them. I want to go on water slides and ride a bike. I want to go canoeing, white water rafting and kayaking. These are all things on my bucket list that I am not confident enough in myself because of my weight to even try. I am missing out on a world of opportunities because I am stubborn and hard headed. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">As I drove into work this morning I was asking God to help, to guide me and remind me what worked in the past, what didn't, how to change and it be real and life altering and a way of life that I can adapt to and enjoy from now on. He reminded me of 2 scriptures and both of them hit home.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show">"<i>Where there is no vision, the people perish" Proverbs 29:18</i></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><i>"Write the vision (revelation, plan), make it plain on tablets, so that it may be read on the run" Habakkuk 2:2</i></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">I've been winging it too long, trying different things, considering every thing, even pondering surgery, which if you know me is a drastic thought. I've always been of the mind that if I have to alter my habits and lifestyle before and after the surgery then why have the surgery. With God's love, guidance, strength and my will being submitted to His I can do this without surgery or supplements or powders or mixes or pills. I can do all things thru Christ who strengthens me. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"><i> </i></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">His word clearly tells me (scriptures above) that I must have a vision/plan. I must also write it down. So here we go, as I said I've asked God to remind me what has worked and what I can do to get where I need to be and stay there, this is my Vision.....</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">Goal:</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">1. Complete the ropes course on the Carnival Sunshine in March 2014.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">2. Wear clothes that are cute and comfortable, that I am not constantly pulling on.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">3. Look in the mirror without feeling disgust and despair.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">4. Love myself and trust that I am who God says I am!! </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">Plan:</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">Nutrition </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">1. Calorie Rotation:</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"> Week 1: 1200 calories per day</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"> Week 2: 1500 calories per day</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"> Week 3: 1500 calories per day</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"> Week 4: 2000 calories per day</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"><br />Rotate back to week 1 and start over. As the weight comes off, extend the 2000 calorie week for 2 weeks and then 3 weeks. The goal is to teach body to maintain weight at 2000 calories per day. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span>
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">2. Drink a minimum of 8 glasses of water per day.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">3. No more than 3 carbonated drinks per week.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">4. Allow myself something sweet once per day if I desire, but keep within the calories.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">5. Splurge day 2 times a month (within reason).</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">6. JOURNAL JOURNAL JOURNAL (myfitness pal) </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">Fitness</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">1. Cardio minimum of 3 times a week, minimum of 30 minutes.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">2. Weight machines, minimum of 2 times per week. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">3. Incidental exercise as often as possible (park farther in parking lot, walk upstairs instead of elevators)</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">Accountability</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;">I need people like you who love me and care about me to be willing to step up and keep your eyes open. Ask me how many times I went to the gym. Remind me that I didn't get where I am overnight. Most of all PRAY for me. I'm tired of falling down and having to start over. I know that we all fall and that we all have set backs, but I am tired of allowing them to be long lasting. With God all things are possible and I plan to show the whole world how true that is!!</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span></span><i><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"> </span></span></i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i><span class="userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}"><span class="text_exposed_show"> </span></span></i> </span>Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-31988994970089149592013-01-30T12:54:00.002-06:002013-01-30T12:54:23.701-06:00Guess what this is about?<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">WEIGHT! Of course it is, what else would it be about? Well, on some level its about weight, but really its about an overall change in my thinking, my eating, my life in general. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">God is really showing me that He loves me exactly how I am and that I have to choose to love myself. What gives me the right to be so hard on myself, to beat myself up, to berate me, to talk down about me, to make jokes and most of all to be content hiding in the shadows because I'm ashamed of myself and how I look. God created me in His image, granted my lousy choices have skewed the image, but not in His eyes, He still sees me thru the blood of my Lord and Savior Jesus! His blood has washed me clean and removed all of those things that I hold against myself. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My goal for 2013 is to love me and in doing so I believe loving me will faciltate me wanting to take care of the me that I love. I am not gonna talk about the actual process or what I plan to work on or towards, weight loss is not necessarily the goal, loving Robin is the goal and weigh loss will be a product of reaching the goal I feel has been set before me. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I'll check in soon to record how its going and where my head and heart is regarding me, myself and I! </span>Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-62816265069569473542012-06-05T14:35:00.002-05:002012-06-05T14:37:16.533-05:00Here I go again....but not on my own....If I had a dollar for every time I have started over on my weight loss journey I would have been rich a long time ago. I'm actually reminding myself that to start over means that I had to have quit and I will never quit. I have taken quite a few wrong paths but am thankful to have always found my way back to THE RIGHT PATH. So, yes, I took a bunny trail for a short time and thankfully that only netted 1 pound gained and not 20. In my opinion there is always a silver lining inside of every cloud and that is my silver lining for this short hiatus.<br />
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Ever had one of those horrible dreams where you woke up thankful that you were in your bed in your house and not actually living that bad dream? Well, I unfortunately lived one of my worst dreams ever this past weekend. Let me back up many years ago and start there. I was at the Mississippi State Fair and decided I was going to ride one of the fair rides and honestly I do not even remember which ride that was because the embarrassment and humiliation that came from that decision blocked out everything else. I was too BIG to ride the rides at the state fair. I hung my head in shame and walked away destroyed and defeated by my own bad decisions and lifestyle. I made the decision on that day to never put myself in a place to feel that way again. Fast forward to the present. I have lost 100 +/- pounds in the past 12 years or so, that has gone up and down more times than I care to admit, but at present I am still almost exactly 100 pounds down from my highest weight. I admittedly still have a long way to go. Now, back to the story, we took our youth group to Baton Rouge to a Water/Amusement Park this weekend. I wanted so badly to fit in and feel like part of the group that I made the decision with great hesitation to ride one of the rides with several of our girls. My heart was racing, my face was smiling, I was going to do it. I got on the ride, and I fit in the seat! This was a joyous 90 seconds and then the attendant came around to check to see that all was well. I did not realize there was a strap that had to be buckled and low and behold I was told that I could not ride the ride, the safety strap had to buckle and it would not fit around me. In all honesty I wanted to dig a hole in the concrete below me, sink into it and disappear. I got off that ride and began what felt like the worst walk of shame I had ever endured. As I made that walk, I had a choice to make and that small still voice of the Holy Spirit spoke on the inside of me and simply said...the choice before you is life or death. Choose LIFE! Choose to be motivated and inspired and not defeated and destroyed. I choose LIFE! I will return to that water/amusement park next year and I will ride every water slide and amusement ride that I so badly wanted to ride this year! I choose LIFE! I will not stand on the sidelines of my life and watch everybody else enjoy all the things that I want to enjoy alongside them! I choose LIFE! Long LIFE! Healthy LIFE! Fun LIFE! <br />
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So when that moment knocks on your door and you know that you are facing one of your greatest fears, remind yourself that God did not give you a spirit of fear, but power, love and a sound mind! I am more than a conqueror and God says that I always triumph in Christ Jesus! <br />
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Thanks for loving me, lifting me up and not tiring of my having to get back on track way to often.Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-9458158837122099352012-05-16T11:05:00.001-05:002012-05-16T11:05:23.822-05:00So far, so good...Though, I have chosen not to get on the scale until Friday morning I feel really good about my first two days back on the wagon. It's amazing what a serious attitude adjustment will do for a really bad frame of mind. I have walked for 2 days in a row. I'm taking today off but will go to the gym tomorrow and Friday after work. My goal is to make myself go out onto the gym floor and do some strength training even if there are people there (these are the moments that I miss Curves). The women's locker room has cardio equipment inside, so I don't have to venture out for cardio unless I want to. I've decided I am going to look at the situation differently. I am not going to focus on what people are thinking about me weight, I'm going to focus on the inspiration I will become to them when they see me reaching my goals and becoming, healthier, stronger and more physically fit. Pray that I don't chicken out, the first steps are hard, but usually after the first step the next ones are a bit easier. <br />
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It was good therapy for me to write out a list of my skinny girl dreams. One of them actually helped remind me this morning while I was driving and fighting the craving for a sausage cheese biscuit....my seat belt was driving me crazy at just the right moment and it was a great "light bulb" moment. That sausage cheese biscuit is only good for 10 bites and then its gone and the guilt sets in and the seat belt gets tighter! That is not the future I see for the skinny girl inside! That is what I call an NSV (non scale victory).<br />
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Robin - 1 Food - 0Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-68542625669433604792012-05-14T11:19:00.000-05:002012-05-14T11:19:15.321-05:00DREAMS of the Skinny Girl Hiding inside of me!I read a quote last week by a former Biggest Loser contestant and it really hit a nerve and stuck with me. It literally has rolled around on the inside all weekend long. <br />
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"Giving up on your dreams is a commitment to failure." Team this up with one of my other favorite quotes by Jillian Michael's herself which is "Why choose failure when success is an option?" and you have a lot of deep thinking and soul searching going on. <br />
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As I pondered on these thoughts I found myself sitting back and thinking of all the things that could be different if the skinny girl inside of me finally escapes the seemingly never ending cycle of up and down weight loss and gain. I woke up with a new determination and new focus to help the skinny girl find her way to freedom. I realize only I can make the changes to make my dreams come true, but thankfully God will walk with me and beside me thru this life change and He promised to never leave or forsake me.<br />
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Please know that these thoughts are not a pity party, these are legitimate things that go on inside my head on a daily basis, part of who I am and don't want to be anymore and I am not looking for anybody to feel sorry for me, truly I am just looking for accountability and encouragement to fight the good fight and never give up trying to reach my dreams. I am shooting for the moon and don't care to land amongst the stars...I am choosing to choose SUCCESS! Stand with me, pray for me and love me as I take some time to work thru the kinks and change my life in a very positive way! The bible tells us that we can choose life or death, but we should choose LIFE!<br />
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Dreams of the Skinny Girl hiding inside of me...<br />
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<ul>
<li>buying clothes off the rack of any store</li>
<li>seat belts that fit correctly without being manipulated</li>
<li>ability to wear a seat belt in all cars, not just some makes and models</li>
<li>enjoying a day at the water park without shame and embarrassment</li>
<li>being comfortable in movie theater seats</li>
<li>para sailing</li>
<li>canoeing</li>
<li>white water rafting</li>
<li>playing softball again</li>
<li>underclothes that fit like they are supposed to</li>
<li>taking pictures without trying to hide behind everybody else </li>
<li>picture taking without having to find the best angle for my face not to look fat</li>
<li>5 mile hike at Cade's Cove in Gatlinburg</li>
<li>bike riding</li>
<li>running a 5k (not walking)</li>
<li>not choosing the handicap bathroom stall because the others feel to small</li>
<li>feeling beautiful even if nobody tells me I am</li>
<li>speaking in front of people without wanting to crawl under the podium because I feel like a cow</li>
<li>not dreading going to the doctor because I know what they are thinking even if they don't say it.</li>
<li>wearing a pretty dress and semi high heels for elegant night on a cruise and being comfortable and confident doing so.</li>
<li>not needing a seat belt extender on an airplane</li>
<li>not wanting to hide in the locker room at the gym</li>
<li>changing clothes in the gym and not doing it in the bathroom stall (not that i would necessarily but i'd like to be comfortable doing so if i did)</li>
</ul>
That's all for now, but I'm certain over time more things will surface and will be added to this list of DREAMS that I have for myself. Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-24137310038893110942011-03-31T11:01:00.000-05:002011-03-31T11:01:31.625-05:00Proverbs 31:26"When she speaks she has something worthwhile to say, and she always says it kindly."<br />
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This morning has been eye opening and a bit hard to handle. I am not accustomed to having my feelings hurt or hearing somebody say something about me that isn't positive. In fact I couldn't tell you the last time it happened. I actually heard it said and wow, I'm much more comfortable with God's gentle reminders of areas that need some attention than I am with people pointing them out so blatantly. <br />
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Wake up call? Yes, indeed it was. In truth what was said was clearly true and God has dealt with me in this area on more than one occasion and maybe hearing it come from somebody else was what it took for me to see that this particular issue was being seen by somebody besides God. This was all the more real to me because of the message that Pastor Les presented to our students last night. It was all about not having compartmentalized lives. We should be the same person in every aspect of our lives. I needed to see that the way I'm seen in this persons eyes are not the person I want to be. I have repented, I will choose not to be offended especially since I can see how my actions and words could definitely be interpreted to be exactly what I was accused of being...yup, I know you want to know so here I go will confess that " I am a Complainer". <br />
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Lord, help me I don't want to be, I want to be a woman who speaks things that are worthwhile and spoken in kindness. I want to be a vessel of encouraging words that lift people up and make a difference in God's kingdom. Father, I choose to make an adjustment to be more aware and to guard my tongue. Help me to catch myself and change my way of seeing and thinking before I spout of words that are not good and pure and holy. Thank you Father for sending Jesus so taht I can be forgiven and that I am capable of forgiving the one who hurt my feelings and walking in love instead of offense. In Jesus name I pray, AMEN!Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-50734054576704555822011-02-09T11:09:00.000-06:002011-02-09T11:09:34.211-06:00Let it Snow, Let it Snow, Let it NOT...What happened to the days where I complained because we never really had a cold winter? I want those days back. I never used to be cold and now it seems like the only time I'm not cold is in this hot office (that has not had a/c since last April and is a dreary musty smelling basement) and when I'm in my bed with the heated mattress pad turned on. Anyways, apparently after the small bout with an ice storm last week looks like we are in for about 2 to 3 inches of snow this evening. I know that many people are very happy about this and in all reality I don't mind it as long as I don't have to work late and miss Match 38 tonight. <br />
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DNOW was a week and a half ago and it was an awesome experience. I saw God moving in the hearts and lives of teenagers in a way I had never experienced. It was life changing for me and I truly believe for many of them also. I see a twinkle in some of their eyes that I hadn't seen before. God is faithful and I am very excited about seeing where things go from here. God's plans will be walked out in their lives and I love being part of it. I was very blessed to have been ministered to along side our students by Kari Jobe & Ben Pirtle. They are both amazing and gifted ministers that ushered in the presence of God in a way that was tangible. It was truly amazing and Kari pointed out something that made me look at their generation differently, they are a very "real" in your face, honest group of students, and when that is harnessed and used for God's purposes its going to be a danger zone to the enemy! How exciting to realize that the way they are and the things that are different from our generation are meant for such a time as this! They will change their world for the kingdom one reality at a time! <br />
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This experience has also convinced me that it is also time to jump on the summer camp bandwagon and just go for it. It is totally out of my comfort zone but I think its important if I'm encouraging them to go that I go with them. Rocky loves it, the kids love it and they are convinced that I will love it too. I'll let you know about the 2nd week of July. <br />
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That's all for this entry, I may be back later if more random things pop into my head to share.Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-58870332091427565132011-01-27T14:49:00.000-06:002011-01-27T14:49:37.712-06:00What an adventure....Goodness it has been a super busy week. For one I'm working a full 5 day work week, been a while since that happened with holidays and furlough days. My schedule just seems like it keeps going and going and going....I'm beginning to feel like the energizer bunny. I have been on "go" since I got out of the bed on Sunday. It's all been fun stuff and definitely worth my time. <br />
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Now I'm gearing up physically, mentally & spiritually for my first DNOW experience. A whole weekend with the Match 38 High School Girls. I am believing God for changed hearts and therefore lives. I'm asking God to use me, to keep me settled and sure of all that I say and do during this time of fun, fellowship and ministry. I want to be a vessel used by Him and desire to make a difference in my world. Lord, help me to know when to speak and when to be still and quiet. I choose to be led by You and for my eyes to be on Your purposes and plans for the lives of these students. I hope to see bonds formed amongst the girls and friendships strengthened that will last a lifetime. Most of all I want to see them giving of themselves completely to their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. <br />
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If you are reading my blog I ask that you pray with me as we venture into this weekend and hopefully an amazing time of fellowship with God our creator!Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-25810640332869581152011-01-20T15:11:00.000-06:002011-01-20T15:11:00.277-06:00Look it's me again...I'm here and well don't really even have anything imparticular to talk about. I could complain because I had to go to lunch at 11 today and that makes for a very long evening, but since I'm excited about going to Curves/Zumba tonight I won't complain, what is the point anyways. Every couple months God deals with my complaining and so I'm working on it...again. I'd love to be able to stop and just not slide back into that bad habit, alas I seerm to realize to late that I've allowed that critical spirit to have control of my mouth and well I don't really like that "me". I like the "me" that is positive, encouraging and uplifting and I notice when I'm in the word and praying like I should be that is the "me" that is seen. I've done well and read every chapter of the day this year! Yes, I know that's only 2.5 weeks worth but its progress nonetheless! God always gives me the victory in Christ and that therefore is a victory. <br />
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Read a chapter a day with our church family. It will help you create a habit that is life changing. <a href="http://www.relateone.com/">http://www.relateone.com/</a> Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-11883289556417473382011-01-19T11:49:00.002-06:002011-01-19T11:59:26.627-06:00Updating again....Well it's been a long time since I posted here....again. My last post was about a life decision that has also been life changing. I stepped out into a world I never knew I could be a part of and LOVE it. I enjoy everything (except the tracking stuff for tax purposes) about selling Scentsy. I love that it has opened up a side of myself I didn't know existed. I actually enjoy talking to strangers about this product and it has opened more than one door to minister to people I don't really know about what God has done in my life and would also like to do in their lives. <br /><br />I've learned a lot about myself in this past year, some good, some bad, some worth looking into and changing and accepting other things that I've viewed as character flaws as just part of who I am and not fretting over them any longer. <br /><br />If you are wondering about my weight loss journey, it took a passenger seat to the Scentsy business in 2010. One of those things I learned but really do want to figure out how to change is having the ability to focus and accomplish more than one thing at the same time. In 2009 my whole focus was on getting healthy, getting in better shape and losing weight. I did all of those things, it was a fabulous year. In 2010, the beginning of my life as a Scentsy consultant took over everything else in my life. It was a year of new and exciting things, but along that path my weight loss hit a stand still and I managed to maintain for the majority of the year. There were a few snags along the way in our finances and I ended up having to cancel my Curves membership and did okay for about 3 months exercising on my own, then it started getting cold outside, I got really really really busy with Scentsy (which was great at commission time) and it became easier to not exercise. Over the holidays not only did I not exercise but I also ate what I wanted, when I wanted and as much as I wanted. In doing so, I gained 7 pounds!! Now here I am 34 days away from my cruise and determined to lose that 7 pounds and hopefully a few more before I get on that boat! I know that nothing is impossible with God so I'm going for it.<br /><br />There is so much more I could write about but then I wouldn't have anything to say and some of the things in my head aren't quite ready to be written yet....so for now....this is it and I'll be back, I've been inspired to start writing again.Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-74914416879081051922010-04-20T13:43:00.003-05:002010-04-20T14:53:01.339-05:00My New Business VentureI am venturing out into a new and exciting business. I am an Independent Consultant for Scentsy. If you haven't heard of them, then check out my website. If you'd like to receive a newsletter please sign up at the site. You can email me from the site or ask questions here. If you order now you have to time to get one of these beautiful warmers and a lovely spring/summer scent to arrive for Mother's Day. You can order online or contact me and I can take your order and information if you aren't comfortable using the internet.<br /><br />Site address is: <a href="http://www.rgarrard.scentsy.com/">www.rgarrard.scentsy.com</a> <br /><br />My email is <a href="mailto:rocknrobn92@yahoo.com">rocknrobn92@yahoo.com</a><br /><br />Hope to hear from some of you soon....Mother's Day is just around the corner and what mom doesn't love beautiful things that smell good!<br /><br />FYI - They have great deals on "multi packs" where you basically get one Scentsy bar free if you buy the pack.Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-1544660190954164062010-02-24T08:10:00.000-06:002010-02-24T08:11:43.668-06:00I'm back....Sort of, apparently it's been so long since I updated that blogger thought I needed to log in, maybe I'll take time soon to actually update on my life....Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-88619219838330400192009-08-27T11:41:00.002-05:002009-08-27T11:48:47.478-05:00Signs.......of real change are becoming clear. With the program I am on my daily calorie amount changes weekly. It's a 6 week cycle and the last 2 weeks are 2000/2500 calories per day so every time I get to the end of the cycle I plan 1 night out that I can eat whatever I want and as much of it as I want. No guilt allowed. This is the last week of the cycle so I chose to go to Olive Garden and indulge in the "Never Ending Pasta Bowl". This is a tradition for us, we wait every year for them to have it and as is our habit we usually go 2 times while they have this promotion (only 1 time this year). We love it. Anyways, in the past I've always been easily able to enjoy at least 2.5 servings of pasta, plus ample breadsticks and salad. Not this time....I ate all of the original serving, ordered the 2nd serving basically on principle (just had to cause I could) and I was unable to even eat 1/2 of that serving. I could have forced the issue but I was so tickled by the reality that I was aware of being full and chose to stop before I made myself miserable for the next 4 hours that I chose not to. I'm amazed daily at how right choices are becoming second nature and so thankful that when temptation comes that I have a God whose small still voice reminds me of how far I've come. So glad to be a daughter of the Most High God!Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-55296474713230873882009-08-19T15:40:00.002-05:002009-08-19T15:58:15.560-05:00Robin...are you really hungry?I have a small dry erase board on my refrigerator with this question written on it? <br /><br />After reading my chapter today (Mark 8) and then reading the devotional that our pastor's wife writes every day, my mind and heart have been stirred about hunger all day long.<br /><br />My first thought is that my body was created to tell me when its hungry, God made it that way and yet over the years I was able to destroy that mechanism by overloading the system on a continual basis. Gradually over the past 6 months I have seen that hunger mechanism being restored in me. It has taken determination, dedication and sheer perseverance at times, but my body is again letting me know when it's hungry. <br /><br />My next thought is that I believe that when God made me into a new creation a hunger for Him was part of that process. I can see that like the natural hunger mechanism for food that it is possible to ignore the hunger for Him and feed the longings and desires within you with so many other things that you no longer recognize the gnawing feeling as a hunger for God but simply a need from within to fill a void. As with natural hunger I am thankful that He never leaves or forsakes me, I am determined to see that mechanism to be completely restored in me!<br /><br />Father, I ask right now for restoration of an overwhelming hunger for time with You and time in Your word. Forgive me for feeding my spirit more often than not with things that are not from you. I ask Lord that anybody reading this would also see a need and desire to be truly HUNGRY for YOU! In Jesus name, AMEN!Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-30091842965100391842009-08-18T11:00:00.003-05:002009-08-18T11:36:39.047-05:00Revelation 12:11"I am an overcomer by the blood of the Lamb and the word of my testimony." Revelation 12:11<br /><br />This scripture has been one that I have repeated to myself many times over the past few weeks, it has helped me to walk thru something that in the past would have been a reason to thow up the white flag and surrender to the scale. Instead, I find myself being thankful for the Word of God that speaks life and gives me strength to stand and continue even when at times like this it seems as though I hit a wall. <br /> <br />My understanding of the weight management program that I've been doing was designed so that you wouldn't hit a PLATEAU. I've not lost any weight in 3 weeks and though it has been frustrating and caused me to do some serious looking at what areas I need to be more diligent about, it has not brought self sabotage, instead there is victory! In the past this would have given me every excuse and reason I could possibly have needed or wanted to BINGE and guess what....I DIDN'T!! God is so faithful to send people who encourage, lift me up and are even willing to point out areas that maybe needed some tweaking. I love His people and how He loves me thru them. <br /><br />I am truly in awe of all that God has done on this journey towards health and an increase in self confidence. There is such a peace about this new way of life and therefore, even though I have been frustrated I have not been deterred, I have truly felt an annointing on this path. I love how I feel, I love that I don't cringe at who I see in the mirror, and mostly I love that I have no thoughts in the back of my head saying "give up" or "just quit", I love that I can see myself healthy and much thinner.<br /><br />My God is an awesome God and He always cause me to triumph!!Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7768954396690762680.post-74918579435937103302009-08-05T15:32:00.002-05:002009-08-05T15:46:33.567-05:00Opportunity....When opportunity knocks on your door it is your choice to decide what your attitude will be. Yesterday, I had the opportunity to choose between being disappointed or seeing progress even if the progress wasn't as great as I'd have liked. I chose to see PROGRESS, disappoint is a devil word, progress is a God word, I choose GOD's words!!Robinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16311561731150814406noreply@blogger.com0