December 31st, 2016 The Epic DDWL Year In Review

December 31st, 2016 The Epic DDWL Year In Review

Two location broadcasts rounded out a busy year today. I enjoyed a nice lunch and conversation with my oldest daughter immediately after my first broadcast. I made it home for a mid-afternoon nap in order to be fresh and ready for a giant broadcast from the biggest New Years Eve party in the region.

The people were out tonight!!! My goodness, it was packed--and everyone seemed lit for a great night. I did my job--hyped it up on air, enjoyed a complimentary dinner afterward from the NYE buffet (chicken breast, shrimp, red grapes and a fresh piece of blue cheese)--speaking of buffets, my perspective is very different now opposed to years ago.  My perspective was once, how much can I eat? Now it's, what can I eat? I was able to navigate the choices and assemble what was perhaps an awkward combination of foods--but it worked well. Several people asked if I was staying to watch the band and ring in the New Year. I wasn't. My plan was to leave early enough to ring in the new year with mom in her room at the nursing center. And that's exactly what we did!

Mom looks like a Queen in her tiara, plush nightgown, and purple blanket! Right before the stroke of midnight, we talked about the year ahead and the positive possibilities. I'm so grateful she's getting the care she needs.

2016 was full of things that remain on my gratitude list. It was a big year! I spent the entire year in maintenance mode, in fact--I was looking at the numbers, and since I consider maintenance mode anything below my years-ago initial goal of 230, I've been in maintenance mode for a year and a half! It took me awhile to find the nice, tight groove I'm in today--but it's all a part of the process.

This graph tells a story.

Fourteen maintenance weigh-ins happened during 2016 with an overall weight fluctuation "window" of 8.8 pounds. The weigh-ins show an even tighter fluctuation "window" of 2.4 pounds since June 8th. First of all, I'm grateful for this in a monumental way. I do not take this for granted, ever--ever--ever. My continued maintenance and the peace and calm I feel can be gone very quickly IF I don't practice my plan on a daily basis. Each day is brand new. And I'm always learning. The learning never stops. And that's a good thing. Secondly, I'm super-proud of myself! To be where I am after where I've gone, to me, is a gift I once thought impossible.

My annual year in review always includes pictures from the past twelve months. I might be short on the descriptions--it's getting late---but I wanted to share a few before I wrap this post.
 
I did more standup comedy in 2016 with opening gigs for Smokey Robinson and Ronnie Milsap. I plan on doing more standup in 2017, on a smaller scale, perhaps--one of my goals is to start a comedy night at the restaurant a couple blocks from my apartment. I'm not ruling out bigger gigs if the opportunity presents, but seriously--all I need to nurture that part of me is a monthly or bi-monthly comedy night where I can work out new material.
 
The "standup before & after." I'll tell you this--the confidence I take to the stage now is vastly different (along with the material) than I did way back in the day.
 
One of my favorite mother-son selfies! (and we've taken a bunch!)

The Today Show was an experience I'll never forget!

Joy Bauer is amazing. I'm excited about having her as one of my upcoming guests on Transformation Planet!

I absolutely fell in love with NYC!

I spent a bunch of quality time with my little grandson, Noah. He's the best! To be able to physically keep up with him is truly one of the best gifts of my continued weight maintenance.

Launching my podcast in 2016 was my biggest personal side-project. Considering the crazy schedule of December, I've taken it super-easy of late--but trust, Transformation Planet is about to get super-active with several upcoming interviews and a very special reoccuring feature that is unlike anything you've ever heard on a weight loss related podcast. Please subscribe if you haven't already and you'll automatically receive new episodes on your device as soon as they're released! You can find Transformation Planet in iTunes, Google Play or anywhere you find your favorite podcasts.

There's plenty more I'm not covering in this year-in-review. I was in a relationship, then I wasn't--I don't think it's appropriate to share those photos here. We have a mutual respect for one another and we both wish each other well. I haven't figured out the relationship puzzle--and to be real honest, I don't think I'm ready to figure it out. I still have plenty of work to do on me. 2017 will be a year that I go deeper into this personal work, understanding and education of me. Believe me, there's so much more than just losing the weight and keeping it off. The physical transformation, like I've written many times, is really the least of it. The non-physical elements of transformation, in my experience and opinion, are the biggest ones, by far.

As far as my plan goes for 2017-- two things remain in need of better attention: My exercise commitment and my sleep schedule. Both of these elements have a dramatic effect, either good or bad--and my choices determine what I'll get along the way.

I like my food plan. Although, it is time to start tightening it up in some areas. My recent run-ins with crackers, sugar-free cool whip and stuffed mushrooms are all pointing me in the direction of even less processed foods. My abstinence from refined sugar mustn't be compromised--and when I get loose and careless, I'm playing with fire.

Okay-- I must wrap this up tonight. I know this has been a long post--and if you're still here--then I have one more thing--actually two more things.

The weight loss support groups I cofacilitate with Coach Kathleen starts another 8-week session on Monday and Tuesday. If you're ready to install solid accountability and support to your weight loss plans for 2017, this is the team you want to be on, I assure you!! Here's what some members had to say about our group:

K.L. writes: "Love the positive, nonjudgmental support."

R.S. writes: "I was stuck. The feedback, guidance, acceptance, and friendship from Sean and Kathleen's accountability and support group got me UNstuck. I am soooo thankful for all I've learned, and can sincerely recommend it to anyone who wants to progress towards their own health goals."

D.A. writes: "This group is fabulous and unlike anything else I have done in my dieting career! The support from Sean and Kathleen and the other group members has made all the difference in me reaching my initial goal weight and helping me as I reach my final goal weight, and setting me up to be able to maintain that weight going forward. This is not about a diet: we all work our own plans and help each other to be successful. I have been involved in sessions of this group for over a year and I keep joining because IT WORKS! Nothing can beat the support and accountability,you will find if you join the group."

The primary 8-week session includes a "secret" facebook group for members where we support one another along the way. As needed call and text support, daily support and accountability measures--and a weekly group conference call rounds out the primary option (Less than 10 spaces remain for our next session starting January 2nd and 3rd) Two primary group options: Monday's at 7pm Eastern or Tuesday's at 8pm Eastern. Fee for 8-week session: $120.00

The premium one-on-one group includes all of the above benefits--members are on the same secret Facebook page--but the weekly conference call is different. The first and last call of the session is with premium group members. The six weeks in-between are private one-on-one 15-minute sessions with me and Coach Kathleen rotating weeks. Fee for 8-week session: $200.00

Sign-up links:

Monday Night Primary 7pm Eastern: http://totalkathy.com/?event=monday-night-group-january-2-2017

Tuesday Night Primary 8pm Eastern: http://totalkathy.com/?event=tuesday-night-group-january-3-2017

Monday Night Premium 8:05 Eastern One-On-One Group:  http://totalkathy.com/?event=premium-group-january-2-2017-800-pm

Today: I maintained the integrity of my maintenance calorie budget. I remained abstinent from refined sugar. I met my daily water goal. I stayed well connected with great support. And I got a bunch of exercise today over the course of my five hours of location broadcasting! It's been a great day.

And it's been an amazing year.

I know I type the same thing at the close of every single blog post-- but I want you to know, I mean it with all my heart:

Thank you for reading and your continued support,
Strength,
Sean

December 30th, 2016 Half Asleep

December 30th, 2016 Half Asleep

I don't give myself enough leisure time. I thought I would watch a movie tonight. It's unusual for me, actually. I have a recliner I hardly ever use. If I'm at home, I'm at my desk, in the kitchen or in bed. So--I tried! I gave it my best. I've wanted to watch Sully since I listened to Tom Hanks talk about the film. And I just haven't. Until tonight...I got back from visiting with mom and thought, you know, I need to see that film!! I even had some popcorn ready to go--a gift from a friend who was kind enough to accurately calculate the calories of this organic popcorn prepared with coconut oil. I made it about 15 minutes in--never ate the popcorn--falling fast asleep. My recliner has certain powers, I'm convinced.

This isn't the first time. I think the key for me is to watch a movie with someone else. I should have invited my oldest daughter over! Amber and I will get together for lunch tomorrow--that'll be good!

Am I rambling yet? I'm half asleep.

Monday and Tuesday is the start of the next 8-week weight loss support group sessions I cofacilitate with Life Coach Kathleen.  Spaces are available in this small & exclusive group. We would love for you to kick off 2017 on our team!

Are you on the fence about joining? If you have any questions for me or Coach Kathleen--send them to us! Me: transformation.road@gmail.com Coach Kathleen: totalkathy@aol.com

The primary 8-week session includes a "secret" facebook group for members where we support one another along the way. As needed call and text support, daily support and accountability measures--and a weekly group conference call rounds out the primary option (Less than 10 spaces remain for our next session starting January 2nd and 3rd) Two primary group options: Monday's at 7pm Eastern or Tuesday's at 8pm Eastern. Fee for 8-week session: $120.00

The premium one-on-one group includes all of the above benefits--members are on the same secret Facebook page--but the weekly conference call is different. The first and last call of the session is with premium group members. The six weeks in-between are private one-on-one 15-minute sessions with me and Coach Kathleen rotating weeks. Fee for 8-week session: $200.00

Sign-up links:

Monday Night Primary 7pm Eastern: http://totalkathy.com/?event=monday-night-group-january-2-2017

Tuesday Night Primary 8pm Eastern: http://totalkathy.com/?event=tuesday-night-group-january-3-2017

Monday Night Premium 8:05 Eastern One-On-One Group:  http://totalkathy.com/?event=premium-group-january-2-2017-800-pm

Today: I maintained the integrity of my maintenance calorie budget. I remained abstinent from refined sugar. I met my daily water goal. And I stayed well connected with great support.

I have two location broadcasts tomorrow. One from 11am to 1pm and another from a huge NYE party from 6-9pm. I will fashion my plan according to the schedule. It'll be okay!

I'm looking forward to time off Sunday and Monday!

Thank you for reading and your continued support,
Strength,
Sean

December 29th, 2016 Practice

December 29th, 2016 Practice

I'm off tomorrow morning! Extra rest will happen. Today was one of those days where I could have planned much better. I had a one on one session tonight--then helped mom move into her new room, and before I knew it, it was 10pm.

My plan was for a late dinner anyway-- I had a late afternoon holdover to get me there-- but when I showed to the restaurant where I planned to dine and watch the rest of the Alamo bowl, their doors were locked. Oh--it's Thursday, not Friday--that's why. The plan abruptly changed.

I made a fast trip to the grocery store, picked up a few things and headed home to prepare a fantastic meal. It was way too late for dinner-- but it happened, and I'm okay with it. Although, the schedule of late coupled with less than the best planning, has resulted in a few late dinners recently. Clearly, some extra consideration must be devoted to this issue. I'm not calling it a trend just yet--but I'm watching myself closely--and I'm staying accountable with solid support contacts. The question is, how can I plan better in order to avoid a tilted food schedule?

Aside from the schedule not being its best--it was a solid day.

I maintained the integrity of my maintenance calorie budget. I remained abstinent from refined sugar. I exceeded my daily water goal and I stayed well connected with great support.

Mom's liking her new room tonight. It's bigger, more private, and the TV gets a few more channels. She had her hair cut and styled today--and that always lifts her spirits.

I ran into someone at the grocery store whom I hadn't seen in several years. The first thing they said: "You've kept it off all these years!" I don't think they knew about the giant relapse/regain period of this trek--and I didn't feel like going into detail. Wasn't necessary. I thanked them and added, "it's a daily practice." 

And it is a practice. It's never perfect and perfection is never the goal. It's simply a practice each and every day.

When we practice, we do what we do well, fairly easily--and that frees us to focus on things that need improvement--and I have a few areas in need of this focus, believe me.

Thank you for reading and your continued support,
Strength,
Sean

December 28th, 2016 Ingredients

December 28th, 2016 Ingredients


The New Year is fast approaching! Do you have the right ingredients for the success of your plan in the new year? Strong support and accountability will add strength!! I hope you'll join us! Space is limited because we keep the group small!

Registration links:
Monday Night Primary 7pm Eastern: http://totalkathy.com/?event=monday-night-group-january-2-2017

Tuesday Night Primary 8pm Eastern: http://totalkathy.com/?event=tuesday-night-group-january-3-2017

Monday Night Premium 8:05 Eastern One-On-One Group:  http://totalkathy.com/?event=premium-group-january-2-2017-800-pm

Fell asleep before posting! A quick one tonight--and back to sleep!

Today: I maintained the integrity of of my maintenance calorie budget, I feel like I maintained my abstinence from refined sugar--although I received a message tonight about the Giorgio stuffed mushrooms and the flavor I most commonly pick contains contains corn syrup solids as the 7th ingredient. The person letting me know is also refined sugar-free--and this is a food they've also looked into--and they shared that other flavors are in fact, sugar-free. I appreciate the feed back and heads up!! Thank you! 

As I look at this ingredients list, I'm thinking it might be time to simply make my own. These are heavily processed mushrooms! These are so dang convenient! But I certainly don't mind a little extra effort to protect my abstinence! Although, I will say--many people with long term abstinent food plans will allow a 5th ingredient or less without any negative bio-chemical reactions.

A similar question arose from the sugar-free cool whip I used on my baked cinnamon apple on Christmas Day. I've had this particular product about three times in the last three years--it's not something I'm adding to my food plan by any stretch. I simply took the "sugar-free" on the label and ran with it--and that's not smart. My mistake! Turns out, corn syrup is the 2nd ingredient. I didn't do my homework on that one!

The lesson here for me--is the more processed, the more likely it contains sugar or a synonym of sugar. And it takes looking very closely at that ingredients list!! My best choice is always something whole--single ingredient foods without the need for an ingredients list! 

I also exceeded my daily water goal and I stayed connected with great support.

Thank you for reading and your continued support,

Strength,

Sean

December 27th, 2016 The Same Lifeboat

December 27th, 2016 The Same Lifeboat

I've shared with you many times about the weight loss support groups I started with Life Coach Gerri and currently cofacilitate with Life Coach Kathleen. There's something special about this group. How can a group with a coach and a mentor--and a team of members, help your weight loss efforts in 2017? 

It's the power of accountability and support. It's not going alone. It's sharing this commitment with fellow team members who are "in the same lifeboat," as Dr. Marty Lerner puts it. Our individual plans are unique, our goals are unique, our current status (weight loss/maintenance) can be different--my goodness, we have members just getting started and some who are in maintenance mode or real close! 

We have members who have lost in excess of 100 pounds--and some who's goal was 20 or 30...it's all relative. 

This is a diverse group-- but one thing is remarkably similar. Each member who makes an effort to engage, commit to and embrace the accountability and support offered, typically experiences success.

One member, on our conference call--just tonight, is approaching maintenance mode for the first time. She's seven pounds away from her healthiest weight. Tonight she said, "I've never been here before." We discussed elements of her plan as she moves into and through maintenance mode--and let me tell you, she's overjoyed.

Are you on the fence about joining our small and exclusive private group? If you have any questions for me or Coach Kathleen--send them to us! Me: transformation.road@gmail.com Coach Kathleen: totalkathy@aol.com

The primary 8-week session includes a "secret" facebook group for members where we support one another along the way. As needed call and text support, daily support and accountability measures--and a weekly group conference call rounds out the primary option (Less than 10 spaces remain for our next session starting January 2nd and 3rd) Two options: Monday's at 7pm Eastern or Tuesday's at 8pm Eastern. Fee for 8-week session: $120.00

The premium one-on-one group includes all of the above benefits--members are on the same secret Facebook page--but the weekly conference call is different. The first and last call of the session is with premium group members. The six weeks in-between are private one-on-one 15-minute sessions with me and Coach Kathleen rotating weeks. Fee for 8-week session: $200.00

Sign-up links:

Monday Night Primary 7pm Eastern: http://totalkathy.com/?event=monday-night-group-january-2-2017

Tuesday Night Primary 8pm Eastern: http://totalkathy.com/?event=tuesday-night-group-january-3-2017

Monday Night Premium 8:05 Eastern One-On-One Group:  http://totalkathy.com/?event=premium-group-january-2-2017-800-pm

And here's the poster. Click to enlarge:

I've allowed my schedule to get a little crazy again. Okay--who am I fooling? It's always been a little nuts. 

I'm looking forward to additional time off coming this weekend!

Mom seems to be doing better today. I stopped by a couple of times for visiting. This is a difficult transition for her. I'm grateful she's close to me. It's much easier to drive a couple miles instead of 43 miles!

Today: I maintained the integrity of my maintenance calorie budget. I remained abstinent from refined sugar. I met my daily water goal. And I stayed well connected with great support.

Remember--I'm an email away if you have any questions about the new 8-week support group session starting January 2nd and January 3rd. You can ask via whatever media is easier for you--Facebook message me--or simply ask your questions in the comments section below.

Thank you for reading and your continued support,

Strength,

Sean

December 26th, 2016 Plenty For Me

December 26th, 2016 Plenty For Me

Today was the day we gathered as one big family to celebrate Christmas. It was enjoyable in so many ways. Witnessing my grandson Noah's excitement was a constant source of joy.

I helped him get acquainted with his new tablet. He took it and immediately, intuitively, knew what to do. I suppose he helped me get acquainted with his new tablet.

Fast and Furious! He wasn't wasting a second. Clothes in one pile, toys lined up together. He's a very organized young man.

We received a special pass for mom to leave the nursing center today. It was a seven-hour window, originally-until mom's nurse called about 3:15 to inform us she needed to be back two hours early for her physical therapy session. Mom was none too thrilled. But since Medicare has very explicit rules, it was necessary to do exactly what the nurse said. Just as we were about to leave, Amber showed up unexpectedly. Amber and KL spent Christmas weekend with KL's parents--they switch back and forth every year. We didn't expect to see them today!

Irene and Allen made me a very special gift. It has my starting weight from over eight years ago and says, "Change Chosen." Yes, indeed! It was wonderful. Those two are pretty amazing to me.

Christmas dinner was fairly simple. My strategy: One plate--no rolls, no refined sugar. Everything I chose for my plate met the boundaries of my plan. Turkey breast, dressing, mashed potatoes, 2 tbsp turkey gravy, green beans and a serving of potato casserole. Dessert was different. I brought an apple, cinnamon, and some sugar-free whipped topping. I sliced and baked the apple with 7g butter and cinnamon--then topped it with 4 tbsp sugar-free whipped topping. It was an amazing 218 calorie dessert!

There was a time (during weight loss mode) when I added calories twice a year-- at Thanksgiving and Christmas. This is the second year I haven't used an expanded budget--and the reason is simple--my maintenance mode calorie budget is a very generous 2300 per day. That's plenty for me.

I better wrap this up! It's been a really long day.

Today: I maintained the integrity of my maintenance calorie budget. I remained abstinent from refined sugar. I met my daily water goal. And I stayed well connected with support contacts.

Before I go--

2017 starts in less than a week. The next 8-week weight loss support group session with Coach Kathleen and me starts a week from tonight! If you're ready to be a part of a dynamic and diverse accountability and support team, we're ready for you. We have members at all stages of their transformation, from just getting started to maintenance mode! Discover the power of solid accountability and support when you try out our exclusive 8-week session! Click any of the links below to register today! We have three options:

Monday Night 7pm Eastern group: http://totalkathy.com/?event=monday-night-group-january-2-2017

Tuesday Night 8pm Eastern Group: http://totalkathy.com/?event=tuesday-night-group-january-3-2017

Monday Night 8:05PM Eastern One On One Premium Group: http://totalkathy.com/?event=premium-group-january-2-2017-800-pm

Ready to make 2017 the year of your most incredible transformation? We're ready for you to join us! If you have questions, please ask! Simply click the poster to enlarge:

Thank you for reading and your continued support,
Strength,
Sean

December 25th, 2016 The Waiting

December 25th, 2016 The Waiting

Noah stayed the night and I gotta tell you--that little man is an absolute joy to see in the morning. He's always happy!

He opened a couple things this morning, but the real big day will be tomorrow at his Nana's house. We're getting together, all of us-tomorrow at Irene and Allen's house. Mom will join us too! Christmas is delayed a day around here. It's absolutely driving Noah crazy waiting for his toy gifts! The waiting is the hardest part! Today he opened clothing and shoes. He immediately said, "another!" He was shooting for the toys, not clothing and shoes!!

Today's dinner with mom at the nursing center turned out to be very easy. I asked a couple of sugar questions-- and basically, kept it super simple. I was impressed with their food quality. The turkey was fresh roasted turkey--and I didn't expect it. No roll and no pie, of course--and I was refined sugar free.

Tomorrow is the big family gathering day. And going into it, I'll revisit my plan from Christmas's past.

I found an excerpt from December 25th, 2014--and it fits:

Once you know the truth, you can't un-know it. It's from where the expression "recovery is a buzz kill" comes. I've had many Christmas times in my past where it was a feeding frenzy from the moment I got out of bed until I dropped, stuffed and sick, and pleading "someone, please pass the Zantac." 

It is entirely possible to know the truth and choose to ignore it. I've done that before, too. 

The truth is, excessive food on Christmas or any other day, doesn't make anything better. It doesn't enhance the experience. It's an artificial alternative for the experiences and things that bring us fulfillment and joy. Maybe we don't know what the authentic things are, so in our search we find our substance instead. Then we beat our head against the wall doing it over and over again and expecting it to be the real deal, when it never will be what we're truly searching.

It's in this understanding where those of us in active recovery realize the truth and set our boundaries accordingly. I still get to eat, but with ironclad rules, specifically designed for me.

"...designed for me." That's the critically important thing.

I'm looking forward to taking plenty of pictures tomorrow, It'll be a great day, I'm sure!

Today: I maintained the integrity of my maintenance calorie budget. I remained abstinent from refined sugar, I met my daily water goal. And I enjoyed several excellent support conversations!

Thank you for reading and your continued support,
Strength,
Sean

December 24th, 2016 You Cookie, Po Po

December 24th, 2016 You Cookie, Po Po

"You cookie, Po Po." You did a great job on your cookies, Po Po is fine, thank you--I don't want a cookie. Noah came over today. He's spending the night! A friend of mine and Noah teamed up to make homemade Christmas cookies. Noah made them! So naturally he wanted Po Po to have one. Po Po, as you know, is refined sugar-free--so it was an easy no, but still, something I didn't even think of before I agreed to the cookie-making project. Of course he would want me to try one! I only said no once--and he didn't offer again. Perfect.

Baking Christmas cookies was something I remember doing around his age. It was so sweet seeing him have so much fun. He recognized all the shapes, too!

It feels amazing to be this far into my abstinence from refined sugar. I'm never beyond relapse--but I'll say this, not once did my head even remotely suggest a cookie as an option. Not once. And that's a wonderful thing to me.

Today: I maintained the integrity of my maintenance calorie budget. I remained abstinent from refined sugar. I exceeded my water goal. And I stayed well connected with great support.

I enjoyed a good visit with mom tonight. A bunch of us are meeting tomorrow at the nursing facility for Christmas dinner. I'm going in blind on this one. I asked the nurse about the menu and she told me "it's traditional, but I'm not sure of specifics." Okay--so, I'll go in blind on this one--make the best choices possible and I'll be prepared regardless.

Thank you for reading and your continued support,
Strength,
Sean
 

December 23rd, 2016 Gratitude

December 23rd, 2016 Gratitude

Expectations are premeditated resentments. I've had a chance to reflect on my gratitude list over the last 24 hours and I've concluded, I have so much to be grateful for in my life. I have a great job, I'm compensated well, I'm living life at a healthy body weight, I have a stable plan--a blog and podcast I love to do--I have enormous love from family and friends. I have many more blessings, too. So, I guess what I'm saying is...perhaps my negative feelings yesterday was just a gut reaction without consideration of all factors in play.  I have it really good in so many ways. I dare not complain! And if improvement in any area is what I want--it's got to start with me. I've learned that powerful truth in different ways over the last eight years.

I'm better now.

I slept in today like a champion. It felt amazing!! Almost eleven hours! I can't remember the last time I slept that long and deep. It tilted my schedule dramatically, but I didn't care. I was proud of myself! I'm thankful for the extra time off during the holidays. There's extra time off coming up next weekend, too.

Once my day started, it got busy quickly--with several errands and Christmas shopping. I'm a last minute shopper--have been for years. And this year is a little better than most--because I didn't stop until I was finished, today--the 23rd, not Christmas Eve, like every other year in the past decade. I feel completely justified in counting my shopping activity as a workout.

Today: I maintained the integrity of my maintenance calorie budget. I remained abstinent from refined sugar. I met my daily water goal. And I stayed well connected with great support. I'll aim for another on-plan day, tomorrow.

Whenever I'm feeling the way I was yesterday--it's not a bad thing, I mean--feelings are feelings--but the one thing my teachers have taught me along this road: Feelings pass--they naturally subside, and then, we have a chance to reflect and reassess the circumstance triggering the feelings in the first place...and in my experience, by the time it's had a chance to marinate, my perspective can change. I'm capable of broadening my focus and seeing the bigger picture.

And the bigger picture is a beautiful thing.

Gratitude is a powerful thing. I'm blessed and very grateful.

Thank you for reading and your continued support,
Strength,
Sean

December 22nd, 2016 Right About Now

December 22nd, 2016 Right About Now

Occasionally, I'm reminded of the old, deeply ingrained reactionary behavior that kept me at 500 pounds for nearly two decades. Work today ended up being frustrating, disappointing, and quite honestly, it left me feeling extremely undervalued. I'm not perfect, ever-- and there's more I could do, but in many areas, I go above and beyond for the team.

I'll not elaborate, wouldn't be appropriate--the point is, whenever emotions are high--in whatever form, there's still, and always will be that voice inside that whispers, hey man, up here in your head--yeah, it's me--you know, that voice you've been ignoring for a very long time--don't ya think a binge would be good right about now?

I've noticed how I'm able to stay fairly even with my emotions throughout maintenance mode--not too high, not too low--somewhere in the middle range seems to be a nice little groove I've found. But then a day like today hits and my needle pegs. And then I'm forced to either buddy up with that inner voice and essentially throw it all away, or lean in the direction of what I know works. I did two things. I made an on-plan snack and I reached for support--someone I could share a confidential conversation with about the specifics of my frustration--but mainly someone who understands the importance of my plan in these moments--someone with a similar plan and track record of success.

Nothing is worth sacrificing the integrity of my extraordinary care. Nothing.  My life-stream and fundamental elements-stream run parallel to one another. Making sure they don't cross is critically important. Basically--when life gets challenging, it's not ever a good reason to sacrifice the extraordinary care of my plan.  On the other side, I mustn't make the fundamental elements of my plan so big, full of rules, and complicated--that it affects my life in negative ways.

I shut down that whispering voice inside that was promising to relieve me of feeling certain things--and I just felt 'em. And instead of saying things or doing things in reaction, I gave it pause--just enough space to feel it and allow it to naturally subside.

After I finished work for the afternoon, I made my way over to see mom at the nursing facility. I haven't been allowed to take pictures of her for several days because she simply hasn't felt like it-- and her reason (not that she needs one) is partly because she hasn't been well--and the other part involves her hair. It doesn't matter how much I tell her how beautiful she is with or without her hair fixed--if the hair isn't working, she's not very willing to smile for the camera. And I honor her wishes.

I walked in her room this afternoon, and I gotta tell you, she looked like a completely different woman than the one discharged from the hospital on Tuesday.

  



















I was so happy to find mom beaming after her hair appointment.

I made it home late this afternoon, had a late lunch, made a support call--and grabbed a nap before an evening with a couple of scheduled one-on-one mentoring sessions.

I enjoyed a nice meal tonight before going back out to see mom. She's super-excited about several family members (including Noah!) gathering with her in the dining room on Sunday for Christmas dinner.

I'm off tomorrow as far as a morning show is concerned. I do have a production project I must accomplish tomorrow--at some point along the way. Oh--and I need to shop. I haven't even started shopping for Christmas!

Today: I maintained the integrity of my maintenance calorie budget, I remained abstinent from refined sugar, I exceeded my daily water goal and I stayed well connected with great support.

I have several things deserving of my gratitude. I'll focus on those as I lay my head on the pillow.

Thank you for reading and your continued support,
Strength,
Sean