Week 9, Day 7, Diet with Dianna

Wow, I am at the end of my ninth week. I am doing very well. Today was a great day; it was like most weekends - busy. We do a lot of eating out during the weekends because we are so busy. Today, I heated up breakfast from my leftovers on Saturday. I went to church, again, and I took my mom to see the awesome service.  I ate lunch with my husband and daughter, before my daughter went to work.
We met my daughter after work and ate dinner.

Revelation Knowledge:
Dieting without exercise is not as successful. I know that I must be more diligent in getting some sort of physical exercise. I would like to be a better motivated person...this too is like taking the first step of a diet; it just has to be a mindset. Therefore, I am now going to be more faithful in exercise...some muscle resistance and some resistance. Like everything...I don't need to overdue, but doing nothing is equally not ideal.  I will find a good equal ground between the resistance/muscle toning and aerobic.

Exercise:
None

Breakfast:
One waffle with Sugar Free syrup, and the usual cup of coffee.

Breakfast S/C total: 1/2

No. A.M. Snack: I was at church.

Lunch:
Taco Bueno; I had a soft beef enchilada with a few chips and queso.

Lunch S/C Total: 2/2

A.N. Snack
None...too full

Dinner:
A few fries and some peanuts from Five Guys.

Dinner S/C Total: 0/1

P.M. Snack:
One slice of sugar free lemon cream pie.

P.M. Snack S/C Total: 1/1

Daily S/C Total: 4/6

Week 9, Day 6, Diet with Dianna

Saturday was an awesome day, except that I was very, very tired. I didn't get to sleep until 4 a.m. and got back up at 7 a.m.   I was watching my grand-dogs for my kids. They were at the late, late, movie, seeing Cowboy's and Aliens. They said it was really good. WHEW! I am ready for a good night's sleep.

 Revelation Knowledge: Everyday is a new day and a new opportunity to learn something new. I made a new recipe yesterday and it was so good, thankfully I had leftovers. Tonight I ate the pork loin steaks, cold. This recipe is so good that it tasted good cold, out of the fridge. So what did I learn from this? Make extra for a quick meal, especially when it is a weekend and you don't have time to cook.

Exercise:
I didn't get any, except for going to church and worshiping, which is pretty active with all the walking, climbing stairs, and standing and singing. Sure, it isn't swimming or power walking but I did get in some lung breathing exercising.

Breakfast:
Homemade waffles, turkey sausage, and my usual coffee.

Breakfast S/C Total:2/2

A.M. Snack None…not hungry.

Lunch: 
I ate a late lunch: Hot dog w/chili, cheese, mustard, and a few corn chips. (No Bread)

Lunch S/C Total: 0/1                

A.N. Snack: 

 At church had a sugar free soy mocha frappuccino. 

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 0/1            

Dinner: 

 Left over pork loin and two Kosher dill pickles 

   Dinner S/C Total: 0/0              

Daily S/C Total: 2/4

Week 9, Day 5, Diet with Dianna

FRIDAY! I enjoy knowing that tomorrow our family will be together. Saturday's are a treat because we have the whole day to spend as a complete unit. We also get to go to worship service, and we all look forward to that! Today we have a 20% chance of rain...Thank you Lord for the chance of rain...I pray for it to happen over our house, today!

Revelation Knowledge:
Attitude: having a good attitude make a big difference in my success outlook. If I am having a bad day, my diet outlook is grim. When I am having a good day, I have a positive feelings towards my success. I can see myself thin and reaching my goal!  Now, I just need to work on staying in a positive attitude, no matter what the circumstances around me are doing.

Exercise:
None, again...it is Friday night and too much going on in our schedules. Maybe tomorrow afternoon...or not.


Breakfast:
One bowl of cereal: Fiber One Honey Squares, Almond milk - unsweetened, and my usual coffee.

Breakfast S/C Total: 3/1

No Snack

Lunch:

Olive Garden: Salad and a half a breadstick, glass of tea with lemon.

Lunch S/C Total: 3/2

A.N. Snack:

None...not hungry.

Dinner:

Not very hungry so I ate a few veggie chips. (Not ideal and well planned meal but that is all I was hungry for...

No date night with my hubby...it just didn't work out...DRATS!

Dinner S/C Total: 1/2

No P.M. Snack

Daily S/C Total:7/5

Good count on my sugars and carbohydrates, but lousy on well rounded, well planned meals. Also, no exercise...pooh!

Week 9, Day 4, Diet with Dianna

I see there is the tropical storm DON is in the Gulf of Mexico, I don't want to see any damage or injuries, but we sure could use some rain from this storm; relief from the heat, too!
The heat is nasty and I do not like to sweat. I really get irritable until I have cooled off. Anyway, I think the heat is one of the main reasons I have been getting upset stomachs.  Today was a much better day! I ate much less in quantity and not so heavy, but light. I cooked dinner and only had meat and a side. Easy but sparse looking. The family seemed to enjoy the food, and that makes me pleased.

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
We have been duped into thinking that bigger and more is better. Super-size portions, more for you money...but it is all a lie. Why not have smaller portions and smaller prices...WHY? The food industry makes money off larger portions and when you get fat you eat more and they make more.  Don't fall into the trap of thinking that more is better. Less is best!  Less is best! Less is best  (in food amounts, that is).  I am getting used to eating on smaller plates and seeing smaller serving sizes as MY norm. It is a good feeling to know that I am eating to live and not living to eat. Food for thought!

No exercise but I did get out and walk from the parking lot to the store, through the store and back to the car and back home. NOTE: We park farther out and get in more steps...even in the heat.

Breakfast:
We ate the last of my homemade blueberry pancakes, something new: chicken breakfast sausage-DELICIOUS, and my usual coffee.

Breakfast S/C: 2/2

Snack: NONE...not hungry.

Lunch:
Taco Cabana: I had one brisket taco and a  few chips with queso.

Lunch S/C Total: 1/1

No afternoon snack: not hungry

Dinner:
Baked pork chops seasoned and lightly battered with my Fiber One squares and corn flakes-crushed. Side dish of brown rice. Ooh-wee delicious!

Dinner S/C Total: 1/1

P.M. Snack:
Sugar free lemon custard pie - homemade

P.M. Snack Total: 1/1

Daily S/C Total: 5/5

I had an excellent day!

Week 9, Day 3, Diet with Dianna

Today was another very, very hot day...107f degrees...I think I could feel myself melting. My daughter and I volunteered at the church offices, then ate lunch with my husband, and finally to the mall for some girl time.  In and out of the heat...Yikes! It was hot!
Food? It was delicious, all day and well within all my limits.

Revelation Knowledge:
Heat. It reeks havoc on my eating. When I'm too hot, food just doesn't digest well. I've also noticed that when I eat every three hours, I am still full from the previous meal and I nearly make myself ill when I eat, again.  I know that eating within the three hour window helps to keep my blood sugar elevated, but I don't like the overfull feeling and sometimes queasiness that follows. Therefore, I am willing to take the risk of not losing weight as fast and only eat when I am hungry. Since I am losing weight slowly, anyway, I cannot see that this is a negative. I have to go as my spirit (or gut as some may say) leads me.
NOTE: Eat only when I'm hungry and not every three hours...unless I get hungry in less than three hours and I will abstain from eating until I've reached a three hour minimum wait.

Exercise:
None...again, I am fighting off some upset stomach and I don't think that getting hot or exerting myself will help me.

Breakfast:
Leftover high fiber blueberry pancake, two slices of bacon, my usual coffee.
and one deviled egg.

Breakfast S/C Total: 2/2

Snack: None...not hungry.

Lunch

Kincaid's Hamburgers -  bacon cheese burger w/mustard and pickles, a few fries from my daughter's meal. - (I ordered the junior size burger and I ate less than half and I gave the rest to my husband).

Lunch S/C Total: 1/2

A.N. Snack:
Swiss cheese and several multi-grain crisps (see earlier blog, around week 2?).

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 0/1

Dinner:
one-fourth of a California Pizza Kitchen (four cheese, individual, thin crust pizza).

Dinner S/C Total: 1/1

Daily S/C Total: 4/6

I went over by one serving of carbs...but I really think that I over figured, especially since I ate so little of the things I did eat.

Week 9, Day 2, Diet with Dianna

There were actual rain clouds in the sky today. Unfortunately, it didn't rain on our house, but that was so nice to see the grey skies and the possibility of rain. I know it will come rain soon; we need it. Thank you Lord for the quenching rain!
My diet went fairly well, today. I cooked all three meals and stayed indoors, except for my trip to swim. Good Day!

Revelation Knowledge:
Resist rich foods! After eating this lifestyle for nine weeks, my stomach was not happy with the richness of dinner. Even though it was way inside the limits of my diet, it was still too rich. I was not a happy camper after exercising...after an hour of lying on my bed, the queasiness dissipated and I was much, much better.
NOTE to self: Limit or Avoid rich foods.

Exercise:
Swam for forty-five minutes...I got slightly nauseous and cut my swim time short. UGH!

Breakfast:

Fiber One pancakes with blueberries and two slices of bacon, my usual coffee and one deviled egg. Yes! I ate a deviled egg for breakfast. It was very delicious and made by the hands of my beautiful daughter. She is an outstanding cook!

Breakfast S/C Total: 2/2

(Even though the pancakes are high in fiber, they still have carbs and the blueberries add sugar, too).

No A.M. Snack...didn't eat until nearly 10 a.m. I slept in until 9 (nice)!

Lunch:

Chicken wrap with fresh baby spinach and cheese: cheddar and Swiss, a few corn chips. I didn't eat but half of the wrap.

Lunch S/C Total: 1/1

A.N. Snack:  
Sugar Free chocolate peanut cluster by Cabella's

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 0/1

Dinner:
Chicken sausage in Alfredo Sauce (homemade), with whole wheat pasta and broccoli.
I only ate about three-quarters of a cup.

Dinner S/C Total: 1/1

P.M.Snack:
Orville Reddenbacher Snack size kettle corn.

P.M. Snack S/C Total:0/0

Daily S/C Total:  4/5

Excellent Day!

Week 9, Day 1, Diet with Dianna

This is my ninth week, AMAZING! I have made it nine weeks. That is two months and one week long of dieting. In a way it has gotten easier and in some ways I still have mini battles with cravings or temptations. All in all I am pleased with my tenacity to get this far along on the diet.  I know I can go the distance until I lose the weight to reach my goal.

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
I am used to my diet eating plan. I know what I can eat and what is off limits without having to look it up in the book. I have learned to read the nutrition labels on product packages...even my daughter has figured it out and helps me read them...cool.

Breakfast:
One cup of Rice Chex cereal, half cup of Almond Milk-unsweetened and one packet of Stevia.
One fried egg and two slices of bacon. One cup of coffee w/half & half and one packet of Stevia.

Breakfast S/C Total: 1/1

A.M. Snack:
None

Lunch:
One Brisket taco from Taco Bueno

Lunch S/C Total:1/1

A.N. Snack
Two Joseph's Sugar Free coconut cookies
A.N. Snack: 1/1

Dinner:
Pecan smoked Kielbasa sausage, steamed okra and one bite of mac-n-cheese.

Dinner S/C Total: 2/2

P.M. Snack:
Deviled Egg (Thanks Britt!)

P.M. Snack Total: 0/0

Daily S/C Total:5/5

Great Day!

Week 8, Day 7, Diet with Dianna

Yes, I know that Sunday is the first day of the week, but I didn't actually start my diet until a Monday. That is why I have day one for the week on a Monday and not Sunday.
Anyway, I am down by ten pounds, FINALLY! and one more inch in my stomach. WHOO-HOO! I am making head way!

Today was a great day, as usual. I went with my hubby and boys to see Captain America! Cool movie with lots of action and great dialogue. The movie was really well done...not to cheesey.
I didn't eat any popcorn. WHAT?!!! Nope, I wasn't hungry so I didn't get any. After the movie we ate a Arby's and then home for a lazy day -- don't do anything strenuous kind of day.

Revelation Knowledge:
You can resist anything you put your mind too. It is a battle between the mind and the flesh. I have a secret weapon...actually it isn't secret, really; It's God. He is my source of strength. I ask Him everyday to bless me with what I need. In return, I share what he has done for me with others I meet. Easy as pie (sugar-free and low carb pie that is). I also realized that if I eat too fast, I get over full. If I stop before I feel full, that full feeling eventually happens. That is when I am glad I stopped eating before I feel it, sometimes. I will try to eat slower, though. I know that sometimes, it just isn't possible to eat slow when we have busy schedules and rushed for time.
Anyway, resist the urge to eat fast and pay the price afterwards. It starts with portion control. If you think you will overeat, divide your food in half before you start.

Exercise:
Swimming!  It is so much fun to swim when the weather is a ravaging 104 degrees at 6 pm in the early evening.

Breakfast:
One fried egg, two slices of bacon, half a slice of sandwich thin, coffee with half & half, and one packet of Stevia.

Breakfast S/C Total: 1/1

A.N. Snack:
Three Joseph's Sugar Free Bite-Size Chewy Brownies - OH SO GOOD!

A.N. Snack total: 0/1

Lunch:
We went to Arby's for lunch after the movie.
One Angus Beef Wrap with curly fries.
I ate less than half of the wrap and less than half of the fries. My hubby will take them for his lunch tomorrow.

Lunch S/C Total: 1/2

Dinner:
None, but went swimming.

Dinner S/C Total:0/0

P.M. Snack:
Pop corn and Jell-o Sugar Free chocolate pudding cup.

P.M. Snack Total: 1/1

P.M. Snack Total: 
DAILY S/C TOTAL: 

Week 7, Day 6, Diet with Dianna

Today is Saturday, my going to Church day, today. I had a amazing time getting to worship God. Afterwards my family went to a birthday party for my nephew, who will be fifteen in September. Yes in September, but since he lives in Georgia we won't be able to celebrate with him so we had his birthday celebration in July.  Lots of food, cake and pie.  Non for me. Only salad and chicken, which were delicious. Thanks Sis!

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
Temptations at every corner. At the party, tonight, my sister pitched me some candy, one of my favorites as a child. She meant well, but I had to turn it down. I cannot give in to these temptations. Next was the dinner. Beans, chicken, rice, salad, flour tortillas, corn tortillas were on the menu. Dessert was from the Swedish Pastry Shop: Lemon Meringue pie and Chocolate fudge cake...full of carbs and sugar. Pie is my weakness, especially lemon and cherry. I sat and nearly cried then instead of feeling sorry for myself I chose to accept everyone having a good time.
Still it is so difficult to watch others indulging with oohs and ahs and accolades; each one stating how delicious and decadent they are. I am sinking deeper and deeper into a can of worms, having a silent pity party and even feeling angry at their lack of concern for my happiness. WAIT! They aren't responsible for my happiness, I am. I can get glad in the same SKINNY pants I got angry in. My happiness is not fed by food. I can be happy without the sweet food and enjoy the company and fun of the celebration and people.

Exercise:  None...no time.

Breakfast:
One egg, half slice of Oroweat sandwich thin, hash-browns. I cooked bacon and forgot to pull them out of the microwave, until after breakfast. DUH!

Breakfast S/C Total: 1/1

Snack/Lunch combined:
Beef jerky and diet orange soda.
Not well rounded meal...I did eat, though

Lunch S/C total: 0/0

A.N. Snack:
Sugar Free, Soy Vanilla Frappuccino Latte. Really good.

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 1/1

Dinner:

4 nugget size Chicken pieces seasoned with Spanish spices and mixed lettuce with Newman's Lite Caesar dressing. (No other sides for me and no desserts.)

Dinner S/C Total: 1/1

Evening Snack:
One Slice of Pepper Jack cheese.
P.M. Snack Total: 0/0

Daily Total:3/3

I am proud of myself for resisting temptations. I am happy that I've learned to be happy in uncomfortable situations. I'm grateful that I have a very supportive core family. I am glad that I am not writing regrets for failing.

Week 8, Day 5, Diet with Dianna

Well, I was too busy and too tired to post my Friday evening post, so you will get two postings, today.
I had a great Friday. I stepped on the scales, before getting dressed and I've lost another pound! SLOW!
I know I keep harping on the turtle-like progress of my weight loss , but I am at a loss for ideas on how to speed up the process. HOWEVER, I am so thankful that I AM losing and not lingering at a plateau or gaining weight. PRAISE THE LORD!

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
It is so easy to fall into the trap of old habits. I found myself talking negatively about "Off limit foods". Instead, I will change my attitude and mindset to gratefulness of the foods I can eat; the "YES foods". I see so many people eating sugary 'so called' health bars and health drinks that are full of sugar and carbs. They are not really good for them and they are skipping meals!!!! I am so grateful that I have such a wide variety of yummy, good foods. Really, not much is off limits. Sure the sweet desserts, but even when I have the opportunity to sneak a bite, I don't. Last night my husband was drinking a Margarita at the Mexican restaurant. I took a minute sip and, Oh WOW, it was so sweet and it didn't taste good at all. It almost made me sick to my stomach.
I am amazed at how my tastes have changed. What used to be very delicious to me, is now sickening.

Exercise:
Yesterday morning I went swimming instead of having to miss because of Friday night activities with the family, as usual.
It was so very refreshing and exhilarating. The water was much cooler, by 6 degrees, and the morning wind was crisp after getting wet. Ah, so very nice!  I might like to revisit morning swims...

Breakfast:

1 cup of Rice Chex cereal with unsweetened Almond milk, two slices of bacon, and coffee w/cream and one 1/2 packet of Stevia. The other half of Stevia went on the cereal.

Breakfast S/C Total: 1/1

Snack: Ate breakfast late and ate lunch half hour past three hours.

Lunch:
Kentucky Fried chicken - one grilled chicken breast and several potato wedges.

Lunch S/C Total: 1/2

A.N. Snack:
One piece of Swiss cheese and two pretzel thins:

A.N. Snack Total: 1/0

Dinner:

Mexican Inn - Date with my husband :D,
One beef taco, a cup of thin corn tortilla chips and a little bit of guacamole and cheese dip.

Dinner Total:  2/2

P.M. Snack:

Two, Joseph's Coconut sugar-free cookies: GREAT FIND!!!!!
(0g sugars/14g carbs for 4 cookies)

P.M. Snack Total: 0/1

Daily S/C Total: 5/5

Well within the limits!!!! Excellent day!

Week 8, Day 4, Diet with Dianna

No photos of food today. I cooked breakfast for myself and my daughter. I ate lunch at home...the rest of the day was a bust. I am fighting off attacks of allergies and a monster headache. I slept in the afternoon and early evening. I read some of the evening and now I'm off to bed.  I hope and pray that tomorrow is much, much better.

Revelation Knowledge:
I don't have allergies as bad. I'd like to believe that limiting sugars and carbs has made my body healthier and more defensive to toxins in the air. I also believe that God has given me the right to prevent sickness and disease. The combination of the two...I am a well person and this is just a minor trial. Tomorrow I will be more than 100%.

Breakfast: 
One egg, 1/2 of a sandwich thin, two slices of bacon, and my usual coffee.

Breakfast S/C Total: 1/1

No A.M. Snack

Lunch:
Veggie patty and a slice of cheddar cheese.

Lunch S/C Total: 2/1

No Snacks
No Dinner
PM Snack:
1/2 cup of Sugar free vanilla ice cream:

PM Snack S/C Total: 2/1

Daily S/C Total:5/3

Week 8, Day 3, Diet with Dianna

I did some volunteer work at church, today. I really enjoy being able to help out where I'm needed. After volunteering I ate lunch with my hubby and daughter. I came home and did some laundry and checked emails. The only meal I cooked today was my breakfast. Not a great day for sticking with the three hour schedule.

Exercise: 
Went swimming. The water was slightly cooler...but not by much.

Breakfast:
1 cup of Rice Chex cereal, Almond breeze and two slices of bacon, coffee with half and half and one packet of Stevia sweetener.

Breakfast S/C: 2/2

Snack: None

Lunch:
Five Guys Burgers & Fries. I had the kosher dog with mustard and a few (very few) seasoned french fries.

Lunch S/C Total: 2/2

Snack:
A slice of cheddar cheese

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 0/0

Dinner:
Fiber One Low Carb - sugar free Yogurt and a few corn chips with cheese.
Dinner Total: 2/2

Ate too late so no snack.

Daily S/C Total: 6/6

One over on the carbs...yikes. If I hadn't eaten the yogurt I would have been fine. I didn't feel like cooking and that was quick and convenient. 

Week 8, Day 2, Diet with Dianna

Great day! I was at home for most of the day and ate two meals, here, at home. I also had the privilege to go on a date with my husband and we ate out. Nice!
About my diet, I have noticed that in my chest area (sensitive subject) that my bras are really loose in the cups. I have noticed less fullness and they are not rubbing together in the cleavage area! I hope to experience more of this. SIDE NOTE: To those women that are knocker challenged, this is bad news. But to us fluffier and fuller large melon girls, we are very, very happy!

Revelation Knowledge:
As I cook, more and more meals at home I have found that I am faster and more efficient in the kitchen, lately. I am also used to my morning routine and rather enjoy getting up and having my morning meal at home. Yes, I have to rise earlier, but it is more than worth it.
I have also noticed that I eat at the table more and focus on my eating and the food. I am not distracted by television. I actually sit at my dining room table for most of my meals. All these are positively good habits.

Exercise:
None...went on date with husband. Good excuse!

Breakfast:
1 cup of Rice Chex cereal with Almond milk (unsweetened, vanilla), two slices of bacon, and coffee with half & half and one packet of sweetener.
Breakfast S/C Total: 1/1

Snack:
Sugar Free cookie
A.M. Snack Total: 1/1

Lunch:
Small bowl of baby spinach with purple onion, yellow bell pepper, pepperoncini slices, and Newman's Balsamic vinaigrette.
One Morning Star Veggie patty, pan seared with hamburger seasoning and Worcestershire sauce.
Lunch S/C Total: 1/1



A.N. Snack:  None

Dinner:

Beef center-cut filet with fried mushrooms I ate a bite of the onions and the bread...for fun! Mmm, so delicious!
Dinner S/C Total: 0/1

P.M. Snack:
1 cup of Orville Redenbacher kettle corn
S/C Total: 0/0

Daily Total: 3/4
Excellent!!!!!

Week 8, Day 1, Diet with Dianna

Do you see my face is thinner?

Oh! It is amazing that I am beginning my eighth week. The past seven weeks had flown by so quickly. I've lost one more inch...just one, and I have lost 1.5 pounds. I am going to celebrate losing and not gaining. I have to stay positive, here. I cannot let the fact that I'm not a swimsuit model, yet, get me discouraged. If I'm not gaining weight then I am thrilled. When  I'm losing weight, I will celebrate my success! I am still on track...slowly, but on track.

Revelation Knowledge:
I am now getting the hang of calculating sugars and carbs. It is getting easier and easier; nearly second nature. It is good to look back and see my struggles and frustrations from the first two weeks, and now see that they are so much easier because I didn't give up. I can learn if I keep trying! I am constantly amazed at the way our brains can always learn! I am never too old to learn something new, even if it is hard at first. When I try and put in the effort necessary, I can accomplish anything.

Exercise:
Swimming for one hour. I really do like swimming. I could tell that I had missed three days in a row. My arms were feeling like lead weights. I felt tired but at the same time, it felt good!

Breakfast:
Bowl of Rice Chex cereal with 1/2 cup of Unsweetened Almond Breeze Milk and one packet of Stevia, two slices of bacon, and one extra large cup of coffee with half & half and one packet of Stevia.

Breakfast S/C Total: 2/1

Snack:  None...went shopping with my daughter. FUN, FUN, FUN!

Lunch:

Panera Bread: This was so very hard to go to this restaurant, because I truly enjoy bread and soup, here.

Chopped Chicken Cob Salad, two thin wedges of apple, for sweetness and moisture. (I had them put the dressing on the side. I tasted it first and didn't like it. So, I added some salt and pepper and ate the salad without dressing. It tasted  fair, but not the best salad I've eaten). I only ate about one-third of the salad before I got full. Now that I am used to eating much smaller portions, I do not understand how one person could eat that much food, REALLY!

Lunch S/C Total: 1/1

A.N. Snack:
Three thin pretzels and a few cashews

A.N. Snack Total: 2/1

Dinner:
Wasn't really hungry so I opted for a sugar free cookie and some coffee made the usual way.

Dinner S/C Total: 1/1

P.M. Snack:
After my swim I was hungry.
Omelet with cheddar, swiss and bacon. I only ate half and my daughter ate the rest.

P.M. Snack Total: 0/0 

DAILY S/C TOTAL: 6/4

I did great! I kept my carb servings down to four! SUPER!

Week Seven, Day Seven, Diet with Dianna

Sunday morning! Since we go to worship service on Saturday evenings, Sunday mornings are to sleep late and be couch potatoes. NOPE, we got up early, I fixed breakfast and we were off to the movie theater to see the last installment of the Harry Potter series. GREAT fun and great movie. We've read all the book and seen all the movies on opening weekends. It has been happening for the last eleven years. I always enjoy spending time with my husband and grown kids. Life is so, so good! God is good to me!

Revelation Knowledge:
I am frustrated that my weight is coming off so slowly. I was hoping to be bragging about losing at least twenty pounds and I just now hit the ten pound mark! S-L-O-W as a snail's pace. I gave this some thought and I have decided to kick up the fiber with fiber supplements and cut back just a tad on my carbohydrates. I'm not going to cut them out completely because that would be unhealthy. I am also going to add in some additional exercise with stretching and rubber banding. I think this will increase my heart rate. As soon as the weather begins to cool down, I can resume my walking, but then that will mean no more swimming.  I might have to find a place to swim laps that is indoors because I really enjoy swimming.

Exercise:
None, unless you count moving from the car to the theater, up a large flight of stairs and back down and returned to the car. I did go grocery shopping and pushed a basket...does that count? :D

Breakfast:
My family ate breakfast sandwiches that I prepared but I ate one egg, one turkey sausage patty and a slice of cheddar cheese.

Breakfast S/C Total:0/0

A.M. Snack:
About a cup of Movie Theater popcorn.

A.M. Snack S/C Total: 0/0

Lunch:
Panda Express: One veggie spring roll, garlic chicken and broccoli (no rice and no chow mien noodles).

Lunch S/C Total:8/2 

(WHAT? YIKES!!!! That is the last time I eat there!!!!!)

A.N. Snack:
None - instead I took a two hour nap. ZZZZZ

Dinner:
One small leftover Brisket taco from Taco Bueno

Dinner S/C total: 1/1

Daily S/C Total: 9/3

Week Seven, Day Six, Diet with Dianna

It was a lazy day; it started  a little bit too early, but the day maintained a slow pace. I got up early to eat breakfast with my daughter before she went to work. It is such a pleasure to spend quality time with a grown child, or any member of the family. It is a welcome sacrifice to miss a little sleep and make time to enjoy being with her. I want her to know that she is important to me; important enough for me to give up something I might like to do. I want her to know that she is important to me. That is what life should be about, to show others that they are special...and she is!  I am so very blessed to have a beautiful daughter in my life!

Revelation Knowledge:
Each night before I go to sleep, I smooth lotion onto my feet and then put on microfiber socks to hold in the moisture. Well, last night I noticed that the skin on my feet were not as dry and felt smoother and more moist.  Could it be that the diet is to get the credit for the improvement? I'd like to think, yes! I believe that the quality of my diet food plan and increased intake of liquid are not only causing me to lose weight but also improving my skins appearance and texture.  This is a good additional benefit.
I'm sure there will be many more to come and I am excited about my new discoveries.

Exercise:
None -- Saturday is my day of rest and worship to God.

Breakfast:
French toast w/whipped cream and five blueberries and  Vermont sugar free maple flavored syrup.  (French toast was made with eggs, half & half, cinnamon, vanilla extract, almond extract, and two packets of Stevia sweetener, butter and One whole piece of Oroweat whole wheat sandwich thin). Baked.
Two slices of bacon
One fried egg.

Breakfast S/C Total: 2/3

Snack: None, ate breakfast around 9:30 a.m.

Lunch: 
Two small squares of leftover thin crust pizza.

Lunch S/C Total: 1/1

A.N. Snack:
Sugar free cookie:

A.N.Snack S/C Total: 1/1

Dinner: 
Three boneless chicken tenders. (No veggies or extra side dish...not hungry) and coffee with half & half and one packet of sweetener.

Dinner S/C Total: 0/0

P.M. Snack:
None...ate dinner late, around 7 p.m. and not hungry for snack.

Daily S/C Total: 4/5

Week Seven, Day Five, Diet with Dianna

T.G.I.F. I had a busy day, but very productive. Sticking to a well balanced plan wasn't so good, but I didn't mess up, but I did splurge just a little. I made breakfast and that was the best meal of the day. For lunch I stopped and picked up food to bring home after a run to the bank and gas station. Finally, tonight was family game night and pizza was delivered. I really enjoy our family game night, even if pizza is on the menu.

Revelation Knowledge:

It's okay to splurge on a food, every once in a long while. Especially if you've been dedicated after seven weeks. I don't think that this one time is going to reek havoc on my diet. I was enjoying the time with my family and, yes I could have made me something else, but I didn't and I enjoyed my food and family.  Even though I splurged, I didn't go crazy and I controlled the amount that I ate. If you think about it, if I only splurge every seventh week, that is not a bad average. I think I deserved a small but well deserved splurge.

Exercise:
None, my exercise time was missed because of our family dinner and game night. Tomorrow night I will be swimming!

Breakfast: 
One fried egg, two pieces of bacon, half a slice of Oroweat whole wheat sandwich thin, coffee with half & half and one packet of Stevia sweetener.

Breakfast S/C total: 1/1

A.M. Snack:
Five cashew pieces
less than an ounce, total

A.M. Snack Total: 0/1

Lunch:
One Brisket Taco - brisket and cheese only
One side salad (last of leftover from Wednesday)

Lunch S/C Total: 1/1

A.N.Snack:

One sugar free vanilla cookie with macadamia nuts.

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 1/1

Dinner:
3 small Domino's thin and crispy pizza squares, toppings: mushrooms, spinach, and beef...light sauce, and of course cheese.

Dinner S/C total: 2/2

P.M. Snack: 
None except coffee.  Too busy playing a game with the family.

Daily S/C Total: 5/6

If you haven't guessed, the pizza was my splurge. I only went over by barely one serving of carbs. I did really good!!!!!!

Week 6, Day 4, Diet with Dianna

It is Thursday and I got to sleep in, a little. By the time I waited the customary hour before eating it was nearly 10 a.m.  My daughter, youngest son, and nephew headed out to run a few errands and stopped by a royal burger place to get breakfast. I shared a meal with my daughter. I ate the egg, sausage, and a few hashed brown circles, and she ate the pancakes and biscuit. It was truly a value meal. Anyway, I was able to eat food that is appropriate for this kind of diet. It has been fun seeing how I can stick to this diet work, even when eating out.

Revelation Knowledge:
Not everyday do I gain insight or knowledge into my dieting; and this too is revelation knowledge. Sometimes reminiscing over an old discovery is beneficial to continued success. It helps me to reinforce my new habits and to prevent myself from stumbling into old pitfalls that could sabotage this diet. I took the time today to re-read all my past revelations and they inspired and renewed my desire to be successful in my diet.

Exercise: 
It was over 109f degrees today and at 6 p.m. this evening it was 107f degrees. The swimming pool was a very hot tub warm of 95f degrees. I was hot after a few laps and had to get out to cool off. I was able to swim for forty-five minutes before I was just too hot to go on. I still had forty-five minutes of swimming laps.

Breakfast:
One scrambled egg, one sausage patty, a few hashed browns, and coffee w/half & half and no sweetener.

Breakfast S/C Total: 0/1

Snack: None, out and about until about 1 p.m.

No lunch either. I was not hungry and I really forgot because of working on the computer and unexpected family stopping by and a malfunctioning washing machine.

A.N. Snack
Sugar Free Vanilla cookie

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 1/1

Dinner:
Chicken Enchilada Casserole, leftover salad from yesterday's birthday celebration dinner for my mom, and a very, very small helping of Spanish rice.

Dinner S/C Total: 2/2

P.M. Snack:
Snack Size Orville Reddenbacher Kettle corn

P.M. Snack: 0/0

Daily S/C Total: 3/4

Week 6, Day 3, Diet with Dianna

Today was my mothers birthday and tonight we celebrated with a big family meal at my sister's house. This is the first bit shin-dig I've been to since I started my diet six weeks ago. Since birthday cake is usually served at birthday celebrations, I had all day to prepare, in my mind, not to indulge. The menu was lasagna, Texas sized garlic toast and salad. I was in charge of the salad so it was Dianna Diet friendly. As for the lasagna, it was full of pasta and sauce which are both high in carbs and sugars. There was cheese and meat in there too, but the main ingredient is large pasta noodles and red sugary tomato sauce.
As the time came to get to eating, I grabbed my bowl and loaded up on the salad...which was not very much since I eat so much less, now and a low sugar dressing. WOW, was is good...so good that I really didn't miss the lasagna nor the toast. I was full and satisfied. Everyone was oohing and ahhing over all the food and my salad.
Last of all was the birthday sweet cake...extremely high in carbs and sugar. I passed on that too. Instead of cake though, they served mini cup cakes, I like to call mini-sugar bullets. They really looked delicious and I had to say, no thank you about three or four times and sit next to people ogling, finger licking, and lip smacking their sugar bullets. It wasn't easy but I resisted...I didn't even take a taste. I avoided all contact.
When I got home, I ate a sugar free Jell-O Chocolate pudding cup. Hmm-hmm-delicious!

Revelation Knowledge: 
Resistance to temptation gets easier with time and practice. Don't give in...not even once or you will have to start over at square one. Not the diet but the abstaining from temptation. It's something that builds up power over time. Really, it gets easier to say "no" to the little sugar bullets and old habits of the past.
Yeah for me!

Exercise:
None - birthday celebration for dinner...during my swimming time. TOO hot to walk...107 degrees. AHH!

Breakfast:
One fried egg, half a slice of Oroweat whole wheat sandwich thin, two slices of bacon, coffee w/half & half and one packet of Stevia.

Breakfast S/C Total: 1/1

A.M. Snack:

None...too busy to stop and not hungry.

Lunch:

Chick-Fil-A chicken strips and two waffle fries.

Lunch S/C Total: 3/2

A.N. Snack

Five whole black olives. OH, SO GOOD!

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 0/0

Dinner:

Mixed green salad with Feta cheese, black olives, chives, pepperoncini peppers, red onion, shredded carrots and Newman's Own Caesar Dressing

Dinner S/C Total: 1/0

P.M. Snack

Jell-O Sugar Free chocolate pudding cup

P.M. Snack S/C Total: 0/0

Daily Total: 5/3

This is so good; I am stoked!

Week 6, Day 2, Diet with Dianna

It was a much slower day than yesterday, although I stayed busy. I made breakfast for my daughter and I, but my coffee machine wasn't working...I had to make a pot of coffee instead of my single cup machine. It's takes a lot longer to brew a pot of coffee. Boy, to we live in an instant world!  I ate lunch out with my son and nephew, ran an errand, called the manufacturer of my coffee machine and I have a new on coming...in two weeks! AHH!

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
Something I've noticed about large fluffy people, they huff and puff walking from place to place and sweat heavily (even in the winter). I don't get as winded doing strenuous activities and my sweating is much lighter.

Breakfast:
Fiber One 80 calorie Honey Squares (10g fiber, 23g carbs, 3 sugar for 1 cup), 1/2 slice of Oroweat whole wheat sandwich thin, two slices of bacon, coffee w/half & half and 1 packet of Stevia.

Breakfast S/C Total: 2/2

Snack: NONE...I wasn't home, but running errand.

Lunch: 
Two grilled chicken tenderloins and a few fries.

Lunch S/C Total: 0/1

A. N. Snack:
Sugar Free cookie with macadamia nuts.

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 1/1

Dinner:
One brisket and cheese roll up from Taco Bueno.

Dinner S/C Total: 0/1

P.M. Snack:

Jell-O Sugar Free pudding cup, chocolate

P.M. S/C Total: 0/0

Daily S/C Total: 3/5

Great day!!!!

Week 7, Day One, Diet with Dianna

It was a busy day with Monday chores and other things thrown into the mix. I like being active and have more energy is a bonus!  I cooked breakfast, lunch and dinner...a rare thing, but good. I have more control over my diet and I can eat the things I like.

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
Having enough energy and stamina is very difficult when a person is overweight. I know! Today, I noticed, even though I didn't have a full night's rest, I had plenty of energy and stamina to get through a busy day. I think I will attribute this to eating the right foods. If I had done this before I had dieted, it would have been a struggle to get through the day. Energy is important in a busy schedule and eating well and exercise is a definite are key in determining the amount of energy you have!

Exercise:
Swimming for forty minutes.

Breakfast:
Fiber One Squares (cinnamon flavored), Almond Milk (Vanilla), two slices of bacon, and coffee with half & half and Stevia.

Breakfast S/C Total: 1/2

Snack: None...was out driving my daughter to the mechanic and bank.

Lunch:
Leftover salad from yesterday's lunch at Chili's.
Cob salad with eggs, bacon, cheese, lettuce, red bell peppers and Ranch dressing.

Lunch S/C Total: 1/1

A.N. Snack: 
Ate a piece of Swiss cheese

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 0/0

Dinner:

Grilled chicken in Mac & Cheese, side salad (last of leftover salad from Chili's) with ranch dressing, Diet lemon-lime water.

Dinner S/C Total: 3/2

P.M. Snack:
Fiber One Low Carb Key Lime Yogurt.

P.M. Snack Total: 1/1

Daily S/C Total  5/6

Went over by one serving on the carbs! Did great on the sugars!

Week 5, Day 7, Diet with Dianna

It's time to measure again and weigh myself. I am proud to say that my waist is now at 40", my weight is down another pound and a half...not as much as I would have liked, but at least I'm moving in the right direction. Today, my sister noticed my pants were looser in the legs and bottom areas. My daughter said that she noticed my face is slimmer. She realized the difference after looking at some photos of me from before I started the diet. Yippee!

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
I actually crossed my legs during church this week, without having to pull my leg up with my hand. This is a milestone. Those of you that haven't had this issue won't understand the significance of such a simple movement. I didn't realize it until a minute later. I looked down and thought, "Hey, did you have to pull your leg up? Oh no you didn't!" At that point I crossed and uncrossed my leg several times. Then I stopped because the people around me might think something was wrong and I didn't want to cause a distraction. I did to a mental happy dance and some a joyful praise to God for this sweet revelation!

Exercise:

Swam for about 50 minutes. It was a very hot day. Too hot to swim until after the sun was low on the horizon. At 7 p.m. I was sitting in the shade in a parking lot waiting for my beautiful daughter to get off work. I noticed the temperature on the car display. 100 degrees at 7 p.m.! YIKES! The water was bathwater warm, but still refreshing. We got slightly chilled when getting out of the pool and that was a nice feeling after such a warm day!











Breakfast:
One fried egg, two pieces of bacon and one leftover biscuit from yesterday. My usual coffee.

Breakfast S/C Total: 1/1

Lunch:

Ate a very late lunch because my husband and eldest son volunteered at church this weekend working in Production. They got up at 5 a.m. to get to work by 7 a.m. and worked until 2 p.m. We met them at Chili's restaurant.

Cobb Salad (no croutons or bread) I only ate a fourth of this MONDO SALAD...Oh Wow was it big...I think they used an entire head of lettuce. I boxed up the leftovers for lunches several times this week...or as long as the lettuce is good!

And about six Corn Chips dipped in Beef Queso.

Lunch S/C Total: 3/3

Snack: NONE

Dinner: None...not hungry.

P.M. Snack:

1 cup Orville Redenbacher Kettle Corn (Snack size and shared with my daughter).

P.M. Snack Total: 0/0

Daily S/C Total: 4/4

Good day for numbers...not so good on time intervals.

Week 5, Day 6, Diet with Dianna

HOT, HOT, HOT are the words for today. 108 degrees in the shade! We were at the shopping center, killing time, until it was time to go to church.
Segue: OH! Praise and worship is always awesome! Giving God the glory for who he is and what he is doing in my life! Hallelujah!
Anyway, today was horrible for eating on a regular schedule. All the family is around, everyone waking up a different times, going different ways and the such. I started the day off right with a hearty breakfast...Hmm-Hmm Delicious!

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
Losing weight has a lot of positive effects. For instance, climbing stairs was easier tonight. I noticed that after swimming and exercising regularly, having lost a bit of weight, I was able to climb the large flight of stairs at the church building much faster and with less, huffing and puffing at the top! Good changes and better changes to come!

Breakfast:
One Fried Egg, two slices of bacon, 1/2 cup of hashed browns and a regular flaky biscuit. (Hey, it's Saturday and I strayed a wee bit with a biscuit.) Cup of coffee with half & half and Stevia-half a packet.

Breakfast S/C Total: 2/2

A.M. Snack & Lunch: We ate breakfast late so I had BRUNCH. :D

A.N. Snack:  None...was not anywhere near food and missed it!

Dinner: Cup of coffee and bag of Jalapeno chips from church coffee shop (they have really decadent desserts and sugar laden frozen coffee drinks...I opted for one serving of carbs and 2 sugars as a meal. Really it was my only option besides nothing. Blah!

Dinner S/C Total: 2/1

P.M. Snack:
Okay, this was reverse...but, I ate 1/3 of a California Pizza Kitchen four cheese, thin, individual pizza.

P.M. Snack S/C Total: 1.5/1

Daily S/C Total: 5.5/4

GREAT GATSBY, I did great on my totals! I did lousy on my three hour eating intervals... Yippee and Blah! 

Week5, Day 5, Diet with Dianna

Well, I ate an early dinner with my mother-in-law and daughter. We talked about diets and compared notes on a lot of dieting topics. It was fun to share our experiences with diets. I enjoyed having some quality girl time and talking over salad, coffee and dessert. (Actually, they ate dessert and I drank more coffee.) Today was a pretty good diet day.

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
When comparing notes on years of dieting, especially when you restrict sugars, we noticed the same conclusion. When you have gone without sugar or limited sugar in a diet, anytime that you eat a food containing sugar, the taste is very sweet. EXTREMELY SWEET, and is almost too rich to eat but only a few bites. Our bodies have a way of becoming desensitized to certain tastes when you have it in abundance. Restricting or eliminating that food from a diet is like pushing a reset button. After a time your body has a new awareness of that food.
I have noticed that when I eat food, I can actually taste sugar in a food. Foods that are typically low in sugar,  I can now taste that sweetness; when before I didn't notice it at all.  I recommend  trying this experiment: give up or lighten up on sugar for two or three days and see if you can tell a difference...I'll bet you will!

Exercise:
1 hour of swimming

Breakfast:
A new cereal, Fiber One Cinnamon Squares (Hmm-hmm, delicious!) in Unsweetened Almond milk (vanilla).
Half slice of toasted Oroweat sandwich thin.
Two slices of bacon
Coffee with half & half and a 1/2 packet of Stevia.

Breakfast S/C Total: 3/2

Snack:
None...not at home but in the car and then grocery store.


Lunch:
Veggie burger on two slices of Oroweat whole wheat sandwich thins, two small leaves of Romaine lettuce, One slice of Pepper Jack cheese
One small kosher dill pickle

Lunch S/C Total: 1/1

A.N. Snack: None, in the car picking up my daughter from work and going to visit mother-in-law.

Dinner:

Photo by Britt

La Madeleine's French Cafe: 1/3 of a Chicken Caesar Salad (removed croutons) and 1/2 slice of multi-grain french bread (no butter or jam), coffee with cream and sweetener.

Dinner S/C Total: 1/2

P.M. Snack:

One Jell-O Sugar Free Chocolate Pudding cup

P.M. Snack S/C Total: 0/0

Daily S/C Total: 5/5

Excellent day for carbs!  Not so good about skipping two snacks and not eating at the three hour intervals. 

Week 5, Day 4, Diet with Dianna

Today, I wore a pair of jeans that were one size smaller...some that I still had way back in my closet. I didn't choose them on purpose, but by accident. Somehow they were closer in...I don't know how. Anyway, I confused them for the pair I usually wear. When I put them on, this morning, I was worried because they fit a little bit snugly. I was concerned that I did something wrong on  the diet and had gained weight. I reasoned with myself, arguing that that couldn't happen. I've been very careful to keep away from the wrong kinds of food and limit my portions, too. I had a full day ahead and I was in a hurry to get to the grocery store, early, before it got too hot outside. I didn't have time to change pants. As the day wore on the cotton jeans stretched, somewhat, so after a few hours they were bearable. Tonight, I took them off to get ready for swimming and noticed that they were the wrong jeans...the smaller jeans. WOW! Even though they were tight, I was able to wear them...the entire day! I might wait a few more weeks before I give them another try, but this is promising.

Revelation Knowledge:

Surprises are good. Wearing a smaller pair of jeans is a good sign of progress, even if it was a mistake. Progress, progress, progress! Hallelujah!

Exercise:
Swimming, 45 minutes.

Breakfast:
Bowl of Special K Protein (1 cup), Almond Breeze-unsweetened vanilla, 1/2 packet of Stevia, one slice of Oroweat whole wheat sandwich thins, and two slices of pre-cooked bacon.

Breakfast S/C Total: 1/2

Lunch:
Arby's: Half of an Angus wrap..no mayo, with balsamic vinaigrette, and a few curly fries. The picture shows a whole wrap but Oh MY, it is way too big!!!
I ate half and brought the other half home for my husband to eat, tomorrow.

Lunch S/C Total: 1/2

Snack: 
None...too full from lunch.

Dinner:
Handful of popcorn.  Not hungry.

Dinner S/C Total: 0/0

P.M. Snack:
Fiber One Key Lime Yogurt, and a few bites of cheddar pretzels.

Snack S/C Total: 4/1

Daily Total: 6 /5

Much better on the carbs, today. I think I'm figuring correctly? I hope I am, anyway.

Week 5, Diet 3, Diet with Dianna

Today was a a hot one; only 102! At 7:30 pm I took a walk and the temperature had cooled to a whopping 98 degrees (AHH!). I walked, anyway. I didn't walk my usual brisk pace, but I kept up a decent pace to get my heart rate up. About half way through the walk, Pixie (my dog) and I  started looking for stray sprinklers and s-l-o-w-l-y walked through them to cool off! WHEW! I like swimming much better, so guess what I will be doing tomorrow?

Revelation Knowledge:
Eating well makes me feel well! Even though I have cravings for other food...sugary food...I am really enjoying my improved health more than I want the bad food!

Exercise:
Walking...*pant-pant-sweat-sweat*

Breakfast:

1 cup of plain Cheerios with Almond Milk (vanilla) unsweetened, 1/2 packet of Stevia, two pieces of bacon and one 1/2 slice of Oroweat whole wheat sandwich thins.

Breakfast S/C Total: 2/2

No A.M. Snack...too full from breakfast.
Lunch:

Half a Turkey Pastrami, baby spinach and Pepper Jack Cheese on Dark Rye.
Eight jalapeno chips.
1/2 cup steamed broccoli (leftover from 4th).

Lunch S/C Total: 2/2

A.N. Snack:
A handful of cashews.

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 0/0

Dinner:

Chicken Salad made from left over grilled chicken tenderloins from July 4th, seasoned yellow squash, and a few sweet potato fries - baked.

Dinner S/C Total:3/2

P.M. Snack
Jell-O sugar free chocolate pudding snack cup and a cup of coffee! Hmm-Hmm Delicious!

P.M. Snack Total: 0/0

Daily Total: 7/6

Well, I went over one serving on carbs...not bad...good day!

Week 5, Day 2, Diet with Dianna

I spent the day with my husband and we ate lunch together. It was great to just sit and talk, without interruptions. During our discussions, I hit upon some revelation knowledge; it was bittersweet. I have such a supportive husband and I am truly blessed. Today was a great day!

Revelation Knowledge:
This is not a diet for me...it will be a way of lifelong eating. Sugar and High Carbohydrate foods are addictive, and I crave those kinds of food. I am an ice cream-oholic, a bread-oholic, a sugar-oholic.  Non of those are actual words, but I have an addiction to foods containing sugar, and high carbohydrates.  I know, that if I were to just simply taste a spoonful of regular ice cream, I wouldn't stop there. If I were to eat a regular slice of bread, or a bowl of sweetened cereal, or a poptart...I wouldn't stop there. I could eat them up and have seconds or thirds.
I cannot think about revisiting sugary/high carbohydrate foods and I am going to miss those kinds of foods, but those kinds of foods will have to be dead to me. It takes an enormous amount of will power to resist...luckily I have a supportive family and I have God to help me along this journey...a lifelong journey.

Breakfast:

Egg sandwich with bacon, toasted cheddar cheese, and baby spinach. THIS was excellent and Hmmm-hmmm-hmm, delicious!
(One complete set of Oroweat whole wheat sandwich thins.)
Cup of coffee - half a packet of Stevia and half & half.

Breakfast S/C Total: 2/2

Snack: None

Lunch:

Taco Bueno beef taco and steak taco.
I removed the flour tortilla and ate the steak and cheese, only.
I did eat the crunchy corn tortilla taco, though.
No chips, or sides...just the one beef taco, with lettuce and cheese and contents of the soft steak taco (meat and cheese only).
Not a well balanced meal, but I was just barely hungry.

Lunch S/C Total: 1/1

A.N. Snack:
One Cabella's Sugar Free chocolate peanut cluster and one Laughing Cow Swiss cheese wedge.

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 1/1

Dinner:
half a hot dog...shared with my husband from Sam's Club

Dinner S/C Total: 1/1

P.M. Snack:
One snack size Orville Redenbacher Kettle Corn.

P.M. Snack0/0

Daily S/C Total: 5/5

I did not eat well balanced today even though my totals didn't go over. I am proud of myself for sticking to my eating plan! GO ME!

Week 5, Day 1, Diet with Dianna

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY! God Bless the U.S.A.
Most of us had the day off, today. My daughter had to work the morning shift, but got home early in the afternoon. July 4th is a great day, traditionally, to barbecue. Chicken, Hamburgers, and Kielbasa Sausage.
Yummy good food!. My parents bought the meat and we provided the side dishes and my hubby cooked it all on the grill! (It was at least 98 degrees outside by lunch time).
We all ate well, played games...indoors of course...and went swimming later in the afternoon. We had a blast! I really enjoyed this day.

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
I learned that I can participate in a holiday event without over indulging on food! I ate well, made good choices, and enjoyed the day with my focus on family...not the food!
I eat to live, not live to eat.

Exercise:
Swam

Breakfast:
The whole family sat down to eat together. It was a great start to a fun filled day!
One egg - fried
Half of Oroweat whole wheat sandwich thins
Two slices of bacon - crisp!
1/2 cup of hashed browned potatoes - no ketchup.
Coffee with half & half, and half a packet of Stevia sweetener.

Breakfast S/C Total: 1/2

Mid Morning Snack:

Refill on my coffee and a piece of left over bacon, from breakfast.

Morning Snack S/C Total: 0/0

Lunch: 

Barbecued chicken breast, and Pecan smoked Kielbasa sausage,

Broccoli florets - seasoned with lemon pepper, garlic, butter, 1/2 a packet of Stevia, and salt & pepper.

Mashed potatoes (1/2 cup)

I was sooooooo full! I enjoyed the meal!

Lunch S/C Total: 2/2

Snack & Dinner combined, by the pool!

Sugar Free macadamia cookie

1 cup microwave kettle corn

Coke Zero

Dinner S/C Total: 2/1

Daily S/C Total: 5/5

Much better on the carbs!!!! Much, much better!!!!

Week 4, Day 7, Diet

Well, here it is the end of my fourth week and I have made some slow progress;, but at least I'm making progress. I was hoping for more significant results, but nonetheless, I have made progress. I am down 5" in my waist. I have lost 8 pounds. That doesn't seem like a lot, but it is 2 pounds a week; memo to me...this is a slow process...cool my jets!  I can see a change in my clothes -- they fit looser.  I can see it in my bra. I have four rows of hooks & eyes and I have moved the hooks in from the last row of eyes to the second row. That is progress!

REVELATION KNOWLEDGE:
I'm not in the diet boat alone. There are millions of people dieting, but we are not all dieting the same way. I am the only person in my family that is dieting, and this is tough. I'm not dieting alone, there are others in the world dieting too. There dieters on the internet and web sites that offer support for free. I read about their struggles and successes and that is my encouragement, along with the changes I see in my body and the occasional comments from people that may see a change. Since my change has been slow and not by leaps and bounds, it is hard for the people around me, day in and day out to see the small change. Sometimes, that is disheartening because I want them to see that I am losing weight. The words of encouragement mean a great deal, especially when I have worked so hard at this diet.
I must remember that I have a HUGE goal, but that I not stand and face the enormous task ahead but focus on the small steps I successfully take towards the goal. I AM moving and making progress towards the goal. I am my strongest cheerleader. It is important for me to stay motivated and encouraged by staying positive and thinking positive.

Breakfast:

One egg, fried
Two pieces of bacon
Two pieces of Oroweat whole wheat sandwich thins.
Coffee with half & half and half a packed of Stevia.

Breakfast S/C Total: 2/2

Snack: None, I ate breakfast at 9:30 a.m.

Lunch:
Fiber One Key Lime Yogurt
Corn chips - five (saved from restaurant leftovers.)

Lunch S/C Total: 6/2

Snack:
Coffee and two Cabella's Sugar Free Peanut butter bars

A.N. Snack: 0/1

Dinner:

Pastrami Wrap - Mission Low Carb, No Sugar Tortilla, two slices of Turkey Salami, Swiss cheese, and baby spinach.
8 Pringles Jalapeno chips

Dinner S/C Total: 2/2

No evening Snack...

Daily S/C Total: 10/7

I went over by two on the carbs...it was the yogurt that took me over! It was a delicious treat, anyway and very low in sugars and carbs for non-Greek yogurt.

Week 4, Day 6, Diet with Dianna

Hooray! Today was a much slower paced day. I actually slept until after 10 a.m. *sigh* I needed the rest! Finally dragged myself into an upright position, walked to the living room and fell out in my huge, comfy chair and stared out the front window. About eleven o'clock I drank a huge cup of coffee, my usual way, until noon and meandered into the kitchen to fix a delicious lunch of leftovers. The rest of my day wasn't so slowly paced, but it was a great and wonderfully lazy day.

Exercise:
Walking from the bed to the couch, from the couch to the kitchen and back to the couch. Later in the day, I walked to the bathroom, got dressed, walked to the car, drove to church, walked up stairs and sat through church, walked back to the car, into the house, and back into my chair. God is Good!

Breakfast:
Only in my dreams...slept through the real thing.

Snack: Coffee

A.M. Snack S/C Total: 0/0

Lunch:

Mission Low Carb whole wheat tortilla (small), baby spinach, smoked turkey, pepper jack cheese, and Newman's Family Recipe light Italian Oil and vinegar dressing.
One Kosher dill pickle,
A few corn chips dipped lightly in salsa (Mexican Inn Cafe)

Lunch S/C Total: 2/2

<==This is what my husband ate? You think he used plenty of jalapenos?

A.N. Snack:
Sugar Free Macadamia chewy vanilla cookie (Wal-Mart). Refill of coffee with half & half and one packet of Stevia.

A.N. Snack S/C Total: 0/1

Dinner:
None...left for church and grabbed a piece of sharp cheddar cheese slice to tide me over.
Drank a frozen Frappe (supposed to be sugar free made with  soy milk...drank about four sips before I realized it was not sugar free - AHHH!)

Dinner S/C TOTAL: 1/1

P.M. Snack:
My daughter and I made pinwheels for a meeting at her work. I ate a few end pieces that were not presentable. They were very delicious:

P.M. Snack S/C Total:0/1

Today's S/C Total: 3/5

Pinwheel Recipe
Low carb whole wheat Mission tortillas
1 package of cream cheese
several chives, chopped finely
2 tablespoons of jalapeno pepper slices- chopped into small pieces
1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder
pinch of salt
1/4 cup of cheese (any variety that is shredded, we used cheddar and mozzarella).

Directions:

1. In a food processor or stand mixer, whip the cream cheese until smooth. Add in all ingredients and blend.
2. Spread thinly over tortilla.
3. Top with thinly sliced sandwich meat. We used, Turkey pastrami, turkey, chicken fajita (shredded), turkey pepperoni, and baby spinach. All different meats were not combined but made individually. 
4. Roll and slice.
5. EAT!