Fresh organic produce from the Farmer's Market
This morning I ate GrapeNuts flakes with soy milk and organic strawberries for breakfast.
So what, you ask? Why should I give a fig about what you ate for breakfast, Mrs. Chicken? Didn’t someone once famously state that no one cares what you had for lunch, or any other meal, for that matter?
I’ll tell you why. Because me and Mr. C? We’re going vegan. Yup, as vegan as we can, anyway, considering one of us is an unrepentant carnivore and the other believes that carbohydrates are a good source of protien. Let’s just say that a certain brunette has a rather unseemly intimate relationship with Little Debbie these days.
Little Debbie is about to get a big surprise (and her profits will probably plummet next quarter), because her illicit late-night trysts in the pantry with Mrs. C are about to come to an end. When the last Swiss Cake Roll is gone, that is.
It seems that my husband and I are on the same wavelength—for once—when it comes to our diet. We’re both itching to lose some poundage, mostly for health reasons. Vanity is certainly playing a part, but with my immune system all out of whack, and heart disease running in his family, it’s time for a change.
Yesterday, after a last meal of sorts (Rhodes cinnamon rolls and coffee with half-n-half), we ate a lean lunch and for dinner went almost entirely vegan. I made a salad of beans, veggies and herbs, to go with soy burgers. We crapped out on the rolls, and ate full-on white bread, but our sins were of the venal, not cardinal variety.
This is particularly hilarious if you know my husband, whose ideal meal includes choice beef or ham, and potatoes with a side of more potatoes. I think he ingested more vegetables yesterday than he has in his entire life. I used to eat like that, before we met, but years of peer pressure led me down a path littered with Big Macs and chocolate malts.
I am miraculously down to 146.5 pounds, the lowest number I’ve seen on the scale since 2004, just after The Poo was born. The Babyman keeps me (literally) running all day, and my meds repress my appetite. Seems like the right time to jump on this train. Docs have cleared me to exercise, so it’s time to get on that treadmill and in that pool.
Last time I set out to get fit, I was inspired by Lotta. I made my goal public here, and I met it. Back then, I was at my heaviest—161. I got down to about 147 before I got knocked up last year, and managed to keep my pregnancy weight at a reasonable level, thanks to the Diabeetus.
I want to be at my fighting weight: between 130 and 135. I want to be healthy and strong for my family. And looking hot in a bathing suit won’t hurt my feelings, either.
Why am I telling you this? Because an awful lot of you will see me on the streets, and so I am accountable. It’s fine to run my mouth, but here I’m committing. Next time you see me, if you think I’ve lost weight, don’t be shy—say so.
I love compliments. Shocking, I know.
Are you getting fit? Why?
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Vegan is tough…I don’t think I could live without dairy – and eggs.
I’ve been meat-free (fish only – so not a veggie) since last July and haven’t missed chicken/pig/cow at all. It took me awhile to figure out good protein sources, but it’s all good now.
Good luck!! Have you read Animal, Vegetable, Mineral by Barbara Kingsolver? That book changed the way I think about food.
LifeAsIKnowIt’s last blog post..More Rambling Nonsense On Motherhood
I’m really not ready to go vegan but I am trying to commit to exercising at least three days a week and eating more veggies and less of everything else.
My weight has started to creep up and I just need to nip it in the bud, plus I have no energy – I feel like I’m 80 most days…
Don Mills DIva’s last blog post..Light my fire
I have lost eight pounds since my mother’s death. Woo hoo! Only 32 to go! (Sigh.)
slouching mom’s last blog post..My Narrative Arc
I just got off the treadmill – walking 2 miles has never been so hard in my life. June 1st = Day 1 of post baby working out! I am with you all the way. Al too. Except for the whole veggie thing….and maybe a few desserts sometimes.
Hubby and I joined the Y this weekend and swimming laps and treading water in the deep end was a great workout. Meeting with a personal trainer tonight to get set up on the machines. I am excited to tone and firm up and lose a few pounds.
Michelle’s last blog post..What Do I Want To Be When I Grow Up?
Hubby and I are in a weight loss challenge currently. If I don’t make a certain weight goal by a chosen date, he gets to post a photo of me in my bathing suit all over the internet (and vice versa of course). Fine incentive indeed.
Good for you for getting healthy! Although I could never give up meat and dairy, I admire you for your commitment to something important to you.
all things bd’s last blog post..And So It Begins
The Wilson Vegan Cookbook Library is accepting new patrons (40+ titles in stock). I also would recommend the Fat Free Vegan blog and vegweb.com for good recipe ideas. I also always recommend The Mediterranean Vegan Kitchen by Donna Klein since it does not contain any faux foods.
I was vegetarian for 7 years, vegan on and off for most of it. I was the queen of faux – I could make any dish vegan. After a year of re-exploring animal foods and learning to cook all over, I’ve narrowed down what I enjoy (steak, not-overcooked-chicken, good deli ham, fish and shellfish, good cheese) and what I can live without (most processed meats, turkey, hamburger, processed cheese food products, milk as a beverage). I’ve also realized I quite missed some of the fun things I ate while vegan and have been trying to incorporate more of those back into my new diet.
For much of that time, I had smoothies for breakfast and summer is the perfect time to throw some strawberries and bananas in the blender!
Sorry to blather on, my carnivorous family isn’t much interested in this knowledge base of mine!
I’m right there with you on the healthy train. I’m what I like to call skinny-fat (at 125 lbs and 5′8″), I’m definitely thin, but I long to be the toned, sculpted mama that I was pre-baby.
I have once again started running and weight lifting, but this time it’s not for vanity or escape, but for empowerment. My family deserves it, and more than that, I deserve it.
On a totally unrelated tangent, I saw you at the Farmers Market a few weeks ago. IT’s funny because Shaggy is what first caught my eye. I looked at him, and recognized him in his adorable red stroller. His eyes were captivating, but I couldn’t figure out why I recognized him. Then I looked up and behold it was Mrs. Chicken and the Poo (bouncing around Shaggy’s stroller). You were talking to others so I didn’t butt in and introduce myself. But I will say, no outsider would ever suggest you have any weight to lose! More importantly, your babies are too cute for words!
Wow, how exciting. I would love to see 146 again, you lucky to be there. (Okay I’m a little jealous) I will be watching and waiting for updates. Vegan, that is a big step to take. Maybe I could do vegetarian but that would be a big maybe! I applaud you, you go girl!
Debby Pucci’s last blog post..On the seventh day she rested…..
I don’t think I’ve been 146 in my life. I think I skipped it — went from pre-teen weight to 200 post-college. I lost it. Got down to 155 by my 30th birthday. I’m 5′7″, so I wasn’t tiny, but I was healthy. I was 10 pounds from my goal, when I got the flu for two weeks. Except it wasn’t the flu. I was pregnant. Yeah, I gained it all back, so I’m working on it again. I’m in the low 180s now. I asked for Weight Watchers Online for my anniversary gift! (That’s how I lost it last time.) I’d be happy 20 pounds lighter. And, as soon as my stupid herniated disc gets fixed, I’ll be able to actually go for a walk or a run again with T Junior. I, too, would like to be able to run around with my son (once he decides to walk) and not be out of breath.
Kerrie’s last blog post..365 Days Down: A Photo Journey
I was vegetarian for… 14 years? Part of that I was vegan. Then ate meat when I was pregnant cuz it was the only thing that would stay down. Weird, eh? Continued to eat meat because it was easier with 3 babies one after the other. The past 6 weeks or so, I’ve been almost totally veggie again. I am really enjoying it, and will be keeping my eyes on you for inspiration!
Nan’s last blog post..There Beneath A Shady Bough, A Watery Puddle, Some Sand, And Thou…
Good for you and Mr. C for deciding to get healthy together. It is much easier when you are both doing it.
We try to do one or two meals a week without meat and that is hard. I couldn’t think of going cold turkey and going vegan right away.
I know you can both do this!
Amanda Z.’s last blog post..My lucky day
Going vegan doesn’t have to be tough. There are so many great recipes, cookbooks, blogs, etc. out there now it can be a snap! Most of it is mental…the “comfort food” thing of eating what you’ve always eaten or eating what you grew up eating. Hugs to you and your family for eating healthier and good luck!!
veganlinda’s last blog post..I Heart Kale
Vegan!?!?! You are amazing! I could never do it. I’m too in love with dairy. As far as my own health plan goes, as soon as this baby comes out I’m back on the WW wagon. Plus my YMCA does a biggest loser contest every Jan-May, so I’ll sign up in the new year.
Good luck!
Amy Jo’s last blog post..By the Sea
While I don’t think I could go vegan,the hubby and I have made a major effort the last two years to eat a steady diet of fruits and veggies to set a good example for our girls. I joined Curves three years ago after I had my second daughter and lost 30lbs. I got down to the thinnest and fittest that I had been since high school. The best benefit, besides being physically more healthy, is that my self-esteem is so much better. Hubby joined a gym in January and has lost 20lbs. I am currently 6mths. pregnant but have continued going to Curves 3-4 times per week. I am determined to keep fit during this pregnancy and, so far, it’s working. Wishing you best of luck on your journey!
Janine’s last blog post..Notice to All Household Occupants
Good for you! Watch out for too many meat-oid substitutes. Just ’cause they’re vegan doesn’t mean they’re good for ya’! I hesitate to say this, but you might want to explore a gluten free diet (search to see if your ailments might have any relationship to gluten intolerance). Of course, GF makes vegan look like a white-flour cakewalk. Some other great vegan sites: the ppk, vegan feast kitchen, and Vegan Dad. Vegan Linda is a local blog.
Wait a minute. Are you going to have to change the name of your blog?
I was totally distracted by that great-looking produce in the photo. Now I’m craving some peas and tomatoes.
Heather’s last blog post..Time With Friends Feeds The Soul
I am trying to stick to a better exercise routine — partly to lose the weight from my recent pregnancy, I do not need that hanging around.
We actually have some great vegan recipes from feeding my brother & sister-in-law, so let me know if you need any!
mayberry’s last blog post..Live*-tweeting the elementary school talent show
Good luck with the new menu! We’re by no means vegan, but for health and cost reasons, we’ve started eating less meat over the past year. A lot of the vegetarian stuff I make is Indian, but I’ve been getting into the Veganomicon lately. I think you’d like the writing style of it.
Jason’s last blog post..Quick Pic – From the Market
Vegan?!? You are a MUCH better woman than I!
Good for you. And as soon as the drumsticks are out of the house, I intend to do the same.
Sandy’s last blog post..My Heart was So Happy
My hubby would die of shock as would my FIL, the butcher, if we ever went vegan. But lately I have been having us eat more fresh fruits & veggies. At first hubby balked at my “fancy” salads. But last night when I forgot that I was out of all the salad fixings except romaine hearts and tomatoes, he inquired why the salad was so lean. There is an EXCELLENT vegan restaurant around here-serves yummy stuff & is very reasonable. :O)
Domestic Extraordinaire’s last blog post..Sixteen things
I think it all comes down to feeling good. I am guilty right now of not finding enough time to do what makes me happy outside of parenting and marriage. I am thin, but not worked, like a dog that gets walked, but is never allowed to really run. I long to do it and maybe this will be my push.
I’ve missed you.
Amanda’s last blog post..Shhhhhhh
you’re gorgeous.
flutter’s last blog post..I have the right to exist.
Vegan is HARD. And not flexible.
Maybe a good first step would be to go vegetarian, and possibly even incorporate some grilled fish (great for the summer).
And if vegetarianism is working for you, then consider becoming vegan.
I know many an ambitious person who tried to go vegan only to fall of the wagon. It’s like going cold turkey.
And, there’s no more eating at fast food restaurants, especially those that your children adore, such as Culver’s.
Good luck with it; I hope that you succeed in veganism (and weight loss–though when I saw you a couple of weeks ago you looked fab!)
This all coming from a (mostly) vegetarian who wrote about McDonald’s today!
Oh, and I love, love, love Mark Bittman’s How to Cook Everything Vegetarian! Definitely one for your bookshelf.
Leighann’s last blog post..Want Fries with That?
awesome! good for you! you will be healthier being vegan. if you want to be even more extreme, try raw veganism. it’s a miracle weight loss cure. or you could just be vegan but eat lots of fruits and veggies. either way, the earth, animals, and your body will thank you.
bitt’s last blog post..raw snack food
Way to go you! I wish I had more time to cook and eat better.
I started the couch to 5k program, but my knees rebelled in a major way. I’m still going to the gym and meeting with a trainer once a week. I also just told Hubby that I was going to start going to Weight Watchers (he wasn’t too thrilled about that. His response, “why can’t you just exercise more and eat less?” Ugh!)
Anyway, I’m doing it all so I can feel better and have a better chance at being a better mother to my kids than mine ever was.
Swiggy’s last blog post..Guess the baby-weight
I joined Weight Watchers 19 weeks ago, and I’ve lost 19 pounds. I finally got a doctor to listen to me and check my thyroid, and now that I’m on medication for it, I’ve been able to lose weight for the first time in my life. Ever. It’s slow going, but it’s pretty great. I have been exercising a lot more, it’s just not an option not to. I need to be healthy and live longer. I don’t want to have diabetes, or be that embarassing mom who is fat and can’t keep up with her kid. So, I’m really trying. I have a lot to lose – over 100 lbs when I started, but hey, I’m 1/6 of the way there, right?
As for Veganism, I applaud you for giving it a try. It’s hard. It depends on how flexible you are – it really limits your options for eating out because it’s not always easy to find out exact ingredients. My sister has been a vegetarian since she was in 3rd grade, and was a vegan for over 5 years, so if you need advice or have questions about which products are the best etc, just e-mail me and I’ll ask her.
I would also recommend the cookbook “How it all Vegan”. It’s a great cookbook with a LOT of yummy stuff in it.
Rachael’s last blog post..I Believe
Hoo boy. Am on that train here, too. I am NOT going vegan—actually, one of the few things I KNOW about myself as that I can’t (uh, won’t) be too restrictive about my diet. I would love, love, love to. From what I’ve seen and heard, it is a much healthier and natural lifestyle. Diets + me = backfire. Exercise works best for me, so I run about 3 miles every day or two. WITH MUSIC.
The Redheaded Lefty’s last blog post..And now, a pregnancy update.
Good for you! I was vegetarian for years and vegan for about a year of that. It can be challenging to stay completely vegan, especially when traveling, eating out or eating with others. But focusing on eating fresh fruits and veggies and whole grains/legumes/seeds/nuts as the basis for most meals is such a great, healthy way to eat. I’m constantly working on making those things the basis for every meal. If that means that we still have meat once a week, I’m okay with that. And I have a real issue with giving up dairy as it is such a strong craving of mine and I don’t like most of the soy/rice substitutes. Do you have any favorite foods you will have a hard time giving up?
I’ll be checking out your progress as I start my very, very slow return to fitness as well! Two weeks post baby all I’m doing is walking 20 minutes a day with the babe and the dog, some simple stretches and starting my basic ab work. Here’s hoping we all have success!
Jenna’s last blog post..The benefits of being ignored
I’ve been a quasi-vegetarian for (gulp) almost 20 years (ack!), but have never been able to “do” the vegan route successfully. I don’t eat much dairy (mainly b/c my oldest is allergic to it) but I hate soy milk (although I like many other soy substitutes). And, eggs—I get my eggs from a friend’s happy chickens, so my animal-rights loving side is a-ok with them, and they are awesome. I also couldn’t live without fish—I did for a few years and it was the only thing I really missed.
I think it is an ambitious goal and I wish you a fun food journey! But, if you fall “off the wagon” here and there, be gentle to yourself! (Maybe treat yourself to really good animal products in moderation vs a fast-food binge for instance.) For summer time, there are some amazing dairy-free sorbets that are so creamy, you honestly won’t miss ice cream. I’ll be excited to read about your progress!
Fairly Odd Mother’s last blog post..One Stressed-Out Shredhead
Wow, ambitious move going vegan. I have no desire to be vegan or even veggie because I’m fair to fond of my animal by-products LOL However, I did have a desire to lose weight. It occurred to me about 6 weeks ago that I had gained 15 pounds, without a precipitating event to cause it (previously, I held steady at 150 until I got pregnant and gained 50 pounds) and it was time for a change. I ended up joining weight watchers and have lost 18 pounds in that time. I’m aiming for another 2 this week to hit my 20 pound mark but I’m not going to count on it.
I have drastically increased my veggie intake and part of my plan is to try a new fruit or veggie each week. I’m a couple of weeks behind because I’ve been lazy about actually seeking out new things but it hasn’t been too bad.
Good luck on the lifestyle change and the weight loss
Carrie’s last blog post..Preview of things to come