Days 28,29,30... Southern living

     Shopping, family time, restaurants, New Orleans and driving... That is what the past 3 days have consisted of. It has been a great trip full of laughs and memories. Sad that I have to leave Audi again but yet so proud of him! 

     I see LOTS of clients throughout the week at work and I'm so impressed with the honesty that is shared with me! So... I have to make one confession, if I don't I would have some major guilt! I stuck to plan 99.9%. I ate 3 non restricted IP's Friday, Saturday & Sunday. Mainly because the boys ate my PB bars but also because we ate out for dinner all 3 days. Not knowing what herbs, spices, butter was added to my dinner I wanted to keep it safe. I stuck with veggies & southern seafood. I tried okra, crawfish & collard greens for the first time. We visited New Orleans an Bourben street & everyone said that we had to try a beignet. This was my first time in New Orleans and I wanted to try a bite just to say I've tried one.  My one little cheat was a bite of a beignet. Whew, I feel better!!! In the past I would've eaten an entire one or maybe two. It was very similar to a funnel cake.

 http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beignet 

As you can see in the picture I'm drinking a coffee from the French Quarter and Robert is enjoying a 2$ 'big ass beer' so they called it :) 

     We had a great time & the boys saw a couple firsts on Bourben Street. We walked around for a few hours but left before things got out of control. 

      I'm happy to get home and dive in to a busy week ahead of me! I have to finish painting at the new house, finish packing, Innovative Aesthetics Holiday Open House Thursday & move to Marion! Lots to do! I'm planning for rotisserie chicken & Hy Vee's salad bar this week. 

     Remember that I don't want you to have cheats, BUT, if you do, you can always wipe the slate clean and start fresh! Have a great week! 

-Dusty

Bourbon Street with the family ❤️

Beautiful day in New Orleans 

     

Day 27:Happy Thanksgiving!

     Today is Thanksgiving & I couldn't be more happy & thankful to be where I am in life! I woke up at 6am to catch the sunrise on the beach. The boys all wanted to sleep in. I sat on a bench on the beach with my cup of hot coffee. I sat there for 30 minutes anxiously waiting & taking in my surroundings. I thought to myself about ALL the wonderful blessings in my life. My kids, family, Robert, career, good health & that I'm truly happy. A few years ago I took some times, people & things for granted trying to find/search/chasing what I thought was happiness. After time & getting older I figured out that happiness wasn't at all about "things"! I've learned that it's about memories, laughter, happiness & love with the ones I care about. It doesn't matter what kind of car I drive, house I live in or designer clothes/shoes/purse I have. A few years ago I quickly found out that without my boys, family & someone to love or love me I had nothing. The time was 6:31 & the sun began to peek over the gulf & after about 20 seconds the sun was shining & for the first time in my life I watched the sunrise, it was beautiful! 

     When I got back to the room I had a peach mango shake & another cup of coffee. I read the paper & looked through the ads for Black Friday. After picking Austin up from the base we hung out at the beach for a majority of the day. It was sunny & 65* & perfect in so many ways! The boys snacked throughout the day & I ate some fresh cauliflower & cucumbers. 

     We decided to have Turkey dinner at the AF base. For the first time in my life I skipped stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy & most importantly pumpkin pie & whipped cream!!! I was so proud of myself!!! Dinner consisted of a big salad, turkey 1/2 cup of green beans, peas & carrots. For dessert I had a PB bar & cup of decaf. 

     After dinner we headed to the movie Hunger Games Mocking Jay part 1(2 thumbs up) The boys ate M&MS, sour patch kids & popcorn. I stayed strong & ate a bag of Non Reatricted BBQ soy nuts & drank water. It was a little difficult but I made it with no cheats! 

      Thanksgiving 2014 in Biloxi, Mississippi was a complete success! I went into today with the right mindset, I knew I could do it & I did :)! Thank you all for supporting me through this journey! 

-Dusty

Happy Thanksgiving

So tHaNkFul for my family!

Thanksgiving dinner at Keesler AFB. 

Mindset... Half the battle

     

Days 26 A long drive!

My day started at 12:30am! We left for a 14 hour drive South to Biloxi, Mississippi to see my oldest son Austin. I agreed to start the drive while the boys watched movies & slept. I drank 3 cups of coffee &  a premade vanilla shake to get me through the first 4 hours & I was so excited to see Audi, I couldn't sleep anyway. I packed lots of water & veggies IP BBQ crisps & a sliced PB BAR for the the long drive. We stopped along the way for snacks & sandwiches for the boys, I was strong & stuck to veggies. After 5 bathroom stops, 6 movies, 7 cups of fresh veggies & lots of Christmas music we made it to Biloxi. I was exhausted, but couldn't wait to see Austin & catch up. 

     Since we were on the gulf we wanted some fresh seafood. We went to Half Shell a local restaurant & it was amazing. I had bacon wrapped scallops, asparagus & broccoli with unsweetened tea. The rest of the family ate Po Boys & seafood. We had a wonderful time! It makes me so proud to see my son turning into a polite grown young man. The military has definately made some changes for the better for Austin. 

     After dinner we sat around the pool, played cards & caught up. I faded fast as I only had 3 hours of sleep the night before. 

     The drive was long but so worth seeing my son! I'm happy I prepped & didn't cave into all the snacks the boys ate along the way! I've made up my mind that I'm sticking to plan! 

-Dusty

     

Day 25... Not my first time on plan :)

     If you've been following my daily blog you can see I have not shared my weight loss. That is because I haven't weighed myself. I've had a few friends & clients ask why? I have a few reasons... First, this is not my first, second but probably more like the 30th time I've restarted Ideal Protein! In the past I would weigh myself twice a day & get discouraged that I hadn't lost as much as the first time & quit. I've also lost quite a bit & played a little game where I'd try to test the waters (have some cheats) & still lose a little, then stop losing & stop the plan all together. I'm like most other dieters that get discouraged, make excuses, justify how well I've done with a cheat, but that didn't work for me & I have struggled . This time, I'm sticking to plan with no cheats, guilt or excuses. I MADE MY MIND UP!!! I was sick of the weightless game & feeling unhealthy & out of control. I'm not sure exactly when I'm going to weigh myself, but it will be before the 1st of January. I'm in control of a lot of things in a long time & I can't explain how good it feels! So if your starting plan for the first time or the 50th time don't give up! We can do it!!! 

     As for day 25, it went quick! We're leaving for vacation about 1am & I usually drive. I had a premade chocolate drink for breakfast & a peice of leftover cauliflower crust pizza for lunch & a premade cappuccino drink. I only had 2 cups of decaf today because I needed to go home and sleep for a few hours before the drive.  Lots of little errands & packing but I was sleeping by 7:00 :)

     This week is going to be a little bit of a challenge as we head to Biloxi, Mississippi to see my son Audi. I prepped with 12 baggies full of select veggies, shakes, bars & chips in my own personal cooler. The kids & Robert have their cooler full if their favorite snacks & fruit. 

     Wish me luck & good luck to you as you get through Thanksgiving. I'm so thankful that I have the will power to continue on plan, thankful for all the  support from family, coworkers & friends!  HAPPY Thanksgiving! 

-Dusty

Life as I know it...In Maintenence

 

 

I am so excited to share my freezer meal prep! I have been scouring Pinterest on Freezer meals for months. I knew it was something I was very interested in, but I needed to create a plan that would work for my family, and be able to execute it in a timely manner. (And talk Chad into my madness) I hope you guys enjoy this as much as I did. There WILL be Freezer meals 2 in the future. Yes, I loved it that much! :)

 

These Freezer Meals are geared towards Maintenance, but I highly recommend them to Families of people who are on Phase one. I have heard it all too often. "What am I going to cook my family?" Welp, here is a great tool. Make these up and have them ready on the nights that you just don't want to cook.

 

I have 9 recipes below. Two of them make more then one meal. My grocery bill was 116$. What you can get for 116$ is 9 Recipes, 12 meals, 4 servings per meal. That equals a total of 48 servings for the total of 2.41$ per serving! I'd say that is pretty darn good! :)

 

****Side note I did not buy any seasonings or spices because I already had them.****

 

Step 1-Recipes

Step 2-Label the freezer bags and write down instructions

Step 3-Grocery List and Shopping

Step 4-Prepare Meals

 Grocery List

Green peppers-2
Red peppers- 1
Zucchini- 7
Onion- 4
Red potatoes- 6
Garlic cloves- 11
Chicken breasts- 24
Tomato sauce- 7 cans
Pinto beans- 1 can
Black beans- 2 cans
Diced tomatoes- 6 cans
Frozen corn- 5 lbs.
Salsa- 2 jars
Kidney beans- 4 cans
Taco seasoning- 1 packet
Ground turkey- 4 lbs.
Yellow onion- 1
Green chilies- 1 can
Cilantro- 1 bunch
Mixed bell peppers- 2 lbs.
Wheat tortillas- 6
Red onion- 1
Chives- 1 bunch
Basil- 1 bunch
Stewed tomatoes- 1 can
Vegetable broth- 2 cans.
Carrots- 8
Eggplant- 1
Frozen peas- 1 lb.
Mushrooms- ½ lb.
Celery- 1 bunch
Raw spinach- 1 bunch
Teriyaki sauce- 1
Walden Farms BBQ sauce- 2

Recipes

Tortilla Chicken Stew
· 1 lbs. chicken breasts
· 1 (12 oz) jar of salsa
· 1 lb frozen corn
· 1 lb mixed bell peppers
· 6 whole wheat tortillas, ripped or shredded by hand
Cook in slow cooker for low for 8-10 hours.


Chicken Taco Chili
· 1 onion, chopped
· 1 16 oz. can black beans
· 1 16 oz. can kidney beans
· 1 8 oz. can tomato sauce
· 10 oz. frozen corn
· 2 14.5 oz cans of diced tomatoes
· 1 packet taco seasoning
· 1 tbsp. cumin
· 1 tbsp. chili powder
· 3 chicken breasts
· Chopped cilantro
· Chili peppers (optional)
Cook in slow cooker on low for 10 hours or high for 6 hours.


BBQ Chicken and Veggies
· 2 green peppers, chopped
· 1 red pepper, chopped
· 1 zucchini, chopped
· 3 onions chopped
· 6 red potatoes, chopped
· 4 garlic cloves, chopped
· 4 chicken breasts
· 1 15 oz. can of tomato sauce
· 1 tbsp. Splenda brown sugar
· 1 bottle of Walden Farms BBQ sauce
Split ingredients into two bags (yay for two meals!)
Cook in slow cooker on high for 4 hours or low for 8 hours


Minestrone Soup
· 1 red onion
· 4 cloves of garlic
· 1 small bunch of chives
· 1 medium bunch of basil
· 3 15 oz. cans of tomato sauce
· 1 28 oz. can stewed tomatoes
· 2 32 oz. cartons of vegetable broth
· 6 large carrots
· 1 lb. zucchini
· 1 small eggplant
· 2 15 oz. cans of kidney beans
· 1 lb. frozen peas
· 1 lb. frozen corn
· ½ lbs. mushrooms
· 5 stocks of celery
· 2 tbs. extra virgin olive oil
Chop. Add all ingredients into bag. This makes tons of soup and had to be divided into 3 bags (yay for 3 meals!) Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Add dry pasta noodles during the last 30 minutes of cooking.


Southwestern 2 Bean Chicken
· 4 chicken breasts
· 1 15 oz. can pinto beans
· 1 15 oz. can black beans
· 1 28 oz. can diced tomatoes
· 1 lb. frozen corn
· 1 12 oz. jar of salsa
Cook on low for 5-7 hours.


Turkey Chili
· 1 lb. ground turkey
· 10 oz. frozen corn
· 1 yellow onion
· 28 oz. diced tomatoes
· 16 oz. tomato sauce
· 4.5 oz. chopped green chilies
· 15 oz. red kidney beans
· 2 tbs. cilantro
· 2 tbs. chili powder
· 1.5 tsp. red pepper flakes
Cook on low for 4-6 hours.


Teriyaki Chicken
· 6 boneless chicken breasts
· 1 cup teriyaki sauce
· 1 cup water
· 2/3 cup brown sugar
· 3 cloves of garlic
Cook on low for 4-6 hours.


Sweet BBQ Chicken
· 4 chicken breasts
· 12 oz. bottle of BBQ sauce
· ½ cup brown sugar
· ¼ cup vinegar
· 1 tsp. Cayenne Pepper
· 1 tsp. garlic powder
Cook on low for 4-6 hours.


Super Food Rotini
· 1 lbs. lean ground turkey
· 1 tbs. olive oil
· 2 medium zucchini
· 2 medium carrots
· 1 15 oz. can tomato sauce
· 1 28 oz. can diced tomatoes
· ½ lb. whole wheat rotini
· 1 tbs. onion powder
· 1 tbs. garlic powder
· 1 tbs. cumin
· 2 cups raw spinach
Cook on low for 6-8 hours. Thirty minutes before done add ½ lb of rotini noodles and top with Parmesan cheese.

I leave you with this quote. It is the absolute truth. Do this for yourself. No one else. YOU deserve it!
I hope you enjoy the Freezer meals as much as I did.
XO,
Lindsay

 

Day 24... So much to do!

     Monday and Tuesday this week are going to be very busy! I started my day at 5:30am with a quick 15 minute workout on the elliptical at home. After my workout I sipped on decaf coffee and a chocolate IP shake for creamer.  I tried to organize a little and prep for vacation.  I'm not a very organized person, I start one thing and think of another and then move on and never finish what I started :( It was 7:30am and I hadn't accomplished anything, except made a big mess. When I got to work I had 200 emails to read, see clients and prep for a lunch meeting.  I had no time to think of food.

     Lunch consisted of Carlos O Kelly's and a meeting.  I was excited, I love Mexican food and taco salads! I went into the meeting with Garlic and Herb Crisps and made a big salad with lettuce, tomatoes, chicken and salsa.  I have decided to have 8oz of dinner protein for lunch today. It hit the spot, It made my Monday that much better!
     We are currently in the process of hiring a new receptionist for our Diet Center, Nicole is going back to school full time.  Today we had a few interviews and job shadows, it has been a lot of fun meeting new potential coworkers.  We have been very lucky to have some wonderful applicants. As I perform some of these interviews and meet new people,  It makes me so thankful and happy to be employed by Innovative Aesthetics! I really enjoy coming to work everyday! I am where I'm suppose to be! While at the Diet Center we put up the Christmas tree and Holiday decorations.  It looked beautiful!

     After work Robert and I attended Riley's school conferences.  He is a great little boy, we are very proud of him. His locker was a disaster, but that is pretty typical of any 12 year old boy. He is getting 100% in gym class and he loves lunch! Once again, pretty typical of most 12 year old boys.
     Dinner consisted of a broccoli and cheese soup mixed with 1 cup of steamed cauliflower. I was not hungry, it was difficult to finish. 
     I must say I am almost in disbelief that I have stuck to plan 100% for 24 days.  I feel so good and my shelf (hips) is getting smaller! Thank goodness! I've mentioned this quite often this time around that I'm in a different mental state.  I WILL get to my goal, I believe I can!  Happy Monday!
~Dusty

Days 22 & 23! No time to eat!

    Saturday morning started early! We had a full couple days ahead of us! I started with a extra large blue cran granata drink & a large cup of coffee. Riley had a couple basketball games and then we headed to my Dads for an early Thanksgiving feast. I went prepared with veggies, pickles, decaf coffee, a water bottle & strawberry wafer. It was a bit of a challenge turning down all the family tradition food I was use to eating every year. I could/have been known to eat almost a complete pumpkin pie & tub of cool whip.  No pie this year, I had to stay strong! If I started i knew I would eat enough to put me in a food coma. In years past I always felt completely miserable after Turkey dinner, questioning why I ate so much?!? This year I was in control, NO GUILT, just turkey & veggie tray. After dinner we headed to Chad & Lindsays to hang out & watch Elf, my favorite holiday movie. Lindsay was nice enough to make some wild berry yogurt muffins for me, they were so yummy! 

     It was a typical Sunday morning. Church, coffee, IP eggnog latte & errands. I had a 2 cup Baggie full of celery to eat throughout the day. I also had a premade Mango drink in the car for lunch. Noah & Riley also had basketball games at different locations (of course).  

     I couldn't wait for dinner! I was making turkey bacon, sauerkraut, spinach, turkey burger, mushroom, spinach pizza :)! I love this recipe. This is the first time I've used the veggie mozzarella cheese since I started this time. Today I will have 3 NON restricted IP's to cut back on carbs & calories for the day. U can use pretty much any topping, I like to load up on veggies & protein. 

      My final IP of the day was a Cherry jello. I was so full from dinner I could barely eat anything. It's very important to eat 3 IP's daily, otherwise you risk losing muscle mass. 

      I'm feeling great & happy to say I've stuck to plan! I wore a pair of jeans today that I couldn't get over my thighs a month ago, huge accomplishment! These little milestones are keeping me going:)! Lots going on this week! I'm prepared! 

-Dusty

Prepared with appetizers at Thanksgiving 

Noah shooting

Cauliflower crust pizza, YUMMY!!!

     

Day 21: It takes 21 days to form a habit! Fact or Myth?

Day 21... I've been really working hard at staying on track 100% with phase 1. My first goal was to get to the 21 day mark. I've heard that it takes 21 days to form a habit. Not sure if I'm at that point for sure? I do know that I'm in a routine, focused, avoiding temptations & feeling great! I'm in a routine of having 3 IP foods daily, eating veggies, drinking water & taking my supplements. I'm determined to make this work! http://www.forbes.com/sites/jasonselk/2013/04/15/habit-formation-the-21-day-myth/

     Today is Friday, my favorite day of the week. Not sure why, but it is so much easier to get out of bed to workout. I headed to the gym for a boot camp class. My friend Crissy invited me, neither of us had done the class before. I got there & an old friend was teaching class. I thought, this is going to be an easy class. I brought along a IP pink lemonade drink with extra water. Class started & I was feeling good! About 15 minutes into class I was sweating, sucking air & my pink lemonade was gone! I continued to workout! I had a sense of pride that I HAD to continue! I felt like an old women as I chose the less impact option! I looked at the clock multiple times & it wasn't moving! After 45 minutes & 50 burpees I was starting to see some stars. I had to throw in the towel :( I was a little defeated but passing out would have been mortifying! 

     About 9am I was already hungry. I snacked on some celery, cucumbers & chocolate shake. Today over my lunch hour I had the Go Red for Women event & I couldn't wait, I was starving! Lunch was served & there was chocolate cake, cheesecake, rolls & rice that I couldn't have but I ate the tomato stuffed pork chop & salad. It tasted wonderful!!! It could've been a piece of flavored grilled leather & I would've eaten it! The event was very motivating & very well organized. It reminded me why I truly need to make this a lifestyle change! Heart disease in females is one of the top causes of death in the US! Multiple years of being over weight & bad eating habits can really take a toll on our heart.

     When I got back to work I felt energized & my tummy was happy! After work Riley had basketball at the new Team Iowa facility. Unfortunately there wasn't much for me at the concession stand. I ate some Salt & Vinegar Crisps while watching the game. On our way home we stopped at Pita'z & I had the Mediterranean grilled chicken salad. Noah ate a double cheeseburger & fries. http://m.pitazhiawatha.com/ My family wanted Tomaso's. I refused, I didn't want to fight the temptation of sensory overload! The sight & smell of pizza is a definite trigger! 

     My first goal has been reached! I'm sticking with my new formed habit:)! My next goal is getting through the Thanksgiving holiday & vacation. I CAN DO IT!!!

-Dusty

Day 20, Coffee, Java, Joe, George :)

     My day started with a trip to the gym.  It was a struggle but I made it. My workout consisted of 30 minutes on the treadmill, planks for 2 minutes and some crunches. I took along a blue cran granata to drink as I worked out.  When I got home I couldn't wait for my morning cup of coffee! I truly look forward to it! It is the only real splurge, cheat that I have left. I don't drink any alcohol, eat chocolate or chips and guacamole, not even a taste.
     Another busy long fun day at work! I honestly love going to work everyday! I love helping clients, hearing about success stories, new recipes and having clients get off medications. I had a huge lettuce salad and BBQ crisps for lunch with some leftover veggies from yesterdays veggie platter.  The peppers and cucumbers were great! The mushrooms were a different story! I don't know if it was a bad batch or what? They smelled like dog breath!!! I was a little desperate around 3 for some food and I actually tried one. It tasted like dog breath smells!!! AWFUL! I think I will take a little break from mushrooms. 
     Mid afternoon a coworker brought me a cup of coffee from Brewemia and then around 5 another coworker brought me a bag of holiday blend coffee.  I was grinning from ear to ear. If you want a little history on coffee follow the link.  I thought I should do a little research on something that I am learning to love so much! Maybe a little to much :)  http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/cup_of_joe
     I drove past Arby's on my way home and I thought of the Reuben I use to eat often and thought about how great that it tasted.  When I got home I was still having a craving for a Reuben.  I made a little 'fake' reuben...  I scrambled 2 large eggs with turkey leftovers and 2 cups of sauerkraut.  After it was done I added 2 Tbsp of Walden Farms Thousand Island dressing.  It was so good and easy. Robert said it smelled like a toot (lack of better word) but I didn't care! It was delish!
     We got a new product in that I couldn't wait to try! NON restricted Chocolate chip pancakes.  They are super easy, you only need to add water. I enjoyed them after dinner with some WF maple syrup on them.  My day was great! I tried some new recipes/products and I stayed on track! Feeling great! In control! No regrets!
~Dusty

Dog breath mushrooms :(

Chocolate chip pancakes! Yumm

Day 19! Thanksgiving feast!

      It is Wednesday and day 19 100% on plan! Every Wednesday at Innovative we have samples of IP foods or a recipe for clients to try.  Today we all agreed to make a "Thanksgiving" food for clients. We had quite the layout of food.  Some of my favorites! Deviled eggs, green bean casserole, party potatoes and of course eggnog latte. All of the recipes are on our facebook page in the notes section.  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ideal-Protein-at-Innovative-Aesthetics/167603119988839  I had a premade chocolate shake for breakfast and 32 ounces of water before I left the house. I was excited to get to work and sample some of the recipes. My plan today was to eat little bits throughout the day as if it was Thanksgiving :)! It was also a very busy day and no set time for lunch so that is exactly what I did, I grazed throughout the day, ate veggies off the veggie platter and drank lots of water.
    This can be a very tough time of year for ALL of us.  Although Thanksgiving and Christmas are just 2 days there are lots of gatherings, gifts, parties and family traditions that take up multiple days. There is also some added stressors... I personally call them triggers. Money, weather, travel, family, work, cooking, decorating, cranky people, employees etc.  Sometimes a piece of chocolate or a glass (or 3) of wine just helps (we think)?!? I'm planning for these triggers this year! My experience is that not only does the wine or chocolate not help, I would have some major guilt if I had a cheat. I don't need that added stress! This year I am going to carry a Restricted Raspberry bar with me and a bottle of sparkling ice in my purse.  I pretend it is a glass of champagne, we can wish can't we?!?
     The day flew by and I wasn't hungry when I got home at 8pm.  Robert had picked me up a Rotisserie chicken but I decided to have a non restricted cappuccino drink instead.  So today I had 4 non restricted IP foods.  This is an option for you if your to busy to eat, or not hungry. Your body needs the protein, if your not eating enough and feeding your muscles you will lose muscle mass not fat.  I want my fat to go away!!! I was mentally and physically exhausted, I had my vitamins and a glass of sleepy time tea to help me relax and off to bed I went. 
     I am so happy that I have stuck to plan 100% so far! I plan to get to my goal without any guilt! If your reading this and working on a goal keep it up! Your final reward is so much more satisfying than a cheat!  We can do this together! If it's important to you, you can do it!
~Dusty

 Thanksgiving at Innovative Aesthetics

Day 18! Dealing with Ketosis breath :(

     Day 18... Almost every morning Robert is up before me and leaves for work.  He has mentioned to me a few times that my breath smells funny.  "Thanks, I tell him it is ketosis breath :) " That's a good thing! When he gave me a kiss this morning he said it was extra bad.  I think it was a combo of all the Garlic Mrs Dash I have been putting on everything and ketosis. I told him to kiss me on the cheek until I get to my goal. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/180858.php Ketosis on Ideal Protein is a good thing.  It means that you have overall extinguished most of the carbs and sugar out of your system and your burning fat.  As I have mentioned I HAVE NOT weighed myself yet.  I know I'm sticking to plan, my clothes are getting loose and my breath is AWFUL! Due to ketosis :) I have been brushing my teeth more, mouth washing and using fresh mint in my water. I also purchased some gum at Fresh Market that is sweetened with Sucralose.  The flavor lasts about .2 seconds and my jaw gets a great workout because it feels like I'm chewing on a piece of leather. The only gum that I have found is Trident cinnamon that does not have Aspertame. Robert not liking my breath is the least of my worries right now, sorry Robert, muah!!!
     I started with a wildberry yogurt drink and a handful of spinach, I was in the mood for some fruit. This is a thick filling shake and I'm starting to get a little tired of veggies throughout the day. I added some ice and put in my blender.  I waited to have coffee today, thinking if I start later I will drink less.  Not sure if it was mental or what, but I felt like a zombie until I had a cup at 11am. I snapped out of zombie mode as soon as the coffee hit my mouth! 
     Lunch consisted of a meeting and I was able to choose off the menu at CRCC. I planned on having my dinner protein for lunch since I didn't want to pass up a great meal :) I chose 6oz of grilled salmon salad, no cheese, no dressing. It was AMAZING!!! I love grilled salmon and it was prepared perfectly! The lunch meeting went very well and I pretty much licked my plate clean.
     Mid afternoon I had a premade caramel pudding. It was a busy afternoon and I didn't have much time to plan.  The pudding is a new product, it kind of tastes like butterscotch. The convenience of having it premade and cold is perfect for a busy afternoon.
     Noah had a basketball game and Robert was loudly eating a bag of popcorn in my ear. I got out a Strawberry Wafer and enjoyed that during the game. Popcorn is still one of the foods that I crave daily!
     After we got home Robert had some leftovers and I stunk up the house with mashed cauliflower.  I washed it and stuck it in the microwave for 10 minutes then mashed.  I then added 1 oz of chopped turkey bacon, 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce, minced onion and garlic powder.  It was so delicious! I almost ate it all and Noah was a little upset that I didn't save him more. 
     As we head into the real EATING Holidays I am keeping my mind made up that I'm sticking to plan 100%. I have multiple speed bumps coming up this month!!! Vacation to Biloxi, Thanksgiving, painting, packing and moving just to name a few... I know that I can't have ANY cheats! If I do, I'm done :( I have a goal in mind and I'm sticking to plan until the goal is reached. If I make excuses, to me it means that this isn't important enough.  My health and the way I feel is important :) Another day complete! Woot Woot, fist pump :)

CRCC Salmon Salad

I'm determined!!!

What Robert says my breath is like :/

~Dusty

Day 17! Just another Manic Monday!

     My Monday started with my alarm going off at 5am... BOOOO, Noah had early morning basketball practice and I didn't want to go out in the 16* temps.  I bundled up in Roberts boots, his hat and gloves and my big thick robe.  I looked absolutely ridiculous but I was warm and didn't care, no one besides Noah was going to see me :) When I got home I was frozen to the bone.  My options were to crawl into bed with my freezing hands and feet and put them on Robert or workout? I decided to be nice and keep my frozen appendages to myself.  I stretched a little and worked out on the elliptical for 30 minutes. I made the cappuccino IP drink warm and a cup of coffee. I was out of the vanilla premade drink and was a little bummed that I couldn't have my new favorite eggnog latte. When I got to work I was greeted with a nice note from Lind's, it started my day off with a smile :)

    My preparation skills were lacking this weekend. As I hurried out the door I grabbed some radishes, zucchini and a bag of lettuce for lunch.  The radishes were a little questionable, they have been in the fridge for a week. I will give them a try anyway.

     It was freezing outside and I couldn't seem to warm up all day. For lunch I made the chicken noodle soup and added some zucchini. It was filling and warmed me up, perfect for a cold windy day. The radishes were extra spicy, not sure if that was because they were old? I had a few minutes over my lunch and I was recommended by a friend to read an article about change... http://stepupprogram.org/docs/handouts/STEPUP_Stages_of_Change.pdf I need to realize that this program has a process and following these steps will probably help with long term success.
     It was a busy Monday evening... Noah had basketball practice and a vocal concert.  Lindsay also invited us over for a Phase 1 approved dinner! I was so excited! I didn't have to think about dinner or cook anything :)! Lindsay is not only my coworker, she is my cousin and a wonderful friend. She is one of my biggest supporters in all aspects of my life. I know she would be there for me no matter what! She lives and breaths Ideal Protein at Innovative Aesthetics as I do :)
     Dinner consisted of chicken fajitas in the crock pot. 

After Noah's vocal concert I was frozen. I made some apple oatmeal with a cup of shredded zucchini & rhubarb. It was the perfect ending to a great Monday. Life on Ideal Protein is going very well. I'm feeling good and happy that I have not strayed off plan.  I'm focusing on today and not worrying about the upcoming holidays just yet.  

Staying strong and keeping the finish line in mind.

~Dusty 

     

      

WeeKenD! Days 15 & 16!

     Weekends in the past have been very hard for me! I'm past the difficult 2 week startup roller coaster stage. Not sure if it's that I have a different outlook this time around? OR the thought of myself standing in front of everyone at Chad & Lindsays wedding this Spring?!? I'm in a different place mentally. I'm almost having a tough time eating all the required food!   

     Both Saturday & Sunday I started the day with my new favorite IP eggnog latte. Yummy!!! I could drink it 3 times a day but I need to watch the coffee intake. Lots of Christmas shopping, kids practices & errands to run. I did get in a short HIIT workout in both days. 

     Noah wanted to go to Texas Roadhouse for lunch & I hesitated because I could easily eat 4 bread rolls myself. I took him anyway! I enjoyed a premade strawberry banana drink & a side salad. He enjoyed bread rolls, peanuts & cheese fries with a big smile :) I was ok, I'd much rather see the rolls in the basket than around my waistline! 

     For dinner Saturday night Robert made a roast in the crockpot & mashed turnips for my side. Sunday he made a turkey in the oven. I know, he sounds wonderful!!! I think he's cooking more now so he gets mentioned ;). I'm pretty lucky! 

    My days are pretty easy on plan! No cheating for me! No need to make excuses or lie to myself that way! Feeling great & my clothes no are no longer cutting me in half :)! 

Noah enjoying TR biscuits 

Daily Quote! I read this often!!

Trying to smile & not look like a weirdo on the elliptical at the gym :)

Day 14! It's officially 2 weeks!

     I woke up today with a huge sense of accomplishment! First, it's my oldest sons 19th Birthday. With the help of some wonderful family members & his Dad, Austin is a brave, polite, funny, handsome young man. I have also been back on plan for 2 FULL NON CHEAT weeks! No cheese, almonds, alcohol or chocolate! I have kept my guard up & stayed on the straight & narrow. I know that if I have little cheats they lead into big cheats then the plan is over. I don't want it to be done, to have to start all over again. I know that I'm in control of my actions & my body.  I'm over the poor me phase & why did I gain weight again phase. I'm doing it!!! Today is going to be a great day & it's Friday! 

     It's freezing outside & I start with a cup of Java & maple oatmeal with some frozen unsweetened rhubarb. I put the rhubarb in the microwave with a little cinnamon & 6oz water for 1 minute & add the oatmeal. It's nice & warm in my tummy. 

     I get to work & it's a busy morning. I am hungry & I just realized that I left my lunch on the table at home:( I called a local restaurant 'Beef o Brady's' & ordered a grilled buffalo chicken salad with salsa. No ranch, cheese or croutons. I'm planning on flipping dinner & lunch today. The salad was Delish! 

     I was the only one in the office this afternoon & it was very busy. No time to think about food. 

     After work Robert & I headed to the grocery store. I ate a cookies & cream bar on the way so I was less tempted to get something off plan. I ran into 6 IP clients & helped them find some random foods & drinks I'd mentioned in the past. I enjoy it when I'm out & about & can offer a client/friend some help. Robert just wandered the store while I talked :) 

     Robert wanted pizza for dinner, one of my favorite foods. Since I'd already eaten protein for the day,  I sautéed a bunch of veggies & made the IP herb & cheese omelet. Not quite the satisfaction of pizza, but stayed on plan. 

     2 weeks down, a few to go! Feeling great! I can do this:)! 

-Dusty

                 Austin & I 1995 ❤️

 

Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, jalapeño, red peppers ,1 slice of turkey & IP omelet=Dinner! 

     

    

Day 13 BRRRRRR!

     BRRRRRR!!! I'm not ready for this cold weather! I know, I know we live in Iowa. Not sure if I will ever get use to the cold weather. It's getting worse as I get older :( I woke up at 5:00am to go to the gym but was to cold to get out of bed. I turned on my heated blanket and snuggled back in for an hour. When I got up I put Pandora on Bluetooth and played Fitz and the Tantrums station. This is a GREAT station, maybe because it reminds me of Audi, most of his favorite bands are played on this station. After 30 minutes my fleece pj's were getting sweaty. I am getting to my goal of 3 workouts this week, almost there!
     September and October I love everything pumpkin! November and December I love everything eggnog and peppermint. Today at Starbucks they have 2 for 1 from 2-5pm. I would love to get a mint mocha and an egg nog latte, but I can't.  I need to figure out some alternatives... For breakfast I made some coffee and a chocolate shake with 2 drops of mint extract. I combined all the ingredients for a guilt free mint chocolate mocha. Yummo! Tasted so good! It went well with the snow flakes falling outside. 
     I bundled up and headed into work with a bag of chopped lettuce and a jar of pickles.  Thank goodness we can eat pickles as part of our veggies on IP! It has saved my hunger pains on multiple occasions. I made a deal with myself that after I drank 50oz of water today I could attempt an egg nog latte. I ran over to Hy Vee for the ingredients. I mall walked past Lance, the Starbucks guy that helps me often. I wanted to avoid temptation. Lance said "Hi, Dusty, we have your favorites today, buy one get one free, will you be back at 2?" "not today Lance" and I quickly waived, smiled and tried not to make to much of eye contact. He looked at me like I was sick or something. :( I will get to have my favorites again soon enough.  After getting back to work I chugged the final 50oz of water I set as my goal. Then I attempted an eggnog latte using the IP vanilla pudding. BAD, BAD, BAD! Not sure if I did something wrong? It curdled and the clumps floated to the top when I added the hot coffee. Of course I tried it, not a good idea. Then I tried it with premade vanilla! It turned out! I felt like a genius! I just created the next holiday drink :)! No real rum tho!
Eggnog non restricted IP
1 Ideal Protein Readymade Vanilla Drink
1 Drop of Rum Extract
1 Drop Vanilla extract
Sprinkle of Nutmeg and Cinnamon to Taste
Mix all ingredients and add hot coffee!
     After work I was starving and not wanting to cook dinner. Robert was at a friends watching the Dolphins game and kids were at practice. I stopped and picked up a Jimmy Johns unwich. Like I said, I was starving and I hate to admit this but I ordered the gargantuan, no cheese or mayo. It filled me up and there were no dishes to clean up!
     I ended the day with a cup of sleepy time tea and a peanut butter bar. Another day done! I feel good overall, a few temptations, but nothing I can't resist. Tomorrow is 2 full weeks, it gets a lot easier right?!?
~Dusty

Still smiling & keeping a positive attitude! 

Day 12! Anniversary :)

     Today is me and Roberts wedding anniversary.  Robert makes me coffee every morning and gives me a kiss goodbye no matter what, even if he's not happy with me. On special days such as an Anniversary he really tries to do something a little extra special.  I woke to my coffee mug, cinnamon and splenda out & ready for the Keurig. He put out a packet of peach mango next to my shaker bottle so I didn't have to even think about getting anything ready. He also had some flowers on the table with a note telling me how special I am to him. These little things are PERFECT for me! Robert has a great sense of humor and he has a romantic side as well :)
     It was a busy long day at work.  Lunch consisted of select veggie soup made by our amazing chef at work Janette and a side salad. The day flew! I munched on some celery throughout the day and had a bag of chips mid afternoon.
     After work Robert wanted to make me a phase 1 approved dinner.  So he made me 8oz beef tenderloin with sautéed mushrooms and green peppers on top, bacon wrapped asparagus, wedge salad with WF blue cheese dressing and a big glass of sparkling water.  I was in heaven! It is my favorite meal, I could eat it daily.  We exchanged gifts and watched a movie :) Pretty lame but perfect for us.
     I ended with some vanilla pudding that Robert had put in the freezer and topped with warmed up WF chocolate syrup. My day was complete! I was a little worried since I usually have cheesecake on our Anniversary, no worries tho.  I stuck to plan and I'm feeling amazing!
~Dusty

    

    

Day 11! Happy Veterans Day!

     Day 11, it's Veterans day and the day that my Grandma Ackley passed away just 4 short years ago. I think I can speak for everyone that knew her when I say that she was an AMAZING women.  She always had a smile on her face, she was a hard worker and never in to much of a hurry for a hug! Not a day goes by that I don't think of her! I am happy for the memories and superstitions :) that I have today because of her! Today is also Veterans Day, I have always been patriotic and happy to be an American.  This year it is hitting a little closer to home for me.  My son Audi is in the Air Force and the thought that my little boy is serving ME and our country puts a lump in my throat.  It makes me so much more proud to be an American and so much more thankful for all my family and friends that have served for our country! If your reading this and a Vet, Thank you!!!
     Some flurries were flying as I made my morning cup of coffee. So I thought it would be a good day for some Maple oatmeal and fruit. Wait, I can't have fruit :( I CAN have frozen unsweetened rhubarb! That is considered a 'select veggie' it's very low on the glycemic index. The oatmeal is a good comfort, tummy warming/filling breakfast.
     The morning zips by and it's time for lunch already.  Last night I boiled a couple packets of non restricted rotini and added the Walden farms zesty Italian dressing with a bunch of select veggies. I divided them up into 4 containers for the week. For lunch I dumped the rotini over some shredded lettuce and I was ready to eat. I set an alarm on my phone so that I drink the daily required water, otherwise I forget. Mid afternoon I was a little hungry so I went for some spicy pickles and made myself a cup of apple cinnamon decaf tea.  Noah had a game and I didn't want to walk into the gym hungry and craving popcorn.
     Robert and Noah wanted Hy Vee Chinese express for dinner. Rather than depriving myself  I decided to make my own Chinese dinner.  I picked up a rotisserie chicken from Hy Vee and a head of cauliflower. I decided to make chicken fried rice :)
Ingredients:

1. Head of cauliflower “riced” either had grate the cauliflower or run through the food processor
2. 1/4 of a cup of freshly squeezed lime juice
3. 1 tsp pepper
4. 3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
5. 3 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
6. 1 scrambled egg

Directions:
In a skillet sautee riced cauliflower until tender.
Stir in lime juice, pepper, low sodium soy sauce, scrambled egg and cilantro.
Mix in chicken
Enjoy!

After dinner the boys were eating brownies so I decided I wanted a brownie as well! I warmed up the IP DOUBLE restricted brownie for 15 seconds and topped it with some Walden Farms Carmel syrup. It was delicious!
     My day ended with a call to my Airman and a prayer to Grandma Ackley.  Today was a good day :)
~Dusty

My son Austin

Grandma & Grandpa Ackley

Rotini & select veggies