2009 Neighborhood Postcard Swap

Here is Kaye's other assistant Keeper Kitty with her postcards from the 2008 swap

(As posted by my new assistant Camie in the Neighborhood)

Hello.

This is my first post to the Neighborhood and my first Neighborhood assignment as Kayes assistant.

You are invited to join the second annual Neighborhood Postcard Swap and travel the world without leaving home. How it works:

Select 5 postcards from your local area, write a greeting on them signing your Neighborhood name and apply postage. (.28/cents domestic postage). Do not address the postcards, I will do that for you. Place the postcards in an envelope and mail to me at address below. Include a note with your name and postal address so I will know where to send your swap postcards. When we have received all the postcards I will address and send out postcards to all participants. So in exchange for your five postcards you will receive 5 postcards from your neighbors! Your name and address will only be seen by me and/or Kaye and never sold or used for solicitatin. International participants are encouraged to join the swap. And post on this thread so we know who is playing.

Deadline: August 20th!!!

Send postcards to:
LivingAfterWLS
Attn: Camie
PO Box 311
Evanston, wY 82931

Savory Provence Grilled Leg of Lamb

Hello Neighbors!

Tonight it is happy grilling at our place. I've got a butterflied leg of lamb on the gas grill over indirect heat.

Did you know that lamb is the most widely consumed animal protein in the world? In fact humans have spent the last 1,000 years getting the seasonings and cooking technique just right. Lamb is a staple in the southern hemisphere -- my grandkids tell me the best lamb they have enjoyed was last year when they traveled to New Zealand. Africa, India and the Mediterranean countries all have signature methods of preparing and enjoying lamb.

According to George Mateljan at The World's Healthiest Food, "Americans eat a fraction of the amount of lamb consumed in many other countries in the world. And that's too bad since this red meat is very healthful and extremely delicious, having a very tender and buttery quality." Read more about lamb at World's Healthiest foods.

Today I prepared the leg of lamb in the Mediterranean tradition with a marinade of our own You Have Arrived Savory Provence herb blend and olive oil. This sodium-free blend with contains rosemary, thyme, savory, lavender, & other herbs. I combined 2 tablespoons of Savory Provence with 1/4 cup of olive oil and rubbed the lamb with it this morning, then wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerated until grilling time. I have tossed chunks of onion and summer squash (zucchini) with the same mix of olive oil and Savory Provence to grill after the lamb is done while it is resting.

Get the Savory Provence blend in our General Store

A 4-ounce serving of lamb and 3-4 bites of grilled veggies will be more than enough to keep me full and happy for the evening. A 4-ounce (114 grams) serving of lamb contains 229 calories and 30grams of protein. Lamb is a rich source of tryptophan, a valuable amino acid most famous for inducing sleep. More importantly, lamb is a terrific source of selenium, vitamin B12, niacin, zinc and phosphorus.

The USDA recommends for safety reasons that lamb is cooked until it is medium rare indicated by an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. Old school cooks generally overcooked lamb which is frequently called "gray lamb". Lamb tastes best when it is hot as this tames the "lamby" or fatty taste that is often off-putting to the palate. A sweet fruit chutney or sauce or the classic mint jelly is a welcome accompaniment to lamb.

For more great protein happy recipes visit the LivingAfterWLS Kitchen.

Have a great evening! I'm off to check the grill!

Stretching After Walking

Walking Guide $4.65 in the General Store

Hello Neighbors!

As you may remember I did the 5 Day Pouch Test during the week of June 22 and incorporated our new LivingAfterWLS Walking program into my daily routine. This is week 4 of the program and includes a 20 minute walk each day for 6 of 7 days. Twenty minutes is such a great number! We can do ANYTHING for 20 minutes! This morning my walk included taking puppy for a big loop around the pond and back up the hill. He circled me twice but I kept plugging along at a steady pace and all was right with the world.

As our Walking Guide & Daily Log instructs us, warm-up and stretching are a vital part to any walking program. As the guide tells us on page 29,

"The RIGHT way to Stretch:

• Relax into the stretch
• Never force the stretch, and never bounce
• Hold the stretch 5-10 seconds, ease off the stretch, then relax into the stretch once again for another 5-10 seconds
• Take a relaxing breath as you start each stretch. Inhale through the nose, exhale slowly through the mouth
• Keep your shoulders relaxed at all times

Most injuries during stretching occur due to improper stretching technique. Remember to be gentle, relax, and never force a stretch."

How is your walking program going this week?

Smart Fitness - Walking
by Kaye Bailey - LivingAfterWLS Library

"Step for step, mile for mile, walking is the best cardiovascular activity you can include as part of your weight loss surgery success story. Walking is easy, accessible, inexpensive, individual and effective. It is the gold-star sport for real people with real lives. Formerly stigmatized as cheap transportation and a senior citizens’ sport it is now a credible and fashionable form of exercise. And it’s been around for a long time – anthropoids stood upright and put one foot in front of the other thousands of years ago and we haven’t looked back since."

Read the Full Article

5 Day Pouch Test Dangerous: Kaye Answers

by Kaye Bailey
Since the 5 Day Pouch Test was introduced thousands of people have taken control of their surgical weight loss tool by following this basic 5-day plan. The plan, which started as a simple blog post in 2007, now has a website, a blog, and over 2,000 copies of the "Owner's Manual" have been sold to people around the world. The plan and book have received positive acclaim and I am thrilled that so many people have benefited from the program.

Every now and then criticism comes along and as a researcher and writer I expect that. Recently the criticism is that the plan is dangerous and nothing more than a fad diet. Today I will put your mind at rest that you can safely and smartly use this plan to accomplish the goals and lifestyle changes that inspired you to have weight loss surgery in the first place.

Order the 5DPT Owner's Manual - $22.95

The plan, when followed as written, is not dangerous. Often patients who have gained weight or feel like their pouch is no longer working are told by their medical professionals, "You just need to get back to basics." The patient, who is already suffering feelings of failure or frustration, leaves the office feeling even worse. So they jump, cold turkey, back to high protein eating without a transitional phase from a carbohydrate cycle. This is physiological disaster not unlike a smoker going cold turkey off nicotine. When the carb cravings become unbearable we, out of necessity, reach for the comfort food and feel physically better but mentally tormented at our lack of will power.

Read More

Easy Chicken Chasseur

(At left, Tarragon is widely used in classic French cooking for a variety of dishes including chicken, fish and vegetables, as well as many sauces, the best known being Bernaise.)

I love the flavors of tarragon and cooking sherry together - so Continental! And can we ever get enough chicken recipes? This "Easy Chicken Chasseur" comes from Taste of Home Healthy Cooking April-May 2009 issue. After trying it last night I can happily report it is delicious! For the starch eaters in your family serve with rice. But for the tiny-tummies enjoy as is. I can assure you a nutritionally balanced meal and a happy pouch. CHEERS!

From Food Dictionary.com:

chasseur sauce
[shah-SUR]
1. French for "hunter," chasseur sauce is a hunter-style brown sauce consisting of mushrooms, shallots and white wine (sometimes tomatoes and parsley). It's most often served with game and other meats. 2. Dishes prepared in a chasseur style are garnished with sautéed mushrooms and shallots.

Easy Chicken Chasseur
Serves 4 -- Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients:
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch strips
4 teaspoons olive oil, divided
1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
3 green onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth
1/2 cup sherry or reduced sodium chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 medium tomatoes cut into wedges and seeded

Directions:
Place cornstarch in a large resealable plastic bag. Add the chicken, a few pieces at a time, and shake to coat. In a large nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray, brown chicken in 2 teaspoons oil. Remove and set aside.

In the same skillet, cook and stir mushrooms and onions in remaining oil until tender. Add the broth, sherry and seasonings; bring to a boil. Carefully return chicken to the pan; simmer uncovered, for 4-6 minutes or until chicken is no longer pink. Stir in tomatoes; heat through. Serve with rice if desired.

Serves 4. Per serving (without rice): 260 calories, 25g protein, 7g fat (1 saturated), 18g carbohydrate.
Diabetic Exchanges: 3 very lean meat. 1 starch. 1 vegetable. 1 fat.

The Mugs Have Arrived

Hello Neighbors!

The much anticipated "You Have Arrived" 16-ounce Bistro mugs have arrived at LivingAfterWLS headquarters and they are ready for shipping today! Sale priced at just $10.25 these gorgeous mugs are a terrific at-your-fingertips reminder to celebrate every day of this wonderful journey. Now is everything and the "You Have Arrived" motto is a constant reminder to live in the now. Jump over to the LivingAfterWLS General Store and get your mug today! Free "You Have Arrived" postcard with our full motto with every order.

"Whatever else you have on your mind,
Wherever else you think you're going,
Stop for a moment and look where you are:
You Have Arrived!"

CHEERS!

Click Here to Get Your Mug

Spices & Herbs to Soothe Indigestion

Hello Neighbors!

It is not uncommon, after surgical weight loss, to experience frequent bouts of indigestion or mild stomach discomfort. We simply do not have enough digestive enzymes. Foods that may cause indigestion tend to be processed simple carbohydrates or high in fat. Often we turn to over-the-counter digestive aids that may or may not help. Some actually do more harm because they are time released made for people with a full intestinal tract and our short-circuit systems cannot handle them either.

But what I've learned over the last 10 years of tending my tiny stomach pouch is that food mindfully prepared with limited fat and processed ingredients, and rich in protein seasoned and flavored with herbs and spices seldom results in stomach upset.

Recently we cooked pork ribs over the charcoal grill, seasoned with the You Have Arrived Grilling Blend. The Grilling Blend marries the smoky flavor of paprika with garlic, onion and a hint of cinnamon and ginger for a flavorful but not overtly spicy blend. We trimmed the fat and dry-rubbed the ribs with the Grilling blend, covered and allowed them to sit overnight refrigerated. Then we slow cooked them over low heat to 160F internal temperature. They were delicious. My stepson said he liked the Grilling blend but wasn't sure he understood or liked the flavor of cinnamon and ginger that makes this seasoning special. I explained to him:

"Cinnamon and Ginger are carminative herbs that contain compounds that can soothe the stomach and prevent gas. They are ideal for preventing and treating indigestion. That is the reason we included them in our seasoning blends: to give our tiny pouches a boost when it comes to digestion and prevent stomach upset that might otherwise occur."

In reviewing the culinary history of the world we learn that ginger has been the herb of choice for seasoning fish and seafood. Recipes date back thousands of years in China's history, to when fish and seafood weren't always fresh and often caused indigestion or worse. James A. Duke in "The Green Pharmacy" tells us, "Ancient Chinese cooks discovered that if they flavored their fish with ginger, it was less likely to cause stomach upset. Ginger has been the spice of choice for fish ever since." (Rodale Copyright 2001 - Page 103).

I think as people recovering from morbid obesity we owe it to ourselves to take advantage of the best natural remedies whenever possible. I believe this with all my heart. I learned so much about using herbs and spices as natural healers while researching and developing the You Have Arrived seasoning line. And that research taught me it is possible to achieve nutritional balance, in most cases, with the inclusion of the best ingredients in mindfully prepared meals. Don't you agree?

In addition to cinnamon and ginger the following carminative herbs can be included in the diet to avoid and/or relieve stomach distress:

anise, cardamom, chamomile, cilantro, coriander, lavender, lemon balm, licorice, peppermint, red pepper, and spearmint.

Peppermint may very well be the best digestive herb available. It is antibacterial and will fight-off food borne bugs. It promotes gastric secretions so you digest food more efficiently. It is antispasmodic, helping to prevent and relieve abdominal cramps and it is carminative to settle the stomach and prevent gas. Try a nice cup of peppermint tea one hour before meals and see how it works for you.

Visit the LivingAfterWLS General Store for a full selection of our Seasoning Blends

Dumping Syndrome Revisited

Recently Ky, author of Turtle + Butterfly = Turtlefly Adventures left this comment on the LivingAfterWLS General Store post:

"Hello. I found your blog tonight after reading your article, "Dumping Syndrome: The Dirty Secret Gastric Bypass Patients Keep". I found your article doing a google search on dumping syndrome. I am 2 years 1 month post op (Gastric Bypass) and lost 205 lbs which I have also kept off. I haven't however been able to avoid dumping and your description of how you dump almost mirrors mine. I have become very frustrated, and just wanted to say that when I read your article I didn't feel so isolated or alone. Thank you for sharing your journey and helping me to know that there isn't something wrong with me - but rather that I need to focus on the basics in order to avoid this very uncomfortable and distressing consequence of WLS. Anyway - thank you again."

It has been a long time since we talked about Dumping Syndrome on this Blog so it seems appropriate to drag out this old article from my syndication library. This is the article to which Ky refers. I still dump occasionally, still don't know why all the time. But the more I follow the Four Rules the less it happens. Take a look at this article and let me know about your experience with dumping syndrome.

Dumping Syndrome: The Dirty Secret Gastric Bypass Patients Keep
By Kaye Bailey

Dumping syndrome is an effective result of the gastric bypass system which alerts the body of inappropriate eating. Dumping syndrome is described as a shock-like state when small, easily absorbed food particles rapidly dump into the digestive system. This results in a very unpleasant feeling with symptoms such as a cold clammy sweat, pallor, butterflies in the stomach and a pounding pulse. These symptoms may be followed by cramps and diarrhea. This state can last for 30-60 minutes and is quite uncomfortable.

That was the clinical description of dumping.

This is what I experience when I dump: shortly after eating a food I don’t tolerate (sugar, milk, sugary milk products or starchy carbs) I begin to feel a bit disoriented, maybe dizzy and then an overall sense of confusion or panic takes over my mind and body. This is a mild state of delirium. Then I begin sweating. Profuse sweating that can completely soak my hair, my clothes; it drips and glistens on my skin. During this state of sweaty panic I feel like I’m out of my mind! A few times during extremely dramatic dumping episodes I literally thought I was dying, the state of distress was that severe.

At this point during a dumping episode I have learned it is best to lie down on my side and let it nature take its course. The body is efficiently, albeit painfully, correcting a chemical imbalance in the cell system. It takes great presence of mind to calm myself and lay down, but even in a state of near-delirium I now know this is the only action to be taken. I know the event is passing when the sense of panic is replaced by exhaustion and cold chills instead of sweating. Occasionally I have suffered diarrhea at this point. If I have the luxury I’ll try to take a nap or go to bed after dumping. If it is in the evening I’ll sleep through the night, and wake feeling like I’ve been run over by a truck.

The mild delirium associated with dumping is the result of an interruption of nerve impulses affecting cerebral metabolism. The interruptions are caused by metabolic disturbances such as fluid or electrolyte imbalance. When the incorrect foods are consumed and dumped into the digestive system the electrolytes get out of balance. Dehydration will also cause an electrolyte imbalance. This mild delirium is characterized by a reduced ability to maintain attention to surroundings or disorganized thinking. The daily routine can become confusing. In extreme cases a person who is dumping may experience rambling, irrelevant or incoherent speech.

After the dump passes the interrogation begins: what caused that dump? I have dumped on yogurt, sugar cookies, lobster bisque and blackberry sorbet. I have dumped after one margarita. A particularly impressive dump followed a love-fest with a piece of pecan pie. Salty potato chips that should have never crossed my lips knocked me flat quicker than a prize-winning boxer could have. I have dumped a few times for which I never determined a cause. In most cases eating the inappropriate food for my gastric bypass system is the culprit. Through trial and error I can predict most things that make me dump and I avoid them contemptuously.

The most efficient way to avoid dumping is to maintain the strict regimen practiced during bariatric infancy: follow the four rules. Eat protein first making sure it comprises one-half of every meal. Avoid snacking. Avoid all sources of simple sugar; and yes, this includes cookies, cakes, candy, sodas, ice cream and sorbet. Sip water throughout the day. When you practice this eating behavior your blood sugar will not fluctuate and you will not dump. Most patients, who crave a taste of something sweet, have learned they can tolerate a bite of fruit at the end of the meal. Proceed with caution and discover what works for you.

The first reaction when dumping begins is to try and make it stop. There is a feeling of helplessness – like trying to stop an earthquake. I have tried eating myself out of it. I have tried flushing it away by drinking water. I have tried physical motion – pacing – to get myself out of it. I have not successfully stopped a dumping episode. I don’t know anyone who can successfully halt a dumping episode. Sipping a sports drink like Gatorade will relieve my symptoms, although my surgical weight loss specialists do not recommended this practice. If you find something to bring relief during a dump, and it causes no further harm, then do it.

It is important to note that the dumping experience is different for every person. Some will always have extreme dumps and others more mild episodes. Individuals will notice dumping episodes will vary by incident. No two people dump the same and no two dumps are alike.

Dumping is a bittersweet fact of life after weight loss surgery. Because we must fuel our bodies by eating we will experience dumping. Adherence to the four rules will prevent dumping in most cases. However, every now and again we will be blindsided by a dump caused by a food never suspected. Keeping a list of poorly tolerated foods will help you avoid them. The acutely dramatic event of dumping is a convincing motivator to follow the rules and avoid the foods that have triggered a dumping episode.

More articles on the First Year Post-Weight Loss Surgery

Fun Friday Independence Day 2009

Happy Fun Friday Everyone! I wish everyone a healthy & happy Independence Day weekend! Before you take off to celebrate be sure to share your favorite July 4th Memory & Recipe on Fun Friday in the Neighborhood! Let Freedom Ring!

Fun Friday July 4th

Check out these Hot Topics in the Neighborhood!

Summer Sizzler Accountability Challenge, Beat the heat but move yer feet!

Thanks, once again John and Jean for your wisdom. Its been a whole month yesterday with eating by the rules and licking the carb monster. Sweets and carbs are an addiction for me and I need to remember this always. So that is it, I am offically back on the wagon. No regrets, no looking back, I'm looking forward to my goal I so need the support of this hood, you always come through for me
---Beverley - July 3, 2009

Pesto Turkey Meatballs

1.5 lbs ground turkey
1/4 cup pesto
1/3 cup parmesan cheese
1 small white onion
1/2 tsp salt

Bake at 375 for 15 to 20 mins

I love these too!!!!
--- Mandy

Day 6 -- What I Learned from the 5 Day Pouch Test

I did it! My pouch is back! I learned that if you eat protein and don't drink anything for 30 mins. before and 30 mins. after eating--you stay satiated for hours!! I also learned that I never would have made it during the first 2 days if I hadn't made the "carbmonster" soups. Finally, I learned that there are a lot of friends here that I never knew I had!

Thank you for your help & support!
I will continue to be a regular...!
--Jynx

There's Something for Everyone in the Neighborhood!

Another Upgrade to the General Store

Hey Neighbors! Wondering where I've been? Let me say -- we introduced the "new" store on June 8 and with that launch released a storm of 1000 screaming HTML rats. The utility our reputable hosting company provided was clumsy, unreliable, inconsistent and so 1998. It was taking our small staff of 4 (5 if I could sucker Jim into helping) 7 hours a day just to process and fulfill orders -- and we hope we got them right. UGH!

Jump ahead 3 weeks later ----

Tonight, after many long hours, (Thanks Scoop) we've launched a new store utility. At first glance it appears to be much cleaner and our test transactions have gone through 100% flawlessly. And it's pretty. I think Nancy will like it! Take a look and let me know what you think. I honestly have my hand on the HTML Bible with hopes that this is significantly improved over what we have put-up with for the last few weeks. I've missed everyone and I don't want to spend this kind of time building a perfect storm of frustration any longer!

I want to offer a big hug of thanks to those who have supported LivingAfterWLS through our store. It was never my dream or vision to become an online merchant (still isn't my dream - I want to go back to writing one of these days!) But LivingAfterWLS has taken a life of its own and you can be assured that when LAWLS offers products it is with my 100% endorsement. So far merchandising hasn't made me or LAWLS rich -- but it has made a lot of people happy. (Check out Fun Stuff to pre-order your You Have Arrived coffee mug that begins shipping July 8!)

Thanks Everyone. And thanks to all you special people who have kept the Neighborhood chugging along when there are days I cannot be here. You are one super special group of Neighbors.

LivingAfterWLS NEW-NEW General Store

5 Day Pouch Test Starts Today!

Greetings Neighbors & Happy First Monday of Summer to you!

After many consecutive days of rain the sun is finally shining and it does seem Summer has arrived. So for me it is the perfect time to refresh and restart. I'm doing the 5 Day Pouch Test in part to test some new recipes, but also to give myself a clean start to summer eating and grilling season. Today started with a protein shake (Atkins Advantage Vanilla Shake blended with 1/4 cup frozen raspberries). I've had coffee and lots of water. My friend Evelyn is joining me this week and you can follow us on my Facebook page as well as in the Neighborhood and in this blog. I'd love to hear from you if you are also doing the 5DPT this week.

In conjunction with the 5DPT I am beginning my 8 week walking program as outlined in our newest publication: Walk Your Way to Fitness (You can link here to buy it in our LivingAfterWLS General Store.) This handy pocket-sized walking guide is full of helpful information that has me inspired to pursue a more formal walking plan. For those who have been sedentary the plan is quite easy to follow with only three 15-minute walks the first week. Following the program you gradually work up to 30 minutes of walking for 6 days a week during week 8. Quoting from Page 3 of this handy guide,

"This program is designed to help you effectively integrate a beneficial walking program into your life. On it, you will gradually increase the number of days you walk per week, beginning with only 15 minutes three times the first week. Then you will increase the number of minutes you walk each session until you reach your goal of 30-60 minutes per day. Walking at least 30 minutes is needed to gain health benefits. If weight loss is one of your goals, you may need to walk at least 60 minutes daily. Log your progress in this book. Logging helps you stay motivated to reach your goals."

I know it seems like a little thing to be excited about having this little walking guide to keep me motivated and accountable. But the longer we continue in our pursuit of healthy living with weight loss surgery the longer we need to seek new motivation, no matter how simple, to keep us fresh and inspired.

Look for the Walk You Way to Fitness Guide & Daily Log under Publications in our store.

Fun Friday in the Neighborhood: Fatherisms

PLAY FUN FRIDAY FATHERISMS

This is the LivingAfterWLS favorite game show where you too could win a fabulous prize simply by sharing and playing, don't be a shy Neighbor, jump right in and play! It's a great way to get to know one another and celebrate our LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood.

Our darling hostess SongBirdDiane is attending to some family matters and will be AWOL for a few weeks -- We wish her well in her busy life -- if you get a chance drop in here on her profile and let her know how much you appreciate her.

In Diane's absence today's Fun Friday question is from Me!

GAME RULES!
1. Must be a registered member of the Neighborhood to play.
2. You may win one prize each month, but you should play each week. Check the Winners list
3. Two fabulous prizes are awarded each week.
4. Neighbors must answer the Fun Friday Question on the forum.
5. Kaye will name the winners on Tuesday June 23th.
6. Winners will need to PM (personal message) their postal address to Kaye to receive their prize. For privacy & safety reasons, PLEASE DO NOT post your address!

PRIZES! : PM miss Kaye if you are the chosen winners!

And Now for the QUESTION:

Sunday is Father's Day!! (If you follow me on Facebook you know that I thought last Sunday was Father's Day and I even cooked Jim a special breakfast before finding out I was off a week!) Anyway, we all have fathers or father figures in our lives. And most father's have some pretty crazy quirks. So today I'm asking you to reveal some of your favorite "FATHERISMS" -- tell us about their quirky sayings or silly mannerisms. And yes, of course you can rat-out the father of your children too!

Link Here and Let's Get Playing!!!

Have a safe and healthy weekend everyone! And remember, there is always something good in the Neighborhood.

Cheers!

Kaye

Legal Worries Over "Obesity Disability"

The American Medical Association says it doesn't want to call obesity a "disability" because doctors may be legally vulnerable to lawsuits under disability laws. Doctors don't want to get sued by overweight patients who are sensitive to discussions of weight. See the Associated Press article below.

I guess my thought is this: instead of worrying about getting sued lets put some energy into figuring out how to help the overweight and obese in a kind and sensitive manner so that we do not feel disabled or discriminated against.

just sayin'!

CHICAGO (AP) — The American Medical Association has taken action to support doctors' ability to discuss obesity with their overweight patients.

Under a new policy adopted Tuesday, the AMA formally opposes efforts by advocacy groups to define obesity as a disability.

Doctors fear using that definition makes them vulnerable under disability laws to lawsuits from obese patients who don't want their doctors to discuss their weight.

Doctors took the action at their annual meeting in Chicago.

In other action Tuesday, the AMA agreed to lobby for legislation to ban selling tobacco in pharmacies.

Health care reform issues are slated to come up later at the meeting, which ends Wednesday.

Copyright © 2009 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Look Mom - No Training Wheels!!

Hello Neighbors!

So it's been about 100 years since I last rode a bike. I have to be honest with you -- I never got over the fear of being judged after some mean kids hollered at me one day "Look at the fat pig on the bicycle." Yeah, sticks and stones break bones but words can wound for life. I'm sure many of you endured similar experiences and I'm so sad about that.

So last week I told my husband that I've seriously been thinking about getting a bicycle. While we live way out of town and dirt roads are the rule the LivingAfterWLS office is in the "metropolitan" heart of our tiny community. And There is a wonderful biking/walking trail between the office and the grocery store where I visit the salad bar nearly every day. "How fantastic it would be," I told him, "If I had a bicycle and could ride to the market for my salad?" Jim is not one to spend time on Pro's and Con's and the very next day he surprised my this darling baby blue Huffy with whitewall tires! I am crazy in love! It is simple and sturdy and nothing so complicated as gears and hand brakes. All that's missing now is a pretty basket for going to the market. I do have a helmet, but didn't wear it for this posed picture - so don't worry.

It has been such a joy, a childlike joy, to ride a bike again. I am so happy that I finally screwed up enough courage to take back this pleasure. I'm sad that cruel words from so long ago kept me from doing something so carefree and healthy and fun.

According to my Sports & Recreation Chart I can burn 200 calories in just 30 minutes of cycling! And that's not counting the valleys & hills! I really cannot think of a better statement of "LIVING" than being able to take a break in the workday for a little fitness and fresh air. I bet I have inspiring words to share after a mid-day ride!

For some great bicycle safety tips visit BicycleSafe.com

Shake it Up Baby!

Hello Neighbors!

First of all I'm sending a big thanks to so many of you who have purchased the You Have Arrived Seasoning Blends. The response has been tremendous and we hear from happy customers daily how much they are enjoying these fresh, tasty and healthy seasoning blends. The Seasoning Blends have long been a dream of mine and knowing that others are enjoying them and the improved culinary experience they bring is a true delight to me.

Our blends are free of filler, MSG and phosphates to keep you healthy. Without these ingredients some natural settling will occur, particularly with the Poultry Blend, Signature Blend and Finishing Salt. Be sure to give your jars a vigorous shake or two before using to ensure evenly blended seasoning. Shake it Up Baby -- It Feels Good!

You can now purchase the blends individually in addition to buying the complete set. And we are also offering a 4-ounce refill for when your jars go empty. And the best news -- our Introductory prices are still in place so you can enjoy the blends at an affordable price. (Save $4 on the Seasoning Collection!)

Shop our new Online Store for Seasoning Blends, Soup Mixes & Publications

The You Have Arrived (YHA) Seasoning Blends are hand-mixed in small batches of all natural ingredients specifically formulated to support your healthy diet after surgical weight loss. We know that "Protein First" is the dietary key to weight loss and weight maintenance with surgery. And we promise that well seasoned protein is the first rule of satiation and culinary pleasure of any healthy diet.

The You Have Arrived Blends we offer are:
Signature Blend: The popular You Have Arrived Signature Blend is an aromatic no-sodium mixture of savory, sweet, and citrus flavors including onion, garlic, tomato, citrus, spices, and oils. Use on protein, vegetables, and in sauces and marinades.

Poultry Blend: The You Have Arrived Poultry Seasoning is a light and savory blend of onion, bell peppers, garlic, and a light hint of citrus is a refreshing compliment to poultry. Contains sodium.

Grilling Blend: The You Have Arrived Grilling Blend marries the smoky flavor of paprika with garlic, onion and a hint of cinnamon to nicely compliment grilled vegetables or protein. Use to season homemade barbecue sauce. Contains sodium.

Savory Provence Blend: The You Have Arrived Savory Provence Blend is all herbs with a Mediterranean essence. This sodium-free blend contains rosemary, thyme, savory, lavender, and other herbs. Particularly delicious on fish and in vegetable soups and stews as well as on fresh salads and vegetables.

Finishing Salt: The You Have Arrived Finishing Salt is lightly flavored high quality kosher salt for a finishing touch. Helpful in reducing free-pour sodium intake.


Enjoy!!

Chicken, Cheese & Spinach Manicotti

Hello Everyone!

I know from reading your emails that lots of you get pasta cravings now and again. We know that pasta is a simple carbohydrate with little nutritional value for the space it takes up in our tiny gastric pouches. But we also know that cravings are powerful things. Last week I tried this manicotti recipe from Kraft Foods. While not on the top of the "Protein First" recipe chart it does go along way for providing protein, nutrients and comforting carbs in the form of pasta. Unlike spaghetti or macaroni, manicotti is a controlled portion of pasta so it rates better in my book as a "for emergencies" indulgence. I'm sharing this recipe exactly as it is published on Kraft Foods. I suggest for WLSers one manicotti is plenty.

Chicken, Cheese & Spinach Manicotti

Prep Time: 30 min
Total Time: 1 hr 5 min
Makes: 5 servings, two stuffed shells each

What You Need!
1-1/2 cups finely chopped cooked chicken breasts
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 egg whites
1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen chopped spinach, thawed, well drained
1 container (16 oz.) BREAKSTONE'S FREE or KNUDSEN FREE Fat Free Cottage Cheese
1 cup KRAFT 2% Milk Shredded Mozzarella Cheese, divided
10 manicotti shells, cooked, drained
1-1/2 cups spaghetti sauce
1/4 cup chopped fresh basil

Make It!
PREHEAT oven to 350°F. Combine chicken and garlic in large bowl. Add egg whites, spinach, cottage cheese and 1/4 cup of the mozzarella cheese. Spoon evenly into manicotti shells.

PLACE in 13x9-inch baking dish sprayed with cooking spray. Cover with spaghetti sauce.

BAKE 25 to 30 min. or until heated through. Top with the remaining 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese; bake an additional 5 min. or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle with basil.

Kraft Kitchens Tips
Make Ahead: Assemble recipe as directed; cover and refrigerate up to 4 hours. When ready to bake, uncover and bake 35 to 40 min. or until heated through. Top with remaining 3/4 cup mozzarella cheese and continue as directed.
Substitute: Substitute fresh parsley for the basil.

Day 6 after the 5 Day Pouch Test

Good Morning Neighbors! Once in a while there comes a post in the Neighborhood that makes me do the Happy Dance (literally) and this is one of them. Our new Neighbor and friend Beverley, who arrived way back in 2000, just finished the 5 Day Pouch Test. Here is what she has to say about her results and her enthusiasm to move forward. Go ahead and join me in doing the Happy Dance! And Way to Go Beverley!!!

Read the entire conversation in the Neighborhood


Wow Day 6 I've lost 6.5 lbs I'M still totally PUMPED over the new lease on life I have found. I'm surprised at how quickly these 5 days (5 Day Pouch Test) have gone by and how easy I found it.

5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual

What Changes I have made in the last 5 days (and still working on).-I now write down everything that passes my lips, no more mindless eating... that leads to snacking and grazing.-I am jotting down how I feel, what my trigger emotions are... what my trigger foods are.
-I've become aware of Slider Foods, always wondered why some foods just go down so easy and can go down in
mega portions ("Up-size that please" no more of that!!) I now consider "Slider Foods" an ex lover, MY NEW LOVER IS PROTEIN.
-Work my tool (that almost sounds dirty), recognize how my pouch feels, I'm looking for a slight fullness now. I was one of those kids that were told to "clean your plate"... I'm an adult now and I'm in control of my intake so "push it away and throw it in the garbage" I give myself permission to do this!!

-Smaller bites and chew, chew, chew, be mind full of the amount I put in my mouth and chew till mush, that sounds gross to someone who is 9 yrs out BUT if that's what it takes mush it is!! Huh...old dogs can learn new tricks!!

The big one THE 4 RULES
- Follow the 30-/-30
- 64 oz water at least
- Protein, Protein, Protein, Protein
- Back to exercising
-I've broke the CarbMonster cycle I'm in control of that CarbMonster, but most of all over my pouch. I will make this tool work for me again! I am in control. Yahooooo
- Planning my meals ahead of time weighing and measuring my food no more eyeballing it, my eyes are waaay bigger than my pouch.. 2 eyes, 1 pouch.. hmmmmm.
- I will begin to WEIGH DAILY. Ignorance is bliss, but not when your NOT watching - and the # on scales creep up... Last week I was opposed to getting on the scale daily.

All this in 5 days WOW, this is a big deal for me. I was aware of most of these things for about 10 mins after my WLS. I'm sure as I continue I will have lots more to add to this list... but for now this is what I am focusing on.

** THANK YOU all so much for your support and encouragement and most of all to my buddy girly, we did it


Day 6 and Going Forward!! Come join us Girly and Dee are joining me in this- Day 6 and Going Forward journey. - you are welcome to join at any time at whatever stage of the 5DPT you are in.

They say it takes 21 days to create a habit, so my plan is to stay on the 6th day of this plan on till the 22nd of this month, this will make it a full 21 days of proper eating...breaking old habits and creating new ones. In this time frame if I fall off the wagon I will go back to day 1&2. I love the soups anyways. 21 days to break a habit is my short term goal.... life/forever is my Day 6 long term goal. Hey girls, we've already got 6-7 days in so thats just 14-15 more to go, we can do it!!

I see there's lots of good recipes for day 6 food, and I understand the 2b/1b and will work on that, as well as continuing what I've been doing last 5 Days. eg 30-0-30.

LivingAfterWLS Online Recipe Collection

I plan to discover what Low-Glycemic fruits and vegs are good for me... Lord knows I have enough diet books this should be fairly easy ( there's the net as well)*" I have the tools and I will use them."*

The Neighborhood Cookbook

I have never had a real structured time to eat my meals before .... I'm thinking this is something worth changing in this 21 Days eg. eating every 2-3 hrs not just when I'm hungry *"if you fail to plan, be prepaired to fail" * I will concentrate on making changes on my bad habits like eating to fast and not chewing my food enough.I plan to continue to post my food and H2o intake daily because it keeps me accountable. I'm thinking 1000 cal a day and 100g protein. Any suggestions here... too many cal, too much protein ?????

I am wondering if there are any other tips for day 6 and onward? I know this question has been asked soooo many times before... but hey this is my first time to ask !!!!!

Secrets of Day 6 & Beyond -- Neighborhood Conversation

21 days to break a habit is my short term goal- life is my long term goal. When I first had my surgery not one grain of sugar passed these lips, It was years ago but I remember it like it was Yesterday. I had surgery in Jan and the following Dec I was at a party *looking fine* and there was a tray of sweets being passed and around... I indulged. That was it for me!
That was the past and I CAN DO THIS AGAIN, RIGHT NOW and SUCCEED!!!

I have found some Motto's on various posts that I'm using... more tools ....if they were yours... thank you.

*"food is my fuel, not my friend"* *"if you fail to prepare, you prepare to fail"* *" I have the tools and I will use them."*

LivingAfterWLS General Store Online - Free Gifts with Order

LivingAfterWLS General Store

Hey Neighbors --- As you know we have been working on the LivingAfterWLS online store for a loooooooonnnnnggggg time. A long long time. It isn't fancy and I'm not sure it is working all that great yet. So I'm bringing it live for the Neighbors to give it a test and let me know how it works for you. It is very basic -- no music, no pop-ups, now flash or sass. Just a list of our products and simple check-out process.

AND -- Any orders placed between now and Midnight June 10th will receive free gifts from me!! The first gift is our newest product, the Walk Your Way to Fitness Guide. This 36-page pocket size guide and daily log includes tips for feeling good by adding exercise to your life. A useful tool in your LivingAfterWLS healthy lifestyle (I use this tool myself). A $4.35 Value. In addition, all orders will receive a 1-ounce sample of our forthcoming seasoning blend, "You Have Arrived Italian Blend" complete with recipe.

Our popular publications, The 5 Day Pouch Test Owner's Manual and The Neighborhood Cookbook are available in the store and both come with FREE gifts!

Soup Blends and Seasoning packages are offered too and listed at the low introductory prices during this test phase!! We have opened our blends & soups to International shipping as well.

No incremental shipping & handling charges -- all orders ship for one low flat rate!
US Orders - $6.95 Shipping & Handling
International Orders - $15.95 Shipping & Handling


So act now and please give me feedback on this thread in the Neighborhood regarding your shopping experience. Here is the link to the store:

LivingAfterWLS General Store


Thanks for helping me test this new resource that, if all goes well, will make it easier for our friends and Neighbors to find the products they need to live their best after WLS.

THANKS,
Kaye

The Neighborhood Cookbook

Hello Neighbors!

Last week, on the same day, I received two emails. The first asked, "This Neighborhood Cookbook: Does it have recipes my family can eat?" and the second email exclaimed, "Thank you for the Neighborhood Cookbook! I use it all the time to cook for my family and they don't know they are eating WLS food, they love the recipes."

I use The Neighborhood Cookbook a lot and I'm biased - it is a great resource. I also have the good fortune to cook for a husband, and occasionally our extended family, all of whom are good eaters with few requirements or complaints. So to read that others are using the Neighborhood Cookbook as an effective tool in their long-term commitment to healthy eating with weight loss surgery is a tremendous compliment and a testament to this community collection of recipes. The cookbook is now in it's 3rd printing with over 2,000 books having shipped to every state in the Union and internationally as well.

Learn more about The Neighborhood Cookbook

This last weekend I put together a summer picnic menu from the Neighborhood Cookbook. You won't find potato salad or German chocolate cake, but you will find a nutritionally balanced meal the whole family can enjoy. Take a look:

Appetizer: Deluxe Deviled Eggs (page 28)
Main Dish: Chicken with Plum Barbecue Sauce (page 109)
Salad: 3 Bean Salad (page 59) or Dutch Cucumber Salad (page 67)
Side or Snack: Dill Pickle Snack (page 40)
Dessert: Raspberry Cream Tarts (page 162) or Summer Fruit Tart (page 166)

This menu served 8 people including four hungry teenagers. Nobody asked for chips, crackers, potatoes, pasta or even ice cream. Everyone left happy and satiated. It is possible to feed our families and friends well without cooking a completely different meal for them than what we fix for ourselves. And healthy mindful cooking takes us one step closer to keeping the next generation out of the surgical weight loss operating room.

In addition to our beautifully presented spiral bound Neighborhood Cookbook you can get recipes at the LivingAfterWLS Kitchen and in the Neighborhood Community Kitchen.

CHEERS!

Oven Fried Coconut Chicken

This is a crispy delight with the unexpected flavor of coconut. The recipe calls for ground pork rinds. If you are sensitive to MSG be certain to check the label for that ingredient. You may substitute 1/4 cup ground flaxmeal and 1/2 cup ground whole wheat crackers for the pork rinds. We enjoyed this served with fresh wilted greens.

Ingredients:
2 1/2-3 pounds meaty chicken pieces (breast halves, thighs and drumsticks) skin removed.
1 cup unsweetened flaked coconut
3/4 cup finely crushed pork rinds (about 1 1/2 ounces)
1/4 cup butter or margarine melted

Directions:
Remove skin from chicken. In a shallow dish stir together coconut and pork rinds. Brush chicken with melted butter; sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Dip into coconut mixture to coat, pressing mixture on the chicken pieces.

In a 15x10x1-inch baking pan arrange chicken pieces, bone sides down, so the pieces aren't touching. Drizzle any remaining melted butter over chicken.

Bake in a preheated 375(F) oven for 45-55 minutes or until chicken is tender and no longer pink (170F for breasts; 180F for thighs and drumsticks). Do not turn chicken pieces while baking.

Kaye's note: We tested this recipe using 1/2 cup of coconut milk for dipping the chicken instead of the butter. This gave us good results. We also tried spraying the chicken with an oil mister and found the coconut coating did not adhere well to the meat during cooking.

Serves 4. Per serving: 318 calories, 29 grams protein, 21 grams fat (12 saturated) and 2 grams carbohydrate.