I DID IT!!!! 110lbs Down, 70 More To Go!
Filed under: licious, Milestones, My Life Keys, Stephanie Alva, Success Stories, TheNewLicious.com, Weight Loss Journies Author: Licious
*Drum roll please*
Effective April 17, 2010, I, Stephanie Alva, have OFFICIALLY lost 110lbs!!!
*Cue applause*
Effective April 17, 2010, I, Stephanie Alva, have OFFICIALLY lost 110lbs!!!
*Cue applause*
It was a lot of work, tons of UP's and down's, but I DID IT!!! And if I can do it, YOU CAN DO IT TOO!!!! On March 30, 2010, I celebrated the one year anniversary of my LapBand surgery. I was in Atlanta, GA on a business trip so it was a quiet celebration. However, I took the time to remember vividly each detail of that day. Waking up that morning and walking into the hospital, back hurting, blood pressure still high. I remember laying on the gurney with my Best Friend, Alicia sitting next to me, and I was fighting back the tears. I knew that after I woke up from this surgery, my life would be changed forever... and it was.
I just did an interview on BrownSugaRadio a few days ago and when she asked me to talk about the one thing that I learned from having LapBand surgery and I answered WITHOUT HESITATION. The most important lesson I learned was that weight loss surgery is NOT a miracle cure. I lost the first 50lbs effortlessly. I didn't workout or anything. I just ate what I was supossed to eat and the weight melted off. IT WAS FANTASTIC!!!! But then, it happened. My body adjusted to the new stomach and my new eating habits and the weight loss immediately haulted. After 5 months of eating well, I decided to test out my new tummy. I started eating burgers, fries, cake, ice cream, etc. A miracle had occurred: I was one of the "lucky" weight loss surgery patients that was able to eat anything I wanted without vomiting, dumping, or feeling sick. IT WAS ON!!! I quickly gained 30lbs ... in a month. It was at this moment that I realized that the surgery wasn't going to save me... I had to save myself. I went on a week long liquid fast to clean out my system and drop a few pounds quickly, and then I went back to basics. I ate every 3 hours, I only ate healthy foods, I drank over a gallon of water per day, and I began working out twice a day, 7 days a week. I also began hiking three times per week and jogging every day. I worked my way up to jogging 6 miles per day, mostly UPHILL!! (check out the video footage below!) I began to lose the weight again and my energy increased. I felt better, I looked better, I WAS better!
I just did an interview on BrownSugaRadio a few days ago and when she asked me to talk about the one thing that I learned from having LapBand surgery and I answered WITHOUT HESITATION. The most important lesson I learned was that weight loss surgery is NOT a miracle cure. I lost the first 50lbs effortlessly. I didn't workout or anything. I just ate what I was supossed to eat and the weight melted off. IT WAS FANTASTIC!!!! But then, it happened. My body adjusted to the new stomach and my new eating habits and the weight loss immediately haulted. After 5 months of eating well, I decided to test out my new tummy. I started eating burgers, fries, cake, ice cream, etc. A miracle had occurred: I was one of the "lucky" weight loss surgery patients that was able to eat anything I wanted without vomiting, dumping, or feeling sick. IT WAS ON!!! I quickly gained 30lbs ... in a month. It was at this moment that I realized that the surgery wasn't going to save me... I had to save myself. I went on a week long liquid fast to clean out my system and drop a few pounds quickly, and then I went back to basics. I ate every 3 hours, I only ate healthy foods, I drank over a gallon of water per day, and I began working out twice a day, 7 days a week. I also began hiking three times per week and jogging every day. I worked my way up to jogging 6 miles per day, mostly UPHILL!! (check out the video footage below!) I began to lose the weight again and my energy increased. I felt better, I looked better, I WAS better!
Don't get me wrong, I had weeks when I would weigh in and after burning close to 4000 calories per day, I only lost 1lb and in a few cases, I lost NO WEIGHT AT ALL!! I wanted to throw the scale out the window and jump out right behind it LOL!! Weight Loss surgery is NOT a miracle cure. It is a TOOL. In order to lose the weight, you're going to have to work at it, each and every day. I have begun to change my thinking about my weight loss and about my health. I enjoy working out and taking care of myself. I have found new ways of exercising that I really enjoy, including skating, bike riding, swimming, hiking, and power walking. I have 70lbs left to lose in order to reach my goal weight. To say that I have laser-like focus on that goal is an understatement. But instead of worrying about it, I visualize myself already at my goal weight. I see myself healthy, happy, and whole. The weight is coming off and my body is responding well. I am happier now than I have been in years. I am alive! The important thing to remember is to work on yourself from the inside out. Love yourself JUST AS YOU ARE, RIGHT NOW in this moment!
To the 110lbs that I've lost,
Thank you for what you taught me while you were a part of my life and body. Thank you for the strength that blossomed inside of me because of you. Thank you for forcing my inner beauty to shine through the painful veil that you had cast over me. Most importantly, enjoy the nothingness that you have returned to. I release you to your higher good and I walk forward into my future filled with joy, happiness, abundance, health, life, and love.
To the 110lbs that I've lost,
Thank you for what you taught me while you were a part of my life and body. Thank you for the strength that blossomed inside of me because of you. Thank you for forcing my inner beauty to shine through the painful veil that you had cast over me. Most importantly, enjoy the nothingness that you have returned to. I release you to your higher good and I walk forward into my future filled with joy, happiness, abundance, health, life, and love.
Good-bye... FOREVER!
EXCLUSIVE Interview With JustB.BBreezy.Com
Filed under: B. Breezy, Celebrity Interviews, licious, My Life Keys, Stephanie Alva, The New Licious, The Studio Concept, You Tube Author: Licious
HEY LOVE BUGGS!!
I went out to Atlanta, GA to do a photo shoot with the incomparable, B. Breezy of The Studio Concept. The pictures came out BEAUTIFULLY!!!! I'll be sharing shots from the shoot with you shortly. After the shoot was over, Breezy interviewed me for her blog, www.JustB.BBreezy.Com!
PLEASE MAKE SURE YOU'RE FOLLOWING BREEZY ON TWITTER @_BBreezy
Dear Breezy,
There are no words to describe how your presence in my life has affected me. I am more convinced than EVER that God puts people into our lives at the EXACT right time. I will be forever grateful for our professional connection as well as our ever-growing friendship. You inspire me to be the HIGHER me. I love you UNCONDITIONALY! Many blessings and success to you, G14, and The Studio Concept.
There are no words to describe how your presence in my life has affected me. I am more convinced than EVER that God puts people into our lives at the EXACT right time. I will be forever grateful for our professional connection as well as our ever-growing friendship. You inspire me to be the HIGHER me. I love you UNCONDITIONALY! Many blessings and success to you, G14, and The Studio Concept.
*VIDEO CREDIT* You Tube and JustB.BBreezy.Com
*PHOTO CREDIT* B. Breezy and The Studio Concept
*PHOTO CREDIT* B. Breezy and The Studio Concept
This Too Shall Pass... BE ENCOURAGED!!!
Filed under: Encouragement, Law of Attraction, licious, My Life Keys, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com, Weight Loss Journies Author: Licious
Teaser Video Diary: Happy Valentine's Day
Filed under: licious, My Life Keys, Stephanie Alva, The New Licious, Weight Loss video Author: Licious
Hey guys!!!! My Publicists over at Wise Owl Public Relations started leaking "teaser" videos out today. They'll be doing this once a week leading up to the BIG REVEAL and Birthday/Launch Parties next month. Enjoy and let me know what you think!
One Milestone Accomplished; Two More To Go
Filed under: B. Breezy, licious, Milestones, My Life Keys, Stephanie Alva, The Studio Concept, TheNewLicious.com, Weight Loss Journies Author: Licious
Hey Loved Ones!!!
It's been awhile since I've updated you guys on my weight loss progress. I've been extremely busy getting prepared for the launch of my new company, My Life Keys. I've also been working out non-stop in preparation for my photo shoot with the incomparable, B. Breezy, from The Studio Concept. They are based out of Atlanta, GA. She is an amazing photographer, amongst other things. Feel free to take a look at her work by clicking HERE and you can visit The Studio Concept by clicking HERE.
As I said earlier, I've been going through some very intensive work out's in preparation for the photo shoot and the launch party so I've lost quite a bit of weight. At my last weigh-in, I was only 10lbs away from losing 100lbs. I'm excited to hit that goal, as I'm sure you can imagine! Anyway, my clothes have gotten quite loose on me so I bought a few pairs of new jeans. I bought them small, (or so I thought) because I knew I'd quickly be able to fit into them. I had a lunch date yesterday with a good friend of mine and as I was getting ready, I thought, "Just go ahead and try on the jeans!" You see, I was scared that if they didn't fit, it would upset me and derail all of the positive work I've been doing. But something told me to go ahead and try on the jeans.... I'm SO glad that I did.
THE JEANS FIT PERFECTLY!!!! They made my legs look INCREDIBLE! Then I thought to myself, "Well shoot, if the new jeans fit, let's try on the new shirts that were too small last month." So I go into my closet and grab this cute, chocolate brown baby tee and IT FITS TOO.... I take that back... it's actually a little loose! I felt SO sexy in my new clothes. I could FINALLY tell by looking in the mirror, that I was in fact losing weight and accomplishing my goals. I have a tendency to see myself differently than other people see me. When people say, "OMG you've lost so much weight!!", I always think to myself, "Are they BLIND?!? Because I dont see it!" NUMBERS DON'T LIE!!! Yes, the number on the scale is going down, but my inches are going down as well. Everything is shrinking and THAT is a FACT I cannot deny. Everywhere I went yesterday, I received compliments: "Look how tiny your legs are!!", "You are GLOWING! What are you doing?", "Your skin looks INCREDIBLE!!!", "You are RADIANT!!". I was overwhelmed and humbled by it all.
The milestone that I reached was the fact that the new jeans I wore yesterday are TEN SIZES SMALLER than the jeans I was wearing 11 months ago. I feel healthy, sexy, beautiful, capable, AMAZING, radiant, and UNSTOPPABLE!! Not only am I working my body out, but I'm working my mind out as well. I am repeating my affirmations EVERY DAY, I am finally seeing myself through eyes of LOVE. I want to post a pic of me in my new jeans but my Publicist wants me to remain "low key" until the BIG REVEAL at my birthday/launch party on March 20th. I'll make sure to keep you guys posted.
Next milestone: To lose 100lbs. Here I come...
It's been awhile since I've updated you guys on my weight loss progress. I've been extremely busy getting prepared for the launch of my new company, My Life Keys. I've also been working out non-stop in preparation for my photo shoot with the incomparable, B. Breezy, from The Studio Concept. They are based out of Atlanta, GA. She is an amazing photographer, amongst other things. Feel free to take a look at her work by clicking HERE and you can visit The Studio Concept by clicking HERE.
As I said earlier, I've been going through some very intensive work out's in preparation for the photo shoot and the launch party so I've lost quite a bit of weight. At my last weigh-in, I was only 10lbs away from losing 100lbs. I'm excited to hit that goal, as I'm sure you can imagine! Anyway, my clothes have gotten quite loose on me so I bought a few pairs of new jeans. I bought them small, (or so I thought) because I knew I'd quickly be able to fit into them. I had a lunch date yesterday with a good friend of mine and as I was getting ready, I thought, "Just go ahead and try on the jeans!" You see, I was scared that if they didn't fit, it would upset me and derail all of the positive work I've been doing. But something told me to go ahead and try on the jeans.... I'm SO glad that I did.
THE JEANS FIT PERFECTLY!!!! They made my legs look INCREDIBLE! Then I thought to myself, "Well shoot, if the new jeans fit, let's try on the new shirts that were too small last month." So I go into my closet and grab this cute, chocolate brown baby tee and IT FITS TOO.... I take that back... it's actually a little loose! I felt SO sexy in my new clothes. I could FINALLY tell by looking in the mirror, that I was in fact losing weight and accomplishing my goals. I have a tendency to see myself differently than other people see me. When people say, "OMG you've lost so much weight!!", I always think to myself, "Are they BLIND?!? Because I dont see it!" NUMBERS DON'T LIE!!! Yes, the number on the scale is going down, but my inches are going down as well. Everything is shrinking and THAT is a FACT I cannot deny. Everywhere I went yesterday, I received compliments: "Look how tiny your legs are!!", "You are GLOWING! What are you doing?", "Your skin looks INCREDIBLE!!!", "You are RADIANT!!". I was overwhelmed and humbled by it all.
The milestone that I reached was the fact that the new jeans I wore yesterday are TEN SIZES SMALLER than the jeans I was wearing 11 months ago. I feel healthy, sexy, beautiful, capable, AMAZING, radiant, and UNSTOPPABLE!! Not only am I working my body out, but I'm working my mind out as well. I am repeating my affirmations EVERY DAY, I am finally seeing myself through eyes of LOVE. I want to post a pic of me in my new jeans but my Publicist wants me to remain "low key" until the BIG REVEAL at my birthday/launch party on March 20th. I'll make sure to keep you guys posted.
Next milestone: To lose 100lbs. Here I come...
Smothered Lamb Chops With Caramelized Onions and Sofrito Black Beans and Mixed Squash
Filed under: Black Beans, Lamb, licious, My recipes, Squash, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com Author: Licious
Stuffed Tilapia With Asparagus
Filed under: Asparagus, licious, My recipes, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com, Tilapia Author: LiciousHey Lovey's!!!
I know its been FOREVER since I've updated here and I'M SORRY!! I'm working round the clock to launch my new company, My Life Keys, LLC. I'll be writing an article about it within the next couple of days to fill you in. I'm really excited!! But, for now, you're looking at Tilapia stuffed with crab, scallops, & shrimp and a side of steamed asaparagus. It was YUMMMMMY!!!!
I know its been FOREVER since I've updated here and I'M SORRY!! I'm working round the clock to launch my new company, My Life Keys, LLC. I'll be writing an article about it within the next couple of days to fill you in. I'm really excited!! But, for now, you're looking at Tilapia stuffed with crab, scallops, & shrimp and a side of steamed asaparagus. It was YUMMMMMY!!!!
Cherry, Apricot, & Pecan Stuffed Pork Chop With Green Beans
Filed under: Green Beans, My recipes, Pork, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com Author: Licious
Spinach, Baby Bella, & Ricotta Stuffed Pork Chops with Mushroom Pan Gravy and Asparagus
Filed under: Asparagus, My recipes, Pork, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com Author: Licious
Grilled Halibut With Mango Salsa
Filed under: Halibut, Mango, My recipes, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com Author: Licious
Hiking On Lake Gregory
Filed under: Lake Gregory Fitness Trail, licious, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com, Work Outs, You Tube Author: LiciousThis is a short video we took today of me and my Best Friend, Alicia, hiking in the mountains at the Lake Gregory Fitness Trail. NOTE: I'm breathing that hard because it's the end of our workout and we we're hiking uphill LOL!!! ENJOY!
Update On 7 Day Mental Cleanse & Retreat
Filed under: 7 Day Mental Cleanse, Law of Attraction, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com, You Tube Author: Licious
7 Day Mental Cleanse: Day Two
Filed under: 7 Day Mental Cleanse, Law of Attraction, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com Author: Licious
Today is the 2nd day of my cleanse and I have a mixture of feelings going on inside of me.
I started off the day by walking 2.14 miles!!! WOO HOO!!!!!! That was an amazing feeling! I went out to Fontana to this walking trail that my hair dresser had told me about awhile back. It's in the middle of the city but it's really beautiful out there. After my walk, I headed over to Fresh & Easy to do some grocery shopping, and afterwards, went and bought my Goddaughter, Delayna's, birthday gifts. I parked further away and instead of driving back and forth between the stores, I walked! I came home and cooked a delicious and healthy meal and, while my food was settling, I listened to some positive affirmation CD's. Afterwards, I did a 30 minute aerobic workout and capped it of with 100 crunches. I've noticed that in the last 2 days, I've gotten A LOT done. During day one, I cleaned and organized my bedroom, put together a new book case that I bought, and finally unpacked my old journals and some books and photo albums and put them up in the new book case. I also did 4 loads of laundry and folded and put all the clothes away too. All of the time I normally spend watching TV or lolly gagging on the Internet, I utilized to get my life organized. I've been writing in my gratitude journal every day as well.
I always knew and accepted that I LOVED television. However, in the last two days, I've realized that I don't just love TV, I am completely addicted to it. For the first time in my life, I ate dinner in a quiet, peaceful room, WITHOUT the TV on. I didn't know what to do with myself!! I feel a bit agitated because I can't watch TV. It feels like anxiety running through my veins. I am, however, using positive affirmations to deal with my feelings instead of eating a bunch of bad foods or living vicariously through others by watching hours of TV. Surprisingly enough, I have struggled with positive visualizations. When it comes to visualizing myself homeless, jobless, & miserable, it flows easily and the pictures roll through my mind like a movie. But, whenever I close my eyes and try to visualize myself thin, happy, healthy, prospering, successful, etc., I get stuck.... I can't see it. Today during my hour of "No Limits', I attempted to visualize myself on the beach in Hawaii and it was just blank. I won't let this beat me though. This is a new process and I'm only two days into it. I will practice patience, repetition, and perseverance. I will succeed! Two days down, 5 more to go!
*Until Next Time, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!!!*
I started off the day by walking 2.14 miles!!! WOO HOO!!!!!! That was an amazing feeling! I went out to Fontana to this walking trail that my hair dresser had told me about awhile back. It's in the middle of the city but it's really beautiful out there. After my walk, I headed over to Fresh & Easy to do some grocery shopping, and afterwards, went and bought my Goddaughter, Delayna's, birthday gifts. I parked further away and instead of driving back and forth between the stores, I walked! I came home and cooked a delicious and healthy meal and, while my food was settling, I listened to some positive affirmation CD's. Afterwards, I did a 30 minute aerobic workout and capped it of with 100 crunches. I've noticed that in the last 2 days, I've gotten A LOT done. During day one, I cleaned and organized my bedroom, put together a new book case that I bought, and finally unpacked my old journals and some books and photo albums and put them up in the new book case. I also did 4 loads of laundry and folded and put all the clothes away too. All of the time I normally spend watching TV or lolly gagging on the Internet, I utilized to get my life organized. I've been writing in my gratitude journal every day as well.
I always knew and accepted that I LOVED television. However, in the last two days, I've realized that I don't just love TV, I am completely addicted to it. For the first time in my life, I ate dinner in a quiet, peaceful room, WITHOUT the TV on. I didn't know what to do with myself!! I feel a bit agitated because I can't watch TV. It feels like anxiety running through my veins. I am, however, using positive affirmations to deal with my feelings instead of eating a bunch of bad foods or living vicariously through others by watching hours of TV. Surprisingly enough, I have struggled with positive visualizations. When it comes to visualizing myself homeless, jobless, & miserable, it flows easily and the pictures roll through my mind like a movie. But, whenever I close my eyes and try to visualize myself thin, happy, healthy, prospering, successful, etc., I get stuck.... I can't see it. Today during my hour of "No Limits', I attempted to visualize myself on the beach in Hawaii and it was just blank. I won't let this beat me though. This is a new process and I'm only two days into it. I will practice patience, repetition, and perseverance. I will succeed! Two days down, 5 more to go!
*Until Next Time, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!!!*
Ancho Pork Posole
Filed under: Cooking Light Magazine, Pork, Posole, Recipes, Stephanie Alva, Stew Author: Licious
I made this tonight and it was SO good!! You can also substitute chicken or turkey for the pork or you can remove meat and substitute vegetable broth to make it a vegetarian meal! ENJOY!
Ancho Pork Posole
2 tablespoons ancho chile powder
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons smoked paprika
1 teaspoon ground cumiin
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2lbs pork tenderloin, trimmed and cut int 1/2-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olice oil, divided
2 cups chopped onion
1 1/2 cups chopped green bell pepper
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 1/2 cups fat-free, less-sodium chicken broth
1 (28-ounce) can hominy, drained
1 (14.5-ounce) can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, undrained
1. Combine first 5 ingredients in a large bowl; set 1 1/2 teaspoons spice mixture aside. Add pork to remaining spice mixture in bowl, tossing well to coat.
2. Heat 2 teaspoons oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add pork mixture to pan; cook5 minutes or until browned, stiring occasionally. Remove pork from pan; set aside. Add remaining 1 teaspoon oil to pan. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; saute' 5 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally. Return pork to pan. Add reerved 1 1/2 teaspoons spice mixture, broth, hominy, and tomatoes; bring to a boil. Partially cover, reduce heat, and simmer 25 minutes.
Yields 6 servings (serving size 1 1/3 cups).
Calories: 300
Fat: 8.3g
Protein: 28.9g
Carbs: 26.9g
Fiber: 6.1g
Cholesterol: 76mg
Iron 3.2mg
Sodium: 523mg
Calcium: 51mg
*CREDIT: Recipe from Cooking Light Magazine*
7 Day Mental Cleanse: Day One
Filed under: 7 Day Mental Cleanse, Law of Attraction, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com Author: Licious
Hey everyone! I hope you are all happy, healthy, and blessed. I did a video blog on the first day of the cleanse but it turns out that the file is too large and You Tube won't upload it. WOMP WOMP! So, here are some highlights from day one. ENJOY!
Day One:
I was supposed to start my mental cleanse on Monday, but I procrastinated and didn’t start it until Tuesday, November 17th. I realized during the first day, that I have a tendency to put off doing things that will allow me to succeed in my goals. I also learned that the reason I do that is because I’m afraid of losing what I’ve worked hard for. So, instead of working hard and accomplishing the goals, I just won’t do them. What happens if I lose all of my weight or finally become a Motivational Speaker, Author, and Life Coach, and then I gain it all back? Or people stop buying my books and I become homeless? I know that sounds ridiculous (because IT IS!) but it has been the way that I have thought the majority of my adult life. That thought pattern what has kept me from accomplishing 98% of my goals. Now that I know WHY I do it, I now have the power to take back control and decide that I will not live a fear-based life anymore.
Day One:
I was supposed to start my mental cleanse on Monday, but I procrastinated and didn’t start it until Tuesday, November 17th. I realized during the first day, that I have a tendency to put off doing things that will allow me to succeed in my goals. I also learned that the reason I do that is because I’m afraid of losing what I’ve worked hard for. So, instead of working hard and accomplishing the goals, I just won’t do them. What happens if I lose all of my weight or finally become a Motivational Speaker, Author, and Life Coach, and then I gain it all back? Or people stop buying my books and I become homeless? I know that sounds ridiculous (because IT IS!) but it has been the way that I have thought the majority of my adult life. That thought pattern what has kept me from accomplishing 98% of my goals. Now that I know WHY I do it, I now have the power to take back control and decide that I will not live a fear-based life anymore.
So, on day one, I decided to go hiking up in the San Bernardino National Forrest. I enjoyed a
beautiful drive up into the mountains but when I got there, I didn’t have an “adventure pass”
and there was nobody around for me to ask where to get one. Just as I was getting ready to
turn around and leave, a car pulled up with two handsome gentlemen. I walked over and asked them about the pass and where I could get one. They gave me all of the information that I needed and began telling me how they hike and exercise all over America. I told them that I had decided to start exercising more and though that this would be a fun and beautiful way to do it. It turns out that they were going to hike up to Big Falls, which is exactly where I was going! I thanked them for their time and headed off to buy an adventure pass.
beautiful drive up into the mountains but when I got there, I didn’t have an “adventure pass”
and there was nobody around for me to ask where to get one. Just as I was getting ready to
turn around and leave, a car pulled up with two handsome gentlemen. I walked over and asked them about the pass and where I could get one. They gave me all of the information that I needed and began telling me how they hike and exercise all over America. I told them that I had decided to start exercising more and though that this would be a fun and beautiful way to do it. It turns out that they were going to hike up to Big Falls, which is exactly where I was going! I thanked them for their time and headed off to buy an adventure pass.
Once I got back, I started off on the “trail”, which turned out not to be much of a trail LOL! It was peaceful and beautiful up there in those mountains. I broke my hour of affirmation & meditation up into 15 minute intervals and took time out to enjoy the scenery.I got a bit lost and decided to listen to the direction of my inner Spirit. Guess what? It led me right to the Big Falls… or so I thought LOL. I found beautiful waterfalls that I thought were the
Big Falls and I stayed there for about 30 minutes just enjoying and being one with nature. I
looked up and there were the two gentlemen who had helped me earlier, along with their
beautiful dog! They motioned for me to climb up the side of this rock mountain to where they were. Even though I almost passed out, I got up to the top of that mountain and started
chatting with them. Their dog was so excited to meet me. I was petting him while all of us
talked. It turns out that I was just underneath the Big Falls, so they gave me directions on how
to make it up to the top. The entire time I kept thinking, “Wouldn’t it be nice if they gave me their phone number and we ended up being friends or they end up leading me some place that I’m supposed to go?" We chit chatted awhile longer and they headed off on their way. I continued up the path to the Big Falls but it was too much for me to do. So I set a goal that the next time I came up, I’d make it all the way to the top!
I hiked back down to my car and when I got there, I noticed that there was note underneath
my windshield wiper. The note said, “If you are the nice woman who is starting to exercise, a group of people hike Blue Mountain every Tuesday. Call me if you want details. Regards, Jeff.” Now how's THAT for the Law of Attraction?! Overall I had an excellent first day. I exercised, meditated, did my positive affirmations, watched 2 motivational DVD's, and started reading the "21-Day Consciousness Cleanse" by Debbie Ford. One day down, 6 more to go!!
*Until Next Time, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!*
Big Falls and I stayed there for about 30 minutes just enjoying and being one with nature. I
looked up and there were the two gentlemen who had helped me earlier, along with their
beautiful dog! They motioned for me to climb up the side of this rock mountain to where they were. Even though I almost passed out, I got up to the top of that mountain and started
chatting with them. Their dog was so excited to meet me. I was petting him while all of us
talked. It turns out that I was just underneath the Big Falls, so they gave me directions on how
to make it up to the top. The entire time I kept thinking, “Wouldn’t it be nice if they gave me their phone number and we ended up being friends or they end up leading me some place that I’m supposed to go?" We chit chatted awhile longer and they headed off on their way. I continued up the path to the Big Falls but it was too much for me to do. So I set a goal that the next time I came up, I’d make it all the way to the top!
I hiked back down to my car and when I got there, I noticed that there was note underneath
my windshield wiper. The note said, “If you are the nice woman who is starting to exercise, a group of people hike Blue Mountain every Tuesday. Call me if you want details. Regards, Jeff.” Now how's THAT for the Law of Attraction?! Overall I had an excellent first day. I exercised, meditated, did my positive affirmations, watched 2 motivational DVD's, and started reading the "21-Day Consciousness Cleanse" by Debbie Ford. One day down, 6 more to go!!
*Until Next Time, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!*
It's Time To Make A Change
Filed under: 21-Day Consciousness Cleanse, 7 Day Mental Cleanse, Change, Debbie Ford, Inspirations, Kevin Bracy, Law of Attraction, licious, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com Author: Licious
I have reached a point in my life where it is time for a monumental, drastic change. I have begun to fall into old eating habits and have gained about 15lbs over the last 2 months, I am uninspired, and I have this deep-seeded feeling of laziness and restlessness. As my surgeon, Dr. Johnsrud so accurately described, I am a "big ball of angst."
I have been extremely unhappy and dissatisfied with my "regular" daytime job for years now, which is partially what prompted me to start Wise Owl Management, yet I find myself disillusioned with my position as a Personal Manager as well. I firmly believe that part of the reason why I feel such immense dissatisfaction with my jobs is because neither of them are what I was put on this earth to do... neither are my Purpose in this life. I recently quit my daytime job after almost 13 years of service and have given the majority of my clients over to other Managers. I now have A LOT of time on my hands to try and figure out how to live in my purpose. I won't lie, I was PETRIFIED after I quit my job. My brain kept screaming, "WHY would you quit your GOOD PAYING job in THIS economy?? You have no college degree, you are 36 years old, you will NEVER find another job as good as the one you just walked away from!" For the first time in my life, I don't have health insurance. Yet, at the core of my being, I believe I did the right thing. I wholeheartedly believe that this is exactly where I am supossed to be during this season of my life.
My purpose in life is to be a Motivational Speaker and Author; a Life Coach, if you will. I have always known that my dharma, or purpose, in this life was to help other people. That is why I have survived all of the experiences that I have in my life: abuse, growing up in a single parent household, near death experiences, addiction, homelessness, etc. I have been given knowledge and hands-on experience that is PRICELESS, and will one day be used to help others and to encourage people to live their best life and to persevere through the seemingly hopeless seasons of their lives. There is light at the end of the tunnel. YOU are that light. We ALL come from the SAME place... the SAME God. No matter what you call Him, He is OUR source of life. We come from Greatness, therefore we ARE Greatness. I have studied different religions and life affirming authors over the last several years and I have ALL of the knowledge that I need in order to change my life for the better. Yet, each year, I have failed to apply ANY of that knowledge to completion.
God has set before me Life and Death... the choice is up to ME. I can choose to fall into my old ways of living which would be to speak as much DEATH as humanly possible and then watch it happen. Or, I can choose the road less traveled and speak LIFE. I can believe that the BEST part of my life has finally begun. I can create miracles with my mind and mouth just as easily as I have created death and destruction. ALL religions believe the same thing: You are what you believe you are. My entire life, I have spoken and planted seeds of death into my life and have reaped the crops of each and every one of those seeds. It is time for me to practice what I preach to all of you. This is the greatest experiment of my life. I am about to put God's promises to the ultimate "test". I plan on doing the complete opposite of what I have always done in my life.
I WILL SPEAK LIFE.
I WILL BELIEVE THE BEST FOR AND OF MYSELF.
I WILL CREATE POSITIVE MIRACLES IN MY LIFE.
I WILL SOW SEEDS OF LOVE, PEACE, FAITH, AND SUCCESS.
I WILL BEGIN LIVING THE LIFE I HAVE ALWAYS LONGED FOR, YET RUN FROM.
I WILL COMPLETE WHAT I START THIS TIME...
To help me begin my new journey, I am going to do the 7 Day Mental Cleanse to Jump Start The Law Of Attraction by Kevin Bracy and I am also going to read the "21-Day Consciousness Cleanse" by Debbie Ford.(You can purchase the book on Amazon.com by clicking HERE). I will be posting the 7 Day Mental Cleanse for you right after this article so that you can see how it works. My goal is to be an inspiration not only to you all, but to myself. I will be writing a lot now that I have all of this time on my hands. I look forward to taking you all along with me on this journey.
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit." - Aristotle
I have been extremely unhappy and dissatisfied with my "regular" daytime job for years now, which is partially what prompted me to start Wise Owl Management, yet I find myself disillusioned with my position as a Personal Manager as well. I firmly believe that part of the reason why I feel such immense dissatisfaction with my jobs is because neither of them are what I was put on this earth to do... neither are my Purpose in this life. I recently quit my daytime job after almost 13 years of service and have given the majority of my clients over to other Managers. I now have A LOT of time on my hands to try and figure out how to live in my purpose. I won't lie, I was PETRIFIED after I quit my job. My brain kept screaming, "WHY would you quit your GOOD PAYING job in THIS economy?? You have no college degree, you are 36 years old, you will NEVER find another job as good as the one you just walked away from!" For the first time in my life, I don't have health insurance. Yet, at the core of my being, I believe I did the right thing. I wholeheartedly believe that this is exactly where I am supossed to be during this season of my life.
My purpose in life is to be a Motivational Speaker and Author; a Life Coach, if you will. I have always known that my dharma, or purpose, in this life was to help other people. That is why I have survived all of the experiences that I have in my life: abuse, growing up in a single parent household, near death experiences, addiction, homelessness, etc. I have been given knowledge and hands-on experience that is PRICELESS, and will one day be used to help others and to encourage people to live their best life and to persevere through the seemingly hopeless seasons of their lives. There is light at the end of the tunnel. YOU are that light. We ALL come from the SAME place... the SAME God. No matter what you call Him, He is OUR source of life. We come from Greatness, therefore we ARE Greatness. I have studied different religions and life affirming authors over the last several years and I have ALL of the knowledge that I need in order to change my life for the better. Yet, each year, I have failed to apply ANY of that knowledge to completion.
God has set before me Life and Death... the choice is up to ME. I can choose to fall into my old ways of living which would be to speak as much DEATH as humanly possible and then watch it happen. Or, I can choose the road less traveled and speak LIFE. I can believe that the BEST part of my life has finally begun. I can create miracles with my mind and mouth just as easily as I have created death and destruction. ALL religions believe the same thing: You are what you believe you are. My entire life, I have spoken and planted seeds of death into my life and have reaped the crops of each and every one of those seeds. It is time for me to practice what I preach to all of you. This is the greatest experiment of my life. I am about to put God's promises to the ultimate "test". I plan on doing the complete opposite of what I have always done in my life.
I WILL SPEAK LIFE.
I WILL BELIEVE THE BEST FOR AND OF MYSELF.
I WILL CREATE POSITIVE MIRACLES IN MY LIFE.
I WILL SOW SEEDS OF LOVE, PEACE, FAITH, AND SUCCESS.
I WILL BEGIN LIVING THE LIFE I HAVE ALWAYS LONGED FOR, YET RUN FROM.
I WILL COMPLETE WHAT I START THIS TIME...
To help me begin my new journey, I am going to do the 7 Day Mental Cleanse to Jump Start The Law Of Attraction by Kevin Bracy and I am also going to read the "21-Day Consciousness Cleanse" by Debbie Ford.(You can purchase the book on Amazon.com by clicking HERE). I will be posting the 7 Day Mental Cleanse for you right after this article so that you can see how it works. My goal is to be an inspiration not only to you all, but to myself. I will be writing a lot now that I have all of this time on my hands. I look forward to taking you all along with me on this journey.
"We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit." - Aristotle
This Time, It's FOREVER...
Filed under: Ah-Ha Moments, licious, Self Help Articles, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com Author: Licious
Recently, I was released from all dietary restrictions since having the surgery. I have waited for this moment for FOUR LONG MONTHS!! In case you weren't aware, following my surgery, I was placed on a very strict dietary program, which slowly introduced new foods into my diet every four weeks. I didn't eat bread, pasta, potatoes, etc., or drink any alcohol for over 4 months. During the entire program, all I could think about was being able to eat pizza, spaghetti, rice, tacos... all the good stuff.
As you can imagine, the day that I was FREED was a momentous one. My first outting was for my Sister, Angela's birthday. We went to Applebee's and I very hesitantly enjoyed 3 bites of a turkey sandwich, 3 french fries, 3 chips, two tablespoons of Spinach Artichoke Dip, and it was topped off with a birthday shot with my Sis. Typically, I would've devoured all of the above IN FULL without thought. I was actually SCARED to take a bite of the sandwich!! And, just to be clear, it was NOT the surgery that stopped me. I could've eaten A LOT more than I did. I CHOSE not to.
So, today I made a trip to the grocery store, with the intent of cooking something DELICIOUS. As I walked through the store, I picked up different items, checked the calories and the carbs, and inevitably, each item would go right back onto the shelf. Garlic Bread, Pot Stickers, rice, sweet corn cake mix, ravioli, Lean Cuisine Pizza Bread, DiGiorno Flatbread Pizza ... it ALL went right back onto the shelves. And then it hit me: I'VE CHANGED... and this time, it's forever. The shift has occured and never again will I go back to my old eating habits. Now I'm not saying that I'll never again enjoy a delicious slice of pizza, because I most assuredly will. But my daily eating habits have changed forever. A weight has been lifted off of my spirit and for that, I am forever grateful.
*Until Next Time, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!!*
As you can imagine, the day that I was FREED was a momentous one. My first outting was for my Sister, Angela's birthday. We went to Applebee's and I very hesitantly enjoyed 3 bites of a turkey sandwich, 3 french fries, 3 chips, two tablespoons of Spinach Artichoke Dip, and it was topped off with a birthday shot with my Sis. Typically, I would've devoured all of the above IN FULL without thought. I was actually SCARED to take a bite of the sandwich!! And, just to be clear, it was NOT the surgery that stopped me. I could've eaten A LOT more than I did. I CHOSE not to.
So, today I made a trip to the grocery store, with the intent of cooking something DELICIOUS. As I walked through the store, I picked up different items, checked the calories and the carbs, and inevitably, each item would go right back onto the shelf. Garlic Bread, Pot Stickers, rice, sweet corn cake mix, ravioli, Lean Cuisine Pizza Bread, DiGiorno Flatbread Pizza ... it ALL went right back onto the shelves. And then it hit me: I'VE CHANGED... and this time, it's forever. The shift has occured and never again will I go back to my old eating habits. Now I'm not saying that I'll never again enjoy a delicious slice of pizza, because I most assuredly will. But my daily eating habits have changed forever. A weight has been lifted off of my spirit and for that, I am forever grateful.
*Until Next Time, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!!*
HELLO to all my beautiful readers!!! Thanks for checking the site out. My prayer is that it blesses even one person every day! I just wanted to check in and let you know what you can expect from me on the site.
* I will be weighing in every Saturday and posting my weight loss results each week.
* I'll be interviewing different celebrities about their workout and eating habits.
* I'll be interviewing different people about their weight loss stories and successes.
* I'll also be posting recipes from our readers and from myself.
* I will be using the site as a type of journal as well, to chronicle my journey through weight loss and spiritual growth.
If you have any stories, pictures, poems, videos, advice, or recipes you'd like to share with our readers, please email it to you TheNewLicious@gmail.com OR Licious@TheNewLicious.com, and I'll get it posted for you. Also, please feel free to follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/Licious247. Thanks for following me through my journey. I pray you are all BLESSED!!!
*Until Next Time, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!!*
* I will be weighing in every Saturday and posting my weight loss results each week.
* I'll be interviewing different celebrities about their workout and eating habits.
* I'll be interviewing different people about their weight loss stories and successes.
* I'll also be posting recipes from our readers and from myself.
* I will be using the site as a type of journal as well, to chronicle my journey through weight loss and spiritual growth.
If you have any stories, pictures, poems, videos, advice, or recipes you'd like to share with our readers, please email it to you TheNewLicious@gmail.com OR Licious@TheNewLicious.com, and I'll get it posted for you. Also, please feel free to follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/Licious247. Thanks for following me through my journey. I pray you are all BLESSED!!!
*Until Next Time, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE!!*
Gastric Banding: This Is My Story
Filed under: Gastric Bypass, Lap Band, licious, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com, Weight loss surgery Author: LiciousIt has taken A LOT of prayer and thought for me to openly and publicly share this story. After much consideration, I've decided to open up FULLY about my struggles with weight and my recent decision, in the hope that it will touch someones life and help them with their own struggles with food and weight. I am feeling extremely vulnerable now that I've decided to share this with all of you, but I know that it will BLESS someone out there so I will sacrifice my personal comfort in order to be a catalyst for change and blessings.
After much prayer, research, and self-reflection, I made the difficult decision to undergo Gastric Banding surgery, better known as Lap-Band surgery. I have struggled with my weight my entire life. I've either been too skinny or too fat at any given age. Last year I started TheNewLicious.com as a forum for healthy changes in our lives and as a tool for spiritual growth. I also started it because I thought if I made my desire to lose weight PUBLIC, it would hold me accountable to my readers and to those of you who are fans of some of the people I represent. Being somewhat in the public eye, I felt I'd be more accountable than the "average" person. Well, THAT DIDN'T WORK! LOL!! I lost a few pounds but inevitably gained it back plus 40lbs.I stopped posting articles and immediately stopped attending all functions with and for my clients. No more public appearances and FORGET ABOUT taking any pictures of me!
So, after I had had enough, I began researching different programs and settled on a surgeon and a post-op program I felt would work for me. For those of you who believe that having weight loss surgery is taking "the easy way out," you are SORELY mistaken!! This has been one of the most emotionally and physically grueling prcoesses I've ever endured in my entire life. All programs and surgeons are different and I'd like to share my experience with you.
My surgeon's name is Dr. Jeffrey Johnsrud, M.D. and he is the number one surgeon in California for LapBand and Gastric Bypass surgeries. He heads the Bariatric program at St. Joseph hospital. I was made to attend several clases, including Behavior Modification and support group meetings prior to even being considered for surgery. I attended all of the classes and meetings and visited with my surgeon several times and FINALLY, I was approved by my insurance for the surgery. I know that all of you see these commercials and ads where they make it seem like it's this easy outpatient surgery that takes minutes and will help you lose those final few pounds. It is NOTHING like that! That is one of the reasons I decided to share my story with all of you. I started the process towards surgery in January 2009 and I had my surgery on March 30, 2009. Prior to surgery, I had to endure TWO WEEKS with NO FOOD! I drank 3 protein shakes per day, totaling 600 calories per day. And they aren't YUMMY protein shakes you make at home. They are pre-portioned powerd protein packs. Totally gross LOL!! I was also allowed to drink water. Other than that, NOTHING. For someone who is addicted to food and/or who uses food to celebrate or mourn or eats whenever you're mad or frustrated, this process is a trying one. I had to develop different, more healthy ways of dealing with good and bad moments in my life. By the middle of day 4 of the 30 day fast (2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery,) I was literally crying to my Mom, "I can't do this!!! It's too hard! I can't take it!" But guess what.... I DID do it and I COULD take it!
My relationship with food is changing every day. I am no longer able to eat a burger and fries when I'm frustrated about something. And when I want to celebrate, I can no longer pick up a piece of cake. I have to find other ways to live my life that don't include food. One thing that still irritates me, is that there is SO MUCH focus on food!! I have to read about eveything I eat prior to eating it, I have to weigh all the food I eat, I have to measure all of the water that I drink, etc. Some days I wish I could just be "normal." To eat what I want and not be obsessed with it. If I was addicted to crack, and I went through rehabilitaton, I'd be able to live the rest of my life without crack. I'm DEFINITELY not saying that it's not a daily battle NOT to do crack or drink alcohol or shoot heroin, because it is. The point I'm trying to make is that I NEED food to stay alive, so I have to learn how to live with my addiction every day. Other addicts can and will survive without partaking in their addictions. I can't.
One of the things I was asked to do prior to surgery, was to write a letter to my surgeon and insurance company about why I should be selected as a candidate for surgery. That process forced me to ask myself, "WHY did you gain all this weight to begin with???" The answer was harsh, but simple: I hated myself. The other truth was that I was afraid to be hurt emotionally so I decided to put a shield up between myself and men, and that shield was FAT. I endured an abusive relationship and other abusive behaviors throughout my life and that was JUST the excuse I needed to gain all this weight. Well, I'm stronger now and I didn't need FAT to protect me because I was capable of protecting myself. And for the FIRST TIME in my entire life, I realzied that I WAS WORTHY OF LOVE and that included LOVING MYSELF. After I embraced that knowledge, the decision to go ahead with surgery was an easy one.
I confided in very few people about my decision to have surgery but those who I did share with were there for me every step of the way throughout the process. I'd like to take this opportunity to publicly thank Alicia, David, Angelina, Tracie, and Eve. They were there when I was trying to decide whether or not to have surgery, they were there when I was going through the process, they were there to take my late night calls when I was suffering through the 30 day fast, they were there for the surgery, and they have been there since the surgery. You all are my lifeline and have tought me to love myself NO MATTER WHAT WEIGHT I AM! You love me unconditionally and for that, I am forever grateful. A special thanks to all of my other friends and family who have been there along the way as well. I love and appreciate ALL of you and I thank you for enduring my years of self-hatred and loving me inspite of it.
My advice to people considering either Gastric Bypass or LapBand surgery is twofold: To LOVE YOURSELF THE WAY YOU ARE IN THIS MOMENT and to exhaust all other avenues of weight loss before you even start thinking about surgery. If you opt to take the surgical route, go into it knowing that it is going to be one of the hardest things you'll ever do in your life. However, it will be one of the most rewarding things you'll ever do!
I'm only 7 weeks post-op and it has already given me my life back in so many ways. This is the key to your success: KNOWING THAT GASTRIC BYPASS AND LAP BAND SURGERY ARE ONLY TOOLS TO HELP YOU LOSE THE WEIGHT, THEY ARE NOT MIRACLES!! I have to work hard EVERY DAY to lose wieght. It doesn't just fall off on its own. I have to eat right and exercise 7 days a week and when I don't, guess what?? I DON'T LOSE WEIGHT and eventually, I will gain the weight back, surgery or not. This is a lifelong process that I have to actively participate in each day. I have lost 61 pounds over the last 8 weeks and I am grateful that I will NEVER see that weight again! The power of life and death is in our tongues. I have chosen LIFE and I will never look back!! "I come from greatness. I attract greatness. I AM GREATNESS"!
It is my greatest hope that people will read my story and know the TRUTH about Gastric Bypass & Gastric Banding procedures and the people who undergo the surgery.If you are considering surgery, have questions about the process, would like to share your story, or are yourself going through the process, PLEASE feel free to e-mail me and I will be glad to help or encourage you in any way I can!!
*Until Next Time, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE NOW!!!!*
After much prayer, research, and self-reflection, I made the difficult decision to undergo Gastric Banding surgery, better known as Lap-Band surgery. I have struggled with my weight my entire life. I've either been too skinny or too fat at any given age. Last year I started TheNewLicious.com as a forum for healthy changes in our lives and as a tool for spiritual growth. I also started it because I thought if I made my desire to lose weight PUBLIC, it would hold me accountable to my readers and to those of you who are fans of some of the people I represent. Being somewhat in the public eye, I felt I'd be more accountable than the "average" person. Well, THAT DIDN'T WORK! LOL!! I lost a few pounds but inevitably gained it back plus 40lbs.I stopped posting articles and immediately stopped attending all functions with and for my clients. No more public appearances and FORGET ABOUT taking any pictures of me!
So, after I had had enough, I began researching different programs and settled on a surgeon and a post-op program I felt would work for me. For those of you who believe that having weight loss surgery is taking "the easy way out," you are SORELY mistaken!! This has been one of the most emotionally and physically grueling prcoesses I've ever endured in my entire life. All programs and surgeons are different and I'd like to share my experience with you.
My surgeon's name is Dr. Jeffrey Johnsrud, M.D. and he is the number one surgeon in California for LapBand and Gastric Bypass surgeries. He heads the Bariatric program at St. Joseph hospital. I was made to attend several clases, including Behavior Modification and support group meetings prior to even being considered for surgery. I attended all of the classes and meetings and visited with my surgeon several times and FINALLY, I was approved by my insurance for the surgery. I know that all of you see these commercials and ads where they make it seem like it's this easy outpatient surgery that takes minutes and will help you lose those final few pounds. It is NOTHING like that! That is one of the reasons I decided to share my story with all of you. I started the process towards surgery in January 2009 and I had my surgery on March 30, 2009. Prior to surgery, I had to endure TWO WEEKS with NO FOOD! I drank 3 protein shakes per day, totaling 600 calories per day. And they aren't YUMMY protein shakes you make at home. They are pre-portioned powerd protein packs. Totally gross LOL!! I was also allowed to drink water. Other than that, NOTHING. For someone who is addicted to food and/or who uses food to celebrate or mourn or eats whenever you're mad or frustrated, this process is a trying one. I had to develop different, more healthy ways of dealing with good and bad moments in my life. By the middle of day 4 of the 30 day fast (2 weeks before and 2 weeks after surgery,) I was literally crying to my Mom, "I can't do this!!! It's too hard! I can't take it!" But guess what.... I DID do it and I COULD take it!
My relationship with food is changing every day. I am no longer able to eat a burger and fries when I'm frustrated about something. And when I want to celebrate, I can no longer pick up a piece of cake. I have to find other ways to live my life that don't include food. One thing that still irritates me, is that there is SO MUCH focus on food!! I have to read about eveything I eat prior to eating it, I have to weigh all the food I eat, I have to measure all of the water that I drink, etc. Some days I wish I could just be "normal." To eat what I want and not be obsessed with it. If I was addicted to crack, and I went through rehabilitaton, I'd be able to live the rest of my life without crack. I'm DEFINITELY not saying that it's not a daily battle NOT to do crack or drink alcohol or shoot heroin, because it is. The point I'm trying to make is that I NEED food to stay alive, so I have to learn how to live with my addiction every day. Other addicts can and will survive without partaking in their addictions. I can't.
One of the things I was asked to do prior to surgery, was to write a letter to my surgeon and insurance company about why I should be selected as a candidate for surgery. That process forced me to ask myself, "WHY did you gain all this weight to begin with???" The answer was harsh, but simple: I hated myself. The other truth was that I was afraid to be hurt emotionally so I decided to put a shield up between myself and men, and that shield was FAT. I endured an abusive relationship and other abusive behaviors throughout my life and that was JUST the excuse I needed to gain all this weight. Well, I'm stronger now and I didn't need FAT to protect me because I was capable of protecting myself. And for the FIRST TIME in my entire life, I realzied that I WAS WORTHY OF LOVE and that included LOVING MYSELF. After I embraced that knowledge, the decision to go ahead with surgery was an easy one.
I confided in very few people about my decision to have surgery but those who I did share with were there for me every step of the way throughout the process. I'd like to take this opportunity to publicly thank Alicia, David, Angelina, Tracie, and Eve. They were there when I was trying to decide whether or not to have surgery, they were there when I was going through the process, they were there to take my late night calls when I was suffering through the 30 day fast, they were there for the surgery, and they have been there since the surgery. You all are my lifeline and have tought me to love myself NO MATTER WHAT WEIGHT I AM! You love me unconditionally and for that, I am forever grateful. A special thanks to all of my other friends and family who have been there along the way as well. I love and appreciate ALL of you and I thank you for enduring my years of self-hatred and loving me inspite of it.
My advice to people considering either Gastric Bypass or LapBand surgery is twofold: To LOVE YOURSELF THE WAY YOU ARE IN THIS MOMENT and to exhaust all other avenues of weight loss before you even start thinking about surgery. If you opt to take the surgical route, go into it knowing that it is going to be one of the hardest things you'll ever do in your life. However, it will be one of the most rewarding things you'll ever do!
I'm only 7 weeks post-op and it has already given me my life back in so many ways. This is the key to your success: KNOWING THAT GASTRIC BYPASS AND LAP BAND SURGERY ARE ONLY TOOLS TO HELP YOU LOSE THE WEIGHT, THEY ARE NOT MIRACLES!! I have to work hard EVERY DAY to lose wieght. It doesn't just fall off on its own. I have to eat right and exercise 7 days a week and when I don't, guess what?? I DON'T LOSE WEIGHT and eventually, I will gain the weight back, surgery or not. This is a lifelong process that I have to actively participate in each day. I have lost 61 pounds over the last 8 weeks and I am grateful that I will NEVER see that weight again! The power of life and death is in our tongues. I have chosen LIFE and I will never look back!! "I come from greatness. I attract greatness. I AM GREATNESS"!
It is my greatest hope that people will read my story and know the TRUTH about Gastric Bypass & Gastric Banding procedures and the people who undergo the surgery.If you are considering surgery, have questions about the process, would like to share your story, or are yourself going through the process, PLEASE feel free to e-mail me and I will be glad to help or encourage you in any way I can!!
*Until Next Time, LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE NOW!!!!*
A Love Letter To Myself...
Filed under: licious, Love Letter, Stephanie Alva, TheNewLicious.com Author: Licious
I LOVE YOU...
You are my best friend, and I enjoy living my life with you.
Experiences come and go; however, my love for you is constant. We have a goo life together, and it will only get better and better! We have wonderful andventures ahead of us and a life filled with love. All the love in our lives begins with US.
So, when you're feeling down and discouraged just remember:
I LOVE YOU...
Experiences come and go; however, my love for you is constant. We have a goo life together, and it will only get better and better! We have wonderful andventures ahead of us and a life filled with love. All the love in our lives begins with US.
So, when you're feeling down and discouraged just remember:
I LOVE YOU...
