Entry 10: the staples of the first phase (part 2)

Before I post about other first phase staples I thought I'd share a picture that is traditionally posted on Instagram called "Face to Face Friday".  I'm just a lurker on Instagram so I thought I'd put a picture up here on my blog instead.  The first picture is my first time at the Unity Point weight loss clinic in March and the second was yesterday.  There is a 15 pound difference in the pics.

Ok, back to my "staples".  I think I'm the last post I forgot to give a pic of my protein shakes.  I try to have 2 of the chocolate ones a day and one of the clear ones to get 60-80 grams of protein a day.  I also need tons of water so I use Crystal Light or just plain water to get through that goal.  Right now ice water makes my stomach spasm :-( and I love ice water so I'm hoping that is just temporary.  I can also have broths and creamed soups during this time.  I had some cream of chicken soup yesterday and it tasted amaaaaaaazing.  For a broth that is almost calorie free I found these broth sipping bags that you use basically like a tea bag--seep in hot water--and enjoy.  The two flavors I got were "Pho" and "Thai Lemongrass" and I love them both.  I bought a handy soup mug that holds a straw for sipping.  Finally--Benefiber.  My doctor thinks taking benefiber every day is something everyone, not just Bariatric patients, should do.

This is the first day since my surgery that all the kids are home.  I hope they take turns "walking the mom"  so I get plenty of movement in today :-)