The Diva Taunia Project

WEIGH-IN # : WHO KNOWS? (Merry Christmas to ME!)

2011-12-26T08:23:00.000-08:00

So let's get the obvious right out of the way: I fell off track. I just checked to see when the last time I "officially" weighed in, and it was on October 15th. YIKES! To recap that weigh-in, I was 178.6, down 3.4 lbs from the week before. I hadn't stepped on a scale since, nor had I been tracking my food or really exercizing much beyond rehearsals. I could give you a dozen excuses: divorce, I was sick, I was bogged down by work, but it doesn't matter. What it comes down to is that I just fell off track. I knew it, and I had grand plans for a full-on liquid diet starting in January. Until....

Santa brought me a couple of great, health-minded gifts for Christmas: a year membership to Planet Fitness, and a brand new, shiny scale (my friend Mark said I'm the only woman he knows who would get excited to receive a scale for Christmas. lol). I lost my scale in the divorce (i.e I "forgot" to take it when I left - leaving me to weigh-in only at the gym for a few months), but there were no hard feelings: I didn't want to weigh-in anyhow. But yesterday, on Christmas morning, I figured I'd face the hard facts. I'd been eating and drinking and making merry for the past few weeks, and although I haven't been gluttonous, it was more than I usually had on a normal basis. So imagine my surprise when I stepped on the scale and saw THIS:

Here's the math for you:

Start Weight: 185

Last Weigh-In on 10/15/11: 178.6

Weight loss since then: -4.2 lbs

Total Weight Loss: -10.6 lbs

Pound left to reach 165 goal on 2/18/12: -9.6 lbs

So yes, Merry Christmas to ME! I'm actually REALLY glad that I did that, because knowing that I'm at a really good number right now will hopefully keep me from drinking and eating everything in sight on New Year's Eve this weekend. With my new gym membership, and stops into my sponsor (KoKo Fit Club in Nashua, NH) for some extra strength-training, I'm going to be feeling really good about hopping up on stage in a shiny new corset for my 40th birthday. :)

So here I am, back on track. I'm eating less gluten, headed to the gym, and starting to track my food and exercise again on My Fitness Pal. And a whole week early - screw New Year's Resolutions: I'm doing it now. Thanks for reading and for keeping me accountable. Happy Holidays to all!

CELEBRATE VITAMINS ENS REVIEW + BAD DIVA, GOOD RECOVERY!

2011-11-01T11:54:00.001-07:00

WEEK # 6 WEIGH-IN RESULTS

2011-10-15T21:02:00.000-07:00

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Friday 10/21: NH CHRONICLE TV FEATURE!

2011-10-15T09:11:00.000-07:00

Friday October 21st: Getting Inspired with Diva Taunia - New Hampshire Chronicle News Story - WMUR New Hampshire

Hah...I want to "inspire you." It's always funny to me the titles and catch phrases that end up being the storylines for this type of press. (PS - I don't pick those, they do. Otherwise it would read, "Diva Taunia wants to kick her own ass and lose these pesky extra pounds!" lol :)

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WEEK # 5 WEIGH-IN RESULTS

2011-10-07T12:23:00.001-07:00

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WEEK #3 (RECAP) & WEEK 4 WEIGH-IN RESULTS!

2011-09-30T14:54:00.000-07:00

WEEK #3 WEIGH-IN / NEW SPONSORS

2011-09-27T04:54:00.000-07:00

It's been an unimpressive week. Last Thursday was my week # 3 weigh-in update, and the scale didn't budge. Zero lbs lost, but zero lbs gained. Considering what a difficult week it was for me, I'm actually impressed with myself that I did NOT gain anything. I'll take that.
This week needs to be better, though. I'm shooting for 1.4 lbs. I hope the scale cooperates. My newest sponsors should be a big help with that this week, though!

NEW SPONSORS:

www.kokofitclub.com

225 Daniel Webster Hwy

Nashua, NH 03060
(603) 888-4025

I just started working out at Koko Fit Club in Nashua, and I LOVE it. I would normally never profess to love a gym OR working out, but I do. I just wrote a glowing review on Yelp about Koko, but I'll recap for you here:
The Koko SmartTrainers are like giant universal hydraulic machines with a built-in personal trainer. You actually watch a video screen while you work out, and it tells you your weight settings, your set reps, how to keep your back, proper posture, and it also show a scrolling bar with a box that you aim to keep inside of to measure accuracy. What I realized as I watched the video screen was that because I was paying so much attention to making sure I was doing all my sets correctly, it left no head space for the negative thoughts that can often plague me at the gym, "Is anyone looking at me? Am I doing this wrong?" etc etc I focused 100% entirely on myself, and it's about damn time!
At the end of each set, it will tell you how well you did (I was a B student at about 82% correct form - but I WILL be an A+ student!), it tells you how much weight you lifted, how many calories burned and more, all stored on a hard drive disc for you. The elliptical and treadmill are available for 15 min cardio training sessions as well. I left this workout feelling REALLY happy about my choice to come to Koko and feeling really certain that I'll make my weight loss goals when working out here regularly.

www.shatobu.com

Another new sponsor is Shatobu.com. Their slogan is

"the workout you wear," so I wore these under my gym clothes when I went to Koko. They're much like a shaper, but they have built-in resistance bands that help shape, tone, and burn more calories during every day activities (or say, while you're on an elliptical machine).

I thought for sure that these would be restricting and uncomfortable, but they're not at all! In fact, once I had them on, I barely even noticed except that nothing jiggled when I moved. That alone is worth it - already feeling shaped and toned before even starting to exercise, which made me even more confident about moving my body at a gym. We'll see how well they help me shape and tone over the next few weeks!

Feeling pretty sassy with my Koko and Shatobu exercise combo right now. That scale may not have budged last week, but I think this week may show a better number this week thanks to my new sponsors!

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WEEK # 2 WEIGH-IN RESULTS

2011-09-17T10:07:00.000-07:00

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WEEK # 1 WEIGH-IN RESULTS

2011-09-12T16:57:00.001-07:00

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NEW SPONSOR: NASHUA NUTRITION.COM

2011-09-10T05:54:00.000-07:00

www.nashuanutrition.com

I am wicked, wicked excited (extra-special Boston accent for this entry) to announce that Nashua Nutrition - right here in my 'hood- has just signed on as the newest Diva Taunia Project Sponsor! I've raved about Nashua Nutrition in the past, and I'd like to highlight a few of the reasons why I love them:

They offer really yummy bariatric-friendly products, and their own line of Health Smart products are ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS.
They're very active within the weight loss surgery community and show a tremendous amount of support. In fact, they've also committed to donating $100 towards one of my charities if I reach my goal. They show support both financially and with their own presence at events. Eric and I have worked together on many radio promotions in the past, and he's always happy to show support to my friends/listeners/readers.
While they're totally convenient for me because they're right down the street, they also ship EVERYWHERE, so anyone and everyone can order from them.

I got a whole lot of loot in my order the other day, and here's the run-down, with some quick reviews (*) for some of the products I've tried so far. As a reminder, I'm not doing a specific "diet," I'm trying to eat well and exercise and make healthier choices. All of these products make it really easy, because they taste delicious:

Weight Loss Systems: Spicy Cheese & Pasta
Health Smart Chicken Bouillon* and Beef Bouillon
Health Smart Vanilla Cappuccino
ProtiDiet Chocolate Soy Cereal*
Worldwide Pure Protein Gelatin
MHP Power Pak Pudding
Ostrim Turkey Sticks:
Applewood* & Maple Brown Sugar

Bell Lifestyle:
EZ Slimming Patches
(I know, I know...but wait for the review!)

*Quick Reviews:

Chicken Bouillon* : Absolutely delicious, and I created a chicken-vegetable soup recipe HERE!
ProtiDiet Chocolate Soy Cereal* : You probably saw me stuffing my mouth with this on Youtube, but if not, you can watch the video where I RAVE about this stuff (seriously, sooo good!) HERE.

Ostrim Turkey Sticks: in Applewood* : Rob took one of these to work yesterday, and sent me a text message that said, "Turkey Jerky is THE BOMB!" Rob approved, two thumbs up. lol

Bell Lifestyle: EZ Slimming Patches* : I know what you're thinking, "fad diet patch." That was my instant reaction too, but knowing the other high-quality products Nashua Nutrition offers, along with the fact that it's 100% natural made me curious enough to try these and now I'm kind of in love. I'll do a lengthier video review sometime in the near feature, but for now, let me just tell you that I was not hungry or craving any junk food AT ALL yesterday. Could be that the planets just aligned right, but I'm happy enough to keep this patch on my arm forever if it continues to keep me from not obsessing about food all day long. You can read all about it here and here. Video review to follow!

I am so happy to have such a great working relationship with such a kick-ass company right here in my neighborhood. Huge thanks to Nashua Nutrition for signing on and supporting both The Diva Taunia Project, and my chosen obesity-related charities!

www.nashuanutrition.com

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EXCITING NEWS!

2011-09-07T07:54:00.000-07:00

Exciting news! Tonight, I'll be filmed with my gals in The Diva Taunia Dolls as part of a feature for the television program, NH Chronicle! I've been a long-time fan of the show, and I'm super excited that the gorgeous Tiffany Eddy will be interviewing us. (And yes, I'm going to try like heck to talk her into learning a number and throwing on a costume! lol)

I'll be talking about The Diva Taunia Project, and my attempt to lose 20 lbs (!) by my 40th birthday on February 18th, which has now become our next Diva Taunia Dolls show:
"40, Fierce & Fabulous: The 40th Birthday Bash!"

So exciting, and I'm trying not to let my nerves get the best of me. I'll keep you posted about when the show airs! Fingers crossed that I don't trip over myself dancing tonight. :)

ALL ABOUT THE PROJECT

2011-09-05T06:17:00.000-07:00

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CLICK EXPRESSO PROTEIN : NEW SPONSOR!

2011-09-02T18:00:00.000-07:00

I am very lucky in that I have a number of sponsors that I work with pretty regularly, and they support my online endeavors and antics. I consider myself extra-lucky when they are a company that truly cares about the bariatric and weight loss surgery community, and that is CLICK. They're officially the very first company to sign on board to my Diva Taunia Project endeavor, committing to donating $100 towards one of my obesity-related charities if I meet my goal. Hooray! Pressure, but accountability. It should be a lot easier if I keep my canister of my favorite Click Vanilla Latte by my side at all times. Cheers to great tasting protein! www.drinkclick.com

Greg & Beth Smith also offered a great PDF with ideas for incorporating CLICK into your healthy diet resolutions! Read and/or downoad the PDF here:
A HEALTHY DIET IS JUST A CLICK AWAY!
Many thanks to Beth, Greg, and Click Expresso for their generosity and support!

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OH, THE NUMBERS....WEIGH-IN # 1

2011-09-01T04:27:00.001-07:00

I still get so ridiculously hung up on the number on the scale. Obsessively weighing-in every day, but watching the scale go up and up and up. In order for me to be successful with this project, I've made a promise to be accountable - and that means honest about the numbers. Here's what I'm looking at today, on 09/01/11 - the very first day of the project. I'll update my weight every Thursday.

START WEIGHT - 180 lbs

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WHAT IS YOUR BMI?
I am now OVERWEIGHT:
(Note: I am 5'7")

Why Calculate Your BMI?

Your BMI (Body Mass Index) can help you find a healthy target weight range. BMI is a measure of body fat based on height and weight.

BMI has several limitations: it's not accurate for pregnant women, people under 5 feet tall, and people with very muscular builds. It also does not account for age.

Please remember that your BMI is just a guideline to help decide your target weight. Talk to a doctor or other health professional about any concerns you have regarding your weight, weight loss, or changes to your diet and exercise regimen.

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What is your BMR?

Your BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate) is an estimate of many calories you'd burn if you were to do nothing but rest for 24 hours. It represents the minimum amount of energy needed to keep your body functioning, including breathing and keeping your heart beating (Um, YES PLEASE).

Our calculator uses the Mifflin-St. Jeor equations to estimate your BMR which is believed to be more accurate than the more commonly used Harris-Benedict equation. Your BMR does not include the calories you burn from normal daily activities or exercise.
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Will be tracking my food and exercise HERE:

It's day one at 7:14am and I'm already hungry. Sigh. Keep you posted!

HEALTHY EATS - "YOU YOU" in Nashua, Off Exit 6 (on the left)

2011-08-31T19:33:00.000-07:00

FROM MY REVIEW ON YELP:
http://www.yelp.com/biz/you-you-japanese-bistro-nashua

You You Japanese Bistro
150 Broad St
Nashua, NH 03063
(603) 882-8337

Category: Japanese
Diva Updated Review - 8/31/2011

FROM DIVA TAUNIA:

This still remains one of my most absolute favorite places for Korean food (not that I have a TON of options in Nashua, but still...)

The food is always incredibly fresh, and I feel good about eating there - healthy options, fresh products and meats, fresh sushi....and my guilty pleasure: warm saki. My absolutely favorite healthy options here:

-I would go there JUST for the Miso Soup! A clear broth with soy bean paste, tofu, and green onions.

-Malaysian Satay - choice of chicken or beef
Grilled curry marinated stripes of chicken or beef, coated with coconut milk, served with spicy peanut sauce. I'm a huge fan of Malaysian food, so I am very happy that I can get this here too! Tender yummy meat!

-Seaweed SOUNDS horrible, but mixed with minced spicy chill and sesame seeds it'a spicy and healthy treat for gal like me who likes her food hot and sweet!

-Ok Dol Bi Bim Bab
Rice with assorted vegetables and beef marinated in sesame oil with an egg on top, served in a traditional Korean hot stone pot. MY ABSOLUTELY FAVORITE GO -TO EVERY SINGLE TIME!

Great selection of amazing dinners - something for everyone:

SET DINNER

Vegetarian's Choice

Miso Soup
House Garden Salad
Vegetable Tempura Appetizer - marked fresh vegetable deep fried
Hand Roll Sushi - 2 cones of vegetarian hand roll
Entrée - Pan Fried Tofu with fresh vegetable and rice
Dessert of the Day
Green Tea/Coffee

Gourmet's Choice

Miso Soup
House Garden Salad
Vegetable Tempura Appetizer - market fresh vegetable deep fried
Maki Sushi - 6 pieces of California Roll
Entrée - Teriyaki (choice of chicken or steak) with fresh vegetable and rice
Dessert of the Day
Green Tea/Coffee

Sushi Guru's Choice

Miso Soup
House Garden Salad
Vegetable Tempura Appetizer - market fresh vegetable deep fried
Sashimi - 2 pieces of prime selection of the day
Entrée - 8 pieces of Nigiri Sushi and 6 pieces of Tuna Roll
Dessert of the Day
Green Tea/Coffee

I absolutely love this place for date night. Friendly and attentive stafff and the food is always delicious, and the sake warms my belly with smile every time. :)

Don't miss out on this diamond!

WHAT IS THE DIVA TAUNIA PROJECT?

2011-08-29T23:59:00.000-07:00

My name is "Diva Taunia," and I was morbidly obese for most of my adult life. As a professional singer, I began to see my health problems start hindering my performances and musicality, and after six months of research and 7 months of testing and classes, I decided to have RNY Gastric Bypass Surgery with Dr.Donald Hess at Boston Medical Center on March 25, 2008. It turned out to the best decision I ever made.

Right at the beginning of my weight loss surgery journey, I started documenting EVERYTHING via video at www.youtube.com/divataunia. I chronicled my weight loss surgery / gastric bypass experiences along with my chronic kidney condition (which existed pre-wls and may have killed me if I hadn't lost the weight).

For anyone who thinks that weight loss surgery is the easy way out and that it's just all sunshine and roses in the weight management department, you are sadly mistaken. Statistics show that many wls post-operatives regain 15-20 lbs after their "honeymoon" period. I am one of those statistics. After being gravely ill, I put on the required 20 lbs that I needed to so that I wouldn't need a feeding tube. Then I put on 20 more. That was about 15 lbs too many for me. My goal weight: between 160-165.

I currently am fighting an enlarged thyroid. I don't want to use that as my "excuse," but I do want to use it for a starting point for me to make healthier, more informed choices about diet and exercise, and to start maintaining accurate records and measurements as I move towards my 15 lbs gone goal.

I'm on a mission to reclaim the success of my surgery, through smart, healthy, and focused choices. My goal is to lose 15 lbs by the October 22, 2011. I will directing, performing, and starring in the Diva Taunia Dolls "Halloween Heathens" show, and I want to look (and feel) FIERCE, and I'm enlisting the help of some amazing local and small businesses to help me find the healthiest paths to losing and maintaining weight loss.

Also during this period, I'll be experimenting with less gluten (significantly reduced), less sugar and bread, more protein, and fresh veggies and fruits. I'll experiment and review high protein diet, snacks, and protein eating and drinks, although with watching my blood results and keeping on track and vigilant about my vitamins and supplements.

I'm on the lookout for Nashua, NH-area and small businesses that will help me with the nutritional goals above, but also companies that will entice to me to exercise and reclaim the fun and joy in different physical activities and offerings. Companies that will help me with skin, hair, optical health, dental health and more. I'm looking for the best of the best! I'll be working with companies that align with the positive self-image message I present in all of my online networking: there is beauty at any size, shape, ethnic background, or age.

DIVA TAUNIA LOSES, AND CHARITY WINS!

I do very well with public accountability. It keeps me on track, helps to give me drive, ambition, and a purpose. And my purpose is this:

If I lose 15 lbs by October 22, charity WINS.

For any company that signs on as a sponsor of "The Diva Taunia Project", they will agree to donate $100 to charity if I meet my goal! If I lose 15 lbs by October 22, that means my sponsors will select either The Weight Loss Surgery Foundation of America or The Obesity Action Coalition and will donate $100 directly to charity.

Additionally, I will personally also donate:

Up to 15 lbs lost: $1 per pound to both WLSFA and OAC
Up to 20 lbs lost: $2 per pound to both WLSFA and OAC
Up to 25 lbs lost: $3 per pound to both WLSFA and OAC

Want to make your own generous donation? Feel free to donate directly on the sites here:

Please bookmark this page and come back! I would love the support of my friends and family, and I'll update this often with reviews, weight updates, fitness and exercise updates and more. Thanks so much for your support! xoxo

The Diva Taunia Project

WEIGH-IN # : WHO KNOWS? (Merry Christmas to ME!)

CELEBRATE VITAMINS ENS REVIEW + BAD DIVA, GOOD RECOVERY!

WEEK # 6 WEIGH-IN RESULTS

Friday 10/21: NH CHRONICLE *TV* FEATURE!

WEEK # 5 WEIGH-IN RESULTS

WEEK #3 (RECAP) & WEEK 4 WEIGH-IN RESULTS!

WEEK #3 WEIGH-IN / NEW SPONSORS

WEEK # 2 WEIGH-IN RESULTS

WEEK # 1 WEIGH-IN RESULTS

NEW SPONSOR: NASHUA NUTRITION.COM

EXCITING NEWS!

ALL ABOUT THE PROJECT

CLICK EXPRESSO PROTEIN : NEW SPONSOR!

OH, THE NUMBERS....WEIGH-IN # 1

HEALTHY EATS - "YOU YOU" in Nashua, Off Exit 6 (on the left)

WHAT IS THE DIVA TAUNIA PROJECT?

Friday 10/21: NH CHRONICLE TV FEATURE!