Thanks

Thanks :)

As always, a post that provokes deep thought. You bring to light that moderation is typically not possible for those of us who are what  I call, carb sensitive. Like you, I can slide down that slippery slope pretty fast.

With the knowledge that obesity rates just keep climbing higher and higher every year, a simple trip to the grocery store explains it. Everywhere I look, isles and isles of refined carbs and food like substances. Fake foods are common, sugar is in almost everything, and eating real food costs more than the average household can afford.

We are fortunate that we now have the awareness to make those better choices, one meal at a time. Just like an alcoholic, sugarholics should just not go there, it is easier than the aftermath that a binge can bring. Yes, I have done that too. For you it's cookies, for me, it's cake.

All of this to say, Happy Surgiversary. You have come a long way, OI know you can do this for the long haul. Oh, and positive thoughts coming your way on cookie lady day.

Tonight I enjoyed a night of practice at the rink. Two years ago, when I was about 2 & 1/2 months out, I started ice skating again. Tomorrow and Saturday, I am competing again in a national, recreational competition in Burbank and Pasadena. I never thought that when I started down the path to my VSG that I would end up re-learning to skate. I also never thought that competing would even be possible at my age. I am grateful for my VSG, and the ISI (recreational league) for helping me enjoy my new normal. Depending on how it goes, I may post a photo after the competition is finished.

Well, it sure is good to see you post. CONGRATULATIONS on the baby!!! What wonderful news. I know you had been considering starting a family.

It is also good to hear that you found a school where you fit well. I started the year at a charter school an hour away, then got an offer with an online school. Now, I teach from home. It has lots of administrative tasks, but so far, I like it. It is good that we both found full-time work.

Oh, you two look great.

I am cheering you on towards that 7000 mile goal. Who would have ever thought that a VSG, and dedication could have produced a few (cough) older athletes. It is just so wonderful that you can ride for as long as you need to to reach the goal. Have a great CA weekend.

Pre-op I had thick hair. I did lose quite a bit, I did take biotin and made sure my protein was high enough. Some people just lose hair. I is coming back, but thinner and curlier. My new hairdresser is working on getting it looking better as time goes on. That said, would I trade my hair for my weight loss? HECK NO!!! I didn't go bald, a ponytail works, and I have a better quality of life. Yea, I'd trade some hair for that.

I am so sorry for your loss, losing a parent is really hard, both of mine are gone. Glad you made it to see her, and you are d=so right, there won't ever be a better NSV for you. There will be good ones, even after time passes and your weight is stable. But those words and that moment will outweigh them all.

I will tell you to not rush anything, stay on your dr's plan for progression/ Then, when it is time to have any type of food, mushies, soft, or regular, always weigh and or measure your food. My DH is almost 3 years out, and I am just over 2 years out, we still weigh and measure. Oh, we also use small dishes, it helps with the brain thing.

I responded to you last night on a different forum. I rarely go to that forum for obvious reasons, only when I need to post something that pertains. That being said, my DH and I know many people who have had RNY, and all but 2 have regained their weight, and about 4 have gained more than their loss. I believe in their cases, the malabsorption  of calories only lasts a couple of years. Then, your intestines adjust. Most of these friends do not follow the food rules. The two that have kept it off do follow the rules most of the time, one is a slave to the gym. She spends two hours there, everyday. When she slacks, she puts on pounds even though she does follow the food rules. the other one might be a little bulimic, she "excuses" herself to the restroom right after she stuffs herself, after every meal.

Don't get me wrong, eating disorders can occur with any WLS, so do be careful. But, after being a part of these folks lives, I knew RNY was not for me. I got to goal in nine months, and generally maintain within a seven pound range. There are many in this forum who have lost 100, 200, or even 300 pounds with a sleeve, so it can be done. Oh, my DH, lost 100 pounds, but because he looked to skinny, he gained 10 back on purpose, he also maintains, and has for almost three years.

If you do need some malabsorption, the DS is not a bad idea. Ms Batt is right, the stats are great. However, it is more complicated, and many people have had horrible complications using surgeons who do not have enough experience with this surgery. Please, if you choose a DS, check out the surgeon in detail. The DS forum can help. I do have a friend with a DS, a revision from a band. She is doing great, she can eat (couldn't with the band, scar tissue and erosion), she is losing weight, and has more energy.

Finally, take your time with your choice. I know we all want to get it done ASAP, but you need to know which option and the lifestyle associated with it will work for you forever. When you decide, it will feel right. Let us know if there is anything else we can help you with. No question is to strange around here.

DH and I are the sub leaders for support group when our regular leader gets called out to work.  I just want to give a shout out thank you to Kim and Rusty (OH staff) for driving all the way up to the high desert to speak at our support group tonight.

They gave our group a nice presentation about OH, the website, changes to come, and helpful hints. Considering the drive through construction zone HE**, both ways, I just wanted them (and all who see this) to know they are appreciated.

I remember last fall when I bought my zip up, knee high boots, wow, what a feeling to be able to zip up a pair of boots. It's the little things that make me appreciate my sleeve.