NSV- with pictures

I read every day, but haven't posted in a long time. I've been frustrated that I can't seem to get off these last 10-15 pounds to reach the goal I set for myself.  I'm trying to stay positive by looking at my NSVs. I've had two great ones recently. The pictures show the first day of school this year, and some friends and I attending a Culture Club concert (I miss the 80s....) Two years ago, before I had RNY, I would never have drawn attention to myself as I did in costume in the two pictures.  I do feel free. NOW- I NEED to lose the last POUNDS!!!

You look great!  Congratulations!  Hope I do that well.

Congratulations! How inspiring!

Congrats, you look great!

Congrats!!!!

You've done a great job! If you want to lose a few more, I'm sure you will.

It's nice to see you around.

From your mouth to God's ears, Grim!!

I love those photos!  You must be a great teacher--the kids probably love your sense of humor.

I had surgery right about when you did.  I also have about 10 more pounds I want to lose.  It has gotten harder.  Now that school is in (I have school-aged kids), I welcome the return to routine and an effort to monitor my habits more closely.

One thing I have wondered is how to determine what my goal weight really should be.  I have thought two things lately:

1.  If I return to mindful eating, then my weight should settle where it wants to settle.  I have to find a weight I can maintain, and habits I can maintain.

2.  I am scheduling a DEXA body scan.  NYMom did this, and it helped her determine a realistic goal.  I want to be honest with myself, and I also want to be realistic. 

In general, I am happy at the weight I am at now.  I would NOT want to go higher, though.  Where I am at is deciding:  do I want to lose more, or is this weight good for me?

I am surrounded by many skinny people--where I live, the women tend to be very fashionable--often younger than me--a lot of money in my town, the gene pool is very tall and thin and blonde!  And the trophy wife look.  And, lots of people into physical fitness.  The physical fitness emphasis is good, but the focus on appearance in general is a challenge.  Am I getting sucked in?  Am I being superficial?  I wonder if I am holding onto the last 10 pounds because I "don't want to be shallow."  I grew up in a rural town, with a very practical mother, and my father was a university professor.  The life of the mind and of service were so important. 

I am exploring all of these things in counseling this fall.  I don't want to be stuck in a never-ending place of always wanting to lose 10 more.  I want to either lose it, or decide to stay where I am.

Thanks for  your insight, Pokemom. We are practically surgery twins- just 6 days apart.  What sign are we? (wink)

According to charts, I'm barely at a normal BMI and I don't like that. Right after I had surgery, my surgeon said I'd probably be happy at 140ish- which is where I'm at. I told him then, that I wanted to go lower. I'm afraid he's set me up for a psychological set -weight.  (sarcasm)

I agree with you that I feel great and would be content to just maintain this- which apparently I am!! However, White Dove says there WILL BE a gain at the 3yr mark. I can't deal with THAT. I won't be happy any higher than I am now.  I'd truly love to be lower and STAY there, but will literally freak to be any higher. 

If anyone has any tips to get those pesky last pounds, I'd truly appreciate it. I already am below 30 carbs a day and below 1000 calories. Usually I'm at around 800-850. Some days a little higher, some a little lower. NEVER over 1000.