shelbabey
11 years today...
Mar 11, 2014
Today marks 11 years since my life changed in more ways that I could ever imagine. Today, I crossfit and like to work out. I eat pretty regular size portions but have maintained much of my original weight loss. I work hard to avoid processed food. If I had to describe the way I eat, I'd say, paleo but really JUST EAT REAL FOOD. I try to avoid heavy starches and breads though I still find them most delicious, I also know they're highly addictive in nature. I'm currently reading Cameron Diaz's "The Body Book" and it's fascinating. I am a wife again and I have a son that just turned 5. Life is incredible and I'm grateful for the things this surgery afforded me.
Here is me in Vegas in 2013 on a business trip with my husband.
Also from that trip:
And me on my big 10th anniversary last year:
Since my surgery I've learned a lot more about food and exercise. Honestly, if I were to do it over again, there are several things I'd try before undergoing such a permanent change to myself. I'd eliminate wheat, dairy, processed foods. I'd vary my methods of working out. I'd drink much more water. I believed before that I'd exhausted all my efforts and tried everything to no avail. And, I had. The thing is, there was a lot I didn't know to try. I have been out of this community for a long time but since it's my anniversary today I found myself back here. I'm sure now there are many other methods for doing this. I had the RNY. Gastric Bypass definitely works. Sometimes too well, sometimes not enough. Like anything else I suppose. You will get out what you put into it and bottom line, it is not a magic bullet. It is not going to fix YOU. You have to fix you. Yes, it will make you lose weight, but if you don't address whatever your underlying issues are that made you obese, you will not have long term success. For me, I'm practicing health for my longevity.
I hope that I inspire someone today.
Steps of my journey
Oct 20, 2006
Last Journal Update: 10/11/06
Weight Pre-op 3/11/03: 306
Weight as of 10/11/06: 170
Weight loss to date: 131
Height: 5'5
Age: 36
Well I don't come here that often anymore, as you can see! I posted on the message board today and recalled how much I enjoyed it and helping people who are where I have been before.
I have had some struggles with my weight in the past couple years...struggle being my weight going up nearly 30 lbs... I didn't weigh regularly anymore which attributed to it getting to that point without be really recognizing it. Yeah my clothes weren't fitting as well but I had no idea that it was that much. I wasn't going to the gym as much, my birth control was constantly changing, not eating the best I could be eating. So... I've addressed and corrected all that and now I am back within 11 pounds of my lowest weight now. I have lost 9 lbs in less than a month and 18 inches so things are definitely looking up...just wanted to stop in and update this for anyone that happens to read it.
Wow, it's hard to believe it's been nearly 3 years since I began this journey... but what a ride it's been. I haven't updated this since about a year ago. I decided I needed to step away from chronicling everything here and begin to live my life like I wanted to and was meant to. Over a period of about 4 to 6 months last year I gained almost 30 lbs back getting up to about 189. While my clothes still pretty much fit I wasn't sure what was happening to cause the weight gain. Apparently a change in birth control caused the weight fluctuation and I am now working my way back down and have lost about 10 lbs. I switched to the Nuvaring which my system seems to be happy with. About 3 or 4 weeks ago I got into Pilates 3 times a week and absolutely love it. About 6 weeks prior to that I had begun going back to the gym and really making an effort, realizing that without regular physical activity my weight would always be on the verge of climbing. I feel so much better now and plan to stick to it. It's gotten to the point where if I don't get my workouts in I feel liked I robbed myself of something. This is a recent pic... I won't be updating here much, but for now this will have to be good enough.
2/03
I haven't always been overweight, but at age 20 the weight started really coming on. Was it not being as active as I was in school, not playing as many sports, working in a sedentary job, was it birth control pills, dealing with my parents divorce??? I don't know, but I'm sure a healthy diet of fast food combined with all those things and a lack of regular exercise attributed to it. By the time I started to do something about it, results were hard to come by. Diet and exercise changes barely made a dent. My self esteem was non existent. Looking back at the way I used to be was a constant, as was the feeling of hopelessness of ever getting back to that place. When Carnie Wilson had her surgery I started thinking maybe things weren't so hopeless after all. The question was, would medical insurance cover something like that? Two years passed before I really pursued it, mainly because my Mom was against it. Since she worked in the medical field, I tend to listen to her opinions on medical procedures. When she gave me her okay, I quickly began learning all I could about WLS.
I went to the bariatric surgery seminar on 12/21/02, met with Dr.Coirin on 1/21/03, was notified of my approval for surgery on 2/21/03 (weird how it all occured on the 21'st of those months!) and am scheduled for my lap RNY on 3/11/03. All in all this process has gone very quickly. The insurance was approved within a week and my appointment is just a couple weeks out.
I can't wait to move forward and really begin to live my life.
3/7/03
Can this really be happening? It's all gone so fast. Sometimes I feel almost bad, because I know there are so many people who've been working at getting the surgery so much longer than me, and with very little effort or waiting on my part, surgery is upon me. I'm very thankful for it to be happening though. I haven't had a bad life. I have a great and loving family. I've been through some difficult things, but I haven't had a bad life. Yet I have lived for probably a third of my life with such self loathing for what I've become on the outside. Is that shallow? I guess, but few people in our society take the time to see the real person inside the shells we walk around in. Family does, but that's because they have to, they're family. Of course they aren't always the nicest. I remember at Christmas one year, going to see my Grandparents and my Grandpa saying to my Mom and I, "Oh, here are the two fatties" You know what I wanted to say? f-you! But instead I just shoved down those feelings, like so many others. Decided he's just old, maybe a little senile or maybe just mean, but he wasn't lying. Maybe this is just to much info. to be sharing with you guys...lol. It's certainly not exciting I know.
I look forward to being able to like the outside of me, as much as I like the inside of me. I look forward to not having to worry so much about my mortality because of my size. If my time comes, my times comes I suppose. But I don't think that time is now. I have faith that God will take care of me and watch over me. Just like he will over all of you, whether you're waiting for surgery or have had it.
Now...to end with a laugh for you all.... this is my new inner chant... "I'm gonna be HOT!" :)
3/9/03
Well, two more days. Yikes! This weekend my Mom and I went in search of some of the vitamins I'm supposed to get. No luck in finding the sublingual B-12, no luck in finding the chewable calcium citrate, nor the iron specified by my surgeon. I'll have to try again tomorrow. I did manage to find the magenesia citrate or whatever it's called...woohoo... can't wait to take that... it's true, because I'd rather do that than have an accident on the table or something. Yuck.
I am really trying not to think too much about where I'm gonna be at this time two days from now. It's a little overwhelming if I do. I'm not concerned with the possibility that in the future, I may not be able to eat this or that. I can handle that. I don't want food to rule my life ever again the way it has the past several years. I want to learn to view food as fuel for my body, something neccessary for survival, not something I plan my life around like a social event. Does anyone else feel like that? I hate that I can get up in the morning and start thinking...ooh, what will i eat for this meal or that meal. If we ever go somewhere out of town, I can always associate a good restaraunt with that area we should stop at. I hate that I do that. Maybe now I'll just be worrying about if I've eaten enough.... now there's a problem I'd like to get used to having.
Some activities I want to incorporate into my routine post surgery/recovery is this: elliptical trainer, walking, biking and I'd like to try pilates and even indoor rock climbing too. Oh and I also want to go skydiving - at least once!
3/19/03
Well, yesterday marked one week post op and I think I'm doing pretty good. Started at 302, down 19 lbs. as of yesterday. Started on soft foods yesterday and haven't had a problem. The doc said all my incisions looked real good. I had to see him yesterday and then go to a class for all the patients who had sugeries last week between he and his associate. I think there were about 7 of us in there. We went over the next month, what to expect, what to do, how to follow the program the doctors have devised. It was good. I also left with a new plan, not to weigh myself everyday. I'd rather wait until my one month appointments with my doctor to be surprised. That way the scale won't own me. Just follow the program and I'm bound to lose.
The first few days of recovery weren't too too bad. I did not like having the drain come out, it felt really weird to watch and feel it at the same time. I quickly got sick of broth and managed to eat some jello each day, and would have one sugar free popsicle each day just for some variety, though I think they frown on that...that's snacking they say. Oh well, I needed to do that. I know, what a rebel, huh? I stopped taking the liquid Lortab on Sat. though still had some soreness, but nothing I couldn't deal with. Today the soreness is very minimal. I've been able to sleep on my side for several days now too. It has taken some getting used to hearing all the gurgling and stuff moving through me...lol..woke me up one night. I'm trying to push aside the fear that something still may go wrong, I know that's not healthy to do.
I was thinking about walking one of my dogs today, but I'm afraid they'd just end up pulling me around...lol and I don't want to injure myself, so it may just have to be a solo effort :)
Well, that's it for now. Everyone take care and many blessings to everyone having surgery this week.
3/27/03
I'm kind of disappointed, some of the posts I made haven't shown up on my profile...but I think it's my computers fault and not the site :) I'm just past two weeks post op and down about 24 or 25 lbs. My primary doctor wanted to take me off my blood pressure meds entirely yesterday since my bp was at 124/70. But I talked him into just taking the doseage down, since the full dose was making me light headed. I know my bp still elevates, and I go back to work next week and a 120 mile round trip commute, so I'd rather step it down and see how it goes. He agreed, so maybe in 6 weeks I'll be able to come off it completely. He was so excited for me and my weight loss. Something weird has been happening with me though, and its taking some getting used to. This change in my head has taken place to where, I really don't care about food, one way or another. The other day I was out and got a cheeseburger, one of those small ones at Mc'D's, just to see if it would live up to what I'd made it in my mind... well, it didn't. First I got rid of the top bun, then took a small bite... after three small bites, I was satisfied that it held no interest for me. Woohoo!!!! It tasted like...like... nothing...not bad..not good..bland...nothing. Today I had half a real meals shake, 30 grams of protein!! and a lemon chiffon yogurt and a tiny sliver of some meatloaf for dinner. And that meatloaf stuffed me...ugh!
It thrills me that I can do nothing now and still basically lose weight, but more importantly, I must remember this is a wonderful, amazing tool that I can really benefit greatly from if I use it to my advantage. So..it's time to step up the exercise now that I'm feeling better.
My tiny incision scars look wonderful and the area where the drain was is still healing, other than that, I feel good, though still slightly weakened. I'd say I'm at an 80% normal energy level. My weight never really held me back physically prior to surgery, as far as energy levels go, I could bust ass with the best of them when things needed getting done, so I look forward to reaching that level again.
Hope everyone else out there is doing well :)
4/1/03
Well, I'm not sure why, but I think I'm losing really kind of slow compared to others profiles I've read. But, I guess we're all different and it doesn't do any good to compare myself to other people, my body will lose weight at it's own pace. I do think I haven't been getting in enough water/protein, but now that I started back to work today, I think I can develop a better routine.
Starting back to work today, I noticed a change. I work on the second floor, and I'm embarrassed to say that I'd often take the elevator that one whole flight because I didn't like to go into my office out of breath or run into anyone in the corridor in my winded state. Today, I made 6 different trips up and down those stairs and never once got in the elevator, and I don't plan on it, unless I have something heavy that would be dangerous to carry up or down the stairs. I did still huff and puff a little, but not nearly as bad as before. I had more energy and when I got home, I caught myself sitting down in the recliner, greeting the animals, but then I got up and changed my clothes and got on my elliptical trainer. I went for 20 minutes and went just shy of 1 mile. It's not much, but it's a good start I think. It was good to get back to work today, I have to admit. I was getting bored at home. I like being able to get in my car and go, listen to my favorite music and just enjoy life. I smile a lot I noticed. When I'm by myself, just smile like a fool, because I know that everyday I'm changing, it's like a present slowly being unwrapped and one day I'll finally get to see what's underneath :)
Congrats to my friends out there that got their surgery dates, you know who you are. You're in my thoughts and I'm here for you if you need anything!
4/3/03
Yes, back to work after 3 weeks off for my surgery. Down 30 lbs. so far. I ordered a box of the chocolate flavored Real Meals yesterday. I tried the vanilla packet I'd gotten and blech!! I just held it in my mouth, trying to convince myself to swallow it, but I just couldn't, so I spit it out. I really need to drink those each day, because lately, I just don't know what to do about eating. So very little appeals to me anymore and I have to eat. I gotta tell ya, my ass and quads are killing me, so maybe it's because I'm using the stairs at work or because I'm also using the elliptical trainer at home... whatever it is, good Lord they're sore! Well, gotta get back to work, just wanted to post an update.
4/8/03
Today I'm 4 weeks post op. I'm down 33lbs. I don't see my surgeon until 4/16 though. I'm feeling so good and don't regret my choice to have this surgery whatsoever. No, I can't eat all the things I used to right now, but you know what, I don't care! I think I could go a day and a half at least before I ever got hungry. I'm trying to follow the doctors orders to only eat when I'm hungry, which is kind of a mental challenge. The mind still believes...oh, you can have a little bit of that, and then I try to eat something and it just doesn't work. Today I had some tuna salad with a little balsamic vinegar on it. That was a nice change. Tonight is my first support group meeting so I'm anxious to see what it's like.
4/10/03
Well... it's been 30 days since my surgery and I'm down 35lbs. now. It sounds silly, but I feel prettier...lol. People have asked me if I regret doing this or would I do it again. Regrets? Hell no. Would I do it again? In a heartbeat. I love knowing that I'm losing weight, getting healthier everyday and that whatever else effort I put into it, only accelerates my results!! Awesome!!!
4/15/03
I'm a pound away from being down 40...yay!! Which of course means that I'm just 11 from 50. Amazing!! Thank God!! I still don't feel that I look all that different and I am waiting for someone to see me and say, wow, you've lost weight haven't you? So far that has not happened. Soon maybe. I got my SeaSilver yesterday, so I just started taking that. The rep told me to take 3 caps a day, so I'm doing 1.5 in the a.m. and p.m. I tried a dress on last night that I've had for a few years but haven't been able to get on without looking like a fat sausage casing :) I was able to get it all on and it's tight still, but not as bad as before. Over the weekend we did my one month pics and measurements, I'm down about 22" overall. I am just so thankful for this opportunity. Until you've had your surgery, you can't fully imagine what this feels like. I don't care if I can't eat all the things I used to love, none of that matters to me now!! No more obsessions over what to eat, when to eat and associating every activity or location with food and restraunts. That's a good thing!!
4/17/03
Well, it's just over 5 weeks now, and YES!!! I hit the 40lb mark today. How excellent is that? I know I still don't look all that good, but minus 40lbs has got to be an improvement right? I'm very happy, and if I focus on it too much, I start to smile like crazy. The other day I actually hustled up the steps at work, and they're steep! I'm very glad I did this. Everything seems to be aligning itself just the way it should in my life now. My future ex husband will be served his divorce papers today, so six months and one day from now, I will be free! And not only that, hopefully I'll be a hundred pounds lighter too! Now, that would be excellent! The past two years have brought me so much pain and trouble, to be free of him now and losing weight, getting my health back, that is all such a relief! Well that's enough of my ramblings for now. I hope all is going well for all of you too!
4/22/03
I'm 6 weeks out....and it's that time of month, so I don't even want to weigh this week because the scale tends to just halt it's downward progression, as I learned last month. I'm down 41 pounds at this point, which is excellent, I think! I got home from work and decided...I'm going to the GYM! And I did. It was fine. I worked out for 25 minutes on one of the elliptical machines there. It was highly crowded at 6:30 though, so I'm going to try going at 7:30 and see if that's any better. I always have felt better after going to the gym. I just feel that I've done something good for myself and my mood is elevated. Lots is happening in my life right now. My ex was served with the divorce papers last week, so I'm looking at October 18th for it to be final. And hoping at that point (7 months out) that I'm down a hundred pounds. My birthday is in September, so lots of positive things will be happening around that time.
I've been really having a hard time eating. I can eat very little. I am not afraid to try new things, but I learn early on, they don't work for me. They will just sit there at the top, feeling as if they don't want to go down. I've been eating yogurt and soft foods, refried beans, etc. Also, thank God for the Real Meals shakes too, because that's where I'm getting the majority of my protein and nutrients. I am not discouraged by the fact I can't eat that well right now. That's okay. It's kind of nice in some ways actually... and I know it won't last...there will be a time when I can eat normally and that's when struggles could begin, so it'll be up to me to face them and overcome them!
4/29/03
Today marks 7 weeks post-op. I'm feeling good. Down 45 lbs. now which is just unbelievable. My tummy is flatter...yay!! It's so funny because after I got home from the hospital, I had this dream where I woke up and was looking in the bathroom mirror and down at this flat tummy...wow, that can really happen! I'm so happy about this surgery and glad that even though I don't get to eat the things I use to "love" it doesn't matter to me. Food is fuel or should be, and I hope that I can live my life without attaching all the other emotional crap to it. Repeat after me...food is fuel...food is fuel...lol! Is it working for you yet? LOL! Well, it seems to for me and I'm so thankful. Tonight I'm going to another support group meeting tonight organized by patients who've had this done. So, I'm going to check it out and see what it's like. Best of luck to all of you!!
5/1/03
Woohoo! Down 48lbs at 7 weeks and 2 days. Could I possibly be the happiest girl in the world?? Perhaps, but I'm not alone, lots of people on here share the same joys I do. I just think this is the coolest thing! 2 more pounds and I'm at -50. This is just so excellent. Now...on a slightly different note, I was out walking yesterday evening, still daylight mind you. The neighborhood is a nice one, but you know how kids can be right... I fear for our future, I truly do. These kids drove by and threw a 32oz soda at me, hitting me right on my left hip. It soaked my hip/butt/thigh on that side. Real nice huh? I was so pissed about that. That is just awful that you can't even go out and enjoy a walk without being assaulted like that :( What do their parents teach them anyway?
Enough of my groaning... best wishes to everyone out there.. pre-op and posties!
5/11/03
I had my surgery on this day two months ago. I guess it's time to take pictures and do my measurements again. Things are going great. I'm down from 306 to 251...almost into the 240's! Before surgery, I always avoided any clothing that had real waistbands/buttons...lol. The last I'd checked I was a 26, when I was at The Avenue looking at these capri pants I wanted. I didn't buy them, for one, I was too disgusted and two, I knew I wouldn't fit in them for long. So...two months ago..size 26, then one morning this week, I tried on a size 20 pants from the same store that I'd had forever and never worn...they FIT! I could not believe it! That felt great. I've also been able to wear lowrise jeans that I previously couldn't ever wear :) I'm so happy. I can't eat for shit....but I'm happy! I don't even care that I can't eat that much. I don't want to. I want to keep losing and losing til I'm all done. Yesterday I ate some of the inside of a veggie burrito...so that was good. Usually just some yogurt, maybe some mozarella cheese, a real meals shake, that's about it. I just don't tolerate foods well. Except for the things I shouldn't eat....lol. But I'm not going to go into that, just know that I'm not doing that all the time. Just everyso often I try a bite of something.
Alright... I'm out of here for now. Best of luck to all pre-ops and posties! Life is soooo good on the losing side!
5/13/03
Saw my doctor for the official 2 month post op visit. He said I'm doing great! Down 56 lbs. He told me to that it's common to not be able to tolerate turkey and chicken for awhile...so I guess those things will have to wait. My friend Colleen did great with her surgery yesterday, but I guess the drain is bugging her....ahhh I remember the drain pain....and the shoulder pain, that was the worst for me. Possibly even worse than the swallow test. I have met so many great people through this process. Dianne Diaz...someone that reaches out to people...reached out to me thankfully! I'm glad I found a friend in her! She's great. My Mom has her date scheduled with Dr. Coirin for 6/25. I'm so nervous for her....probably like she was for me. I know the risks and was willing to take them for me, but if anything happened to her, I'd be lost. Okay...enough of those thoughts...only positive good thoughts :)
5/17/03
Well, my period has started, so that explains the slow loss and tiredness this week :) Some good things have happened despite that... My Mom gave me some pants to try on that she can't wear. I tried them on, one was from The Avenue and it zipped up the side I got them on and she said, mmmm, a little tight on the waist still, but just another week or so and it'll be okay. I take them off, look at the tag and it's an "18"!!!!! OMG an 18!! Wow. I haven't fit in an 18 in quite some time. Before surgery I was a 26....not that I owned any because I refused to buy them...lol, but that's what I would have had to buy. This is just the best, most exciting wonderful experience. I looked in the mirror today getting ready and just focused on my face and the change I see in it and broke out into this big smile. Now I will look at my butt.... because it looks better now and doesn't cause me to go.......Yuck!!!! Thank God for this surgery and the skill of Dr. Coirin. I'm so happy and I know this is just the beginning.
5/18/03
Woohoo - Down 60lbs!!!! Maybe it's because I was so upset last night from some damn kid bashing in my back window on my car...or the adrenaline from chasing out there after them.....lol...I don't know what, but I couldn't sleep for hours after that waiting for them to come back and do more, and then all of a sudden I felt sick and had to go to the bathroom really bad....maybe that's what dropped the 2 lbs overnite!! Whatever it is, I'm glad. I'd felt my weightloss had been stagnant this past week. I went to the hospital yesterday and saw my sister in laws Mom, Jan Dahle, who had surgery with the same Doc as me. She was doing pretty well. I sat with her for about an hour talking and answering questions.
Wow......I can't believe it....60lbs already!! This surgery is such a blessing!
5/27/03
Made it through the first big family event since surgery nearly 11 weeks ago. The wedding was up in Reno, so I had a few eating out occassions as well as the wedding. Did fairly well, though I didn't eat all that much. I did get to eat a little bit of cake though, and it was really good. Still get some nausea when eating and really don't find the eating experience enjoyable whatsoever. Which, when I think about it, isn't so bad.
I weighed this morning and am down 63lbs, so I'm at 243 now, just 37 lbs to go to get to the century club. Woohoo! I wonder how long that will take. Perhaps not as long if I could get my ass to exercise more than I have been. I must be better about that.
Last Friday I bought some pants that are 16's and they fit!!!!!! OMG! I think as I gained weight years ago, I skipped 16 entirely and went straight to 18. This is just so great, I am so much more happy with who I am now, knowing everyday I'm getting better and better, inside and out.
I'm 11 weeks post op now, and down 64 lbs. I did notice that during my period I was much more tired than I usually am that week. I think if I can step up the exercise I'll definitely be at minus 100 before 6 months....well, that's my goal at least.
5/30/03
Dropped two pounds overnight! Whoa! I did kinda pay for it I think though. Warning...graphic content ahead - Ever since my surgery I only BM every 4th day or so, and I used to daily. Last night I woke up with an awful stomach ache. I swear I was in the bathroom for 25 minutes. I guess everything I'd eaten since last weekend (Sunday a.m. was my last BM) had accumulated and decided it was time to make it's exit. That was agony, but I felt much better once I was done. So, I guess thats why the scale rewarded me with a 2 pound drop :) Last night I ate something for the first time since my surgery that made me feel normal again. My stepdad makes these really good Velveeta tacos with ground beef and corn tortillas. I ate one, compared to the prob. 3 or 4 I used to eat and it was so delicious. Afterward I had some yummy watermelon too. After all the trouble I've had feeling sick after eating, this was a great experience to have for a change. I wrapped one up to eat today too. Hope everyone is doing well and has a great weekend!
6/7/03
Four days shy of the 13 week mark and I'm down 69 pounds to 237. Amazing! Feeling better about myself has made me become a little more social, dating and hanging out in groups, meeting new people, so that's another bonus.
I'm still eating very little, continuing with one 30 gram Real Meals shake 5 days a week at least. Other than that, small doses of tuna, yogurt, the other night i had a little bit of a beef and rice bowl...which lasted several days :)
My Mom, Sandy M., you can search for her profile under the find peers section, is scheduled for surgery on 6/27. She's been watching me go through this as well as others and it's almost her turn. I'm scared for her, because I love her obviously, but I'm trying to focus on the fact that she has no real comorbidities aside from joint pain from the extra weight. She'll be okay though, I have faith.
Colleen, Dianne, Jan, Liz, Tina, CJ.....so many friends, old and new that have become a presence and support in my life, with these amazing women, I've formed bonds that only we can truly understand. You guys are the best...keep up the good work, support and inspiration!!!!!!
6/11/03
Today I am officially at the 3 month to the day point/13 weeks down. I started at 306 and I am now down to 234. So I've lost 72 unbelievable pounds! Excellent...I don't know what else to say, I'm very happy. Recently I've gotten to the point where I can tolerate eating small doses of chicken, so that's getting better. I am noticing a little hair loss...I think it more than normal when I'm in the shower. I get such a kick out of looking in the mirror now and seeing the difference in my shape, like, I really do have a shape now. A curvy getting sexier everyday kind of shape.....woohoo!!! That makes me happy too. Tonight I have to take pictures and measurements. I missed doing measurements at the 2 month mark...bad Shelly. But I'll get it done tonight. Hope everyone is doing well in their respective journies.
6/18/03
Well, I'm 14 weeks out, down 76 excellent pounds and feeling really good. Reading about Sharon Neva's potassium issues did scare me a little, and I am definitely going to try to be very alert to my body and how it is reacting to everything. I am still doing better with eating drier meats like chicken. Still not eating too much in the way of anything, and not really caring. Everyso often I feel hungry, and I will eat, unless it's late and night and then I won't. Just drink some water til morning.
My Mom's surgery is next Friday. I'm not too nervous about it, or trying to fool myself into feeling that way at least. I just pray it is uneventful and she's as successful as I've been and all the friends I've made or already knew that have done this.
I've been having fun lately, trying on things in my closet from the past...things I either never wore or haven't worn in years. Heck, even my undies are getting looser, and they're the support kind! I've been trying to decide what to wear for a wedding that's coming up. Got a few choices. I've been tanning for a few weeks because I plan to wear shorts this summer, unlike last summer! And I don't want white legs!!! My little scars on my tummy are looking really good, and my plan is to get my belly button pierced in another 3 months. Maybe for my birthday in September :) Well, I've rambled on now long enough, I'll go now, lots more to share, but I'll keep it in for now! All my best to everyone out there, preop's and posties and everyone in between :)
6/30/03
First off I have to start with some info on my Mom. She had her surgery on Friday June 27th. She's completely miserable still. Friday didn't start off right to begin with. Her 1:30pm surgery was pushed back to like 4:30pm. She didn't get into her room until 9:00pm, but she seemed to be doing pretty well all things considered. I stayed at the hospital with her that night and did what I could to help her. I left on Sat. morning to go get ready for my cousins wedding. While I was gone she had her swallow test and no leaks were found (Thank God!) but afterwards she began spitting up bloody pleghmmy yuck (Dr.Coirin had warned me that her throat was going to be irritated from the tubes.) for like a day straight. This made her extremely nauseated and since Friday she's had nothing by mouth besides ice chips. She's so down and miserable. It makes me so sad. I love my Mom so much and we're so close. Seeing her so down and not even joking back with me is hard. We go and sit with her, but after awhile she tells us to just go because she doesn't even feel like talking. I'm glad that these are her only problems, and it's nothing more serious, but I just wish it would pass and that her spirits would be lifted and she'd feel semi normal again. I'm just gonna keep hoping and praying for that until it happens.
Now, I'll give you an update on me because it's been awhile. For the past week it seems I've hit a plateau. I've been at 79lbs lost and am holding there. Tomorrow is the 16 week point, so I know that 79lbs lost is nothing to sneeze at. My Mom thinks it's stress right now. Maybe. I'm not going to dwell over it, I'm doing good and the weight will start coming down again in time. I'm hoping to get a pic from the wedding I went to this past weekend, so I can have it posted. My family just gushed over me, I swear! Even Nicole, the bride! She said, oh my God you look so good! The weight is just melting away! Pretty much now, the family all knows I had surgery and now I don't even care. Everyone just told me I look so great. I now weigh less than I did when I got married three years ago. I got the outfit I wore to the wedding at that new store Torrid. It was black pants and a black tank top and my Grandma said I looked very sexy! Hehe! Yesterday I went boating with my Stepdad and my brother's family. Yes, I wore shorts and a bathing suit (one piece, red, size 16 tankini). I haven't worn a bathing suit in 3 years since my honeymoon, much less, shorts! AND... I didn't even wear a cover up or shirt or anything when we were out there. My body is far from perfect, but I'm fairly toned and tan and know without a doubt that I look better than I have in a long time and I'm not going to continue hiding the way I used to. I don't ever want to live like that again! As far as eating goes, I think I'm doing better. Yesterday out on the water, my sister in law had brought some sandwich stuff, so I had a piece of white bread with some mayo and mustard and a few pieces of thin turkey lunch meat, folded it over and ate the majority of it. I was so proud that I was able to do that and not feel yucky. I ate a few Dorito's with it, and drank water the rest of the time we were out there. It was great to be out on the water, in the sun, with family having fun and not being so self conscious and withdrawn. I can't wait for my Mom to feel that way soon too.
7/8/03
17 weeks out today and the scale has decided to move again! Yeah!! I'm down to 221...almost to the 2-teens!! Down 85 lbs now. I got a picture from my aunt from 6/27 to post. I know that I look better...but still I don't think I look good in the picture, but I will post it and the one that better represents what I looked like prior to surgery. The pic I have posted now is from 2000 when I got married and weighed about 230. The one from last summer is so hideous to me, I didn't want to post it, but to be fair I think I should show a then and now shot. Maybe they'll even put it up in before and after now that I'm closer to the century mark. Wow...4 months out and closing in on 100! Only 15 more to go :) Yippee!! The pile of clothes that no longer fit is growing, some things I seem to have skipped over entirely! We're having a garage sale soon, but whatever doesn't go will be given to the clothing exchange at our support group meetings. I'm all for charity, but I'd like to get some kind of compensation if at all possible, because that stuff was expensive! LOL! Alright, I need to get back to work, but I will be getting some new photo's posted up, more than likely tonight.
Also, my Mom is doing better day by day. She went outside and walked last night which is good! Hopefully Dr. Coirin puts her on soft foods tomorrow. She hasn't had anything of real substance since 6/25!
7/11/03
Today is four months to the day since my surgery. WOOHOO! I am now in the 2-teens.... 219 to be exact. It's just unreal. I cannot believe it. I haven't been this weight in at least 10 years. I've been eating more protein the past few days and it seems to be helping. Life is good!!!!
7/16/03
Haven't updated in a few days. Lots has been happening with my Mom, so I've been more focused on that. Now that she is off the ventilator and will be moving out of ICU tomorrow I feel like I can breathe easier. The fear I felt has subsided somewhat, but I won't be happy until I know she's really better, and acting more like herself. Hopefully in the next two weeks I'll see that happen.
I'm 18 weeks out now and down from 306 to 215! 91lbs lost so far :) So if I average it out it would be a little over 5 lbs a week. How am I doing this well? I don't know. I've exercised sporatically for sure. I just don't know, I guess I'll just consider myself fortunate to be losing so well. I get so amazed when I go into my closet and grab something that didn't fit two or three weeks ago and now it easily fits. It is sooo cool! I just might hit 100 before I get to five months! EXCELLENT!!
7/22/03
I'm 19 weeks out today, and down 92 pounds. I've been stuck at 92 for about 4 or 5 days now. It's so bizarre, because I've increased exercise and protein and yet it's not moving. I'm a week and a half til my period, so maybe this is related. I'm not gonna stress about it. It goes in waves, very little movement on the scale for the better part of a week and then it just starts pouring off. I'm very happy with where I am right now though anyway, I'm thinner than I've been in at least 10 years, so that takes me back to age 22 Woohoo!!! I'm so excited to just hit that 199 mark and be under 200! That would take me back to 19! It's so amazing though, because the other night I was further cleaning out my closet (3 Glad bags full!) and I tried on this dress I wore on a cruise when I was 19. It was a size 13 juniors. It partially wraps around, kind of double breasted with four buttons across the tummy, and I couldn't believe it when I could button it!! Wow! It's tight, but I wasn't popping the buttons off either...now that is progress getting into a size 13!
My Mom was moved from ICU on Sunday afternoon over to a stepdown unit. She was supposed to have her ct scan yesterday but the machine was down, so hopefully today. She is so upset about being in there still, and is horribly bothered with the memory of being on the ventilator. She said it was so scary, the sensation of being completely paralyzed, unable to move, talk, open her eyes, meanwhile knowing full well what was going on around her in the room. She said she could feel me holding her hand and talking to her and try as she could, she couldn't make anything move. I don't know how to console her to take the memories away, I just said, it's okay, that part is over now and you don't have to do that anymore. She just wants to feel better...feel normal again and I don't blame her. I hope the test comes out well and she can start clear liquids again and come home next week maybe.
7/25/03
Finally got the scale to move...lol. It hadn't since like last Friday I think. I seem to have cycles like that though, lose nothing for 5-7 days and then after that a bunch comes off. I just think when the scales not moving, I'm probably losing inches or my body is trying to catch up or something. I've been busy busy busy this week. Haven't even had time to eat too much... not that I ever eat much anymore :)
My Mom is still in the hospital. We're waiting for another swallow test w/ the ct scan on Monday. I hope that by then the leak has healed shut.
My hair is still coming out, has been since about a month ago (3.5 mos.)so I hope that it holds true and stops around 6 months. I don't have THAT much hair after all!
I cannot get over how I am not appalled at what I see when approaching glass doors. I don't avoid looking at me or my reflection. It's still not great, but it's such an improvement...then again, I'd hope so at 93 lbs lost!
7/30/03
A brief update, I'm down 95 lbs. I'll be five months come August 11th. Just 5 more to go to get to the century club! Woohoo! It's so unbelievable that I've lost this much already. Never ever in my dieting history have I been this successful...not even remotely as successful. The most I'd lost was on weightwatchers and that was like 25lbs tops and it took me about 9 months I think. I am just so thankful that I was able to have this done. I feel like it's giving me so many chances and a new start really, and it's allowed me to start to love myself, which I hadn't been able to really do before.
About my Mom, she is still at Doctor's Hospital. The good news is that the leak has healed and she may be able to come home this weekend, though she'll have to be on iv nutrition for up to a few weeks, just depending on how much (soft) food she can intake on her own. They are starting her on jello and broth tomorrow. She is still struggling mentally with this and goes back and forth between, this was a mistake and I just want to go home like normal, meaning no iv nutrition stuff. It's very frustrating to watch, because I'm like Hey! This is what you need to do....so do it, don't question it, this is what you need to get better...ughhh so frustrating to be supportive when her attitude is so poor right now. Here are some pics from my family reunion this past weekend, down 93 lbs at that point.(7/26/03)
8/6/03
Just a little update to say how I'm doing. Still sitting at 99 lbs down. I told my Mom the scale must be waiting for her to get home before it makes the drop to 100. I am just trippin off the changes that are happening. The jeans I'm wearing today, I can literally pull them down. I don't need to unbutton or unzip them...haha it's too funny. I'm looking in the mirror this morning thinking...where did my ass go? I mean, it was there ...really there before! Now it's... significantly less. Woohoo! I'm so happy in general now. I don't have to look at myself and hate almost everything I see. I will gladly look at my reflection as I approach a glass door or storefront just to catch a glimpse of how I look now.
More things to be happy about: My mom is coming home or is home now. I am still at work, but she should be home. Yay!! I've so missed her. It's not the same without her there and I know she's going to be so glad to be home and see all her babies (me, Mike, the dogs and cats :)
8/7/03
YESSSSSSS! I made it! Today I have joined the famed Century Club and let me tell you, it is NICE! So one of my bigger goals has been achieved, my next one is just 7lbs from here, and be at 199. Today I am 206 and I'd like to see that 199 display on the scale so that I can leave the 200's behind for good :) Believe me, I was greatful to be in the 2's after being in the 3's but lets be honest....being in the 1's is way better! Last night, since Mom has come home, I was able to take some time to exercise, and I was using my elliptical trainer when I noticed, hey, I am really jamming on this thing, my pace was much quicker than it had been before, not winded whatsoever, so I had to bump it up a level. Since I'm obviously losing my ass (oh what a problem to have! hehe) I'm trying to shape it, so I was doing a lot of reverse motions to work that area. I also did my free weights standing in front of my mirrored closet doors. Watching myself in motion, lifting the weights is really amazing to me. I see my arms, so much thinner, muscles becoming more defined and I love it. Who would have ever thought I'd love to see that?? I don't know, but I sure do like doing that more than looking at myself and hating what I see! Alright......gotta get moving, more later!
8/11/03
Today marks the official 5 month postop mark. I'm down 104 incredible pounds to 202. I only have 3 pounds to go to get out of the 200's!!!!! I cannot believe it.
Mom is doing better, she's given in to the feedings, even though they totally gross her out, she realizes she needs them or she might wind up back in the hospital. Last night she actually bounced around as she did her little walk around the house. She said, see, I couldn't have done that the other day! So she's getting stronger :) Life is good and I feel so blessed!
8/17/03
This has been a tough week. My weight actually went up 2 lbs, but has gone back down one of them. I'm struggling to get under 200 but still sitting at 203 :( I'm doing all I'm supposed to, even have increased exercise, so I can't figure it out. Lately it does seem like I have a week where I do almost nothing then a week after that wear the weight tumbles off. I must still be losing inches. Several shirts and pants I can no longer wear because they're just too big and look sloppy. The only consolation I had this week was going to old Navy yesterday and buying two pair of ultra low rise capri cargo pants. I love them, AND they're size 16!!!! I have one size more to drop to be out of the teen size numbers! I've learned that low rise style pants look so much better on me. I had a pair of 18 boot cut jeans from Lane Bryant and they come so high up on my waist and make my ass look so much bigger than the low rise pants.....I mean.... wayyyyyyy bigger! So, I'm opting for the low rise from now on if I can help it! Well, that's about it for now, I need to go get some protein in. Keep your fingers crossed that I can shed these next four pounds to get under 200 like I want to!
8/19/03
Well, I'm exactly where I was at on 8/11, 202. The past 10 to 12 days have been a baffling struggle. The scale has refused to budge past this point, so hopefully that changes soon. I just want these 4 lbs to drop so I can be at 199... is that so much to ask, I mean really! I've lost 104...what's another four in the grand scheme of things? Today has been a good day. I took my Mom to see Dr. Coirin and she was so happy that he took out not only her last drain, but the feeding tube as well!!!! Woohoo! I can't wait for our next support group meeting at St. Dominic's :) I'm gonna wear my cutest new pants to show the girls and take my camera to get some group shots hopefully!
8/21/03
FINALLY! The scale has decided to move below where it's been since like 8/11. Ughhhhhh! 201, 2 more to get out of the 200's. I hope this is where the scale decides to move on a regular basis for awhile and that that horrible plateau is over. Me no like those :(
8/23/03
Woohoo! The scale moved again. I really didn't expect it to, because I ate some steak at like 10:00 last night. Went to my Dad's to watch a movie with them and then went to eat after. I had a steakhouse salad (okay, so the rest of it is in the fridge...lol) it was good. But since it's kind of heavy with protein, I didn't expect to lose today. I haven't had many issues lately with eating. No frothing or vomiting. The last time was early this month related to chicken that was too dry. Moisture in what I eat is key to easier digestion I've learned. Usually getting in at least 64 oz. of water a day. I also drink decaf iced tea. Typical days meals for me would be either about 4 oz. of yogurt for breakfast or a 6 oz. protein shake (1/2 Real Meals packet/water), lunch is usually a little tuna, or a little piece of prime rib, with some cucumber salad or some chicken over a green salad and dinner is kind of up in the air, something protein based though. This surgery in many ways has been easy, but in others it hasn't. I've definitely had a blessed journey when I look at my experience versus what my Mom has gone through. I am so thankful for this though, it has turned my life around, given my confidence and inner happiness which I thought had both left me for good a long time ago. For all you preops out there that might be reading this and even postops, I'm here for you if you need me. Helping other people get to this point is something I enjoy doing. It would be wrong of me to go through this and not give back to others. To my family and all my WLS buddies, I love you guys and thank you for your continuous support! Have a great weekend everyone!!!!!
http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL240/1262543/2396758/32482829.jpg">>
8/26/03
FINALLY!!!!! Yes, it's happened. I got on the scale this morning, gave the Tanita a few seconds to count down, relaxing, wondering, could today be the day?? Low and behold 199!! I swear I heard music playing...lol. I have not seen 199 in probably 12 years. I just can't stop smiling! Tonight is our support group meeting at St. Dominic's. I'm so excited to see everyone and for them to see my Mom doing better too. Now...gotta go get ready for work.
9/2/03
Down 107 lbs. now. Yay!! Also, my pics are now in the before and after section which is so awesome to scroll back and forth over and over. This guy I know thought I weighed 160 tops this weekend too! I was like....I love you!!!! LOL! If I'm 197 and I look 160 to him, then imagine how I'll look when I really am 160! I'm having such a good time. Everyday brings something new to make me smile. I don't think I'd mentioned it too much before, but as far as hair loss goes, for me I started noticing more hair coming out in the shower and in my comb at about 3.5 - 4 months. Now at about 5.5 months the amount seems to have reduced and gone back to the amount I normally lost in the shower and thru combing. I'm no where near bald, but I have noticed a significant difference in the volume of my hair. I never had thick lustrous hair, but I had a lot of thin hair. So, now I have less, but it will come back (at least that's what they say...lol). I'm still keeping up the exercise, minimum, 3 times a week. I use my elliptical trainer for 25 mins. on level 3, then work my upper body with weights and do leg lifts, crunches and stretching. I'm going to make an effort to get back to the gym. I want to use some weight machines to tone the booty and legs more....and hey, maybe I'll meet a nice guy too (of course that would just be a bonus). Also, I notice that my BMI dropped from 52 to the 32 range now. 20 points!!! Gotta go, my Mom wants me to update her page today too.
9/4/03
Down another pound to 196 :) I did a lot of playing around with my page yesterday and added links at the top so instead of having to cut and paste addresses to view stuff you can now just click and the page will open. Ahhh, learning HTML, fun stuff. I think I'm going to add a link on here to a site that will help you learn it too. It actually wasn't too hard either. Well, the boss is here today, so I've got work to do!
9/6/03
Wow, down 2 lbs. since yesterday. Haven't seen that happen much lately. It's been slow. But I'll gladly take it. I'm looking to leave the 190's soon. Wow, the 180's...wooooo! Haven't seen those since I was maybe 19! Excellent. Just got back from a 2.5 mile walk. Took me 43 mins. I wonder if that's a good pace?? I don't know. I have found that I love walking. The muscles I feel, that I never felt before, because I really never walked all that much... it's just amazing. I think it's the hip flexors that most impress me. I decided I need to go to the gym to tone my butt. I want a better shape to it. Either that or I need to start doing some buns of steel type videos. Must reshape the booty!! I'm down to a 36D bra and the 16 pants are getting loser. I'm putting them in the dryer now....not afraid of them shrinking. I don't dare try on a 14.. they wouldn't fit... would they :) ?? Did I mention how I am loving life still? I don't expect that to change. Still don't really have a love life, but I know that will come in time too. All I'm concerned with right now is me, me and me! Selfish? Maybe, but oh well! :p Y'all have a good day!
9/9/03
Nothing too exciting happened over this past weekend. I did actually try on 14's at Old Navy and they fit!!! Goodness! I bought them too!!! I also got a size large t-shirt. My tummy is flattening out nicely. I hit a bucket of golf balls on Sunday and man was I sore yesterday! Feeling better today though.
I just got this message in an email. It's one of the nicest ones I've ever gotten, so I wanted to share it.
Denise Boere's Message:
I just thought I would write and tell you that you are my favorite "post-er" I enjoy your post the most! You are an inspiration to me!! You look so great and have so much life you can feel it over the internet, the excitment you have with your wls. I have taken so many notes about things you've done to be so successful in your journey. And I cried about your Mother and smiled in her recovery. (you're a good daughter). I have my surgery Oct 8th. Keep up the posts, I really enjoy them! P.S. has the ~ex~ seen you lately? Thanks Shelly for your spirit
9/12/03
Just wanted to post this before I head off to dreamland. Even though it seems my weight has been hovering at 194 for......awhile...lol, I apparently am losing inches in the meantime. I tried on a dress that I haven't worn since I was 19, when I went on a cruise to Mexico. Yes, I still kept it. It's always been one of my favorite dresses. It's a size 13, and it fits!!!!! YES!!!!! Not only does it fit, but it looks prensentable. I'd actually wear it out too. It needs pressing badly, as it's been mushed in the back of the closet or packed away in a box for the past 13 or 14 years, but that's easily done. The point is....it fits!! :) So, moral of the story, even when the scale isn't moving, other things are!
9/15/03
9/19/03
OH YEAH!!!!!!! Today I went to the Gap Outlet on my way home. Now, even though I know I can wear a 16 at Old Navy, I still had the impression it was some sort of fluke..just the way they were cut..an error from the factory! Right? Wrong. I pick up two pair of pants at Gap... a low rise, wide leg cargo capri and a pair of low rise long and lean boot cut jeans in size 16. So, I take a deep breath and try them on. Unbelievably, they fit. So well that I thought, it wouldn't be long before they'd start to get loose and gap in the back of the waist above my butt, so I thought, what the heck, I'll try on some 14's. Well, I found a 14 in the jeans, but in the cargos the next available size was 12..skipping over 14 entirely. So I picked them up thinking...oh well, I'll see how far I have to go to get into these. THEY FIT!! I am telling you, I nearly cried in that dressing room. I jumped up and down and looked at myself thinking.....wow. I can't believe it. Of course, I bought them! So.. I get home and my Mom wants to go shop, okay I say. So we hit Target I pick up two pair of slacks in a 16 (still in denial) and a cute sweater with a faux shirt inset. We get in the dressing room, I try on one pair of 16's then the next, but they're a different brand. Tighter for some reason, but I get them buttoned and zipped without busting any seams. My Mom goes...now wonder, those are 12's. I was like, what??? The hanger says 16. She said, well the pants say 12. I'm like....but... but.. I got them on! Wow! No, I don't buy those, but now we move on to Mervyn's. The denial about this size issues runs deep, so I try on some petite Levi's 515's. Low rise, boot cut stretch. Size 12. I can button them, but can't zip them yet, but they were on sale and I got some really really cute heels that were half off that look good with the jeans. My Mom bought them for me for my birthday which is on Sunday. Woohoo!!! I am sooo happy, I just can't get over it. I'm so so thankful for how far I've come from where I was this time last year. Severely overweight and dreading another year which I expected to be just like the last. Fortunately I only had to endure a partial year of that. Now, life is great. I've let go of the self loathing I used to harbor and now I feel free and happy! I love WLS and it's awesome results!!!!!
9/27/03
Well, the scale has decided to move down a pound again. It's been a few slow weeks. I'm still a little concerned about the abdominal pain/soreness I've had since about Tuesday night. It came on suddenly after I'd eaten, then I went thru Wed. thinking, okay, this must be constipation. Went home, took Correctol, felt much better, yet still had soreness in the tummy. This is the whole tummy. If I push into it it hurts. Starting from under my new pouch all the way down to above my pubic bone. I don't know what is going on. Thursday was okay, then Friday afternoon after I ate, pain again. It makes me feel bloated and my tummy hard. So last night I took some gas-x type stuff, but, I wake up today and still feel the soreness. I guess I will have to go to the doctor to figure out what it is. I'm afraid really. After all that happened with my Mom..... what will happen to me. I've been this stellar case history and now what if this is my complication?? She is leaving for Arizona for 4 or 5 days and is worried about me. :( I think I should just say I feel better for her peace of mind and on Monday I will go find out what is wrong with me.
Today we are going to the Graceda Park in Modesto for the WLS Gathering that Stephanie Simmons is putting together. Should be fun.
Hey I need to celebrate me breaking into the 180's today...woohoo. 3 more pounds and I'll be down 120 lbs!
Well, it's 8:30 and I need to get my day started. Have a great day!!!!
10/02/03
Okay, first I want to discuss the issue I've been having with abdominal pain. I saw Dr. Coirin yesterday, the pain had settled down to where it was just deep in my lower abdomen. I am scheduled to see him for my 7 month appt. in another week and a half. He wants to wait until then and see how I'm doing and go from there. I am on my period right now, and had previously used an enema and Correctol on two occassions yet the pain persisted. Today, it is feeling a whole lot better though, so that's good. Maybe there is nothing to worry about.
I'm about 6.5 mos. out and down 120 lbs. I can't freakin believe it. I'm sitting here in my new size 12 Levis!!!! It's shocking to see myself look as good as I do. I feel great and couldn't be happier with where my life is and where it's heading.
10/7/03
Things are going great. I'm down 123 lbs now to 183. Before long I'll be in the 170's!! YAY!
Haven't had any issues with food or eating lately. I started my new protein today that I got from Susan Maria's site. The Proplete Gold brand in chocolate peanut butter. It's smells yucky but actually isn't bad. It's only 20 grams per scoop as opposed to the 30 that I'd get from a half of a Real Meals pouch, but I think I like it better. We'll see.
Gotta send congrats out to Dianne Diaz....happy one year anniversary girl! You've done so great. I am proud of you!!
10/10/03
Well, tomorrow I will be 7 months post-op. I'm down 125 lbs (seeing that number is just shocking...like how can that be??) and I am feeling really good. Last night I ate a little too fast and paid for it, heading to the bathroom for some basically dry heaves and deep breathing. I ate too fast trying to hurry because I had to leave to take my Mom and Mike to the airport. They left for Mexico last night.
10/13/03
I'm seven months post-op now and more convinced than ever that having this surgery has given me a new lease on life. Truly a second chance.
Still holding at 181 lbs..... down 125. Two more and I break into the 170's! Woot!!!!! I actually think I can go down to a size 10 in my Gap pants......how cool is that?!?! Here's the latest pic:
http://pic8.picturetrail.com/VOL240/1262543/2396758/35720946.jpg">>
10/20/03
Well, another month nearly gone... time sure flys! I have no clue where I'm at on the scale because I haven't weighed since last Friday morning. I worked out on Sat. and I did the elliptical trainer for 30 minutes on level 7!!! Wow. I've come a long way, level 7 wasn't a possibility 7 months ago. The counter said I went over 3,200 strides in those 30 minutes.
I didn't have any food issues this weekend. Hardly any snacking, though I did eat maybe a quarter of a churro. Tried to get all my water in and stick with the protein first rule. A victory was not having any Ritz Chips..... those are very very addictive. Bad chips!!! Well they're not exactly chips, but crackers and they're so very yummy.... must fight the urge!!
I'll post my weight after I weigh tomorrow morning :)
* Forgot to mention - My hair seems to be coming back because I see hairs that are like 2" long sticking up on the top of my head...yay!!!
10/23/03
Nothing new on the weight front, still parked at 181. The inches are coming off though, things are looser on me and the beautiful thing I've discovered lately is, I can shop ANYWHERE! I can go in, pick up a size 12 pants and they fit, Size Large shirt..and it fits :) Woohoo! That is so cool. No more specialty stores or plus size sections! I saw my ex mother in law (That's right... the divorce was final Oct. 18th!) on Monday and we were talking and I said something about, well, these are size 12 Levi's and she was like, you're a size 12! I'm a size 12! I thought that was cool!
So, I'm on another plateau but I'm not going to complain. I'm very happy.
I posted it on the message board earlier, but I'll put it here too, I was doing my hair this morning and I saw the damndest thing. On the right side of my forehead I have this little fringe of bangs that's like and inch long....lol. How funny is that? It goes well with all the little spikeys I have sticking up! Woohhooooo.....come on new hair growth. I need some volume back - finally!
10/25/03
Finally......dropped a pound, bringing me to 180. YAY! Closing in on t
About Me
Before & After
rollover to see after photo
