Weight Loss Surgery Info

Interesting that this seems to be mostly talking about fitness-
type "counseling" rather than mental health counseling. Yes, I'm
biased because of my occupation, but we have ALL seen how the
emotional/psychological component plays a role in making us fat in
the first place, how those things continue to pop up in the process
of losing the weight, and (for those a year or more out) that they
can continue to pop up during the struggle keep the weight off.
Perhaps THAT is the part that Dr. Svetkey is missing...? {insert
sarcasm here}
Lora

Lora,
I still think you should plan some poses in bed, or wherever. When G
isn't around, test poses that work the best for you. Remember, he
had sex with you back when you were 120 lbs heavier. It wasn't a
problem then. He proposed when you had lost a lot of weight and had
some sagging issues. Maybe it would make you feel better if you
found some sexy little things that you could wear leading up to and
during sex. It would make you feel sexier and turn him on even
more. Just a suggestion.
Lizanne

Counseling helps prevent lost pounds from reappearing
March 18, 2008People who want to lose weight andhere's the real
challengekeep those pounds from reappearing might consider weight-
loss counseling, a study in The Journal of the American Medical
Association suggests.
In a test of three different strategies for maintaining weight loss,
those who had personal counseling every month were the most
successful at keeping off the pounds they'd dropped.
"We know how to help people lose weight in a healthy way, but we know
very little about how to help them keep the weight off," said lead
author Laura Svetkey, MD.
The study began with 1,685 adults who were overweight or obese and
weighed an average of 213 pounds. Of these adults, 1,032 lost an
average of 18.7 pounds in six months.
Researchers then randomly assigned these successful losers into three
groups. One received monthly counseling on diet and physical
activity, either over the phone or in person. A second group used an
Internet-based counseling tool. And the third group received basic
information on how to maintain weight loss, but attempted to do so on
their own.
Thirty months later, the study participants receiving personal
counseling maintained an average weight loss of 9.2 pounds, compared
to 7.3 pounds for those who used the Internet-based intervention and
6.4 pounds for those who were given only basic information.
While the amount of weight loss maintained by all the study's
participants was relatively modest, even such small losses can have
benefits.
"Each pound of weight loss is estimated to lower the risk of
developing diabetes by 8 percent, which is quite impressive," said
Dr. Svetkey.

Even a little exercise makes life better for overweight women
March 21, 2008Exercising for between 10 and 30 minutes a day can
improve the health and quality of life of women who are overweight or
obese, according to a study presented at the American Heart
Association's Conference on Nutrition, Physical Activity and
Metabolism.
The study involved 430 sedentary, postmenopausal women, average age
57, who were overweight or obese. Researchers divided the women into
four groups and assigned them to exercise either 70 minutes a week,
135 minutes a week, 190 minutes a week or not at all.
Most of the women's exercise took place in three to four sessions a
week. When not taking part in organized exercise, the women wore
pedometers.
In addition, researchers asked the women about physical functioning,
such as what types of activities they participated in, limitations in
physical activity, pain and their own assessments of their health.
The women also did a self-assessment of vitality, social time,
ability to accomplish what they set out to do, and whether they were
nervous, down in the dumps, peaceful or happy.
Overall, the women were fairly healthy and reported a good quality of
life when the study began. Even so, those who exercised experienced
improvements in function and quality of life.
After six months, the women who exercised experienced an almost 7
percent improvement in physical function and general health, 16.6
percent in vitality, 11.5 percent in performing work or other
activities, 11.6 percent in emotional health, and more than 5 percent
in social functioning.
Women who exercised also reported a significant improvement in social
functioning compared to women who didn't exercise.
Women who participated in the most exercise, from 135 to 150 minutes
a week, showed the most improvement in quality of life and physical
function.
"This is the first, large, controlled study of postmenopausal women
to look at the effect of exercise training on the quality of life. It
shows that exercise gives you energy and makes you feel better," said
Timothy S. Church, MD, the study's principal investigator.
Notably, the study found that improvements in quality of life were
not necessarily due to weight loss.
"Some of the women did lose weight over the course of the study, but
the self-reported improvement in quality of life was not dependent on
weight loss," said Angela Thompson, MSPH, co-author of the study.
Based on their findings, researchers advised older women to get
regular exercise by walking each day or by joining gyms that cater to
women or have specific sections for women.
"Physical activity not only provides a better quality of life, but
better balance, stronger bones and confidence in walking," Dr. Church
said. "Start exercising for small amounts of time and then gradually
work up to 150 minutes a week. A little is better than nothing."

I have to start reading my messages before I send them. This typo is
actually pretty funny.
Lizanne

Pat,
You may be like me...well not like me but have some of the same
issues I have with my pouch. I can eat anything, and I mean
anything. Well I am not sure about sweets, but I can eat sugar in my
tea and my yogurt, Yoplait, has 14 gr of sugar. It becomes harder as
you move farter out from your surgery. I believe that my pouch is
limitless as far as volume goes, although I was so careful in the
beginning months. You may be having it easy now, Pat, but that MAY
mean that later on you will have to rely more on your willpower than
this "tool". Be sure you follow the rules so that you can get in the
routine that will help you later when your pouch SEEMS to stop
working. Protein, Protein, Protein.
Lizanne

Mix In Fruit and Fiber
New research shows that two helpful tools for keeping a normal weight
both start with an F: fruit and fiber. A recent study compared the
eating habits of 52 overweight or obese adults with 52 people of a
normal weight (who were comparable in age, height and gender).
Researchers found that people who ate more fiber had lower body fat,
and that eating more daily servings of fruit was related to lower body
fat, too.

What I meant was, I get full fast on meat... just a couple bites. I don't think I would use the word "heavy"... I'm not at all uncomfortable with it. But last night I was munching on grape tomatoes, baby carrots, and celery... and I suddenly realized that I had eaten quite a few of each... way more than I would have thought my pouch could hold. I can't eat that much of ANY other food, even other non-meat foods.

Pat
"Mary B." <hunnybear713@...

Pat,

Each food has a different texture and sits differently. You even said that when you eat meat, it sits heavy in your pouch and you do not want to eat anything else.
The softer foods are "slider" foods... meaning they go down easier but also do not stay in your pouch long either. Fruits are great at keeping you regular. I can also eat anything without a problem but also find meats stay longer. I try to stay away from Red meats but enjoy a few bites occasionally.

Mary in FL

The only label I didn't read recently was the light mayo.... and I'm sure I read that many years ago when I first started using it, I just can't remember what the ingredients were. I go over most labels, especially things I have never had before, with a fine tooth comb.

Pat
"Mary B." <hunnybear713@...

Pat,

If you don't read labels, how do you know what you are eating? I always look at the labels... especially the carbs and sugar content.

Mary in FL

The fact that the "meat" proteins (including chicken and pork) DO sit
hevaily in the pouch, and take longer to empty is exactly why they
encourage us to eat those... it fills us up more quickly and keeps us
full longer. I usually eat light string cheese and yogurt for
breakfast, and I am ALWAYS ready for my mid morning protein snack,
but if I have chicken, beef, or tuna for lunch, I have to remind
myself to eat my afternoon snack because I am still full.
Lora

It's a very sweet, smooth, light vanilla custard, and they use a
blowtorch to create a crunchy, sugary crust on the top and usually
put some fresh berries on top. One of my favorite desserts, but far
too sweet to have more than a couple small bites of now.
Lora

The sugars in this might be a little high, but the serving size is
about a cup. If you eat half of that, the sugars should be about
right.
The Apple of Our Eye
Attention, Fiber One skeptics! We DARE you to try this recipe and
not love it. Okay, if you're absolutely opposed to using F1 for
baking, leave it out and double the graham cracker amount instead
(each serving will then have 141 calories, 1g fat, 2.25g fiber and a
POINTS® value of 2*). BTW, try spooning some of this stuff on top of
light vanilla ice cream or yogurt... IT ROCKS!!!
Ingredients:
3 cups peeled apple chunks (any sweet, not tart, variety)
1/2 cup Fiber One bran cereal (original)
2 sheets (8 crackers) low-fat honey graham crackers
2 tbsp. fat-free liquid egg substitute
2 tbsp. no-sugar-added applesauce
3 tbsp. Splenda No Calorie Sweetener (granulated), divided
2 tbsp. brown sugar (not packed)
1 tbsp. cornstarch
2 tsp. cinnamon, divided
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1/4 tsp. salt
Directions:
Preheat ov en to 400 degrees. Combine 2/3 cup of cold water with
brown sugar, cornstarch, 1/2 tsp. of cinnamon, vanilla extract, salt,
and 1 tbsp. of the Splenda. Stir well. In a medium-sized pot, combine
apple chunks with this mixture. Heat the apple mixture over medium
heat, stirring occasionally. Once liquid thickens to a syrupy
consistency and begins to bubble, reduce heat to low and cover. Allow
to simmer for 5 minutes, and then transfer mixture to a medium-sized
round baking dish. Set aside. Next, break graham crackers into small
pieces. Place graham pieces and Fiber One in a blender or food
processor, and grind to a breadcrumb-like consistency. Transfer
crumbs to a microwave-safe dish, and add egg substitute, applesauce,
1 1/2 tsp. of cinnamon, and the remaining 2 tbsp. of Splenda. Stir
well. Microwave graham mixture for 1 minute. Use a fork to break up
the toughened mixture as much as possible, and then allow it to cool
for a few minutes. Transfer graham mixture to a food proce ssor or
blender, and pulse until crumbly and uniform. Evenly distribute
graham topping over apple mixture. Place the dish in the oven, and
bake for 10 minutes. Allow cobbler to cool slightly before serving.
MAKES 4 SERVINGS
Serving Size: 1/4th of cobbler (about 1 cup)
Calories: 126
Fat: 1g
Sodium: 236mg
Carbs: 33g
Fiber: 5.5g
Sugars: 16g
Protein: 2g
POINTS® value 2*

Pat,

If you don't read labels, how do you know what you are eating? I always look at the labels... especially the carbs and sugar content.

Mary in FL

Lora,

What does the creme brulee taste like? I have never had it before that I know of.

what you ate is great. You tasted what you wanted, knew when not to have any more and was satisfied. That is what I have been saying all along. If you taste what you want to taste, you won't feel deprived and think you can't have it.

Well done on the weight loss and those 9.5 lbs will melt off fast for you.

Mary in FL

Pat,

Each food has a different texture and sits differently. You even said that when you eat meat, it sits heavy in your pouch and you do not want to eat anything else.

The softer foods are "slider" foods... meaning they go down easier but also do not stay in your pouch long either. Fruits are great at keeping you regular. I can also eat anything without a problem but also find meats stay longer. I try to stay away from Red meats but enjoy a few bites occasionally.

Mary in FL

You're right! We know what we want! Maybe I won't be so bad as I think - I think I'm fine with people I work with but then my family comes in and tells me I can't do something or whatever then I get cranky. Got to love them though - looking out for my best interest :)

Jenn in VT

Wow Lizanne,

What temptation you had to face.... I'm glad I haven't had to face that yet, my day will be coming I'm sure.

Edie

On Mon, Mar 24, 2008 at 8:43 AM, lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...

Mary,
It's hard to throw perfectly good food away. I hide foil covered
chocolate kisses and easter eggs for my 22 yo daughter and her
boyfriend. Since we were all eventually meeting at my brother's home
Easter, I took the bags of candy there. I was hiding them when I
came upon an unwrapped choco kiss. I kept stuffing it back in the
bag, but it kept popping back into my hand. I was beginning to freak
out a little because I didn't know what to do with it, all I knew is
that I did not want to eat it. Sounds stupid, hmmm? My brother saw
my dilemma and told me to just throw it out. I stood over the trash
can with the kiss ready to toss it, but it actually took nearly a
minute before I could do it. Talk about an addiction. Isn't that a
sick story?
I also had Reese's peanut butter cups, the mini ones. My daughter
opened them, ate a couple, then left the open bag on the kitchen
counter. I kept coming into the kitchen and seeing them (they used
to be my most favorite candy). Finally, I put them in the
refrigerator under the deli drawer so I wouldn't be tempted.
Then, at my brothers, there was candy everywhere, along with all this
food we cooked. Plus, he smokes, although he goes outside to do it.
And there were others that smoked there also. I told him his house
was like a den on iniquity. So many temptations.
Lizanne

Bonnie,
If you found something that says for women, it was probably
minoxidil. I think it is important that we don't use the one
designated for men. If we do our voices may get deeper and
the "girls" will shrink (just Kidding). The hair does grow back, it
just takes a long time to grow long enough to style. I am still
wearing wigs while the hair grows. It should be long enough by
summer.
I have noticed some weird things happening when I post. If I reply,

Lizanne,

I AM VERY PROUD OF YOU!!! You looked at temptation in the eye and didn't give it... Well done!!! I can't say the same as I did break the rules this weekend but not with candy or stuff like that. I had a piece of angel food cake that wasn't sugar free and chocolate chip cookies. I also had a few fritos. I am paying for it now by gaining again. I know it will come off and can't complain this time as I did it to myself. I just have to work harder to get it back off again. You did great and should be so proud.

Mary in FL

Shelly's Caramel Mock Macchiato (from
http://theworldaccordingtoeggface.blogspot.com/)
4 oz. of Soy Milk (or Regular Milk)
1 Tablespoon Sugar Free Torani (I used SF Caramel)
1/3 a can of Starbuck's Doubleshot Light (23 cals)
1 scoop of Vanilla Protein Powder
2-3 Ice Cubes
2 Tablespoons SF Whipped Cream (I used Land o' Lakes Sugar Free Whipped Cream 20
cals for 2 T's)
1 teaspoon SF Caramel Sauce (I used Smucker's 20 cals for 1 teaspoon)
Whiz with this groovy gadget which makes it double in size. Add a few ice cubes.
Top with Sugar Free Whipped Cream and a drizzle of Caramel Sauce.
Calories 231 (less than some protein bars and a heck of a lot tastier)
Protein 26 g. (using my ingredients) to figure out yours go to fitday.com
FYI: Starbuck's Iced Caramel Macchiato w/ Soy & Whipped Cream - Calories 430

"I can do everything through Him who gives me strength" Philippians 4:13
Judy -- My Day July 23, 2008 -- 28 DAYS TO GO
262/234
HW/CW
MY WLS BLOG: http://judywlsjourney.blogspot.com/
JUDY'S JOURNEY
http://www.myspace.com/nynativecagirl

hey there, i was at walmart looking for a robe or muumuu, or something to wear
out of hospital and for the days i'm home and saw some awesome cute scrubs.
soooo i was wondering if anyone here has scrubs that they've outgrown that they
still may have and wouldn't mind donating. i'll take just 1 if that's what's
available. i figured scrubs would be comfortable for me and also give
me something to have on if anyone comes by to visit. anyway i got 2 tee tops for
4.00 each, a pair of cute sweats for $5.00 and a pair of decent capris for $6
(to wear for dr.) soo that will have to do until i get ready to go back to work
then i'll have to figure something out cause the clothes i now have are already
too big imagine in another 7 weeks LOL.

Judy -- *******18 DAYS CLOSER*******
262/231
HW/CW
MY WLS BLOG: http://judywlsjourney.blogspot.com/

Lizanne... I thought I saw Rogaine for women at Walmart... But it may have been nioxin. I have turned into the craziest dunderhead here lately! It's Interesting to know that nioxin thickens the hair shaft. I think Rogaine stimulates the hair follicle or something. I will keep all this information tucked back in my little pea brain so if I need it in the future.

Thanks sugar!
Bonnie

That was me!!! I loved it! I actually started by having chicken broth. Then later I added the egg to make egg drop soup and that was amazing! It was a real turning point. Then I added a tiny bit of frozen spinach, then the chicken, then the noodles and finally the tiny meatballs. I actually still prefer it w/out the meatballs...that is just too much sometimes. It is wonderful!

Lisa A
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...

I remember people saying that egg drop soup was so good in their
pouches soon after surgery and we had a recipe for a simple soup. I
saw this and thought that it could be used long after our initial
stages.
Italian Egg Drop Soup
Stracciatella
This version of the classic Italian egg drop soup adds shredded
chicken for a hearty, warming one-dish meal. Serve with garlic bread
for a delicious, quick and easy dinner.
Serves 6 to 8
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 chicken breast, poached and shredded
4 eggs
1/2 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, more for garnish
1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, more to taste
1 tablespoon chopped chives
3 tablespoons bread crumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Bring chicken stock to a simmer in a large stockpot. Meanwhile, in a
mixing bowl whisk together eggs, cheese, parsley, nutmeg, chives,
bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Place egg mixture in a large measuring
cup or container with a spout for easy pouring.
When ready to serve, taste chicken stock and season with salt and
pepper. Whisk the stock so it is swirling rapidly, then pour in the
egg mixture. Add the chicken and continue whisking, just until the
egg is set in thin strands and the chicken is heated through, a few
minutes longer. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Info
Per serving (About 11.5oz/323g-wt.): 110 calories (50 from fat), 6g
total fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 10g protein, 4g total carbohydrate (0g
dietary fiber, 1g sugar), 140mg cholesterol, 300mg sodium

Lisa A

284/271/168/135

Decaf tea sits very well. I seem to be one of those people who do better with warm things than cold. I need to get to the store when my husband gets home. I am not a big tea drinker, but I think I'll look into some flavored teas.

Pauleen
lizanneflowers <lizanneflowers@...

Pauleen,
I agree...the fluid choices are so limited when none of them are
tasty. I truly lived on popsicles. There are lots of flavors and I
was always allowed to eat them. I know I have said this before, but
there are lots of tea flavors out there too, and you can have them
either hot or cold. Tomorrow you will graduate to a new level.
Things will get better.
Lizanne

I remember people saying that egg drop soup was so good in their
pouches soon after surgery and we had a recipe for a simple soup. I
saw this and thought that it could be used long after our initial
stages.
Italian Egg Drop Soup
Stracciatella
This version of the classic Italian egg drop soup adds shredded
chicken for a hearty, warming one-dish meal. Serve with garlic bread
for a delicious, quick and easy dinner.
Serves 6 to 8
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 chicken breast, poached and shredded
4 eggs
1/2 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley
3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese, more for garnish
1/8 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg, more to taste
1 tablespoon chopped chives
3 tablespoons bread crumbs
Salt and pepper to taste
Bring chicken stock to a simmer in a large stockpot. Meanwhile, in a
mixing bowl whisk together eggs, cheese, parsley, nutmeg, chives,
bread crumbs, salt and pepper. Place egg mixture in a large measuring
cup or container with a spout for easy pouring.
When ready to serve, taste chicken stock and season with salt and
pepper. Whisk the stock so it is swirling rapidly, then pour in the
egg mixture. Add the chicken and continue whisking, just until the
egg is set in thin strands and the chicken is heated through, a few
minutes longer. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Info
Per serving (About 11.5oz/323g-wt.): 110 calories (50 from fat), 6g
total fat, 1.5g saturated fat, 10g protein, 4g total carbohydrate (0g
dietary fiber, 1g sugar), 140mg cholesterol, 300mg sodium

Hi Lizanne, yes he's excited. we're on baby watch now. This all has been quite a time of growth for my baby boy. 2005 when he was 16 going on 17 he was out of control and the school and I decided he needed to go away. So he spent 12/2005 until 1/2007 away at a treatment center/school kind of place in Texas. Nothing in my life will hurt as much as putting my child in there and having him crying and pleading to let him out. Each time I visited him my heart would break to leave him. When he came home in 1/2007 he was a new person. He went through alot, learned alot and changed. I am sad I had to send him away but it was necessary I was not going to let "the world" take my son from me. I couldn't stand by and let him get involved in drugs, drinking and the wrong crowd and end up in jail. so although it was terribly hard, I did what I thought was best. Last year he came home, met Brittany in March in Adult Education classes and he's been with her ever since. He has
matured, has not gone back to the bad stuff, and even helped keep Brittany away from that life.

A couple of weeks ago I was talking to Brittany and told her that in my heart I felt that God brought her to us, that our family was something new for her and it saved her from where she was heading, being with Joshua has changed her, getting pregnant has turned her around. The moment she found out she was pregnant she never smoked or took another drink. she has turned around and has evolved into this beautiful happy woman, they both are thrilled with Travis and even though she is terrified of childbirth, she can't wait. She has parents and a huge family close by but that didn't keep her from steering into the wrong crowd and although she tried to get Joshua to go that way, he wasn't having it. I am blessed and so grateful to God and the school district I had Joshua in that cared about him, that helped me get him some help.

I know that Travis is going to make a great impact on their lives, and even though they are so young, they are going to be okay cause they have our support and acceptance and they know they aren't alone. It's not perfect, not at all, but they are happy and Travis will be loved.
Judy -
3 Weeks Travis arrives!!!! Hopefully EARLIER!!
"Happily Watching the Scale Finally! Go Down"
California
262/240

Thanks for putting a smile on my face!

Theresa in GA
Your Secret Sister <vickisecretsister@...

Letter to my Body~I found this and thought it was funny and cute had to repost and share...No idea who the author is...
Dear Neck,
I am sure that God only intended on me having one chin, the other 2 are not necessary and will have to find other places to live.

Dear Arms,
I appreciate the fact that you think I should be able to fly. However these bat wings growing under you will never get me off the ground.

Dear Thighs,
I know that you are close, like family, but do you have to rub together? It is not necessary to touch at all times.

Dear Back,
I am not planning on having a litter, so there really is no reason for you to try and grow breasts back there.

Dear Feet,
I know you are still there because I can walk, I will being seeing more of you soon.

Dear Taste Buds,
Ahhh I have loved you well, but it is time to shake it up a bit. That sweet tooth will just to have to find comfort in things besides chocolate, gummy bears, and ice cream. You may grumble, but we all will be better for it in the long run.

Dear Body,
Sorry it has come to this, but some of you will be smaller soon, and some will be gone altogether (Fat, this means you). Turns out that to be healthier and live longer some drastic changes are going to be happening soon. I know there will be times that you will fight me, but please remember I am bigger than you and I will win. (Muscles, back me up here... I may not have seen you in a while, but i know you are there.)

Please remember that we are in this together, I only have one of you, and you only have one of me.

Amy
Proud Air Force Wife
no surgery date yet
CW 275
Clovis, New Mexico

Letter to my Body~I found this and thought it was funny and cute had to repost and share...No idea who the author is...

Dear Neck,
I am sure that God only intended on me having one chin, the other 2 are not necessary and will have to find other places to live.

Dear Arms,
I appreciate the fact that you think I should be able to fly. However these bat wings growing under you will never get me off the ground.

Dear Thighs,
I know that you are close, like family, but do you have to rub together? It is not necessary to touch at all times.

Dear Back,
I am not planning on having a litter, so there really is no reason for you to try and grow breasts back there.

Dear Feet,
I know you are still there because I can walk, I will being seeing more of you soon.

Dear Taste Buds,
Ahhh I have loved you well, but it is time to shake it up a bit. That sweet tooth will just to have to find comfort in things besides chocolate, gummy bears, and ice cream. You may grumble, but we all will be better for it in the long run.

Dear Body,
Sorry it has come to this, but some of you will be smaller soon, and some will be gone altogether (Fat, this means you). Turns out that to be healthier and live longer some drastic changes are going to be happening soon. I know there will be times that you will fight me, but please remember I am bigger than you and I will win. (Muscles, back me up here... I may not have seen you in a while, but i know you are there.)

Please remember that we are in this together, I only have one of you, and you only have one of me.

Amy
Proud Air Force Wife
no surgery date yet
CW 275
Clovis, New Mexico

Pauleen,
I agree...the fluid choices are so limited when none of them are
tasty. I truly lived on popsicles. There are lots of flavors and I
was always allowed to eat them. I know I have said this before, but
there are lots of tea flavors out there too, and you can have them
either hot or cold. Tomorrow you will graduate to a new level.
Things will get better.
Lizanne

Lisa L,
YIPPEE!!! The century club. A very exclusive place. Not many
people will ever be able to say they belong. I am very happy for
you. Do you have any suggestions or rules you followed that you
believe made it possible?
Lizanne

Hi Everyone,
Well I did it. I lost 100 pounds. And stick a fork in me cause I am
done. I had a hard weekend I caught a cold and had my sons 7th
birthday party at the house with 20 screaming seven year olds a bounce
house and the Lizard Lady (long story). I think the stress from the
party sweated away the last couple of pounds. I will be going to the
surgeon on April 7th and I will be asking her to make it stop before I
start looking like a Sharpei dog :) Now I need to find a plastic
surgeon to figure out how to put everything back where it belongs.
Lisa L.
Lap RNY 9/12/07
246/146/145

WOW! That is great Lisa! After the tummy is done you will below your target weight. I am so happy that you made your goal happen. This is amazing. You must feel great.

I hope that you feel better too!

Lisa A
Lisa Lockwood <lockwoodl@...

Hi Everyone,
Well I did it. I lost 100 pounds. And stick a fork in me cause I am
done. I had a hard weekend I caught a cold and had my sons 7th
birthday party at the house with 20 screaming seven year olds a bounce
house and the Lizard Lady (long story). I think the stress from the
party sweated away the last couple of pounds. I will be going to the
surgeon on April 7th and I will be asking her to make it stop before I
start looking like a Sharpei dog :) Now I need to find a plastic
surgeon to figure out how to put everything back where it belongs.
Lisa L.
Lap RNY 9/12/07
246/146/145

Lisa A

284/271/168/135

Lora,

I think you are doing great! You have lost about the same amt as I have. That is an entire ADULT human being. That is amazing. I wonder how much that alien weighs. Plus, you are having the tummy tuck correct? That will easily take off more then that 10 pounds.

As far as the vacation goes....any time you can go away from home and enjoy yourself then coe back weighing LESS is a MAJOR success. Sounds like you had fun too. I love Ruth's Cris. Yummo! I also had a hotdog. On a toasted New England bun. It was so good, but I was sooooo stuffed afterward. It was uncomfortable but tastey anyway.

I think that if you up your water intake for a couple of days that will really help. I find that I retain water weight when on vacation. I don't know if it is a stress reaction or because I am not eating properly.

Lisa A
Lora <cicerogirl@...

I lost 2 pounds on vacation, which is good, I guess, since I did not do
any exercise all week, had more almonds than usual, and had a couple of
small treats (a bite of mom's hotdog and a few nacho chips (yes, with
some of the spicy cheese) at a ballgame, two bites of the creme brulee
at Ruth's Cris (our one fancy meal), a small piece of banana bread (2
sittings), and three girl scout thin mints (one at a time on 3
occasions). I did try to space things out so that I had a couple of
lower-calorie days in a row and then a higher calorie one (still never
over about 900 (not sure how many calories are in 2 bites of creme
brulee or a single bite of hotdog!)).
So... I am 9.5 pounds from Onederland. I had been doing 4 miles per
day on my recumbent bike before vacation and went back to it this
morning. I have an appointment with the surgeon in 3 weeks to talk to
her again about the hernia situation, so I NEED to be under 200 by
then. Three pounds per week. I am SO tempted to just do protein
shakes and all -liquid just to "get there"... but I know that would be
going back to the old "diet" mindset, and that is someplace I just WILL
NOT go. So I will just keep doing what I have been and try to be extra
vigilant about not snacking and exercising EVERY day.
It has been SO long since I weighed 100-and-something. At least
gettign there would help take my focus off of how thin my hair is and
how bad I look with my clothes off.
Lora
(-118 pounds, not quite 7 months post-op)

Lisa A

284/271/168/135

I lost 2 pounds on vacation, which is good, I guess, since I did not do
any exercise all week, had more almonds than usual, and had a couple of
small treats (a bite of mom's hotdog and a few nacho chips (yes, with
some of the spicy cheese) at a ballgame, two bites of the creme brulee
at Ruth's Cris (our one fancy meal), a small piece of banana bread (2
sittings), and three girl scout thin mints (one at a time on 3
occasions). I did try to space things out so that I had a couple of
lower-calorie days in a row and then a higher calorie one (still never
over about 900 (not sure how many calories are in 2 bites of creme
brulee or a single bite of hotdog!)).
So... I am 9.5 pounds from Onederland. I had been doing 4 miles per
day on my recumbent bike before vacation and went back to it this
morning. I have an appointment with the surgeon in 3 weeks to talk to
her again about the hernia situation, so I NEED to be under 200 by
then. Three pounds per week. I am SO tempted to just do protein
shakes and all -liquid just to "get there"... but I know that would be
going back to the old "diet" mindset, and that is someplace I just WILL
NOT go. So I will just keep doing what I have been and try to be extra
vigilant about not snacking and exercising EVERY day.
It has been SO long since I weighed 100-and-something. At least
gettign there would help take my focus off of how thin my hair is and
how bad I look with my clothes off.
Lora
(-118 pounds, not quite 7 months post-op)

Wow, Jessica! 38 pounds in 1 month! That's phenomenal! I bet you're thrilled.

It's fun that you're willing to be more active now. I bet your husband was SO excited to have you come along.

I live in Marietta, GA, so we're not exactly neighbors, but close enough. :)

~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/162/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

Lizanne,

Thank you for posting the recipe. I love crab and will definitely give it a try.

Joan

In a message dated 3/24/2008 9:50:10 A.M. Mountain Daylight Time, lizanneflowers@... writes:

Here is the recipe, but if you make it you will have to use some
nonfat or lowfat options.

Jessica,
Wow!! You haven't had the surgery yet you lost 38 lbs in one
month!!! What is your secret?
I am glad you enjoyed the bike ride. I haven't done that in many
many years unless you count the stationary exercise bike. I am glad
you had such an enlightening time.
Lizanne

Im not usually one to post, I mostly just linger and absorb all the info. But I wanted to share that I have lost 38lbs in just one month!! I meet with my surgeon next monday and am striving to loose that last 7lbs to make a 45lb weight loss!!
My husband is an avid bike rider (bicycle) and has been begging me for years to go riding with him, well at 245lbs, that just wasnt going to happen. Yesterday, I caved!! Instead of sitting at home wondering about candy, and missing the opportunity to cook an Easter dinner, we went riding!! We had soooo much fun. We went down to the river, had a little picnic and everything. Hes amazing!!!
Just wanted to share. I hope everyone else is doing great and had a wonderful Easter!!
Jessica
Augusta GA (anyone near here??)

Wow, wow, wow, Darlene. After only a few months. Your pictures are
just gorgeous. What a difference. Do you see the huge difference, or
are you like the rest of us who have a weird brain disorder...we can
only see ourselves as overweight? You have accomplished so much in
such a short period of time. You look great!!
Lizanne

Judy,
I love the photos of your son and daughter in law. He looks like he
might actually love this new life that will be coming into the world
soon. The pictures are very touching. I never saw pictures similar
to this before. I guess it's been a while since I knew anyone who was
pregnant.
Lizanne

Sharon,
Speaking of money, how has Cal's job search been going? Didn't he
have some interviews lately or a test he had to take? I can't
remember, but I hope things are going well for him.
Lizanne

Bonnie,
Rogaine is only specificially for inherited male pattern baldness.
It will do nothing for hair loss from other causes or for people who
naturally have thin hair. I used it prior to my hairloss, during the
hair loss and after the hair loss. It worked during the before and
after period, but obviously, did not keep me from becoming bald.
Dee suggested Nioxin. It thickens your hair shaft. As we age our
hairshaft gets thinner, even though we have the same amount of hair
follicles. Nioxin helps 80-90 percent of the people who use it. It
helps my 22 yo daughter, but alas, not me. I still use it though,
thinking that even if it only helps by a micron, at least my shaft
may not be getting thinner. That's my own theory though and may not
have anything to do with reality.
Lizanne

Bonnie,
It was weird...you have the same seagull wall hanging that I do. Ah,
similar tastes.
I absolutely love your bedroom furniture. You are terribly spoiled.
Does your finance have a brother?
Lizanne

Mary,
It's hard to throw perfectly good food away. I hide foil covered
chocolate kisses and easter eggs for my 22 yo daughter and her
boyfriend. Since we were all eventually meeting at my brother's home
Easter, I took the bags of candy there. I was hiding them when I
came upon an unwrapped choco kiss. I kept stuffing it back in the
bag, but it kept popping back into my hand. I was beginning to freak
out a little because I didn't know what to do with it, all I knew is
that I did not want to eat it. Sounds stupid, hmmm? My brother saw
my dilemma and told me to just throw it out. I stood over the trash
can with the kiss ready to toss it, but it actually took nearly a
minute before I could do it. Talk about an addiction. Isn't that a
sick story?
I also had Reese's peanut butter cups, the mini ones. My daughter
opened them, ate a couple, then left the open bag on the kitchen
counter. I kept coming into the kitchen and seeing them (they used
to be my most favorite candy). Finally, I put them in the
refrigerator under the deli drawer so I wouldn't be tempted.
Then, at my brothers, there was candy everywhere, along with all this
food we cooked. Plus, he smokes, although he goes outside to do it.
And there were others that smoked there also. I told him his house
was like a den on iniquity. So many temptations.
Lizanne

Lora,
Would you tell us more about your DVT and the veins in your legs. I
had always thought that DVT that threw a clot was always fatal.
Obviously, I am wrong, but tell us your story.
Also, let us know what your doctor says. I have been lightheaded
lately, but I am pretty sure it has to do with blood pressure. I see
my PCP on Thursday to finally, get my results from my FIRST blood
tests since my surgery in August. Idiots!!!
Lizanne

Wow, 2003?! That's too funny!

~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/162/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

I wanted to share a funny story.
I had to pick up some nylons. You'll all be happy to know that I now
fit in a size "B" which is cool! Anyway, I found some Sheer Energy at
my local grocery store in my new size that were on sale, AND had a
coupon for $2 off attached to them. So they would cost less than a
dollar a pair. So I grabbed all of them. (4 pair) When I went up to
the cash register, we tore the coupons off the packages, and she
said "I am sorry, you can not use these coupons, they are expired" I
looked at them, and they expired 12/31/2003. Is that hilarious? They
have been on the shelf for 5 years!
I just thought that was a funny way to start off my day and wanted to
share....
Lisa A

Bonnie, Your furniture is beautiful. I love that bedroom set. .Your such a spoiled brat huh? LOL

~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW160**GW125-130

Lora,

I too cut my hair and I guess I was one of the lucky ones where it grew back even thicker than it once was and I had thick hair but now I have a head full of curls. I have always had naturally curly hair like shirley temple... It had grown out because of one hair cut or the other or just the weight of it. I look as if I did have a perm.. that is how curly it is now.

I was always told that if you take zinc, it would help keep the hair from falling out as fast but I didn't take anything. I lost it for about 3 months but it did stop. I have a few coming out now but not to any major extreme.

Keep eating your protein... it too is important for your hair. Maybe you will like the temporary hair cut... it will grown back... just give it time.

Mary in FL

Lora,

I'm having the same problem, it's not all the time. I'll get up, take about 5-7 steps and get lightheaded, I'll slow down or stop for a couple of seconds and it passes. It doesn't happen all the time, but enough to get my attention, so I started drinking electrolytes and it raised my bp to 130/85, so I have to figure out what is causing it (if not my bp). When I mentioned it to the doctor he told me to get up slower and stop the electrolytes and we'll see if it continues (it has).

Hope you figure yours out.

Edie

302/232/150's

On Sun, Mar 23, 2008 at 7:21 PM, Smidgies Mom <lisaatwell1968@...

Lora,

Do you think that the coumadin could cause it? I know when my mother was taking it, she was often dizzy...but she is also a heart patient so it cold have been caused by who knows what...though since she is now on a beta blocker instead, she is not having that issue.

I would certainly talk to the Dr. about it.

Lisa A
Lora <cicerogirl@...

Over the past few weeks, I have rather suddenly developed some
lightheadedness... usually when I stand up from a sitting position.
It hits suddenly but passes quickly.
I'm assuming it's a low blood pressure issue. My pre-op BP was always
(for YEARS) right around 120/80, but each time I have had it checked
post-op it has been 100-108 over 60-something. The only meds I take
are coumadin and synthroid. I already have an appt to see my PCP in
the morning (to get a new cream for rash issues and to have him look
at my tender vein spots on the leg with the history of clots)... it's
just a little disconcerting. (Less distressing than my current hair
issues, though, and my final few hours of scale-deprivation!)
WOndering if it's just something I have to learn to live with...
Lora

Lisa A
284/271/168/135

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Lora,

Do you think that the coumadin could cause it? I know when my mother was taking it, she was often dizzy...but she is also a heart patient so it cold have been caused by who knows what...though since she is now on a beta blocker instead, she is not having that issue.

I would certainly talk to the Dr. about it.

Lisa A
Lora <cicerogirl@...

Over the past few weeks, I have rather suddenly developed some
lightheadedness... usually when I stand up from a sitting position.
It hits suddenly but passes quickly.
I'm assuming it's a low blood pressure issue. My pre-op BP was always
(for YEARS) right around 120/80, but each time I have had it checked
post-op it has been 100-108 over 60-something. The only meds I take
are coumadin and synthroid. I already have an appt to see my PCP in
the morning (to get a new cream for rash issues and to have him look
at my tender vein spots on the leg with the history of clots)... it's
just a little disconcerting. (Less distressing than my current hair
issues, though, and my final few hours of scale-deprivation!)
WOndering if it's just something I have to learn to live with...
Lora

Lisa A

284/271/168/135

Over the past few weeks, I have rather suddenly developed some
lightheadedness... usually when I stand up from a sitting position.
It hits suddenly but passes quickly.
I'm assuming it's a low blood pressure issue. My pre-op BP was always
(for YEARS) right around 120/80, but each time I have had it checked
post-op it has been 100-108 over 60-something. The only meds I take
are coumadin and synthroid. I already have an appt to see my PCP in
the morning (to get a new cream for rash issues and to have him look
at my tender vein spots on the leg with the history of clots)... it's
just a little disconcerting. (Less distressing than my current hair
issues, though, and my final few hours of scale-deprivation!)
WOndering if it's just something I have to learn to live with...
Lora

Hi Lora-

I have really fine straight hair as well. My hair fell out persistently in months 5-8. Not only did it fall out but it broke a lot. It looked so straggly and gross that I finally just cut it off. I hated to cut my hair because my wedding is so close, but it had to be done. I cut it just above my shoulders and had the stylist give me a couple of long layers. It actually worked out better than I ever could've imagined. I love the way it looks, and all it takes me in the morning is a couple of styling products and about 10 minutes (and that includes drying), and it looks better than it did before I cut it. I use a round brush and a hair dryer to give it volume, and I never have to use a curling iron unless I'm going out and want a little curlier look.

I'm not telling you this to brag on my hair...because it's still a nightmare most of the time, but to let you know that sometimes it works out much better than you think it will. I know that was the case for me.

Good luck with your haircut!! We want pictures after it's done.

~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/162/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

I am almost 7 months out. My hair did not start coming out until
sometime during month 4, and it is not comong out in clumps like
Lizann'es did, but it has continued to fall out at an ever-increasing
rate and shows NO signs of slowing let alone stopping. There is also
NO sign of any regrowth yet despite contuinyed use of the biotin
combo. My hair is in long layers and I have lost so much hair that
family members have started to comment on how the bottom of it
looks "scraggly" or "stringy". My mom was originally telling me that
I was being overly-sensitive and was not losing much more than normal
but now after seeing all the hair in the sink and the shower and my
brush and the car, and all over my clothes on vacation... she now
SEES exactly how much I lose every day.
So, I have an appt to get it cut on Friday. I am very nervous. Yes,
it's just hair and whatever she does to it will (hopefully)
eventually grow back (although I have had several people say that
their hair never came back to it's previous state). After suffering
through much-hated "pixie" cuts in the 60's, however, I have always
HATED the way I look with short (above shoulder length) hair. My
hair is baby-fine and stick-straight without a perm (and not much
better even with one... just waves). I cannot think of a single
thing to ask the hairdresser to do that I will not hate (and I
already feel bad enough about the way I look with the hernia, bat
wings, and panni/mons sagging) or that will not require far more time
as far as curling, etc. than I have at 4:30 in the morning. I'm
trying to convince myself that a somewhat shorter cut will look ok
since my face is thinner, but so far I'm not having much luck with
that line of reasoning.
I had REALLY hoped to avoid this. Alas, however, I am living proof
that even biotin pre-op and getting all of your protein from day one
will NOT stop your hair from falling out if that is what it is
inclined to do. :(
Lora

Yes, that makes sense. I would feign a cold so that your primary diagnosis was something the insurance would cover. Then maybe you could get a prescription (or even better...samples) of some sleep aids while you're in the office.

Good luck. I know it's terrible to not be able to sleep.

~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/162/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

Pauleen,

Isn't it great to be pampered like that? I am also willing to bet you won't want to get around the food or the smells for that matter. Enjoy something warm while everyone around you is eating. It helps sooth the pouch and makes you feel wonderful.

I use to live in KY and I moved down to FL the end of December. They had a bad snow storm a couple of weeks back. I didn't miss it at all.

We were suppose to have a picnic and BBQ today but it is looking doubtful right now. Lots of rain yesterday afternoon/evening and again today.

Mary in FL

Amy,

I know what you mean about the rolls. I did have one. I regretted it later but ate it. It tasted so good.. had the butter glistening on top... and they just came out of the oven so were warm, soft and very tasty. You are right though... if you aren't really watching what you eat, you can gain... just as I did :-(

Mary in FL

Ally,

That is what I was taking but it is still expensive without a PA and I don't have one anymore. It was authorized by BCBS once my doctor sent it in to them. I was paying over $80 a month for the generic form but once the PA was approved, then it went down to under $20 a month. I am getting my insurance card from my temp agency hopefully next week. My only problem is I can't see a doctor unless I am sick. It can't be for something routine... same goes for bloodwork. So I have to be careful how I go see him.. does that make sense?

Mary in FL

can't wait to see how your pics turned out, Pat. . . Mine are good. . . I have not figured out how to download them yet. . But will get hubby on it first thing Monday. Should I post directly to my folder on the group or email them to you and Joan privately first? Let me know.

Amy
Proud Air Force Wife
no surgery date yet
CW 275

My mom, sister and nephews are coming over. I'm not even a week out and still on clear liquids, so I'll just be enjoying their company. My mom is doing the cooking, so I can just relax.

Pauleen
"Mary B." <hunnybear713@...

Hi everyone.... I wanted to wish you a very Happy Easter to all!! Please behave eating the candy and goodies... lol.

Mary in FL

P. S. Please let us know what you did for the day. We are having a family picnic in the park. Sould be fun... I will report what I ate too.. lol. Keeps everyone honest... haha

Also, I gained from eating at the Golden corral the other night. I don't think it was the protein.. it probably was the few bites I had of the sugar free cake and the roll I had... oh well.

Enjoy everyone!!

Thanks Sharon... You too sweetie.
[INLINE]

Hi everyone.... I wanted to wish you a very Happy Easter to all!! Please behave eating the candy and goodies... lol.

Mary in FL

P. S. Please let us know what you did for the day. We are having a family picnic in the park. Sould be fun... I will report what I ate too.. lol. Keeps everyone honest... haha

Also, I gained from eating at the Golden corral the other night. I don't think it was the protein.. it probably was the few bites I had of the sugar free cake and the roll I had... oh well.

Enjoy everyone!!

Hope everyone has a wonderful, candy free EASTER!!!

~*Sharon XOXO*~
"THIN feels better than FAT tastes!"
Lap RNY 7/30/07
HW242**SW232**CW162**GW125-130

I just approved them. They're great pics. :)

~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/162/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

Mary-

Have you looked into the generic form of Ambien? It's called zolpidem and it's much cheaper than the brand name.
Just a thought. :)

~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/162/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

I found him in about 5 seconds!! :))

sharon xoxo

Pat ,
When I looked at the post you received it was not all together, don't know
why, so I'll try to send it again. Here you go.
http://www.clos.net/calc-wt-loss.htm Hope it works
Edie

Are you getting enough protein? LOL
Bonnie

Psuleen,
I had panic attacks 3-4 times in the first 3 weeks that I was home. I
was freaked about NEVER being able to drink all the liquid, I'd never
eat again, OMG I made a terrible mistake, and on and on.
I eventually got over it, but it was very hard. Hang in there. It
will be worth it. We are here for you to vent to.
Jeannie
Lap RNY 2/12/07
244/141/done

I've posted some pics of my son Joshua & the lil Mama Brittany, they
went and had professional photos taken to show off her 8 month belly.
I hope they are clear enough to see, since they are studio they are
copywritten and I can't make them larger. enjoy my friends
Judy

Sharon... so glad they were able to find some of the reason for you back hurting so badly. did they say that it could have been caused by you loosing the weight? I know my doctor had said my hips hurt me because of learning how to walk correctly again. Did they give you any shots or new meds to help you with the pain or are you still taking the "loopy" meds?

Mary in FL

Bonnie,

I have one benefit of my pouch.. if I do not listen to it being full, it makes start to belch. I know it isn't the nicest thing but at least it is a warning I guess of things that could come later if I don't stop eating.

we went out to dinner tonight to a buffet. It costs over $11.00 but I went ahead and paid it. I did well thought... I only ate protein first.. I had Talapia, roast beef and a small piece of Steak. Now keep in mind, we are not talking big pieces of anything lol. I also had some corn as my vege. I did go back to see if they had anything sugar free so I could have a bite of something and they had a sugar free strawberry and vanilla cake. It was so good and being sugar free, it didn't bark at me. I had a piece or two of fruit too. I was full and I still am almost 4 hours later. I know it sounds like a lot of food but portion sizes made it maybe 4 - 5 ozs of food total. Those meats are sticking with me and that is a wonderful feeling. I could have a lot of other things, but I chose correctly and have no regrets of what I ate tonight. Now it depends on what the scale says in the morning on if I am made or not.. lol.

Mary in KY

Cathy1,

From your post it sounds like you are on a roller coaster ride just like I have been too. I did find that I was just snacking too much. I also have said this before.. if you get a craving.. answer it but only eat a bite or two to curb the craving then either throw the rest away or put it away for another day. I can't tell you how much money I have wasted that way by throwing it away or giving it to someone else to eat but it is my way. I know you will find your own way to get past the cravings problems... you and I are close in dates. I am lucky to have lost the 8 lbs I gained a few weeks ago. not sure how long it will stay gone but can only hope for the rest of my life :-)

Good luck and stay in touch!!

mary in fl

Lizanne,

You are so very right about what you eat at the beginning could affect you farther down the road...

Also what you said about depression making you not care enough to eat. Both statements are very true and we continually fight it.

Mary in FL

Hi Pauleen,

I think that everyone is unsure for the first bit. You are healing, not hungry but still feeling like you should eat because that is what we were programming ourselves to believe all this time, and all of the emotions start changing. I screamed at the cable guy because he was taking too long and I wanted to watch tv. It will take a bit of time to come to know your own body again. I suspect that you will be back to work in no time which will help you to not have an idle mind so you can stop over analyzing everything.

I can understand why you think your pouch is so small. It can only handle such a small amt of food right now. I believe that it is actually about the size of a walnut. Maybe if you need that visual to assist you, you can carry one with you. It is still small, but certainly larger than a pea! AND, while you are on the liquid diet, you can put a lot in there because it flows right back out. Don't be afraid to drink...it is a good way for you to keep your strength and to stay hydrated.

I think that each person here will tell you that they have gone through some tribulation in the beginning but they would not change the decision that they made to have the surgery. You are doing really great. I can see that from how many posts you are making! Perhaps you should take up a hobby. Maybe you can learn to knit, and start sweaters for next winter for yourself - just make sure that they are small enough!!!! :)

(((HUGS!!!)))

Lisa A
Pauleen McCollum <mcco2lum@...

I am having a bit of a rough day. I feel a bit like the surgery was a mistake and I'm a bundle of nerves. I don't know why I'm so nervous. Everything has been fine. I haven't even needed pain meds today. I've been having nightmares about food making me sick. I'm not sure why I'm so uncertain. Everything I've tried has sat just fine. Water is a little heavy, but it stays put. As crazy as it sounds, I have to keep reminding myself that my pouch is not the size of a pea. I have this wild idea that it's so tiny I can't put anything in it. I think a lot of it is boredom. I'm not used to just sitting around the house. The doctor told me in the hospital that I worry too much. I can't put my finger on what's bugging me. It really has been pretty easy so far.

Pauleen

Lisa A

284/271/168/135

I'm a Navy Brat and was married to a Navy man who turned out to be a
cheater. The only good thing from him was my 2 beautiful children! I
DID LOVE the commissary, the exchange and the medical benefits!!!
I might be convinced to give another one a try, anyone have one for
me?? LOL
~Tracy
298/132/150

I am having a bit of a rough day. I feel a bit like the surgery was a mistake and I'm a bundle of nerves. I don't know why I'm so nervous. Everything has been fine. I haven't even needed pain meds today. I've been having nightmares about food making me sick. I'm not sure why I'm so uncertain. Everything I've tried has sat just fine. Water is a little heavy, but it stays put. As crazy as it sounds, I have to keep reminding myself that my pouch is not the size of a pea. I have this wild idea that it's so tiny I can't put anything in it. I think a lot of it is boredom. I'm not used to just sitting around the house. The doctor told me in the hospital that I worry too much. I can't put my finger on what's bugging me. It really has been pretty easy so far.

Pauleen

Hi Jenn,

I'm glad you finally have an appt and have your shift covered. I remember those days of scrambling to find someone to work for me so I could have time off. It's been great working in a clinic my boss has been wonderful about letting me take time off for appts and surgery. You are starting an amazing journey it's so exciting. You will find it's much easier to work those 12 hour shifts once the weight starts to come off. Good Luck on your journey let us know how the appt goes.

Debby
Jenn Raymond <gettinhealthyjen@...

Hi all,
Sorry I haven't written anything in awhile. I was having trouble with my email and getting it from the group. I started having withdrawals ;)
I just wanted to let you all know that after 8 weeks of waiting to hear from my surgeon's office I've finally heard from them!!!! Now things are going quickly - I have my informational support group next week. If I couldn't go then I would have had to wait another 4 weeks. I'm kinda sick of waiting. This group is a meet the crew type thing and what is expected in the program and to set up my next appt. with the NUT.
Of course I was working 7a-7p that day. My meeting is 5-7p and is at the hospital 25 miles away. After tons of pleading and switching I've finally got somebody to cover my 3-7p shift. I work in a small ICU with only 13 staff and it just happened that day a lot of people requested off or were already working, but I got it covered!! YAY!! Things are finally moving forward and I can't wait to get things going.
Hope everyone is doing well - I'm going to try and get caught up on email here and get myself to work. Take care all and have a great day!!!
Jenn in VT

Thanks, Ally. This sunscreen (Hawaiian Tropic) only lists "active"
ingredients, so it doesn't say... but it also doesn't say "PABA-free".
This afternoon, I developed the rash on my tummy and lower back, both
of which were completely covered, so it's looking more and more like
an allergic reaction.
Lora

I am writing this without Jill knowing, but she has "withdrawn" herself
from this group. She told me she'd "reached the point of saturation",
and needed to step back from it.
I don't know if it's permanent or not.
We're very close friends and talk on the phone a lot, but I'm only
going to say that much, out of respect of her privacy.
Hugs,
Cathy1

I haven't seen Jill post in a while. Is she on vacation too?. If you're out there Jill how is your weight loss going? Did you make an appt with the Endocrinologist yet?

Debby

What a support group we are, we're all happy that someone tried to pick you
up LOL. But I bet that felt GREAT!!!! :o)
Edie

Lora,

It's wonderful when people notice the weight loss. Just being able to get into a bathing suit without major depression is a milestone. I'm glad you found a ring you like and that it FIT so well. congratulations.

Debby
Lora <cicerogirl@...

I am still going through scale withdrawal while on vacation (you can
bet that's the first thing I will do Monday morning once I exit the
bathroom!), and am starting to get a little frustrated with trying to
find healthy foods here (where, in the past, I have eaten so many bad
(but extremely TASTY) foods), but I'm trying to focus on the positive,
so I thought I would post about two nice things that happened this week.
When my mom and I were at the pool that's in the yard of our rental
unit early in the week, she commented that I really WAS starting to
get thin. (I'm only a few pounds away from Onederland.)
When we were at the jewelery store buying my replacement ring, I was
able to walk out of the store with the ring on my hand because the one
in the display case actually FIT! I have NEVER had that happen
before! (The second ring -- a different style than the one I lost -- I
tried on was too small, but this one -- same style just a different
band -- fit. My mom said it was meant to come home with me.)
Lora

Don't do it!!! Don't do it!
Allison <allisonmarie22@...
Hello Everyone-
I'm sorry that we don't allow pictures to be posted to the group. I know it's a
bummer. However, there is a good reason. In the early days of this group we
frequently exceeded our "daily download limit" or some such nonsense according

Yes, I'm feeling a bit better. I still have some bumpiness from the
sun poisoning, but the itchiness is gone. The alien (my incisional
hernia for those of you who are new to the group) has been causing me
some pain the past few days... laying out in the sun on my tummy hurts.
I really NEEDED some time with no responsibilities, clients, other
demands on my time, etc. Mom and I drove almost 5 hours down to the
keys just for lunch on Wednesday! Key West was a bit too far (would
have been another hour plus each direction), but we made it through
Key Largo to Plantation Key.
Lora

Pat,
I'm not *sure*, but like some other things, I'd just rather not know LOL. I
wasn't addicted to pop by any means, but I was addicted to it, if it was
wrapped around my rum LOL.
I didn't drink today either, we'll see what tomm. says.
Edie

Hello Everyone-
I'm sorry that we don't allow pictures to be posted to the group. I know it's a
bummer. However, there is a good reason. In the early days of this group we
frequently exceeded our "daily download limit" or some such nonsense according

Dear Lizanne,
I am so sorry to learn about the loss of your dear husband. I wish I
knew more to say, but your post was so beautiful! It makes me think
about my recent weight regain and think, "at least I have my
wonderful amazing husband!" He's been by my side through the last 15
years!
Many hugs to you and with much sympathy,
Cathy1

Hi Tracy,
I have Fibromyalgia and Myofacial Pain Syndrome (amongst a jillion
other things)....however, I am taking a new drug called Lyrica. It's
just been approved for treating fibromyalgia pain and it does work.
Only problem is that one of the possible side effects of it is weight
gain.
I wonder if my weight gain has anything to do with the Lyrica or not?
But you know what? If I can be nearly pain-free, it's worth the 12 or
whatever pounds I've regained!
Call me!!!!! I miss talking to you, Tracy!
Love,
Cathy1
Lap RNY 2/22/07
317/179/150-160...would be nice, cause I was down to 163 at my lowest
after surgery......bummer.......

Hi Lora-
I'm glad to hear that you got a new ring. I'm sure even though it is not the
same it will help you feel less "naked".
Are you using sunscreen in Florida? I have a reaction to some ingredient in
most sunscreens that sounds exactly like what you are describing. I can't
remember off the top of my head what the ingredient is called. Maybe it will
come to me.
Enjoy the rest of your vacation!
~Ally~
Atlanta, GA
Lap RNY 7/12/07
251/237/162/130
HW/SW/CW/GW

Bonnie,
I am glad you haven't given up on food. Those 3 bites are important,
but I wouldn't try to push anymore than that in your pouch. Eating
becomes a way to survive, not a basis for living. It's a different
feeling and takes some getting used to. I am 7 month post-op and
there is still many many foods I don't eat at all. They don't have
enough nutritional value and I am the biggest chicken when it comes
to food lately. I am so afraid of going back to those old habits. I
don't know how long I can go without any bread, pasta, sweets,
potatoes, rice, but I hope I don't flounder too soon.
So you weren't really depressed for years. Another wonderful thing
you realized just by having the surgery. Keep a lookout for any
clues, just in case, but I am so glad that that phase of your life is
over. Men can be pains in the *** sometimes, but other times, living
without them would be tough.
Lizanne
251/174/125

Got it Mary... I will try to eat like a good girl. LOL You are right about
the pouch fighting against the harder foods! Mine is almost belligerent
about it! LOL She punishes me big time when I forget to chew too... Oh...
That is miserable!
Bonnie

Well Mary... Mr Right is just like head hunger... He may be right around the
corner! So you better watch out!
Bonnie

ALL RIGHT MARY!!! YOU GO GIRL!

Mary,
Why would head hunger be in our heals? So we can stomp on it? (I am
taking Pat's place today).
Lizanne

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Pat,
I totally agree about the food and eating the 3 bites... but as you have
also said, you need to force yourself to eat when you do not want to. The
pouch is still healing and is rebelling against the harder foods. Slider
foods aren't really a big issue but once you turn to meats, that is when it
starts to fight back...
You yourself said if you eat beef, it stays there and you are done for the
night.
All I was stressing is not to "not eat". 3 bites is a lot when you are at
the stage you guys are now. I remember how meat fought me all the time and
I barely ate any for the longest time. I can't count how many times ham got
me sick as a dog along with beef and pork. Most the time I stuck with my
softer staples until I was farther out.
Mary in FL

Bonnie,
I live in West Palm Beach. I was raised in Miami and with moving around,
getting married and divorce, I am back home again and really have no plans
on moving again unless "Mr. Right" shows up at my door...lol.
You are very right. Head hunger will be there at our heals for the rest of
our lives. What the hardest part is trying to stay one step ahead of him
all the time. It has to be a guy being a pest... us women wouldn't do that
now would we?? hahahaha
Mary in FL
<I finally made it back down to 167 lbs again.. YEA!

Well, I was married to 2 different Air Force guys and an Army guy.... and
they both bombed out... :-)
Can I try the USMC too? hehehehe
Mary in FL

Lora,
Isn't it great to get to feel like normal sized people feel? A ring
that fits without having to be sized. That is a pleasant feeling.
And to have a close family member actually NOTICE the change in you
AND to comment positively about it, is almost a miracle. After years
of being somewhat self-conscious about our SIZE, this is a wonderful
feeling. To actually get compliments that revolve around body
size...ahhhhh, it's just amazing.
Lizanne

Lora,
You have a great sense of humor. How are you feeling today? Any
better?
Lizanne

Jenn,
I am glad you could find someone to cover for you. Waiting is just a
pain, isn't it? From the tone of your post it sounds like things
should now really move ahead. How long does it usually take from
this meeting until surgery? Make sure you ask a million questions
when you have your support meeting. The more you know the better you
will fair after surgery.
Lizanne