A day of reflection

Hi Everyone, Well, today is my one year anniversary from WLS. What a year it has been. My high weight was 305 Weight Day of Surgery 255 Today's Weight 178 Total Loss: 127 lbs I now weigh what I did in junior high. I have always been heavy, but for the first time in my life I know what it feels like to fit in, feel normal, and enjoy life. I'm off my blood pressure meds, no more sleep apnea, no more CPAP machine. My arthristis is so much better, I can actually walk and walk and walk. I have energy that I never had before. This year has had major changes for me. The first was the surgery, the next was to move to AZ and start a new life here. Hal, Millie (our puppy) and I love it in AZ and are so glad we moved. We are constantly on the go, exploring the area. We also are building a new home with a pool and jacuzzi in the backyard. A pool has been a lifelong dream and I can't wait to use it. Our home will be completed in May. I may need an additional closet just for swimsuits!!!! LOL Trying to buy just a few clothes now as I am still losing weight ... slow but sure. I have been amazed the last 3 months how much my weight loss has slowed down but the inches are still coming off dramatically each month. I am walking daily plus trying to do other exercise too. What a change from the couch potato I use to be. Millie loves all the walks in the neighborhood that we take. Hal and I do lots of walking too. It has been funny that we will walk to the store when we need to pick up a few items. WOW, what a change from always needing to take the car. A new me is emerging. This week has been an emotional roller coaster for me. At first I felt like a failure (I know I am not) because my 1 year anniversary was coming up and I wasn't at goal and wanted to lose another 50 lbs. I think some of the negatives were fueled by not having a firm closing date on our home, living in a rental where all my "projects" are boxed up and we are in tight quarters here. We finally got a closing date for our home and the other night I went out and picked up a craft project to do. I am working hard on focusing on all the positives. I am at the goal (in fact below the goal) Dr. S set for me of 180 lbs. I am healthy and I feel great. Yep, I am a success (boy, does that feel good to say that). I'm looking forward to the adventures ahead. It is a journey with peaks and valleys with many many rewards along the way, but I am up for the challenge. I feel so blessed that I had such a fantastic surgeon and support during this last year from family, friends, and the support groups. MaryD

Happy anniversary, Mary! You are such an inspiration for me and such a positive, happy person. I am so happy for you and wish you the best in the future. Enjoy that new home, pool and jacuzzi this summer! It sounds like a dream come true. Wanda

Wanda, Thank you. You are right, this year has been filled with dreams that have become realities. I feel so blessed, and so lucky to have such wonderful people in my life. Mary

Hi Mary! I'm so happy for you. You sound so happy! You and I have the same anniversary--great day huh?! It's been an amazing year for me too. I celebrated by buying a new outfit --- a skirt, top and new shoes. Hubby and I plan to go out and celebrate soon. A year ago I couldn't imagine being 122 pounds lighter and 3 pounds from my goal. It is an amazing journey! Congratulations on all your successes. Happy anniversary. Linda L.

Linda, thank you so much. Oh my gosh, you've lost 122 lbs and are 3 lbs from goal!!!! How awesome is that!!!! Don't you love buying new clothes. I celebrated today by buying a new swimsuit and swim sandels. Fortunately Sam's Club had them both for a super low price. So for $40 I got $100 worth of merchandise (retail). Happy Anniversary to you too. Mary

Happy Anniversary Mary. You've done a great job. I'm sure it hasn't been easy in your transition from moving to a new place and all the hassles that go along with building a new home and a new life. we are all blessed to have you as our bright spot on this board. I love to read your encouraging, supportive words. Congratulations! Denise

AHHHHHHHHHHHhhhhhhh, Mary. thank you for enlightening me. I was haphazardly using my reply button on posts, without really knowing it did not go to the original poster. I have seen the light. thanks. Denise

Denise, You are welcome. As I mentioned the buttons etc can be a bit confusing. So thought my tip might be of help. Have a great day. Mary