Happy Valentine's day, everybody. I hope you are acknowledging this day in a meaningful way. I had a delightful lunch with my amazing husband today. My 1 year surgery anniversary is Tuesday. What a year it has been. I'd like to "spend" this post writing a letter to my loved ones about how I've grown and changed over the past year. To my wonderful husband and daughter: A year ago I was thinking what would happen to both of you if you lost me before my surgery. It was a paralyzing thought. It scared me so much. I was most scared for you, Riley. You were only 2 and so very wrapped up in me. If something happened to me, what would happen to you? Would daddy be able to hold it together? Would you have any memory of me at all? Enough about that! A year later, I'm here, I'm healthy and ready to take on the world. Yes, my person has changed, my attitude towards life has changed and I want to share all the joy with both of you. You both loved me with the whole of your hearts before surgery and have done very well supporting me since surgery. I love feeling your hugs and receiving your kisses. I love the way you look at me. I love the way your touches make me feel. I do need to tell you that I'm still feeling like I'm changing. I'm gaining more confidence and testing these new waters in my life. My love for you both has not changed. You are my life and the sunshine in my day. Without you I am an incomplete person. Because of you I am a mother and a wife. Because of your love I am a proud mommy and an adoring wife. Thank you for being yourselves and for being honest and real. With all my love, Denise

Thanks, Denise. My family has been such great support for me. That really does make a difference! BTW: You look GREAT!!! Wanda

Hey, Paula. You're doing great. I was at a meeting last week and a couple of guys were telling me how great I look and my husband better look out, blah, blah, blah. At home, my husband is always touching me and is so much more affectionate. I'm not complaining, believe me. It's all good. Some pants I bough about 1 1/2 months ago are getting a little big. I just checked out your profile, Paula...you've come a long way and you look fabulous. Congratulations. Denise

How much did you weigh 1 year ago? 320 lbs. Highest weight ever? NO! What was your highest weight? 330 lbs Weigh today? 189 lbs update your OH profile in the next week? Yes Clothing that no longer fits you? Goodwill and friends Vacation this year? We might go to Mt. Rushmore Last year Vacation? Kansas City How do you feel about warmer weather? I can't wait! I'm freezing all the time now! Any regrets since surgery? Just that I didn't do it SOONER! Where do you live? Pittsburgh, PA How old are you? Just turned 26 in January Something you have done since your surgery that you wouldn't have been able to do before? Fit in the chairs at the movie theater. I plan on going to the amusement park and riding rides this summer as well. I can fit in normal seats. YAH!!!!! Greatest thing someone has said to you since losing your weight? I personally love when people don't recognize me. Many people are standing right next to me and don't recognize me. I love it.

Mary, Yes I have done the injections of the cushion they have 2 different kinds and they both only worked for a couple of weeks. No I won't do both at the same time it would be way to hard. Thanks for thinking of me