Happy Friday everyone, How did the week go for you? Were you able to stay on track with your commitment? Congratulate yourself on a job well done because whether you succeeded 100% or 1% the important thing is that you tried!!! This week will be better. Time to set some more goals/commitments for the week. Don't overload yourself with "have to", make them realistic and doable taking it a day at a time. I'm proud of each of you ... you're the best!!!! Only post weight if you want to. Mary

It has been so long since I have been here . . .so much has happened. I met someone, moved in together, moved out of state together, and finally had a baby together!! I know, sounds great . . . so whats the problem?? I'm so off track with my weight. I gained a total of 40lbs with my son (& he only weighed 6lbs 6oz of it). Since giving birth December 2, 2005 I have only lost 10lbs!!! I don't know what to do, I've dieted (not breastfeeding), exercised & the scale (or my clothes) still won't budge - sometimes the scale even moves upward. When I try to do some research on it - I read that most people only gain minimal weight with pregnancy post-op & then lose all the weight within 6 weeks post-partum. I'm terrified! I know that I should be happy that I still weigh less then I did pre-op . . . but I just feel awful . . . I didn't come this far to go backwards. I guess I just needed somewhere to go to get it all of my chest . . . to be with others in the same boat as me. Has anyone else gained back some of their weight and are having a heck of a time getting it back off??? Thanks for listening . . . . -Amanda

Are you out there?!?! Have you had your little boy yet? WHat did he weigh? How long was he? How did everything go delivery wise? How is your little girl handling being a big sister? and how are you doing? Can't wait to hear some news... If anyone out there has some, please let us know ;) xoxox Lee

Sarah, Glad that I can help. Also being here helps me too. I'm taking things a step at a time. WOW, a personal trainer, how awesome is that opportunity. Why not see if she can get you a couple passes to try the gym out for a while. Also some gyms (not all) will give 1 week or even 30 day passes if someone is interested. Why not ask and see if they have anything like that available. Mary

Sarah, You will overcome this a step at a time, just like the rest of us. I do emtionally eat at times ... no doubt in my mind. But as you said, nothing compared to before surgery. I do lots of SF snow cones, satisfy the crunch I need and the sweetness I crave. Has helped me tremendously the last 3 years pre and post surgery. I also keep protein bars on hand, they sure help too. I'm not perfect, but I do try to focus on the positives that I have achieved. I find that if I focus on losing more weight too much, it puts me back into the diet mentally of deprivation instead of realizing it just means portion control. I think you did GREAT today with your water and walking. AWESOME. Millie and i went for a walk to the park. Had planned to go to Curves today too, but just a bit sore so decided the 3 times a week as recommended will be perfect for the first couple of weeks. I am looking forward to going tomorrow. Bought some new shorts and tees today so that I have something to wear that is comfortable and will move with me. Mary