March 7, 2003

I did the most outrageous thing this morning I suppose in celebration of my being three months post op today. I had pictures taken last night and this morning I emailed my biological family members with a before and after. I know that might not sound like a big deal to anyone else. I have always been an extremely private person. I have not ever shared my most inner thoughts or dreams with them. I know they each love me in their way but I never counted on them for support or encouragement. My friends and family of choice have been much more important to me. I grew up with my family saying I was secretive but the truth was that there were things that I did not feel safe to share with them. Almost from the beginning once I made the decision to have wls, I have worked on reconnecting with my family. They are far away and hence none of them have seen me recently. I was sort of surprised and delighted at my openess this morning. I have been feeling like my 75lb loss is not much especially since I have been on this 2 week plateau. Looking at the pics I took the day of surgery and how I look now...there is no denying that the loss of weight and inches really does show. I got a big reality check last night. I am heading out to get to my workout at Curves this Saturday morning. Amazing what a little reality check will do for a woman's spirit. I hope you have a wonderful weekend and know that you are not alone in your journery. Remember: It is about progress, not perfection. (Ann in TX)

You are doing great, keep up the good work!