Winter Onederland!

When I had surgery, I set a few goals. There were several small goals along the way to help keep me motivated, milestones that meant something to me. I made a couple time/weight loss related goals, which can be tricky. The first one was to hit the century mark on my 6 month anniversary, which I did, I just squeaked by. The second biggie was to weigh 199 lbs by New Years Eve. A couple days ago (first thing in the morning and in the buff), my scale started to read under 200 lbs. Well, today, I went to the doctor (I either have bad bronchitis or pneumonia, will find out for sure on Tuesdsay) and his scale read 199, so it's official! I can't believe it. I don't even remember the last time the scale was under 200 lbs, sometime in my teen years, maybe around 16 years old. I remember last year at this time being so totally disgusted with myself for all the binge eating I did during the holidays. Feeling so totally out of control. Feeling so much self loathing. It's amazing what a difference a year makes. Although I was not a perfect angel during the holidays, I did really well. I made it through what is the most stressful time of the year without overindulging. And there is no self loathing. Matter of fact, I love the way I feel, love the way I look (no longer disgusted at what I see in the mirror), I just love life and most importantly I love me. I did alot of research before having surgery and attended support group meetings (thank you Pasadena Support Group) to learn as much as I could, so I would know what to expect. But I don't think anyone can prepare you for this major change. I can't even explain it, it's just amazing. To really feel like you are living... to be in the game, not sitting on the sidelines watching everyone else have a life. And the social acceptance.. that has been so bizarre. Maybe I'm just more approachable now and people see that I am willing to let them in. Or maybe it's just because I am more "normal" and people are not afraid I might rub off on them. Anyway, this is the best thing that I could have done for myself and for my family. My little boy now has a mommy that's not afraid to slide down the slide with him or sit in a little chair in his classroom for fear of breaking it. And my husband has a wife now, someone who is no longer depressed and exhausted midday. Thank you for letting me learn from you!! Diane

Diane, C COngratulations on Onederland and reaching your new years eve goal. I had the same goal, but I have fallen short. I still have 3 lbs to go - Oh well - I will get there. Just a little late, but there none the less. I know that it must be a wonderful feeling. I know that I am very proud of what I have done since May. Keep up the good work, and keep watching for my onederland post. It will be there soon. Gaye

Gaye, Falling short by just 3 lbs is something to cheer about, looking back at how far you have come along!! Diane

Congratulations!! That is a great accomplishment so enjoy it! Leanne

Thank you. I have been enjoying it. Been clothes shopping the last week and managed to find some great deals (thrift stores) on shirts for work. Amazingly they are a size large Diane

WOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ONEderland is a truely ONEderful place to be

Ruth, I'm not sure if I doubted ever being able to get here or not. It had been such a long time since I've been under 200 lbs, I would have settled, I guess, for anywhere close to it. Diane

Way to go!! The change from last year is amazing! Hugs, Darlene

congratulations