I like to think of the changes as doorways. Many of my "doors" were closed or closing prior to surgery. I was less and less involved in many of the activities that had given me joy, acceptance, and responsibility. Those doors have again swung open wide! I find that I'm able to pick and chose which I want to pursue and at the level within which I am most comfortable. It is a place I hoped to be a year after surgery as I'm retiring and moving into new opportunities. I am able to sample so much more of life. Folks say they see some of the earlier Dave: more witty, engaging, and committed. No one at work has given me any grief about the surgery; instead, they are amazed at my progress! My extended family is pleased as are my wife and son. Another change lies within this group and the OH men's group where I find understanding folks willing to be constructive and concrete with suggestions. Then there is Channan, Arizona's answer to Ms. Universe... Dave

Thank you. (Blush) -Pam

You look fabulous, darhlink!

I really had to think about this before replying because, OF COURSE I've changed. The changes are so simple, but meaningful at the same time and I can't necessarily put a name or a "word" to them all. I'm obviously more self-confident, less self-conscious, more active, more "present" with my kids, I have more energy, but I KNEW all these things would come with the weight loss. I was thin growing up - probably until the end of high school, but I always THOUGHT I was fat (to the tune of 126-135 lbs - how I wish I was that fat now!). So the biggest change for me now is seeing myself as I really am. I can look at myself now and see that I'm actually thin. I go through the smaller opening of the revolving doors, I'll scoot behind someone's chair because I know now that I'll fit, I'll plop my self right in between two people sitting on the train because I know I'll fit, I don't worry about getting up from the table at a restaurant and snaking my way through the dining room, because I know I'll fit. Its these actions that are most meaningful to me because they show that I see myself more accurately now. My friends and family are all proud and excited. One friend's husband said - boy, I thought it was a bit extreme and even stupid when you were said you were doing it, but looking at you know, it wasn't so stupid afterall! lol And my coworkers have all been my fanclub. I work with 5 men and they couldn't have been better throughout. One of them relocated to our London office shortly after my surgery and only sees me every few months and he's in town now and he just can't believe the difference. All in all, I've had a very positive experience and journey thus far.

well.. now that i'm in a better mental state.. I am happier, MUCH more confident, and can keep up with my 3 year old. I exercise- I am healthier- inside (FOR SURE) and out. went from size 3X- getting tight- to larges (sometimes mediums) and 12's.... my goal anything lower now is icing on the cake.. i would like to lose 20-35 more pounds but we shall see.... i haven't lost anything now since saturday.. but i'm holding once again at 176.... body catch up time... lol.... i have been off work this summer (i'm a teacher) so i'm waiting to see if anyone says anything to me when we get back 2 weeks... i know all of my family and dh's family are proud of me.. and say i am looking great... jennifer