It's that time!

not that birthday, still have a few weeks for it. One year ago today I was re-birthed! July 19th, 2006 I made the 2nd best decision I ever made and had Gastric Bypass Surgery. It changed my life tremendously. http://x6c.xanga.com/3e5a90353023572481893/z48804666.jpg I remember complaining years prior that I didn't have the money to do it or had a job that would cover it with insurance. I know now that it would've been a completely different outcome and would've been a negative experience had I had it before I did. I needed to get sober. I needed to be repaired emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. I needed to experience everything up until that point. I no longer have high blood pressure or cholesterol. My back and knees don't hurt. I don't worry about diabetes. I don't have to pay three dollars more for a 3X. When I walk into a meeting, I don't fear breaking a chair when I sit down. I can't wait to go to the amusement park and get on any ride without hesitation. I can't wait to fly and not ask for an extender. I love the gym and exercising! I secretly like sifting through the "skinny" girl clothes at Aeropostle. I'm still in shock. I can take full bodies pictures and not be grossed out. My son can wrap his arms completely around me when he hugs me. He tells me I'm skin and bones, haha. None of this was easy by any means. I'm on a very strict diet plan. I have to take a lot of supplements on a daily basis for the rest of my life. I have to get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. I have to drink a certain amount of water per day. I have to eat in the mornings. I can't get my quick fix from fast foods anymore. No soda for this girl. No smoking. No drinking. I'm not supposed to drink through straws or 30 minutes before/after meals, but I can't seem to follow those rules very well. I don't see myself as skinny, thin, or slender. I never will be. I see a weight change, but I have a hard time adjusting to the way others see me. I'm not used to the added attention and I'm not really happy about it. Everyone has tons of questions and expect answers. I need to pay it forward by helping other pre and post-ops. I've been given an amazing tool box and a second chance to live a healthy fufilling life. If I'm not careful it can all be gone. This is not permanent unless I work for it.I'm truly happy with the outcome. Plastic Surgery will be in my future at some point. I'll take the sagging skin anyday of the week over morbid obesity. Thank you all for your continued support and non-judgemental comments. I can't imagine trying to get through this on my own. Looking back for the last 2.5 years and seeing the transformations inside and out, I get a little overwhelmed. I've come so far. I can't wait to see where I am in another 2.5 years. Most of all, I just want to be a peace and happy. Love you guys! http://xfd.xanga.com/32db06475623031589892/b22003205.jpg http://x88.xanga.com/535b91020663348821911/z32809928.jpg before - up to 300 pounds. http://x70.xanga.com/b63d905351032123848737/z89538102.jpg http://x9a.xanga.com/496d774151433123848711/z89538080.jpg http://a424.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images01/31/m_8f98ee878 394bc2102f70230544e7437.jpg Currently: 196 pounds. 104 pounds gone forever!!!!

Congratulations! My 1 year was yesterday. What a wonderful ride it has been!

Amber, you look absolutely beautiful and its reflected in your attiude!