Congratulations Brenda.  You deserve all the good things you get....you have worked very hard for them. 

Tara,  I feel exactly like you.  I can usually hide my extra skin from everyone but me.  I'm 52 and all my kids are out of the house now but you're right....20,000 is a big investment to make in a tummy.  I think that there are a lot of other things I would rather have at this point but if I ever have an "extra" 20 grand a flat stomach is the first thing I'll buy. I think that if you really want that TT it will be a great investment by making you feel good about yourself.  Well being is something that we can't really put a price tag on.  RNY was covered by health insurance for me but if I had to spend the money on that I believe it would definitely be worth it and now I wouldn't think twice about investing that much in myself. 
Fran

Hi everyone!  Hi Fran!
I'm still at 142, but I've now got a nastyyyyyy cold, so not eating much.  I don't lose when I don't eat.  My body retaliates, I guess.  This is the first cold I've had in two years so it's really kicking my butt. 

I did accomplish A LOT this weekend in regard to homework.  I'm catching on to this school thing again!   I received a letter from the college this week inviting me to become a member of Phi Theta Kappa, a national honor society sorority.  I was stunned and choked up!  I never had much interest in sororities, but this one comes with an abundance of scholarship opportunities and the "perk" of being in this good-grade related sorority goes a long way on a resume.  I've decided to accept the invitation.  I'm still in shock, but starting to feel a little bit of the pride that goes along with such an accomplishment.  My family is beside themselves feeling proud of me.  THAT ALONE feels really good!  I guess my hard work is paying off!

I hope you all have a GREAT week with MANY blessings included!

I love you all!

Brenda