kEEP UP THE great work Jesse! and keep us informed! Rock on with your bad self

Do not go down the downward spiral!! I'm going through the same thing right now. I really feel like I could eat a lot more and probably regain. I am not quite at goal (darn it, 8-12 lbs away) and the last 4 lbs just cycle on and off. The main thing I'm avoiding is having it all pile up again. I worry about the whole yo-yo cycle of dieting starting. Of course, now with the tool, hopefully it wont happen, but the whole time I fear it could. I do obsess and weigh myself daily and try and take corrective action. I have trouble with snacking, and I've found it really tied to my cycle. I try SO HARD to do something else instead of snack, and that really helps me. That's so great that you are working out. That helps some to avoid eating (tee hee, workout as a solution to boredom and at least when you're excersizing, you're not eating, LOL!). But more and more I do see, OMG, I HAD A PROBLEM and that's why I was so heavy.... and you know what I STILL HAVE THAT PROBLEM. The main thing that's helping now is that I'm more aware of it, out of denial, and somewhat counting on "fear" to keep me on the right path. Ask yourself what's gone on this past week? I picked up 5 lbs a few weeks ago at a picnic and party. OMG, what happened there? I know I ate too much and several days of staying on track and drinking lots of water helped (some of it could be a water thing, as I ate more, plus more salty stuff and didn't drink enough). The key is nip it in the bud and don't let any more weight come on.... I know that sounds harsh and I know that sounds obsessive, but I think that's what it takes. At least for me, I know I have a problem and I can't let it go out of control. I can't go back there. WE WON'T GO BACK THERE and we'll make it to our goals. Hang in there! Good luck! and HUGS!

Jennifer, This is my first time here also. I had my surgery last sept 3. I had to have the surgery again on sept 8, because my stomach flipped and some other problems. Everything is great now. I have lost 134 pounds, and only have another 20 to go. I am so happy that you are doing so well. This is a great place to see how everyone has been doing for a whole year. Have a wonderful day Bless you Suesu

Like you, I have lost a lot of weight - actually about 260 lbs I imagine in just eleven months! But, I still weigh about 220 or so, am into 20's and 18 stretchies and have LOTS of loose skin! Wonder what I would weigh if they took the extra skin off my tummy, arms, inner thighs, etc. No worries everyone.... be grateful for where you are today!

Sheri, Isn't this "disease" crazy! I feel for you, and I'm sure that many people relate to your fears and feelings of helplessness. But, you aren't alone, and you aren't helpless! Nobody's perfect - and when things get crazy it's nice to have those who have been there or those who have seen others be there, and can tell us what works! I have heard that going back to basics is the solution for these crazy times in our recovery. Meaning, to go back to simple proteins and vegetables, drink your water. Three meals per day, two snacks, and make sure you're not eating more than 8 oz ( 1 cup) in one sitting. It seems quite boring, and isn't as easy as it sounds either. But, they say that is the best solution, and it works. I am as new to this all as you are - and I have my struggles with thinking and whether or not what I am doing is right. My hubby says I'm doing fantastick. I try to believe him - after all he is much saner when it comes to food and eating and weight than I am - and together is so much better than alone! I wish you the best. You have done great by reaching out and writing about your struggles - asking for help. If we could have done this thing alone, we would have long ago! I'm so grateful for my husband doing this thing with me - and reminding me that I am not alone and that "We" are doing this together. He is the voice of reason in sometimes a very chaotic corner of my mind! LOL. Stay Cool, Tammy In Utah. surgery date: Sept 30, 2003 Weight Loss: Approx. 260 lbs.