I haven't done any strengthening exercises. I was afraid that would cause the muscles to spasm more. But the stretching is a GREAT idea. I think I'll try to stretch it out and see how that works. Thanks! Leslie

Wicked woman!!! You got me! No baby hairs yet but at least it's not falling out anymore!! Babies...*shudder* Beth

Sandy, I loved your philosophising, (even if i can't spell that word) and your excitement is contagious. I understand exactly how you feel. I'm even a bit self conscious about it though, as if someone is going to judge me for suddenly being into exercise or being more into cute clothes and jewelry. I'm sure there are some that may, but overall I know that most people are happy for me. It's funny how this whole process spills over into other areas besides weight. It IS like reinventing ourselves and for me it is a second chance at life. All my life I heard the "you have such a pretty face" remarks, but the unspoken portion of that remark is "too bad it's ruined because you're fat" Every party I attended, every time I had to meet people, I was preoccupied with embarressment about what I was wearing, or how I looked because I couldn't project the person I was inside, or my real taste in clothes, etc. It is so cool to have this opportunity to reinvent ourselves and get to live life without the limitations of being obese. It still feels like a dream to me. Thanks for sharing your thoughts on all this and making us think. And you make tennis sound really fun! I just may look into that one of these days! By the way, woman... I noticed you are awfully close to the century club!!!! This week maybe??????? Love, Sue

Trudi!!!!! Congratulations!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We are all doing the happy dance for you! Congrats on joining the century club and the land of normal weight all in one week! That is so cool! I can not wait to be normal weight myself! The exercise challenge influenced me also and I am now working out 4-5 days a week which was my goal. I have tried to get up to a jog for a minute or two on the treadmill and I did it but it is a real butt kicker so good for you guys who are doing that!!! Thanks for sharing your good news with us! I am so happy and amazed at what you have achieved in such a short time. Love, Sue

Katie, I'm so glad your 7 month check went so great! I am having the diziness also, though my tiredness seems a bit better. Actually the diziness has improved also this last week. The 1000 calorie thing is really impressive to me. I wish I could stay under that number. I really would like to try harder to do that. At least for now. I am always higher than that by a few hundred! I think it's wise to give the skin thing some time. You are young and I have a feeling you are going to spring back really well as time goes on. I'm really happy for you doing so well and I'm excited to see your latest pictures. May you have continued health and success! Love, Sue