9/28/04 was the day I stopped being a slug. WLS has been an unbelievable turn around in my life! I work full time for Kalamazoo Public Schools and since WLS I have started a plumbing business (www.hallho****er.com), bought three income properties in the "Kalamazoo Promise" real estate market and am almost hyper-active compared to the slug days. Win or lose in the business dealings is really secondary to the excitement in being a real player again in the game. Life is damn good!

Has anyone out there had hernia repair and a tummy tuck or pannilectomy done at the same time? I have an abdominal hernia. I went to the doc last week at Univ. Hospital and he said they don't recommend doing both at the same time because of risk of infection. I have a fairly large hernia and they are going to repair it laproscopically (that is if I decide to have it done). Because of that, he said a tummy tuck would have to be done separately. But I figure they got me out good, my inners cleaned out and so why not go ahead and do both at the same time? Am I crazy? Plus if I do both, I think I need to wait until I lose all the weight I want. Anyway, appreciate any other comments on what or how you all handled it. I have had two c-sections and another abdominal hernia repair in addition to open rny. They are telling me I probably have adhesions and so then the possibility of bowel damage when they're pushing the bowel through the hole in my inner lining is greater. It's not really hurting me right now so I'm just not sure if I should have it or not. I've lost 140 lbs and the last two months I've not lost a thing. I'm still wanting to lose another 100 lbs so having ps right now is probably not a good option. Any advise?

Marianne! So GREAT to see your smiling face - I've missed you! Thanks! Santa gave me an early Christmas present - I did get chestnut fringe boots but not exactly the one's I wanted - he found Dingo Dancer's here locally and bought them - I love them still trying to get used to wearing higher heels again. I gave him the link you gave me and kept my fingers crossed but Hope you have a GREAT & blessed week! - hugs - dea

Elizabeth~! WOW - I would love to see your Candyland display - please post pix! I love riding around and looking at all the pretty flashing lights - I never - ever get tired of them! I just love this time of year - so many special family times. I hope you have a GREAT & Blessed Christmas! - hugs - dea

your pix were so cute! you look awesome and i know you have to feel great!! -KT