I'm so excited, I'm floating on a cloud! Let me put things in perspective. For the last 9 years I've been fat and I've been driving a minivan. The fat mom in the minivan--that was my identity. Now I'm 10 pounds from goal and I actually feel cute and sexy (at least I do when I have clothes on, without clothes is another story!) My minivan has bit the dust and I just bought the CUTEST car. It's a Hyundai Tucson LX. A little adorable SUV. I got it in black with a gray leather interior and it has loads of bells and whistles, sunroof, heated seats (which will be great in the winter since I am always freezing now!), heated mirrors, 6-CD changer, very sleek interior, a 6 cylinder engine that sounds like a sports car (you know that VROOM sound!) and also loads of state of the art safety features. Further perspective: a few years ago when my minivan needed expensive repairs I considered purchasing a Toyota Corolla. My mother commented that it was a smallish car and I'd better test drive it to make sure that I fit inside it. OUCH! She meant well and I don't hold it against her. Well, no longer a problem. I LOVE MY NEW CAR! And it makes me feel cute and sexy, I feel like I'm driving a hot little sports car, haha! (And it was only $21,300.) I guess the point of this post is that the more I change my identity to match my new appearance, I feel like the likelier it is that I'll keep the weight off because I can honestly say I can no longer identify with the old me. She's like a stranger to me and I'm OK with that. Thanks for listening to my euphoric rambling!!! Sandy (268/146/136)

Marianne - That is a great question and it's one I've wondered about myself. I may call my doctor and ask. I'm just guessing the malabsorption is for life because it's not like our intestines are going to grow back, haha! I'll let you know what my doctor says. By the way, your pic is so cute! Sandy

Hi I am happier and healthier than a year ago. But I have been finding myself depressed that I haven't made the 100lb mark yet. still 20lbs to got for that victory. I have plateau'd and need to get moving again. Any suggestions. Please help. Agape: Andrea J.

Ruth, Hey girl I'm -111 right here with ya - 11 lbs preop and -100 post op. Aint it great? - hugs - dea

AJ, I'm looking forward to my one year anniversary 9-15-05 - hard to believe almost a year has passed already. You look good girl! - hugs - dea -111(stuck here for over a month now)