Hi, Terri! I'm glad you are doing well, even though you've experienced the oh-so-common rebound weight gain. Boy, suggestions about how to "return" to healthy living... For me, it's about making the right choices most of the time. It's been about finding things I like to eat that are healthy for me. It's about realizing that I feel so much better when I'm not carrying around an extra 10-20 pounds. Now some details about what's working for me. First, I keep track of everything I eat and drink. I use software from calorieking.com for my PDA; there's similar programs available for free online at fitday.com and sparkpeople.com. Second, I weigh myself every day and record my weight in the same software. I've been doing this for about 18 months now. Having this information has helped me create a relationship between how much I eat and how much I weigh. It's also helping me "fine-tune" how many calories I need on a daily basis to maintain my current weight. I'm hoping that I can avoid the usual regain by continuing to monitor my daily food intake and my daily weight. Some folks might think I'm a bit obsessive; I just know myself and how easily I could go back to old, unhealthy habits. So if I need to keep track to stay on track, that's what I'll do. Second, I make a food plan for what I'm going to eat that day first thing in the morning. That helps me avoid making bad choices, and I always include some kind of treat in the evening (1/2 cup ice cream, a couple SF fudgesicles, a 100-calories cookie pack - whatever I'm in the mood for). Knowing that I've got a little something waiting for me at the end of the day sometimes helps me say no to all the goodies that are available in my office. Third, I exercise regularly; lift weight 2x per week, 40-50 minutes of cardio 3-5x per week. Do I truly LIKE to exercise? I'm working on it, but the truth is that I still like to eat. And if I want to eat as much as I do, I have to exercise to burn off some of those calories. (I've been averaging 2200-2300 calories per day for about 3 months now. At that calorie level, I'm maintaining right around 200 pounds. I'm working on cutting out 200-300 calories per day; if I can do that, I should be able to lose my last 20-30 pounds.) Fourth, when I want a treat, I have it. But I make a conscious decision to eat treats, and I make sure it's something that's really worth it. Why waste calories on mediocre cookies or chocolate or cake? I'd rather have a small portion of something totally indulgent (Godiva chocolate, Haagen-Daas ice cream, rich cheesecake) and really enjoy it. Also, I do dump if I have too much sugar, so my pouch keeps me from eating too much of any treat - otherwise I'll pay the price. Good luck "returning" to healthy living, Terri. It's all about making good choices on a regular basis; you can do this! Kellie

Hey Kellie My numbers: Before surgery: 284 After surgery: 176 Current weight: 197 As you can tell I have gained weight. Mostly the last year. Alot has happened and I use these as excuses. Father passed away, daughters wedding, mortgage trouble, etc. But when reality strikes... I just am not as in control as I was. I am very happy with the surgery. Just need to get motivated. Any suggestions???? Wow moment: My husband and I actually "danced close" at my daughters wedding. Never really felt him close to me like that before. It was wonderful. Biggest Change in My Life: I can breath. I can run. I can go, go, go with my husband. I went back to college and will graduate in May 2008. Life is really good. Just need to lose this extra weight gain and then it will be up to plastic surgery. Alot of loose skin around the middle. Sounds like you are doing well. Any suggestions would help me in my "return" to healthy living. Terri

Robert, Glad to hear that you are doing well since the TT. You need to take it slow so you can heal properly and slowly. How much more lipo do you have to do. I was lucky enough that I didn't have to do it. I'd still like to lose the fat around my belly. Next time don't go out shopping after having surgery the same day or a procedure . I sound like a mother. Just take it easy. Keep us informed. Lisa J. in Mass

Vickie, 1st of all you look awesome. Thanks for the good advise. I may go back and try and do some protein shakes like I did at the beginning almost 2 yrs ago. This may help jump start me to get more motivated again. Continued success. thanks again, Lisa J. In Mass

Good to hear from you Lisa. I have never quite reached goal yet either. It just seems my body doesn't want to lose anymore. I am just trying to maintain, you know how you go up and down those 4 to 5 pounds but wouldn't change it for the world. Take care.