Happy women

Just wanted to let everyone know that I am a happy women. I am so thankful for having this surgery. Down 38 pounds and I am feeling very much better already. Sure the arthritic knees still hurt, but not as bad. Sure I am having some issues with GERD and some throat hoarsness but it is also getting better. My diabetes is under control with less medicine and never gets too low. I have found a super protein drink, bars, and "treats" like sf pudding, jello, prepaged cheese sticks, laughing cow lite cheese, smart skim milk, rf triscuits and wheat thins. There are a few foods I do not tolerate, but on the whole, eating is OK. I am learning to eat slowly and chewing well. I am trying hard to follow what my weight loss doctors and nutritionist request, more calories (@1000 a day), more carbs at least 100 grms (of good carbs). Exercise has not happened to the level I need to help me reach my goals of a healthier life. I bought "Walk away the Pounds" on DVD since one of my puppies ate the video I had. This is a good, gentle beginners exercise program. I just have to do it, like the ad says. I cleaned out my closet of some clothes that are too big, yeah too big. This has not happened in a very long time. This time I am getting rid of the TOO big as there will be no going back to them. I am even hooking my bras tigher and the cups are not overflowing. Hurrah. People are noticing my weight loss and I smile so much my cheeks hurt. I was very vocal on letting my friends, family, and co-workers know what I decided to have done. I feel empowered and centered. I have decided to take back control of my life and again I am so very thankful. Just had to share my joy with all who have helped me on my journey. Monica

Congrats Monica on your weight loss and health progress! Razz

Hi Monica, I know how you feel. I am so happy for you! Great job and you deserve all the attention you get! Soon to be skinnier hugs! Fran

Monica, I am so very happy for you. Your post is very, very inspiring, and one thing that caught my eye is the fact you have arthritic knees. I know full well where you are coming from, there, as I am 63 with arthritic knees as well. Several years back, I tried to see about having knee joint replacements, but I was told to wait until I was over 60 to do it, as the artificial joints only have a life span of about 15 years and they encourage people to wait as long as possible to have them implanted. So, a year or so ago, I tried to see about having it done so that I could get out and walk, exercise and lose weight...and I was told I weigh too much!! Go figure! I am happy about your weight loss! I know it makes you proud! My starting weight was about the same as yours, and I have lost 40 to date, but seem to be at a plateau. I need to start pumping in more protein, I know. I just had to post a response and say, "WAY TO GO, GIRL!" and CONGRATULATIONS on the new YOU that is emerging! God bless you! Pat

Isn't our new life just awesome?!?!?! Congratulations on all of your accomplishments! Jen

Congrats, Monica -- and I love your headline! So true about the clothes. I've made a PILE of old clothes I can no longer wear, and some still had the tags on them! I made an appointment for March at a consignment shop, and I'm hoping to get some of my investment back by selling the nicer things there. (I thought about ebay, but it's a lot of hassle, and who has the time?) Of course, I'm still finding reasons to shop, even though I'm digging old things out of the closet. But now I'm telling myself, one new thing for every 10 pounds, but it can't be formfitting since it has to fit for a while. So far, 1 new outfit (size 18W) and a few new tops (18/20). Anyway, think of all the money we're saving on food! ~~ Leslie 238/204/138