Hello

Hi. It has been way too long since I checked in. I have been struggling with low iron that finally resolved itself by getting an IV transfussion but it has been a slow return to energy. That and the building of a new hospital where I work has just about consummed me. As my energy has returned,  I have augmented my daily protein intake with several servings of liquid protein a day (over 100 grams). I had major bloodwork done on Friday. Everything is back except for Vit A,D,E and K. All of my levels are normal and are going in the right direction finally. I just past my 16 month mark and am down 166 pounds. The DS was the best thing I every did. I am enjoying life in size tops 14-16 and pants in 18-20, this from a girl who used to wear 38W. I walk around in 3 inch heels and can wear boots that zip up over my calf. I have lost a half a size in my shoes and no longer wear wide or double wide but medium width. I fit in plane seats, movie seats and even on my husband's lap these days .
The truth is that there are times I look in the mirror and don't know who I am seeing!!!

My issues are that I still have to be careful as to what foods can give me gas. I avoid most white anything like the plague. I can eat rye bread. I avoid sugar alcohol and anything with more then 4 grams of fiber per serving. I can eat vegetable soup and most other vegetables. I avoid fruits as well. But I do great with fats so life is pretty darn tasty.
Below is a link to my one year comparison picture. And one of me last month.

Hope all of you are having a wonderful holiday season.

Joteddie.

http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg211/joteddie/1YearSideB ySide.jpg
http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg211/joteddie/bluesuit-1 -1.jpg

Congrats!  Sounds like overall, things are wonderful for you!  I can do fresh fruits but avoid veggies- except  potatoes!?!  I have been borderline anemic---but not enough to need supplementation beyond the multivitamin with iron.  Plus when I did take an iron pill - it upset my stomach horribly.
I am curious about your comment about avoiding anything white to eat.  Is that because it tends to be higher in carbs or some other reason (ie gas?)?

Jo you look...............

F A B U L O U S !

Hey Jo;
LTNS - Please take care of yourself.  The pictures look wonderful.
I too struggle with protein -  I am going to add a protein bullet to my daily intake
to give me that added boost.

I know what you mean about the plane/ movie seats-  Life is so good now  -

I still have a goal of losing another 75 Lbs. but I think I could happily live with another 40. 
Thats my New Years goal  too be down at least 40 more by November 1, 2009 -
the date the next Cruise to Lose leaves -  Kathy and I had such a great time we signed up for
next year. 

I hope you have a wonderful Holiday - and don't be such a stranger

Darla

From one Teddy to another Teddie.......you look awesome my dear!  I'm glad you're doing better!

Congrats to you on your great success!  Hope you come around more often.

Wow you look great and have had awesome success!! Thanks for checking in and sharing your story and pictures!