WOWs FOR ME!

I flew out to Chicago this weekend to visit my brother and soon to be sister in law. Also met my mother there and 2nd cousin. My mother flew in from Jersey and my cousin lives out in the burbs of Chicago Everyone was impressed with my weight loss and how healthy I looked. It felt so good to get all the compliments. I was wearing all sorts of new clothing and just feeling really good about my progress. I'm about 1/3 of the way to my goal. The real wow for me was the plane ride. I was able to tighten that belt with several inches to spare. For once I wasn't spilling into the guys seat next to me and having to struggle to cross my arms over my body so I wouldn't invade the other persons space. Another good wow was my eating and workouts while I was there. I did fantastic. I even took a 75 minute spin cycle class at the same gym that Oprah works out at - East Bank Club: http://eastbankclub.com/generalinfo/about.php It was HUGE! My brother is so lucky to have a membership there. The place is amazing. More like a country club then a gym. It has spa services, 3 pools, and 25,000 square feet of cardiovascular space with more than 450 pieces of cardiovascular equipment and nine 72-inch screen televisions. 1/4-mile indoor running track and a 60-bike group cycling studio, basketball, volleyball.. I could go on and on. I was in heaven! This morning my mother and I walked all over Chicago before we went to the airport. We also walked with our 50lbs suitcases 7 blocks to the train and all over O'Hare Airport. It was nice to be able to keep up with her and walk at a quick pace. She had to tell me to slow down! Life is good! For those of you still considering surgery... GO FOR IT! Best decision I ever made. My quality of life just keeps getting better and better.

Hello Stayce, Congratulations !! You sound very happy with your decision to have gastric bypass. I can't wait be able to post things like that. I just flew and for the first time I needed the seat belt extender. My surgery date is 9/27. Well keep up the good work! It must be nice to feel good about yourself and I hope that the quality of your life continues to get better and better. Hugs and Best Wishes, Michele

Stayce, That is wonderful. Sounds like you had a great trip. I so understand what you mean about the airplane,I sat with my arms crossed and very uncomfortable for 4 hours to Vegas a few weeks ago. I know I was embarrsed and uncomfortable. I hope to be getting good news soon from my insurance company. I know for me, you keep me pushing for the surgery. Thank you!!!! Keep up the good work!!!! Denise

Way to go girlfriend. See you are an inspiration and a fantastic support person. I am proud of you. I would love to see the gym that Oprah works out in, it sounds amazing. Just remember although the scale hasn't moved a lot you are still losing inches and will continue to do so as long as you follow your rules for the pouch. When is the wedding? Have a great day and Congrats on such a successful trip to the Windy City. Denise 3/25/05 339/223

The wedding is Christmas week in Cape Town, South Africa at a botanical garden. Not sure I am going yet. It is very expensive. Thanks and see you this weekend =)

Congratulations, you are doing so good ! Isn't a thrill to have relatives who haven't seen you in a while see the huge difference in you since the wls?! Fun to be able to get around so well too and to keep up while walking with your Mom. Even exercise begins to be fun too, the gift of a new life. Just wanted to shout "Good for you, Stayce " ! The plane ride is one wow monent I will experience late this month...to not have to ask for a seat belt extender or to actually be able to put the snack tray down all the way is an experience I am looking forward to, not to mention to sit like crunched up crab just to make room for the other passenger to not be crowded. Yes, these are perks that increase the quality of life. Keep it up, M.

Thanks all!! OH rules!! It is great to have the support hear. I'm happy to give it back too.

err.. I can type.. I meant here not hear.. but it's good to HEAR all of the nice comments =) Thanks again.

Stayce My husband and I were married in Capetown, South Africa! It is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been and if there is any way that you can swing going you should. I'd love to give you some tips on excellent places to visit, eat etc. if you do end up going! Congratulations on your progress. Anne

Well if not this year then next for sure and I'm sure more than once in the coming years. The brides whole family lives in Cape Town. In the future I am sure they will move there. My brother and I were both born and raised in New Jersey. However, after the trips he made to SA he says that is the first time he felt like he was really home. He just fell in love with SA and the people. The South Africans I have met here in the states so far just seem very cool. Most of my family is going. They are staying a few different places. I think for a large portion of the trip they will be at Jocks Safari Lodge. Most of them have been to other parts of Africa already but this will be the first visit to SA. They are pretty set on places to visit since they have family members to show them around. Matter of fact one friend of the family is actually a pro tour guide.