Today is my 6 month anniversary ...

So very much has changed in the last 6 months. I look different. But more than that, I feel different. I haven't felt this good in more than three decades. I know that having the surgery was a risky endeavor, but I truly feel that not having it would have been riskier.

I am delighted to have my type 2 diabetes resolved, have more energy and endurance than I have had in years.

I'm still struggling with "feeling" fat ... okay, may not so much fat as chubby ... but, I still really see the chubs I still have to lose. Sometimes, I see myself and I can hardly believe the slimmer, trimmer me. Other times, I see myself and I still see the chubs. I know that part of it is reality and part of it my head needing to catch up.

The weight loss has really slowed over the last 4 to 6 weeks; and while I "knew" that was to be expected, it is a little scary. I'm finding that I have to "work" at losing now; the weight doesn't just fall off. I'm hoping that I'll be able to lose somewhere between 15 and 25 lbs over the next 6 months.

I have to say that I am hopeful that I will be able to maintain my loss in the long term with the help my pouch and the new skills I've been developing.

I want to thank so many of you who have supported me through this journey. I honestly don't think I could have faired as well as I have without the support I receive from so many friends I have made on OH.

Thanks for letting me share and for being their for me. I appreciate it more than words can convey.

Barb

You've made an amazing accomplishment, Barbara - in addition to your weight loss, you've really been a key motivator and source of encouragement and inspiration for others on the boards - THAT deserves double kudos.

Thanks for always keeping US real and motivated.  We've been VERY lucky to have YOU sharing with US.

Nikki

Nikki -

You make me blush! You are very sweet and I appreciate the kudos, but I want you to know that I also appreciate your support. Without yours and others here, I don't know that I would be as successful as I have been. I met someone last weekend who had their surgery 14 months ago and had only lost about 60 lbs. Don't get me wrong, she is delighted with the loss and says she feels so very much better, however, she also said that she doesn't attend support group meetings. I know that the support that I get from you and the others on this board has been invaluable to me. Not only does it help to cheer me on through my successes, but it also helps keep me accountable and helps me remember the "rules" so that I can make the most of this incredible gift.

Soooo .... A longwinded thanks! I know that this is something best done with a community and I'm so glad that you are part of my community!

Barb

Congratulations Barb!!! You are an inspiration to this board and we are glad to have YOU as our friend.  I am sure you will continue to succeed.  Congratulations again on hitting the 6 month mark. Enjoy every minute of it!

Melinda -

You are so sweet and I truly appreciate your support. I look forward to hearing of your 6 month anniversary. I know it seems like it's off in the distance, but it will be here before you know it.

Thanks again for your continued support.

Barb

P.S. Are you going to be able to come up to Raleigh for the Holiday Soiree? I'd love to get to actually "meet" you!

Time sure does fly by quickly. The past six months have changed your life forever. You have accomplished a lot in 6 months and you look great. You are an inspiration to me as well as others on this board. I continue to wish you the best on your success.  ((((HUGS))))                                  Tiffany

Tiffany -

Thank you very much for your kindness. I appreciate your support and your kind words. I'm in awe of your amazing success as you travel your own road to a healthier you. You are truly making the most of this tool you have been given.

Thanks again,

Barb

Barb~
Like the commerical says *You have come along way baby* I am so proud of you and your accomplishments. You have worked hard and also have had to deal with some other things in your life but you always come through it all and always have a kind word for everyone!! Im proud to have you as a friend and someone to admire.

Hugs,
Darcie

Darcie -

I want you to know that your kindness and support have really meant a great deal to me. I admire your spirit, tenacity, the amazing job you are doing with your tool. I also think that your support of those in your immediate area and on the board is truly exceptional. I too am glad you are here and am proud to have you as a friend and someone to admire ... looks like we have a mutual admiration society going ... LOL.

Thanks,

Barb

Barb, My heartfelt congratulations to you on all of your accomplishments!  You have certainly come a long way indeed and have been such a trailblazer and cheerleader for the rest of us.  I value your friendship and support a great deal and only hope I have been able to give back a tenth of what you have given to me. Thanks for sharing your victory!