9 years and counting....

As I sit here pondering thoughts and opinions and experiences and memories, it occurs to me that I don't even know quite where to begin this (or what to put in the middle or end either for that matter). I wish I could write with more eloquence and "pizazz", but logic kicks in and tells me, "Begin at the beginning. Duh."  

Let's start with a picture, shall we? And then I'll keep this (relatively) short. My life is pretty much an open book here on OH and I won't bore you with repetition of what you read from me everyday.  

This is me in January 2006, prior to surgery. Smiley happy face! I weighed (at least) 290 pounds. I say "at least" because I had pretty much given up on the scale other than the obligatory weigh-ins. I had high blood pressure, sleep apnea, was pre-diabetic, and couldn't walk a block without a rest from the pain in my legs and back.

I actually like looking at these pictures occasionally. Never forget where you came from, ever.  

Funny thing - I still don't like posing for photos. I'm not a "selfie-ist" and don't really get off on posting a gijillion pouty poses while I try to adjust any remaining flab and skin and convince myself that others won't see it. ;) Yesterday after work I asked (forced) Andrew to take a few shots of me (I hated it) so I could document how far I've travelled in 9 years. (I sincerely think he said "holy f*ck* when I jumped into my "old pants" and I'm equally certain I did too)  

Today, March 21, 2015 I weigh 120.1 pounds.   So here is the expected "whole body in one leg of the old pants" shot:

And here is documented proof that I do indeed have a FLAT ASS:

And this is just me. (Check out those awesome bat wings!) (Angel wings, if you please)

It's been a long road. It hasn't always been a piece of the proverbial f'ing cake. But it's been one hell of a ride.  

K. :)  

♫♪♫Haaa♫♪appy ♫♪♫♪ Anniversary♫♪♪♫ Karen!!

Wow nine years ago today. Karen you look stunning, amazing, beautiful. The people on OH are blessed to have you in their lives. I for one am blessed to have you in my life.

I hope today you do something special for yourself to celibate your accomplishments, you should be extremely proud

Tons of Hugs!!

Ann 

Karen you look gorgeous!! 

Karen, you are amazing and gorgeous.  

Just a congrats and a big Thank You for all that you share on this forum. Your advice is so honest and helpful to so many of us.

Take care, Tara

Karen, you look amazing!  You are an inspiration to me as I start my journey.  I only hope that I can have the results and long term success that you have.  I always look for your posts, the wisdom and advice you share, has been a great help to me.

Thanks for all you do,

judy

You look beyond fabulous!! Thanks for sharing!! 

Congratulations Karen! You are truly an incredible mentor. Since my first few weeks here at 

OH you have been so supportive to so many of us.

Thank you for sticking around here and sharing your experience with us.

Annette 😄

Wonderful ! And very inspirational,  I seriously hope I can do as well as you have , and look half as good nine years later. You rock Missus !! You're a wee treasure 

Jax x

You look gorgeous!  Great job and thank your for sharing.

OMG, you look amazing Karen. It took me a bit to recognize your profile pic after you changed it yesterday, lol. You're inspirational and i hope to have your success at 9 years from my surgery. Couldn't happen to a nicer person.