My turn for a Richmond Rant!

Hi y'all! Spent the rest of yesterday watching Football (GO SEAHAWKS!!!) and today at work so I'm finally getting the opportunity to read everyone else's posts and see everyone's pics! Much as I'd love to reply to EVERYONE's posts, I'd be up all night doing it, so this will be the collective! GAWD, what a great weekend! Even though I know, have met or have seen most (probably two-thirds of y'all!) of the people there in the last year or so, you could have knocked me over with a feather after seeing everyone Friday and Saturday! EVERYONE looked absolutely fantastic and I was in downright AWE of everyone and their accomplishments, both weight-loss and otherwise. It was such an amazing thing to be in a room so full of support and positive energy for everyone else. David, you and Natalie were definately the stars of the show and I'm convinced that absolutely NO ONE could have done it better! Not only did the time and effort you two spent manifest itself over the weekend, it was obvious that every bit of your heart and soul was spent making this a very special weekend for all. It was GREAT to FINALLY meet all the out-of-towners! Lynda and Steve from Florida, Gina and Aaron from the cool side of the country(!), all da Joysey Goils and da one lone chick from Brooklyn! There are others, I know but, for the most part, they came the farthest. Hope to see ALL of you again SOON! Saturday...WOW! As I'm sure all of you know, It's hard to find the words to accurately describe the evening. A metamorphoses of sorts for some, I'm sure and it was truly a joy to see everyone having such a wonderful time without a care in the world. Natalie, I wish I had a picture of Lei at the precise moment you honored her...If I had died at that moment, I would have died the happiest man on earth. Her heart truly soared and it was a joy to see. The hospitality suite....ahhhhh, yes. A haven for dancing, cigars, getting drunk and general silliness (and not a few perversions!). Thanks for the Pajama call....I was getting tired of the suit at 2am! Rick, thanks for the cigar swapping! Special thanks to whoever stocked the Rolling Rock (Kelly?) I forgot what a hangover that can give!! (OK, so maybe I SHOULDN'T mix it with Elijah Craig bourbon, Three Olive Vodka and God-knows what else, but that's beside the point!) For the record, I asked Lei to drive home which she mercifully agreed to do! And finally, I must reiterate how much in AWE I am of everyone and their accomplishments. From my chair, it was a very humbling and wonderful weekend and I am deeply grateful for having had the opportunity to attend. With all my respect and admiration... -Paul

Paul... I must say you are an amazing, supportive, wonderful husband! Lei is a lucky woman, although I have no doubts that you would insist that you are the lucky one! Actually, I am the lucky woman here... but I digress! The presentation you and Lei did was wonderful - I still have my handouts! I am so glad to have met you both in person, can't wait to do it again (shoot, I have not corrupted Keoni NEARLY enough!) So many amazing people were there, and I include the supportive non-WLS spouses, friends, family... what a truly amazing group! Can't wait to see you in June... I will need you to light my cigar! Hugs (give Lei a smooch for me) Gina (this may post twice, my 'puter just wigged out... )

Aww, paul, that was so sweet....but so true. I too was amazed at the love and caring there...my being a newbie, seeing all the success stories was a true inspiration to me...but what I really brought home with me was the bond that this surgery creates...the love and the genuine caring and acceptance. What a miracle. I was so glad and proud to meet you and Lei...what a whirlwind she is! I just love her and can't wait to spend more time with both of you. Hugs, Betsy

You are a absolute sweetie. Lei and you are perfect together. Glad to meet you both and look forward to seeing you all again. Susan

Paul , It was and always is an honor to have you and Lei among us . I can not thank you two enough for the Fantastic Presentation you did . So much love and effort went in to it . And it is lessons I will take with me as I journey for a mate . I was truly blessed the moment I met you both . Get Ready for Summer .. It will I am sure be a blast .. Love you both so much .. Natalie

Paul, you and Lei did an amazing job and I really enjoyed talking to you before dinner Saturday nite. You two are an inspiration that there is happiness and love out there to be found!! I think you are both absolutely wonderful people and you are both lucky to have found each other. I'm so glad I got to meet you both. Much happiness for both of you!!! Bev

Psssst.... I love YOU, babee!!!! ...forever and always!

Paul, You are awesome! What a supportive husband and friend you are to Lei. You guys are lucky to have each other. What a team!