Hi strangers!

so sorry I have been MIA for a long time now, but this surgery has given me so much less time to play on the cmputer, and I am loving it! I am so proud and happy about the way things are going for me. I have managed to go from 316 to 141, and my BMI went from 54 to 25.9....these last 5 pounds are killing me to have that normal BMI(24.9). A lot of changes have taken place and I am happier today than I have been in my whole life. I have continued working towards my degree in education, and just recently took the step to quit my job and go full time so that I can get done sooner. I still have about a year or so left. I also am currently going through a divorce, which is not easy but was my decision. The past two years with my husband have been just awful. He can't keep a job, he is emotionally and mentally unstable, and he just isn't capable of loving me or giving me and Hanna what we need. I am happy that I made the decision to walk away, but I still have my moments when I worry about how this will all affect our daughter. Wait though, the story gets better. Shortly after I told him I wanted a divorce, I was reunited with a high school sweetheart through myspace. I am so in love and happy, and I can't believe that I never felt this way before in my life, as I am approaching 30. The story and pics are on my profile, feel free to check them out. http://www.myspace.com/karynrenee So this surgery without a doubt has changed my life, but not just because I am skinny now......it has done so much more than that. I no longer need to be in control of everything, it is ok to just let go sometimes. I allow myself to be vulnerable and know that I will still be ok. I know that I need to put myself first and love me before I can love anyone else. I would like to think I have grown in many ways due to having to "deal" rather than hide in a corner and stuff my face. I have been given a second chance and I am taking every little advantage...life is too short, and I am not waiting for anything anymore, happiness is within the reach of anyone that truly desires to be happy. I found it the hard way, but I'd do everything all over again. I hope that some of my old friends on here and some new ones have found the things I have and are as happy as I am. I will try more to keep in touch, but I am busy living life now! I will never forget the support I got here, and know that I think of you all often! Love you guys! Karyn first pic is my heaviest, second is me in April 2007, and the last two are me and Chris taken within the past 3 weeks. http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y2/karynbudde/?action=view& current=pre-op2.jpg http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y2/karynbudde/?action=view& current=april2007.jpg http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y2/karynbudde/?action=view& current=usagain.jpg http://s2.photobucket.com/albums/y2/karynbudde/?action=view& current=meandchris.jpg

Welcome back I am new to the boards so I did not know you before but good job. your pic are great.

thanks hon! good luck to you on your journey, and if you need anything feel free to ask! You came to a great place for support.

Hi Karyn, Wow you look great!!! Thanks for sharing. (((hugs))) Diana

Diana, your boy is just beautiful! I remember seeing you on the post-op pregnancy board, I had no idea you were a mommy already! Congratulations, I hope you enjoy every minute!

Hello Daughter...thanks for coming on and updating...the girls have been asking me about you. Did You Ever Know That You're My Hero? (Singing) LOL    Because of you and your strength, I have the courage to go thru this myself.  I'm glad you say you will be there for me...lucky me!    Mom   Jeanine

aww, you're so sweet mommy. where is your picture, show these people where I got my beauty from!  Of course I will be there for you, and I am so proud you have made the decision to do this. I love you!

I sent my ugly fat pic into OH a few days ago for them to upload it for me since I don't have a website. Guess it takes awhile.         I don't know how to get the success tracker that alot of these people have.  I need time to go thru all the tutorials.    LoveU2