Five months of changes ...

I'm five months out now and I have lost 61 lbs since I had surgery in June. While I'd like to lose more weight, it would be okay if I never lost another pound, because I feel better than I have in decades. The biggest reason I did this was to arrest my diabetes; I've done that and I have more energy, stamina, flexibility, and strength. Generally, I think I "look" better than I did when I was packing around all that extra weight. I'm still struggling with the extra skin, but hopefully I will come to terms with that in time.

If I have any regrets about this journey, it would be that I didn't do it sooner. It has changed me in positive ways that go beyond the scale. I am taking more responsibility for me. I am taking better care of myself. I've come to realize that putting me first is not selfi**** helps me take care of others when I take care of me. I look forward to the changes that the next 5 to 7 months will bring. I'm sure that the physical changes will be more subtle than they have been so far.

I'd love to know how your journey has changed you ... no matter where you are in your journey.

Barb, I think that you are great and your weight loss is fantastic!!  While I still have a week or more before my surgery and weight loss begins I am excited and waiting as patiently as I possibly can.  I plan on letting all of you know how I do with surgery and right after.  Can't wait to post my first weight loss from the surgery!  Right now I have lost 8 lbs. since I sent in my application. My journey to this point has already made a difference in me.  Several people have commented that I seem more secure and focused.  My counselor told me that I have to focus on me and everyone else would do just fine.  I have a hard time taking time for me - I seem to always be trying to do things for my family and others.  So I have also began a journey of learning that it is ok to put Nancy first inside of putting her on the back burner and let come what may. I am so proud of you and I am glad that you are proud of yourself!!!  Take care Nancy

Nancy -

You are so very kind! While you have not yet had your surgery, I believe that you are right, you have already started your journey. I think it is so very important to make and take that time for ourselves. As you focus on caring for yourself, you will be stronger and more able to care for others.

I look forward to cheering you on.

All the best,

Barb

Well I'm early in my journey (will be 3 weeks post-op tomorrow), but I can tell that I've lost at least 3/4 of one chin so far!  LOL I've been wearing a pair of jeans this past week that I haven't worn in a LONG time. I've been "stuck" for a few days at 38 lbs. and a bit irritated by that, but then I stop and realize how quickly these 38 have left me and know this stall won't last long.  I, too, look forward to what the coming year will bring for me and can't wait to see the new me when I turn FIFTY next August! 

You are doing wonderfully. 38 lbs in 3 weeks! What a WoW!!!

I know that the stalls are frustrating. We all know that they happen to most of us, but they sure are hard to endure. The good news is that they do pass and the scale starts moving south again.

I hope that we both enjoy a much healthier year when we celebrate or 50th birthdays ... mine comes up in Feb.

Congratulations on all of your success.

Barb

Barb, I can certainly relate to what you are saying!  I am down to 165 and feel fantastic.  I no longer stress about losing, because I am so incredibly well now, compared to where I was 7 months ago.  I do want to lose the last 35 lbs, but it no longer concerns me like it did when I was over 200 lbs.   Congratulations Barb, you have done a fantastic job and you look fabulous! Love, Diane

Barbara- Like I have said before you are a great inspiration for so many here.  You give some of the best down to earth stories and it is just real.  I like FancyJane will have surgery in a few weeks and plan to post here and its because of people like you, Diane, Annie, Nancy, Jennifer...oh heck..its all of ya'll..  that has made me feel so secure with my decision to move forward in this new journey.  Barbara your new picture is Fabulous. I LOVE the dancing picture.  That has to make you smile !! Congrats to your successES Connie

Connie -

Your kindness and support are sincerely appreciated.

I look forward to cheering you on as you make your way. It won't be long now.

Barb

P.S. I like the dancing photo too. I mortified my children that are 25 and 13 yrs old, but I absolutely had a BLAST!

Diane -

Thank you again for your kind comments.

You continue to astound me with your amazing success. When I "grow up" I'd like to be like you.

Thanks again for your kindness.

Barb

Great post Barb.. thanks for sharing these thoughts.  I know that many of us feel the same way.  I actually RAN from my classroom to the main office today..  I never RUN.  LOL