date from the cottage

Hello everyone:

I am 4.5 months post surgery. Have been at the cottage for the last week with the boys. This time last year, I was 75 pounds heavier. Although I am tempted to "snack" I feel that I have managed "ok" but not perfect. Here is a snapshot of how things have changed from this time at the cottage last year:

• I have played with the kids in the water every day
• I have worn my bathing suit with no cover up
• I have energy - I have participated in everything the boys have wanted to do - I have gone on hikes, jumped off the pier, swam, had water balloon fights with the boys; stayed up past 9
• I haven't noticed horrible sweats
• I fit in the shower without touching the sides
• I have been IN pictures - there is evidence that I was on this trip
• mostly, I have energy and I am enjoying my time with the kids - I think they can tell the difference too

I am not perfect and I do think that I need some counselling on my "choices" as I can see how my old habits can threaten my new lifestyle. I have 40 more pounds to lose but man oh man, am I ever thankful for this gift I have.

Long post but wanted to share this experience.

Woo hoo!

Congratulations!

Keep up the great work!

I'm so happy for you Leeann and I agree, it is truly a gift. Each day has challenges and I enjoyed reading the recent post from the member who is celebrating 11 years since her surgery - and the daily challenges and temptations that go with it so many years later.

I went camping on the weekend and was going for a walk. My girlfriend pointed out a bike route that went around Little Lake in Peterborough and we started out that way. When she suggested we head back, I said let's go around. It was about 8.5 km and took us about 1.5 hrs. We went at a steady clip, enjoyed the sunshine and views, and I wasn't ever tired or winded.

I'd like to rename NSVs to RSVs because these victories are related to our surgeries. Unlike before when we lost weight and regained (numerous times), this surgery provides us with the opportunity of a lifelong reduction in weight and the blessings of all that we are able to do as healthier, lighter individuals. It takes focus, commitment, encouragement and gratitude - on a daily basis. We will all be challenged and feel discouraged, but I find so much support from members on this group who are sometimes feeling the same.

Keep focused on all that is good and you will continue to tell us about those wonderful changes in your life. Way to go!

NSV means non-scale victory. Anything other than the number on the scale.

I knew that ... brain fart.

Those are all such great NSV's - your kids and family must be so excited to have you with them on vacation this year instead of in the background or on the sidelines! Don't worry we aren't all perfect. You are making better choices overall and most of all choosing to have surgery was the best one of all! :)

Hi Leeann

I teared up when I read your post, it resonated with me. Next year I want all of those changes in my life. Congratulations on your continuing success.

It sounds like you and the boys are having a wonderful time! I bet they are thrilled by Mom, version 2.0, lol.

I am so happy for you! You're doing great!

I haven't been out to our cottage yet and am wondering how it will go as I always ate like there was no tomorrow out there.

I LOVE everything about this.

I think we end up being so hard on ourselves that we sometimes forget about the other "stuff" that you mentioned - real life is happening and now you are an active participant.

We will probably all need counselling at some point through this journey, I think its about balance...hard for anyone to achieve :)

Congratulations. This is truly what it is all about. Living life to the fullest. No longer sitting on the sidelines.

I am not trying to put a chill on a great experience just a suggestions. Keep this time in your memory. Remember when challenges happen that you want to be there for your kids and how great it feels.

Good luck in your journey