8 months since RNY

I read, with great interest, the steps in everyone's journey. Today, for example, one just got a referral from the doctor, another got an upsetting call saying that her surgery was being delayed by two weeks, and other has finished all of the steps and is awaiting "the call".

I am only eight months out and I am reminded that each hospital is the same, but different as is our individual experiences. They vary, but are often quite similar.

What I'd like to share is not so much the stats, but the benefits and challenges as a result of my decision to have WLS. I'm down 82 lbs. in 8 months, down to a size 10 from a size 20, and have lost about 60". I'm full of energy, sleep better than ever, do EVERYTHING easier, and actually enjoy playing again and having just plain fun.

Challenges include consistent meal planning and varying what I eat, remembering to only eat my limit and if there is one or two bites left - throw them out (Ginny says we're not the garbage can) - lol, I still eat and drink too fast, some foods still do not sit well and I recently violated my own personal commitment not to drink any alcohol until one year out. I do journal my food during the week on MFP and OH, but not on the weekend (computer and phone avoidance). This helps keep me accountable.My exercise routine could also be more consistent.

A customer asked if I had lost weight, and I said I had. He asked what my secret was and I replied there was no secret - just working with my doctor and eating a protein rich diet. He then asked, "Will you be able to keep it off?". I was a little shocked and then answered confidently, "Yes, I will." Do some doubts still plague me? Of course, but I also know my chances of permanent weight loss and improved health have never been better.

Life is good - not easy, always challenging, but definitely good!

Wonderful post Linda. You've done such a great job, and you have shown your commitment to the lifestyle changes.

Your post this morning on the What Are You Eating Thread made me smile. Feeling like a million bucks in a new smaller outfit, is just one of the many NSV's that make life so much better after WLS.

Thank you. It's so true that although some plus size clothing has become much more fashionable, for me, it never really was.

A smile for you:

"What is your style?" the sales lady asked.

"It fits", I replied.

Thank you Linda for always being upbeat and positive. You have been a real inspiration to me and I will never forget your encouragement when it felt like surgery was never going to happen for me.

I too am finding that sometimes I eat to quickly and probably too much. There is so much to learn and to learn from ourselves and what our body can handle. It is the one time in my life when I am actually listening to it. Yes, I agree that there are challenges (and Lord knows I am going to have my handful of them in the coming months and years) but like you my own "chances of permanent weight loss and improved health have never been better".

Thanks so much!

Barb

Right back atcha Barb. Support, encouragement and sharing on this site - it's been a God send for me and helps to keep me on track.

You're doing great, Linda! So many positive changes.

Thanks Kathy. And I didn't even mention floating in the bathtub - lol. I got such a kick out of the squishy NSV.

I'd appreciate if you'd slow down a bit - I'm trying to catch up!

Love love your post Linda... like I love all your posts. It's super inspirational and honest.

You're doing great! I am often so surprised Holley how short a time it has been for you since surgery. 8 months. Wow, only? Your knowledge, words of wisdom, presence on the boards... are so much bigger than 8 months.

Congrats on everything!!!

Thank you very much - as I am inspired and motivated by yours.

You are doing AMAZING Linda, keep it going girl!!