Things I learned about me this past week. . .

That in the most stressful and emotional of times, I don't have to eat my way through it all, which is not to say that at some points I didn't find myself going there, just that I caught it and stopped midstream, realizing that food was not going to change anything I was going through and just make me feel bad in the long run.  That when I cannot get to the gym, it makes me feel as though a part of my life is incomplete and I also feel guilty.  That I have to stay focused a little better as there were days I forgot to take my full regimen of supplements and get in the right amounts of water.  That coming here and sharing my pain, as well as my successes helps me stay on track, something I already know, but once more was proved out.  That you all are wonderful, caring people and that without having come this way, who knows how I would have made it through this set of cir****tances.  I am blessed and enriched and just wanted to express my gratitude for all of you. 

Thanks

Peace, Laureen

Laureen, I am new to this site and I don't know your story, but I fullheartedly agree with you
that the people on this site are very caring in their unconditional giving of their support ,
knowledge and wisdom.

I was totally unaware of the aftermath of lapband surgery: fills, band rules, slow weight loss
etc., and learned everything from this 50+ site as well as the Lapband forum on OH.

I am also grateful - especially to those on the 50+ site (which wonderful Jean told me about).

Peace back,

Katherine B

Laureen, it will be baby steps for the rest our lives; relearning how to navigate life without those gigantic bulging bodies to hide behind anymore... your level of awareness tells me you're on top of your game... And I try to start each day from the spirit of gratitude (which you so beautifully express in your post) - it's all about redirecting our energies away from food and toward better, more meaningful ways to live. Your post made me smile - thank you. Maureen

Well said Laureen,
I feel that way as well now.  As someone who was formerly a couch potato I am amazed at feeling like this.
I also agree about the people here on OFF.
thanks for posting the way I feel on bad days as well (or sometimes bad weeks).
Sheri

 Laureen
     You are a very caring person, as this shows in the ostings that you do. You are always there for people and I feel you will always be that way because that is just who you are. Thanks for all your wise words of wisdom.
Suzette50

Good Morning Laureen,

I'm glad the weekend is here for you. May Dillinger's days be as pain free as possible. I know that you will take care of the "lots of love" part. I'm sure the renewed commitment to a healthier you will give you added strength to help you deal with the life challenges ahead. Life is ups and downs, curves, sometimes mountains and big pot holes.

You started the journey to a healthier you many years ago with your decision to work a 12 step program to the best of your ability. Those tools are evident in the way you live your life. I attended OA many years ago. Not sure why I quit going. It was an excellent program. I think I thought I was "cured." Ha, "cured" my way right up to 377 lbs before I finally admitted that food had me in it's fatal grip.

I still use the tools I learned in OA when I remember to get out of the way of my own progress. It's still so hard for me to surrender control which I don't really have when it comes to controlling the universe or others that I care about. . .

I weigh in weekly at my TOPS meeting. The TOPS pledge says in part "I will not use food to satisfy my frustrated desires, build up my injured ego, or dull my senses". I constantly remind myself that abusing food may bring a temporary "numbing" affect but it's ALWAYS followed by a crash and self loathimg that is worse than feeling the feelings in the first place.

I'm rambling here in the middle of the night. I need to try to get some more zzzzzzzs. . .

Sweet Laureen,I only wish I could do more...

(((HUGS)))))

Thanks....connie d