New to the boards...

Hi everyone! I am new around here, well at least new again. I was a member of the site pre-op, then I thought... "Hey! I have this thing under control!" Well... I did. I am 3 and 1/2 years out. My "birthday" is 12/02/02 and it pains me to say, I had to stop to remember that date. I went from 355# to 195# and was the happiest girl in the world. I met my future husband (will be getting married next May), moved to California, and got promoted at work. Happy girl got comfortable with new life in California and put on about 5 pounds. Totally recoverable, until I quit smoking and put on another 15 pounds. Then I started the birth control shot, Depo Provera, in January of this year. That was the WORST move I have EVER made in my life! I went from 215# to an ugly 255#. 40# in 4 months. Now I am struggling to get back to the 195# mark (and yes, I quit taking the shot) I just need some help and a direction. I am fortunate that sugar still doesn't sit well with me, but unfortunate enough to be able to eat about 12-16 oz at a meal. I am thinking of a liquid jumpstart (protien drinks, sf popsicles, and soup, etc). Has anyone had any success with something like this so far out? What else would you recommend? All suggestions are welcome and appreciated. Thanks in advance for all of your help and support! Melissa

Melissa, You caught yourself at 40 pounds. It could be worse. Be thankful that you realized you were heading up the scale and that you are deciding to do something about it now. I've seen some post who have waited much longer than you. I think you should go back to basics. Remember that 6-8oz is enough food. Just because you can eat 12-16 oz doesn't mean to you NEED to eat that much. Cut your portions, make sure you get your protein first, then veggies and remember to make healthy choices. You can do this! You still have your tool. You just need to use it to your advantage. We're here for you. Post any time you need advice, encouragement or just an ear. Best wishes! Lily

Thanks for the advise! I started back on the road to WLS success the morning after I wrote this post. I am up on my protien and down on all the bad stuff. I am the biggest fan of the Herb and Garlic Tuna by Starkist. 30 grams of protien in the 5 oz package and only 180 calories. YEY for lunch in a pouch! Since I got back on track I have dropped 2.5 pounds, water I am sure, but it is a nice feeling to see the needle on the scale go in the opposite direction. Thanks again for your reply and support =)