Almost 3 years post-VSG, and I could use some help

December 10, 2009 I had my VSG.  It was life-changing, and I lost over 100 pounds (my goal was 145).  Then my world got hectic, my stress level went up, and my old habits started to sneak back in.  But I maintained, give or take.  Fast forward to a year ago: I met an amazing man who's both my best friend and my rock.  Work got crazier, and I got more stressed trying to juggle it all.  "Me" fell down the priority list a bit farther.  4 months ago, I landed a great (but stressful) job that I love, though it's taken longer to get through "new girl" syndrome than I was prepared for.  Trying to sell my house, boyfriend moving in, and some sleep issues compounded everything.  I turned to my old friends: pop and junk food.  Funny how easy that was to do, though not surprising when I didn't take care of the head issues associated with the size of my hiney.

Now, here I am...nearing my 3 year surgiversary.  I've packed on about 35 pounds since my lowest weight.  My mom, who did her best but wasn't able to be the support I needed 3 years ago, is scheduled for surgery October 8.  And I'm realizing a few things: I'm disappointed in myself for not taking full advantage of my VSG...how can I be the support my mom needs when I'm not taking care of me?  And I'm just not happy with my choices...though they're comforting as I'm putting the food in my mouth, it leaves me just as empty as it always did.  It's time to get my act together, that much I know.  So I thought I'd turn here, to the forums that were my support and my lifeline 2 1/2 years ago.  Where the community is amazing, the support incredible, and I always knew there were people out there who "got it".  As I refocus and redirect my energy to getting healthy...REALLY healthy this time...I can't imagine doing it without everything I got from OH.  I'm hoping the community here can give me the support, encouragement, and butt-kicking I need to take on another round of this challenge.  

Any suggestions from others who have struggled?  It seems like such a daunting task to get started, but my heart's in it.

35 pounds isn't a ton of weight..and it's totally do-able..

Here's the advice I recommend to people who want to move back to where they were early out..This is a giant ocean liner and those do not turn on a dime..The best course is steady and slow so..journal your foods for a bit. A couple of days. You don't have to change instantly but you will anyway. Measure what you are eating and write down every single thing..figure out the stats on what you're eating and then take a look at the list (with the times because that shows a pattern). Then when you're looking at the list, pick something to improve. More protein, less white carbs (bread, pasta, sugar, rice...) and make sure you're including your water. plenty of water..and your vitamins.

Then..move more. If you have a desk job, be sure to get up and move once an hour..stretch..walk the long way to deliver paperwork. When you go shopping, park further away. On the weekends, find something to do that gets you moving. Walk the mall, walk the dog, go to the farmers market, a car show, go dancing. MOVE..

You can do it. Dont' be down on yourself, your mom needs you for support and in supporting her, you will help yourself..it's all good.

Well girl, I know how it is!  My 3 year anniversary is 10/20.  I am up 15 pounds from my goal weight.  I have just renewed my commitment to try and drop as much of that as i can by the end of October.  I know how quickly 5 lbs turn into 10 and so on.  You and I sound alot alike in the fact that we are stress eaters...how do I get rid of all the stress?  LOL the impossible question!  I know since the stress will always be there  I have to take small steady steps of eliminating the "grazing" and the ****TAILS!  You can do it, WE can do it!!  I always remind myself...I WILL NOT GO BACK to where I was. Good luck, you are already on your way!

Emily