Getting Started

After lurking for quite a while (and gaining another 8 pounds doing so), I've decided that the only way for me to REALLY get back on track is to participate -- in the discussions, in my exercise plans, in my eating plans, in my life!  I've made list after list of "what I need to do" to get back on track, and haven't checked off a single item.  I've just been coasting along in the stream of life, and then I have the nerve to wonder why I haven't reached my goals?!?  I have to WORK -- not depend on a spurt of enthusiasm that lasts for a day or two, not try one of my pre-surgery fad diets for a week, no****ch yet another infomercial on the next "easy weight loss" scheme.  WORK, day in and day out, to lose the rest of my weight, because I never want to be where I was again.

And I can use all the help I can get.

Sarah
Started the journey (12/31/07) at 302#
Lap Band (8/21/08) at 287#
Currently at 232#
Goal: 165#

Welcome  !  Remember it is one day at a time. 

Sarah - before when we dieted no one ever bothered to tell us maintenance is forever - and for me, until now, it sure wasn't.  I am happy to say, for the first time in my life, I am maintaining!!!!!!   If I can do it, ANYONE can do it!!!!!  We just have to choose to use our tool.  My lap band surgery was almost 4 years ago (12/23/05) and I'd do it again in 1/2 a hearbeat!!!!

What I have found I must do is plan my food and WRITE IT DOWN at least one day ahead - preferably 3 or 4 days, stay within my calorie limit, follow my plan.  Since our problem is about .01% physical and 99.99% mental/emotional, thinking/feeling I need to eat is the poorest indicator of whether or not I really do need to eat.  I also need to exercise some every day.  Every body's body is different - the important thing is to know/listen to our own body. 

Then, I've also learned that maintaining takes as much work, if not more for it is so easy to get hooked by into our old way of thinking - "Now I've lost my weight, now I can "estimate" what I need to maintain"  We can't do that any better after surgery than before.  It takes a concious effort each and every day - BUT IT SURE IS WORTH IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Again, WELCOME

Welcome to the group.