Ok, so my one year post with pics...

I am hesitant to post this on the main board because I often feel that people see my pics but don't hear the message (which is: stick to the plan, incorporate weights, stop killing yourself with cardio, and you have no control over how your skin will turn out other than to fill in some skin with muscle). So I'm posting here with you "long-timers" first who have been there done that. :p

First I want to thank every single person who contributes to this board and the VSG board, especially those who came before me. I have learned so much and gotten amazing support, even if we don't all agree about every detail all of the time. I would have been so lost without you fine folks!

Wow, the year FLEW by!!

I am very happy with my weight and body now (aside from the skin issues). I still fiddle a bit with my calories, but I've pretty much eating at maintenance for about 4-5 weeks now and enjoying it. My body looks better, actually. I have noticed a big change in my muscles in just 4 weeks since eating more.

I currently fluctuate between 150-154 lbs (after a high carb day :p ). I'm not sure if I'll try to cut more fat or keep eating at maintenance. We'll see!

My core diet consists of meat, protein shake/bar, cottage cheese, greek yogurt, peanut butter (too much!!), dark chocolate, and eggs. Since eating at maintenance, every day I eat something carby like chips, pretzels, bread, muffins, crackers, pasta, etc. I've had days where I ate nothing but cake all day (after my DD's bday), but I can't eat much at a time and I only gain water weight when I do that.

I count calories (easy peasy), then fit my macros into those calories (protein/fat/carbs). So far it seems my maintenance is around 1800 calories.

I do get hungry or "empty" a lot faster than I used to. I can easily eat every hour or two if I wanted. I find I've been slacking on getting the protein that I need (120 g) and I slack with my vits. Not good!

Ok so my pics...
before:






This is with only 6 months of 3-4 hours a week of weight training and virtually no cardio...








veins are poppin - woo! after I increased carbs and FAT











wanted to add these where you can see my stomach is NOT perfect...far from it. I have abs but I have loose skin, scars, and stretch marks.

Hi Mandy!!

It sounds like you have a good hanlde on your weight, maintenance and exercise!  You have done a fine job and I am so proud of you!

You look fabulous, stunning, toned, etc.

I am proud of you for sharing 'all' with everyone, not just the perfect shots. 

I LOVE that black dress on you, with the open back and sequins.. AND that white pinstripe pantsuit!!  Wow do you know how to shop!  (I know you may not have bought most of those clothes, but wow you look good in them!)

Big proud hugs,

Cindy

Thank you Cindy! I try on clothes alllll the time now. It keeps me on track. And you are right - I don't even buy that much! LOL

You look marvelous!!
 
While a majority don't read the message there is always that ONE that will see your pics, READ your post and UNDERSTAND your message so please do it for the ONE person and post over there!!

Ms Shell

True Ms Shell. I know I always looked forward to your posts as an experienced VSGer when I a newb. Thank you for being there!!

Congratulations Mandy!!  Looking gorgeous as always!

Thank you Kimberly! I'm *almost* a tall drink of water like you. Hubba hubba = )

Hey sexy lady.. you know you are my hero! Congrats on your surgiversary.. I know you will continue to be successful, and I know that you deserve every teeny tiny little bit of that sexy bod woman.. Woot!

Thank you Fawn! You've been my friend on here since before surgery and were a HUGE inspiration for me to go ahead with the VSG. Thank you sooooooo much for everything! <3

You look absolutely beautiful, healthy and strong!  Congratulations!  And I love Ms Shell's advice.  It's so true, even if your post only helps one person, it's so worth it.