Starting over (again)

 Hello everyone... this is my first post in the forum.  I had my 6 year RNY anniversary last week - initially losing 95 lbs.  Over the past 2 years I've gained about 60 pounds.  Why?  Mainly because of grazing, a small percentage because of hormones being that I am 51.  I feel like a "failure" and am totally embarrassed to even go out to do anything other than work.  I'd appreciate any assistance I can get from members.  I have to start over.  This week I'm getting everything together I need to do the 5 day pouch test, but my first question is, if I know my pouch is in good condition (from an upper GI last year) do I even bother with this??
Thanks again...

 What is a 5 day pouch test>?

The 5DPT helps me decarb an go back on schedule.  When my carbs are low - it is easier for me to stay on track.  

I think it helps psychologically too, like a right of passage... and it is great for de-carbifying... There is also the 3 day protein train where you drink just shakes - for three days (and water of course!) and it helps getting back on track physically and mentally.  And hey, look, you are still 35 pounds lighter than you were and you are doing something positive in starting over so give yourself credit for that.  And if you need to graze, get low cal healthy pouch friendly snacks.  I'm not at two years yet, but I have already realized I'll be fighting my food demons forever. I'm just glad now I have a tool to use to help me in that battle.  Sometimes I mess up, but that doesn't end the world. We can always start over, any minute, any second, of any day if needed.  Congrats on your loss and on having the courage to start over. 

Why are you asking do I even bother?  Do you think you are worth the effort?  I hope so.  OK, so you gained 60 pounds. This does not make you a failure! Normal people gain weight all the times.  We are not perfect. 

I had gained 80.  I have lost back 21 of those 80 pounds.  I did that since March this year and posting back here on OH.com and the groups and forums here.  It is wonderful.  Check out my blogs on my profile since March. 

You can do it!!  Just stay focused and you can do it!  I have 3 P's that have served me well on this journey: Perseverance, Patience, and Positive thinking!!  You have already did good by coming back to OH.com!   Whatever you do, believe you can do this and do not give up on YOU!  You are worth it!

Vikki, welcome.
I will be celebrating my 7 years on 12/17/10. I never made goal. Over the years I have flip-flopped back and forth 20-30 lbs. 2 weeks ago I commited to making my goal by my 7th anniversary. First week 4 lbs fell off. The second week I had shoulder problems and the doctor gave me a 7-day steroid pack. I have NEVER lost weight when on steriods. And as I expected I lost nothing for week 2 of BOTT. Discouraged, YES....did I quit, that's a BIG FAT NO !!!  I am determined to make it this time.
This forum is the best place to go if you need support. We all struggle, we all gain, but we also all LOSE. You can do this. I believe in you


So, shake off the dust and let today be the first day of the rest of your life. Please feel free to lean on me whenever you need to talk, vent or just brain storm.

~Lori~

I am starting the 5 DPT on Monday. I have done it a few times before but only once completely successfully and what a difference it made! Carbs out Energy and Determination in!!!!

 Thank you so much everyone for your replies.  I am taking all your suggestions to heart.  The small changes I'm making already have helped - I've lost 15 pounds in the past 6 weeks.  Instead of McDonald's hashbrowns for breakfast, I'm eating dry frosted mini wheats.  Less fat, more fiber.  I can't handle milk since surgery, so only dry cereal for me .  I'm buying since Hershey bars instead of bags of Hershey Nuggets.  Portion control is much easier that way.  I know I can't stop eating chocolate all together because I end up binging on it.  I just need to eat less and this seems to be working, at least for now.  I'm trying to drink more water, too.  I usually drink 3 or 4 bottles a day, but I drink way too much diet Coke.  I've never had trouble with diet soda since surgery.  

So keep the comments coming-- I'm trying to get on here every day to keep my motivation up.  Thank you so much!!!

Vickie