Week 44...11 Months!

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 178

Today's weight: 176

Weight loss this week:2

Total weight loss: 119

Monthly Measurements (inches lost since last month):
Chest: 0"
Arms: 0"
Waist: 1/2"
Hips: 1/2"
Thighs: 1 1/4"
Calves: 1"

Week 44...coming soon

I apologize for the delay in getting the picture up for week 43 and getting all the new info up for week 44. The holidays are such a wonderful time of year but they create chaos that have prevented me from updating my blog. I will get all the updates posted tomorrow. For now I would like to share how wonderful this holiday season has been for me. This is my first Thanksgiving and Christmas since my surgery and I loved it. I didn't feel like I missed out on anything. Fortunately I know my body well enough now that I didn't overeat and get sick during the festivities. I had so much fun with family and friends this year and I was way more comfortable than I have been in years. I am truly a fortunate woman to live the life that dreams are made of. I want to thank all of you for your support and encouragement throughout this year. 2010 promises to bring many more changes but the kind that I have long for for a while now.

Week 43

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 180

Today's weight: 178

Weight loss this week:2

Total weight loss: 117

2 pounds...now that is cause for celebration!

Week 42

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 181

Today's weight: 180

Weight loss this week:1

Total weight loss: 115

One pound is more than last week but less than I was hoping for. I really hope next week has a better result. I still have 50 more pounds to lose...I hope my weight loss isn't coming to an end yet!!!!

Week 41

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 181

Today's weight: 181

Weight loss this week:0

Total weight loss: 114

BUMMER! No weight loss this week but at least I didn't gain.

Week 40...10 MONTHS!

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 182

Today's weight: 181

Weight loss this week:1

Total weight loss: 114

Monthly Measurements (inches lost since last month):
Chest: 2"
Arms: 3/4"
Waist: 1"
Hips: 1/2"
Thighs: 0"
Calves: 0"

*note: the camera is still broken.

Week 39

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 185

Today's weight: 182

Weight loss this week:3

Total weight loss: 113

Unfortunately my camera is protesting and needs to be sent to camera boot-camp. This picture was taken on John's phone and is way blurry but it is the best that I can do. In any event, I lost 3 pounds this week and I am stoked!

Energy Buster!!!!

One of the conditions of having gastric bypass is taking vitamins for the rest of my life. I happily take my vitamins everyday. I take iron to prevent anemia, calcum because I heard a horror story about a woman who lost her teeth from not taking calcium and alos I want to prevent osteoporosis (which women and bypass patients are susceptible to...double whammy for me), multivitamin because they are gummy and taste like candy, and hair and nail vitamins to prevent hair loss. I am also supposed to take B12 to keep up my energy. I was feeling so good that I stopped taking B12. A few months ago I noticed that I was feeling sluggish but I just thought it was because of life's stress. At the beginning of this month I went to the doctor to get my blood checked because I thought I was anemic. My results came back and everything was great EXCEPT my B12. That explains my lack of energy as well as my body feeling like I am always on the verge of getting sick. My levels are so low that I have to get B12 shots once a month for at least 3 months. I got my first shot last week and have been taking my vitamin supplement religiously. I guess I should not try to make up my own rules about what vitamins to take and what to skip. Lesson learned but now I have to be a human pin cushion until my B12 deficiency is gone. The cool thing is that soon I will have my energy back. The tricky thing is that now everyone around me has to deal with an even more energetic me!

Week 38

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 188

Today's weight: 185

Weight loss this week:3

Total weight loss: 110

110 down...55-65 more to go!

Week 37

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 189

Today's weight: 188

Weight loss this week:1

Total weight loss: 107

Sorry about the delayed post. This is the weight I was on Saturday but I did update the blog because I did not have access to a computer since my wonderful husband took me out of town for the weekend for my birthday.

Count down to Baby Carroll

It is no secret that I really want a baby. In fact, it's not so much a desire but a complete obsession. I went to the doctor today (my primary doctor not Dr. Quackhead) to talk about starting a family. I wanted to know when it would be safe to start trying. He said I have to wait until I have lost all the wait I am going to lose. I tried to argue that the surgeon said I could start as early as 12 months post-op. He knew that the range was 12-18 months post-op and he told me it is very unsafe for both me and the baby if I lose weight during pregnancy. I was super bummed out because I was hoping he would say "go for it NOW!" No such luck though. He told me that I need to be at the same weight for at least 1 month before John and I start trying for our baby goo-goo-buns. I know that he is right but in my heart I am so disappointed. In the long run what is another 6-9 months? It's nothing really but I have been ready for a baby for a LONG time. The good news is he said I am one of the success stories in relation to gastric bypass. On the upside of having to wait, I get to have John to myself for a little longer. When I think of it that way, it doesn't seem so bad.

Week 36...9 Months!

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 191

Today's weight: 189

Weight loss this week:2

Total weight loss: 106

Monthly Measurements (inches lost since last month):
Chest: 0"
Arms: 3/4"
Waist: 3/4"
Hips: 2 1/2"
Thighs: 1 1/4"
Calves: 1/2"

I love that I lost so much in all areas except my chest. Doing measurements today was so encouraging. Even though the weight loss has slowed to a steady crawl I know I am doing something right because I am losing inches!

Week 35

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 193

Today's weight: 191

Weight loss this week:2

Total weight loss: 104

Slow and steady wins the race!

Week 34

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 194

Today's weight: 193

Weight loss this week:1

Total weight loss: 102

It's not much but at least it's a loss.

Week 33

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 196

Today's weight: 194

Weight loss this week:2

Total weight loss: 101

*happy dance with arms in the air* I have lost 101 pounds....awesome!!!!! I am so excited about having reached this milestone. I still can't believe that I weigh under 200 pounds. I am slowly but surely inching my way toward a healthy baby-making-weight and I can't wait until I get there.

Week 32...8 Months

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 198

Today's weight: 196

Weight loss this week: 2

Total weight loss: 99

Monthly Measurements (inches lost since last month):
Chest: 3/4"
Arms: 0"
Waist: 1"
Hips: 1/2"
Thighs: 1/2"
Calves: 0"

Week 31

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 200

Today's weight: 198

Weight loss this week:2

Total weight loss: 97

WOO HOO...I am finally UNDER 200 pounds. It is official, I now weigh 100 and something. I am so excited. I hope that next week I can get to the 100 pound weight loss mark.

Week 30

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 202

Today's weight: 200

Weight loss this week:2

Total weight loss: 95

Yay for losing a total of 95 pounds! I am elated to have lost that much but at the same time I feel like it is some kind of sick joke that I am just 1 pound away from being under 200 pounds. I am gonna workout like an anorexic trophy wife this week and eat like a new age organic health nut. Hopefully all that combined with my burning desire to be out of the 200's will make me successful. Next goal: be under 200 pounds. Following goal: lose a total of 100 pounds (only 5 pounds away).

Week 29

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 202

Today's weight: 202

Weight loss this week:0

Total weight loss: 93

I want to throw a fit about another no-weight-loss-week but it's my own fault. I slacked off big time. I only went to the gym twice and when I was there my work-out was half-ass. I was indulgent with the seasonal pumpkin spice chai latte at Starbucks (which is heavenly by the way) and had 3 of those throughout the week. I can't get off track when I am so close to my goal. My sister has committed to going to the gym with me this week to keep me motivated. I tend to do better when I am accountable for my actions. I hope to have more weight loss this coming week and a better report of my efforts to get thinner!

Reflections

John and I recently went to Austin, TX. It is one of my favorite places to go. The people are friendly, the music is live and the food is great. I was very excited about this trip because I wanted to share my passion about Austin with John for the first time. On this trip, I realized how much weight I have lost. Not only did I not need the extender belt on the plane, there was room on my sides so that I wasn't stuffed into the seats. That was also true about the chairs at the airports, rental car and restaurants. I could even get things from the floor without having to get out of the chair to reach it. I was also able to sit 'criss-cross-applesauce' on the floor at the airport and I was comfortable. This may not seem like a big deal but believe me it is! I haven't been able to sit comfortably on the floor in God only knows how long let alone with my legs crossed. As we were walking through the crowds on 6th street, I noticed that I didn't need such a large gap between people in order to squeeze by. We had a great time and the smaller version of me seemed to enjoy Austin even more than the plus-sized one (who know that was possible?). I have mentioned that I am wearing smaller clothes but I am always amazed at what size I wear. Yesterday, I was at a store and saw this cute zip-up hoodie. I said to myself, "self, it may be tight but try on a large just to see if it fits." I tried it on, zipped it up and realized that it was too big. Imagine that...a large being too big!!! I was elated. I always point at women in public and ask "am I bigger than her?" I usually do this with John but I was out with my brother and did that to him. He asked "why do you keep asking me that?" I told him I just want to know what I look like. He told me to look in the mirror. I explained that I can't tell. To me I am still a rolly-polly and that is why I am so shocked at my clothing size because it doesn't match the image in my head. I love getting smaller and all the perks that go with it and I want to be able to see it too.

Week 28...7 Months

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 202

Today's weight: 202

Weight loss this week:0

Total weight loss: 93

Monthly Measurements (inches lost since last month):
Chest: 1 1/4"
Arms: 0"
Waist: 1/4"
Hips: 3/4"
Thighs: 1/2"
Calves: 3/4"

I knew this was going to be a low week since last week was so high. I am OK with not losing any weight this week since I lost inches in almost all areas this month. I am down 6 pant sizes since I started and that is something to celebrate. I will work super hard this week and hopefully the scale will reflect my efforts!

Week 27

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 209

Today's weight: 202

Weight loss this week: 7

Total weight loss: 93

WOO HOO!!!!! What an exciting week for my weight loss. I have been waiting and hoping for a big week and I finally got it. It didn't come cheap by any means. I worked my butt off, literally, at the gym and I payed extra close attention to what I ate. Although portion size is not an issue, eating junk food can be a barrier to reaching my final destination. Speaking of food...I have a new obsession that is quickly turning into passionate love. In fact, if it were a man, I would be cheating on my husband. This new food love that I speak of is none other than the very sweet and juicy white flesh nectarine. I am telling you it is amazing. If I could eat the pit, I would. It is just that good. Today I celebrate my successes as I get even closer to my weight goal. I am so close to being under 200 pounds that I am shaking in anticipation. Thank you for your support and encouragement...it means the world to me!

Week 26

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 210

Today's weight: 209

Weight loss this week:1

Total weight loss: 86

AHHHHHH!!!!! I am so frustrated I can hardly stand it. I worked-out really, really, really hard this week and yet I still only lost a pound. I realize that 86 pounds is a lot of weight to have lost and I am excited about that BUT I still have so far to go. At this rate, I will not make my goal by February which means we have to put off having a baby. I hope that this slow rate will not become permanent. I really long to have better news next week.

Week 25

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 211

Today's weight: 210

Weight loss this week:1

Total weight loss: 85

I am bummed about the 1 pound weight loss but I have no one to blame but myself. I only worked-out one day this week. I got lazy and self-indulgent and now I have to suffer the consequences of a low weight loss week. Next week I plan on working out 5 days and getting back on track with my daily work-out routine.

Week 24...6 Months

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 211

Today's weight: 211

Weight loss this week:0

Total weight loss: 84

Monthly Measurements (inches lost since last month):
Chest: 1/2"
Arms: 1/4"
Waist: 0"
Hips: 0"
Thighs: 1/4"
Calves: 1/4 "


Here's the thing...losing nothing in a week SUCKS!!!! I hate no-show-results weeks. The good news is that I have noticed a loss in my body even though the scale is being a meanie and so is the tape measure. I hope next week will be a solid week as I inch toward my goal of being under 200 pounds.

Downsize!!!

I am officially out of clothes to wear. I have tossed, donated and gifted all of my clothes that were too big. After I got rid of all my big clothes...I was left with lots of closet space and empty hangers. I decided that for the sake of decency, I needed to get some new clothes. I went to Target because they have great prices. I didn't want to spend a lot since I am still losing. I bought a couple pairs of pants and some tops. The pants were 4 sizes smaller than my day-of-surgery pants and I didn't expect them to fit...BUT they did. I also bought some shirts that were XL which is smaller than the 2XL that I normally wear. To my surprise....they were too big. I took them back today and bought some more shirts in size large and I nearly cried when they fit perfectly. I bought them in the regular section as apposed to the plus size area. I may not be as small as I want to be but I am excited to celebrate that I am finally in "regular" size clothes!!!

Week 23

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 215

Today's weight: 211

Weight loss this week: 4

Total weight loss: 84

I was feeling discouraged at weighing 211 this week but once I stopped pouting I realized that losing 4 pounds in one week is something to celebrate. I am humbled by the fact that I have lost 84 pounds in less than six months. I need to stay grounded and realistic and learn to celebrate my accomplishments no matter how small. I really want to be under 200 pounds and so I think as I inch closer each week my anticipation grows stronger. I can not wait for the day that I weigh 100 and something but today I am happy that I weigh 4 pounds less than I did last week!

Little Brother Boot Camp

This week I was determined to kick it into high gear and get even more serious about getting into shape. I am really determined to climb a rock wall. I have also set my mind to doing the mud-run at Camp Pendleton next June. I knew that my regular work-outs weren't going to cut it so I joined my brother twice this week as he coached his high school football team. I thought I would go out there and run with the teenage boys, lift with the linemen and do their drills with ease. Boy did I have another thing coming. On Tuesday I tried to run drills with them as they ran to the 20 yard line and back 10 times then 40 yard line and back 10 times and so on until the 100 yard line. I could barely do 5 of the 20 yard line before I threw in the towel. Then I went with my brother to the weight room. I told him I needed to work on my upper body strength. This guy is crazy...he had me do triceps, biceps and modified chin-ups. Then we did a couple squats before he bombarded my abs. We did all sorts of ab exercises. All of this was in the blistering sun. The next day I felt like a UPS truck ran over me, backed-up and ran over me again right before it dumped all the packages on me.

Feeling both motivated and discouraged I went back for more today. Today was even more intense. I ran/walked a mile, did squats, lunges (forward and side), leg elevations for my calves, and up/down drills with the players. I really pushed myself to the max today and I know I will feel it tomorrow. As difficult as this work-out is, I am so excited to enjoy the benefits in the coming months. I hope that next week I can see true advancement as I work on all my problem areas with the most extreme personal trainer I have ever met...my brother!

Camp Oakes Rocks!

This last week was awesome. I could not believe how easy everything was. I hiked all over camp several times a day and was never out of breath. I even took a mile hike nearly straight up hill at 4:45 am and didn't even raise my heart-rate. I was able to ride the horses for the first time in a really long time. I was anxious about getting on/off the horses. The thing is that the last time I rode the horses it took 3 stable people to help me up. This time, I was able to get on/off on my own the very first time I tried. I also enjoyed an exciting game of paintball fighting. This is the first year it has been offered and I was stoked to give it a try. I played 2 rounds and the first round I was stuck in my 'fat' mode. I told my team that I would guard the base because I couldn't run fast. The second round I realized that being in the wings sucked and I was no longer handicapped as it were. I told them that although I couldn't run fast, I had high endurance. As it turned out, I was good at this activity and I even managed to shoot someone without getting shot. I told John that we have to set this activity up with our friends and go play on a local course. I don't have any pictures of this activity because I was so into the game I didn't think to have anyone take pictures. I do, however, have a picture of me shooting the rifles which is my favorite activity.

I was also really excited about doing the high ropes course and the climbing wall. I went to the ropes course and tried to climb a cargo net but I couldn't make it to the top because my hands were going numb. I them hiked over to the climbing wall, strapped in and started to climb. I quickly realized that my upper body strength is weak. I called John nearly in tears and told him about my failure. He pointed out that I have not targeted my upper body in my workouts and that I should be proud that I even tried. It took my a while to accept this. I really wanted to be successful. I have decided to target my upper body at the gym and give the climbing wall another shot as soon as I am strong enough. Here are some pictures of my best efforts...

I have gotten over my original disappointment but I am more motivated then ever to reach my goals.

Week 22

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 217

Today's weight: 215

Weight loss this week: 2

Total weight loss: 80











I just spent a whole week at a resident camp with a bunch of crazy kids. I hiked all over the place from the time I got up at 6:30am until the time I went to bed at 1:00am. I am not sure why my weight loss is so low. My guess is that I didn't eat enough food because camp food tastes like butt and I am not into eating butt. Also, I am in such good shape that I didn't get out of breath very often which means my heart rate didn't go up enough to burn enough calories for weight loss. In any case, my weight loss is low and I hope to boost it this coming week at the gym and also by eating people food again.

Week 21

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 219

Today's weight: 217

Weight loss this week: 2

Total weight loss: 78

I was really hoping for a big weight loss this week since last week was 0 but I guess any loss is better than nothing.

Formal Failure

Every year I volunteer at a resident camp for kids ages 8-17. It is a highlight of my summer and I can't wait to go this year. In fact, we leave in just 4 days. There is so much to do and many themes which allow me to be silly in the coolest way. One of my favorite activities is the formal dinner and dance. I always wear a ball gown. It's so fun to dress up. For the past 5 years I have worn the same gown but it doesn't fit anymore. I thought I would wear the ball gown that I wore on our honeymoon cruise but it was WAY too big when I tried it on. It just so happens that I have one of my bridesmaid's dresses here. I originally wanted to wear it on our honeymoon cruise but it was too small. I just tried it on in hopes that it could act as my formal dress for the dance. The cool thing is that it, too, is too big. This is a big deal since when I tried it on after the wedding I couldn't even get it half way over my hips. The downer part is that I don't have a gown for the dance. This a good problem to have. I think I'll just wear a summer dress or something less formal. I am so excited about camp this year even more so then past years. I am in such better shape this year and I am looking forward to participating in activities that I have never been able to. For several years now I have not met the weight limit for riding horses...this year I do and I can't wait to ride. Also, I have never been able to make it to the top of the rock climbing wall...I am excited to see if I am strong enough to ring that bell at the top. There is a high ropes course that I have never even seen since I knew I couldn't do it. This year I am not only going to check out the course, I am going to complete it. I am also looking forward to hiking all over camp with ease as it take a lot to get me out of breath now. I will update you on my camp experience when I get back.

Here are some pictures of the honeymoon gown that I can no longer wear

Week 20...5 Months!

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 219
Today's weight: 219

Weight loss this week: 0
Total weight loss: 76

Monthly Measurements (inches lost since last month):
Chest: 1/2"
Arms: 1/4"
Waist: 0"
Hips: 2 1/4"
Thighs: 1/2"
Calves: gain 1/4 "

This week was a bummer because I didn't lose any weight. Although I knew it would be a low week it still sucks. As for my measurements, I am not as excited as I was last month so I will be kicking it up at the gym by adding some new activities to my workout. I have only been taking the classes but I am now going to start doing the machines too. I hope to have better news next week and more inches off next month.

By the way...this is the same shirt I wore on the day of surgery. I did this so I could compare the 2 pictures and remind myself that although I didn't lose any weight this week, I have lost a bunch in the past 5 months!

Out with the old

I have been noticing more and more that I can finally fit into clothes that I have been holding onto for years. I also have been noticing that most of my pre-surgery clothes don't fit anymore. Today as I was putting away laundry, I started taking clothes out of the closet that no longer fit to make hanging up laundry easier. This turned into a full closest clean-out. When I was done, I had 3 trash bags full of clothes that are way too big. I kept some sentimental things like my day of surgery pants, the shirts I wore to my engagement party and bachelorette party but tossed everything else. Now my closet is nearly empty but it feels good to get rid of my excess baggage so to speak. I still have enough clothes to last me a while longer so I won't be buying new clothes just yet. I am off to the Goodwill to recycle my fat clothes. I can't wait until all of my clothes are "fat" clothes and I am finally at my goal weight.

Week 19

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 225
Today's weight: 219

Weight loss this week: 6
Total weight loss: 76

OH MY GODZILLA!!!! I can't believe I lost 6 pounds this week. That is incredible and I am so excited beyond belief. I am not sure what I did to get this number but I hope to repeat it next week. The only thing I did differently this week was take a hula dancing class one day but other than that, I just took kickboxing (which is my routine) and ate regularly. Whatever the reason, I am elated!!!!

Week 18

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 228
Today's weight: 225

Weight loss this week: 3
Total weight loss: 70

Week 17

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 228
Today's weight: 228

Weight loss this week: 0

Total weight loss: 67

This is such a bummer since I jumped back into my regular exercise routine as soon as we got back from vacation and yet I lost nothing. I am counting on next week being a big week!

Life is GOOD!!!

John and I just celebrated our 1 year wedding anniversary. What can I say...the man is amazing and I am so lucky to have him. This last year was so incredible and it felt like a long slumber party. To celebrate our anniversary, we went to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. On this vacation, I discovered some really cool things regarding my weight loss. The first thing was that the airplane seat belt fit. In the past I would make John ask the flight attendant for an extender belt. The second thing was that the lap table went all the way down. This was cool because usually my belly is too big to have the lap table be comfortable. On our trip we did a bunch of excursions which required life-jackets. The fun thing was that they buckled around my body. It's amazing to me that these seemingly small things are making me so happy. I can't believe I let myself get so big but I am sure enjoying shrinking!

Oh and another cool thing was that when we got back home, I went out to dinner with my family to Claim Jumper. We sat at a booth and my belly did not touch the table. I pointed it out to my parents they were excited for me. It's great to have so much support and so many cheerleaders. Speaking of cheer leading...my mom found my old cheer uniform. It doesn't fit yet but when it does I will post a picture for y'all to check out.

Week 16...4 months!

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 231
Today's weight: 228

Weight loss this week: 3
Total weight loss: 67

Monthly Measurements (inches lost since last month):

• Chest: 1/2"
• Arms: 1 3/4"
• Waist: 3 1/4"
• Hips: 3 1/4"
• Thighs: 1/2"
• Calves: 1 1/4 "

I was a little worried about this week's weight loss since we were on vacation and I didn't exercise (in the gym) all week long. I was so excited to see that I lost 3 pounds even after eating real Mexican food all week. I was even more excited to see the results of all my hard work at the gym reflected in my monthly measurements. This was a good week on so many levels!!!

Week 15

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 235

Today's weight: 231

Weight loss this week: 4

Total weight loss: 64

Fashion Finds

The interesting thing about fat people is they have to lose a bunch of weight before it is noticeable. I have lost a great deal of weight but it's not super noticeable and I have been able to wear most of my clothes that I wore pre-surgery. There are some clothes that I can't wear anymore because they are sloppy big but I haven't had to buy any new clothes yet. The people I talked to that have had this surgery made it sound like I would be swimming in my 'fat' clothes almost immediately. This hasn't really been the case for me. Having said that, recently I have noticed some cool things that make me realize I am on my way to thin-land. My best friend bought me a pair of pajama bottoms for my birthday (in November) but I couldn't fit into them. A couple weeks ago I tried them on and they were too big! In fact, I don't think I will be able to wear them since they fall off. I can no longer wear the pants that I wore on the day of surgery or a couple other jeans that are just too big. The surgery day pants are the largest pants I have ever owned in my entire life and I am happy to no longer fit into them. Another discovery nearly brought me to tears (the good kind). Several years ago my sister bought me this really cool Sesame Street sweatshirt. It was too small for me but I kept it thinking that one day I would be able to wear it. Today as I was packing for our anniversary trip I was looking for a sweatshirt to take. I found it hidden in the closet and decided to give it a try. I slipped it over my head and was stunned to find that it not only fit, it was too big. I packed it anyway because I have been waiting about 4 years to wear it. It makes me feel excited about the future of fashion in my life. I am looking forward to being thin and finally experiencing the joy of clothes shopping for the first time in my adult life. Although I am not there yet, I am well on my way.

Oh and another smile-creating moment happened this week. I was able to move my car seat closer to the steering wheel for the second time since surgery. I know that it is a weird thing to celebrate and for those skinny friends of mine reading this, you will have no clue what I am talking about. The thing is, I have short legs that go along with my short body and so I need to sit close to the steering wheel in order to comfortably reach the pedals. The problem is that I have a big belly and have to sit so far back that just my tip-toes reach. I am happy to report that I am now close enough that I can reach the brake with ease. It's the little things that make me realize that life is only going to get easier and more comfortable when all this excess weight it gone for good!

Balding

I knew when I signed up for this that I would lose hair for the first 6-12 months post-op. I was waiting for it to happen and it seems that it has...10 fold! I was worried when I first found out about the hair-loss factor that I would need a wig or wide head-bands to hide the baldness. So far I am OK since I have so much hair. The worst part for me is the annoying tickle that the loose hairs give ALL DAY LONG! I hate it! After I take a shower, I literally have hand fulls of hair in my hand. Then I brush my hair and the hair brush is full of hair. Then I get dressed and my clothes are covered in loose hair which tickles and annoys ALL DAY LONG! I know that I am fortunate to have so much hair that it's not noticeable...yet. Hopefully I don't go completely bald by the time this phase is over. Just thought I would share my inconvenience...thanks for letting my get it off my chest (and arms, back, legs and furniture)!

Week 14

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 238
Today's weight: 235

Weight loss this week: 3
Total weight loss: 60

I was hoping for a bigger weight loss this week but then I started thinking...60 pounds, that's a lot of weight in 3 1/2 months. I am excited to have reached such a big mile stone in my weight loss. When I started this journey, 60 pounds seemed like so much weight and it seemed so far away. Today I am 60 pounds lighter and so much healthier. My goal weight is 85-115 pounds away. Now that seems like a lot and it feels so out of reach but as I keep moving forward and dropping a little weight every week, I will get closer and closer to that goal. I can hardly wait for that day!!!

Week 13

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 240
Today's weight: 238

Weight loss this week: 2
Total weight loss: 57

New Discoveries

I have discovered some really cool things lately. I have found that it is not the protein shakes that make me sick, it's any food I eat before a workout. The new routine is to not eat or drink anything before my morning workout and then drink a Prappuccino afterward. I am happy to know that I can still tolerate protein since it is a good tool to manage weight as well as help my muscles heal from all the exercise I put them through.

The other discovery is that I can run. Maybe you didn't catch that so I'll say it again...I can run! This may not be a big deal to you but to me it is huge. I am finally healthy enough to jog (short distances for now) on the local trails. John showed me this great trail by our house that leads to the beach. It's about 1 mile each way. We went for a walk on Saturday and on the way back to the car I kicked it into high gear and jogged for a little ways at the end. I plan on adding a little more distance every time. In fact, we are going tonight and I can't wait to work up a sweat. Also, at the gym I am able to run, jump and hop with all the skinny minis in the Kickboxing classes. It feels so good to be pushing myself past limits I never thought I could reach.

Week 12...3 Months

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 243
Today's weight: 240

Weight loss this week: 3
Total weight loss: 55

Measurements:
Last month I had John take my measurements so that I could also track my progress in inches. I will update my measurements on a monthly basis. Here are the differences...
Chest: 3 1/2"
Arms: 3/4"
Waist: 1 3/4"
Hips: 1/4"
Thighs: 1 1/2"
Calves: gain 1/2 "

Week 11

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 243

Today's weight: 243

Weight loss this week: 0

Total weight loss: 52

I knew this would be a low week because the last two weeks were great. I tried to prevent this by increasing my intensity during my workouts as well as doing 2 back to back classes instead of just one class at a time. Although my efforts failed, I am hoping that next week's results will reflect all my hard work and dedication. The thing that helps me to

not get as discouraged is something my father-in-law told me a few weeks back. He said that it's science. If I burn more calories than I intake, I will loose weight. If I eat more calories that I burn I will gain weight. He was so matter of fact about it and it made me realize that he was right and I just have to keep my focus and one day I will be thin!

Prappuccino Bummer

Remember way back right after my surgery when I had all that diarrhea and the doctor said it was because my body wasn't tolerating the protein diet? So...I stopped the protein and over time I got better. Then the thought was that skipping that stage may be responsible for my slow weight loss so I vowed to "start over" with the protein diet. Well, I tried the protein diet for 1 day and I was in the bathroom A LOT. The next day I decided to just do the protein shakes in the morning for breakfast and eat high protein foods for lunch and dinner. The problem was that the taste of the pre-made shakes was making me gag so I discovered a way to make my own that taste just like Starbucks Frappuccinos. Imagine my joy that I could drink protein and have it taste like a little piece of heaven. I even named it...Prappuccino (protein-cappuccino). Here comes the bummer part...I can't tolerate the protein. What do ya know...the doctor was right about something. It makes me have diarrhea all morning. Yesterday I couldn't even finish my morning workout...I had to head home in a hurry half way through the class. Today, I was able to stay for class but shortly after the gym, I was hanging out in the bathroom for a while. I am not sure what to do. Do I keep drinking the protein and hope that over time my body gets use to it or do I just eat high protein foods and hope that the weight comes off? Remember when I couldn't even drink water without cramping? That has changed now and it only cramps about 10% of the time which means that my body had adjusted. I am wondering if I should push through the protein spillage until my body starts accepting it?

Week 10

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 248
Today's weight: 243

Weight loss this week: 5
Total weight loss: 52

Gettin' Fit

I decided that this week I would start taking more intense workout classes in addition to the dance classes at the gym. Today I planned on trying out the turbo kickboxing which is an hour of jumping, kicking and punching. I wasn't sure I would be able to make it through the whole class so as a back up I planned on going to my regular dance class tonight. When I got there, I was anxious because I wasn't sure what to expect and how much I could do. About 45 minutes into the class I realized I was doing it and hadn't even noticed that 45 minutes had passed. I stayed for the whole class and it wasn't nearly as difficult for me as I had thought. As our class was headed out, the next group was on their way in. When I asked a lady what class it was she told me it was a lift class and she encouraged me to join. She showed me what weights to use and even introduced me to the teacher. I hadn't planned on staying but after all that fuss I thought "why not?". Again, I had the option in my head to leave early if I couldn't hang but to my surprise I did it all the way through. As I was driving home, I realized that I am getting fit and I didn't even know it. Tomorrow I plan on doing the kickboxing again followed by yoga. I am so excited that I am getting healthy and feeling good!

Week 9

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 253
Today's weight: 248

Weight loss this week: 5
Total weight loss: 47





I am so happy to have lost 5 pounds and I even ate string cheese this week. It looks like my doctor has no clue about what works and what doesn't. By the way...those jeans are 2 sizes smaller than the ones I wore on the day of surgery!

Dr. Lame Sauce

It's official...my surgeon is an idiot! When I got to his office for my appointment, I showed him my food journal from the last 3 days. After a quick glance, he said that the reason I was not loosing weight was because of string cheese. Of course I told him that is ridiculous and made no sense at all. He claimed that string cheese has 500-600 calories per stick. What?! No, it has 100 calories. Next he told me that if I stopped with the cheese I should see weight loss. Then I said maybe my stomach pouch was stretched out. He said it was too soon for that and even if it was stretched there was nothing he could do because the insurance wouldn't cover the cost. He said the only way the insurance would cover the cost is if there was something anatomically wrong. He then followed that statement with "which there isn't because I didn't do the surgery wrong". He said I was at the low end of normal for weight loss but still within normal range. He told me to exercise harder and eliminate cheese and I should see more weight loss. He also said that maybe I was one of those people who just loose weight slowly. DUH!!! That is why I had the surgery and it is still coming off slowly. I also told him that I was concerned because every time I drink water my stomach cramps. His suggestion was to stop drinking water. OK? Stop drinking water=dehydration. Basically what it all boils down to is that I am on my own for solving this problem. The plan is that I am going to start over...take 2. Monday I am going to start doing the liquid protein diet for a month and then move to soft foods and then to solids. I am going to continue going to the gym 5 days a week and making those work outs even more intense. If in a month, I have not seen better results I am going to request a new doctor for a second opinion. I am disappointed that the weight hasn't melted off but on the brighter side of things at least I am not mentally retarded like my surgeon. It is important for me to remember that the weight is coming off (albeit slowly) and I am getting healthier everyday which is the whole point of this process.

Freak Out Attack

When I told my mom that I hadn't lost any weight this week she was worried and told my to call my doctor. In an effort to pacify my mom, I called my doctor this morning. When I told him that I had stopped loosing weight he said I needed a fill (which is what people who have the lapband get when they stop loosing weight). I told him that I had the gastric bypass surgery unless he did the wrong procedure. He said it was unlikely but possible. I have never had much confidence in this doctor and today was not making it better. Anyway, he said that maybe it was my diet. Nope, I eat small portions of healthy food. He said maybe I was gaining muscle. Not likely since I do mostly cardio. He told me it is NOT common or normal for me to not be loosing weight. At that point the tears came. How could this be happening? I am doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing and yet my weight loss is slowing. I made an appointment with him on Wednesday in hopes that he will have a solution to this problem. If not, I may need to get a new doctor that can help me. I am super freaked out and very worried. I need this weight loss for my health as well as for my future children. I really, really, really hope this situation will be resolved soon.

Week 8...2 Months

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 253

Today's weight: 253

Weight loss this week: 0

Total weight loss: 42

I can't lie...I am super bummed that I didn't loose weight this week. This is especially true since I worked out really hard 4 days this week. In any case, I am even more motivated to tip the scales in my favor after this week's disappointing results. I know that there is no way that I can't loose weight as long as I am working out and eating right (which I totally am). The only thing I can think of that prevented my weight loss is not drinking enough water. My goal is to increase my water intake, continue eating healthy and go to the gym 4-5 times this week. In an effort to reduce my frustration, I am going to start measuring myself to see if I can see results in inches as well as in pounds.

Night and Day

I was just thinking last night as I was getting ready for bed how normal I feel. I remember right after surgery feeling like things were never going to get better. I couldn't sleep, my butt kept throwing up and I was in constant pain and discomfort. Now that all seems like a distant memory. I have figured out the right portion size to be satisfied without pain, I have a regular sleeping schedule and unless I eat something that I know I shouldn't my butt is just fine. I am on a regular schedule for exercise and my weight loss is pretty consistent with just a few exceptions. I was never sorry that I got the surgery but now I know that it was the right decision. It seems almost natural to eat a cup worth of food and take vitamins daily. Yesterday John and I went to lunch at a bagel place. I knew I couldn't eat a bagel sandwich not even a quarter of one because that much bread is just too much for me. Instead I got a cup of soup and ate John's pickle spear. the lady behind the counter kept asking me if that was all I wanted. Uh, yeah that's all I want. In fact it was so yummy and the perfect size meal that I could hardly contain myself. It felt so natural to go to lunch with my husband and not have to worry about what to eat and how I would feel afterward. It's stuff like this that makes me realize that this was the best decision I have made for me in a long, long, long time. I can't wait until I reach my goal and we can have the ultimate reward...a baby!

Week 7

Here are the results for this week:

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 257
Today's weight: 253

Weight loss this week: 4
Total weight loss: 42

I am so happy to have lost 4 pounds. I went to the gym 3 times this week and (thanks to the dance classes) I had a great time. I am starting to get more comfortable with food and working out. I hope next week is as successful!

Dance Mania

I have found a couple of gyms that have hip hop dance classes at various times. I went last Thursday morning and although I have lost my groove, I had a great time and sweated a lot. I went last night and found it easy to go to the gym knowing that I was not going to have to think about exercise. I feel a bit clumsy but I know it's a good workout and it totally beats the treadmill. I have figured out a schedule for 3 days a week and I hope to see gains with my dance skills as well as weight loss. I am going to have my sister re-teach me how to use the machines so I can start toning more. I have noticed that as I loose this weight I am getting more and more flabby. I know I will have to get a tummy tuck but I want to avoid all other plastic surgery if I can. Thank you to everyone for all the support. I hope next week I have a better report for y'all!

Week 6

Here are the results for this week:

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 257
Today's weight: 257
Weight loss this week: 0
Total weight loss: 38

That's right the total weight loss for this week is a whopping 0! I am so bummed out I can hardly stand it. I plan on not just going to the gym this week but really working hard and I will be extra aware of what I put into my mouth! This can not happen again...I am on a mission!!!

Starting to notice the weight loss!

I haven't really noticed much in my appearance until I compared the picture taken on the day of surgery to the one John took on Saturday. I was pleasantly surprised that there is a difference in my face and waist. I was so excited...I am so excited. The biggest impact I have noticed, however, is in daily living. I got a pedicure last week and I couldn't believe how much more comfortable I was in the chair. I am also less winded than I use to be going up the stairs at home. I was so happy to find that I did not get out of breath walking across the sand when I went to a bonfire at the beach this weekend. These may all seem like little things but they are a big deal to me...I can't wait for all the great things that I will discover as I loose even more weight!

Week 5

Here are the results for this week:

Original weight: 295

Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 261

Today's weight: 257

Weight loss this week: 4

Total weight loss: 38

Gotta Get Motivated

Part of the deal to this surgery is that I am supposed to go to the gym at least 3 days a week. Every week I get myself pumped up about following through and nearly every week I fail to go. This week was no different. I went Monday as planned and then I decided to go on Thursday and Friday. Sure enough, when Thursday came, I spent the whole day finding things to do to keep me away from the gym. The worst part was that I was dressed for the gym all day. Today, I flaked too. I don't know what my problem is. I know the importance of going to the gym, I know I will see results faster, I even have plenty of time to go...I just hate going. John is so supportive and my mom makes me accountable but I am lacking in motivation. The reality is I need to figure it out, make going to the gym a part of my life style. The problem is...just getting started. I commit to myself and all of my friends and family that support me that I will go to the gym 3 times next week...no excuses!!! Maybe having this person struggle be a matter of public knowledge, I will be more motivated. I would hate to have to say I didn't keep my promise...again!

Week 4...1 Month

I am so pleased that I have had a week of all good days with a few moments of discomfort. I am not so please with loosing only 3 pounds. In the normal world of weight loss, 3 pounds would be cause for celebration but in my world...it is a bummer!

Here are the results for this week:

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 264
Today's weight: 261

Weight loss this week: 3
Total weight loss: 34

No More Sleep Aid

I have been having really good days lately and I am so thankful. Yesterday was a good day but I had a little bump in the road. I ate too much at lunch and I felt like I was going to pop for sure. I laid down just to get comfortable and the next thing I know I am waking up 2 1/2 hours later. I thought 'oh great, now I'll never get to sleep tonight'. I have been having trouble sleeping since I have so much energy and I was sure the nap would keep me up all night. To fix this problem I took 2 Tylenol PM capsules. I didn't think it was a big deal since I was using them before my surgery with no problem. Little did I know that now they are like a major drug to my body. 20 minutes after I took them, I was super tired...almost drunk. As soon as I hit the bed I was out. I didn't even feel John come to bed. I was out all night long and had a heck of a time getting up this morning. In fact, I am still groggy and it's 10:30am nearly 13 1/2 hours after I took them. I am learning new things about my body everyday and this is just another lesson to add to the many I still have to learn.

Week 3

This week has been my best so far in terms of how I feel. I am starting to be me again and I am so relieved. I have less frequent pain/cramping and my energy level is at an all time high.

Here are the results for this week:

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283

Last week's weight: 271
Today's weight: 264

Weight loss this week: 7
Total weight loss: 31

Life-Style Changes

This week has been very interesting. I am starting to make life-style changes that I never thought I would. I started at the gym this week and I met my goal of going 3 times. As much as I hate going to the gym, I discovered something very motivating. No matter how much my stomach is hurting, as soon as I get going at the gym, it stops. I can go an entire work out without cramping. The relief usually lasts for a while after I leave. Also this week I have discovered more about how my body reacts to food. I get really crampy and nauseous if I eat super fatty food but when I make healthy choices, I have no reaction at all to food. I went to the grocery store to get some Crystal Light which is my source of hydration now that I don't seem to like water any more. While I was there, I bought some low fat, low sugar snacks and didn't even think twice about it. In the past I would have never considered low fat anything but now it is a no brainer. I think I am on my way to a healthier, happier me!

Barf-o-rama

I have been very careful to follow all of my doctor's instructions for two main reasons. One because I only have one chance to get this right and I want to loose as much weight as possible. And two I have a huge fear of vomiting. Tonight I made one of my favorite dinners...chicken breast baked in cream of chicken with herbs soup over rice with a side of broccoli. I have recently discovered that many of my favorite foods no longer taste good so I was super relieved that dinner tasted great. I apparently thought it tasted so good that I shoveled it into my mouth and after about 3 bites I had a discomfort in my chest. The next thing I know, I am in the bathroom tasting it for a second time. What a bummer! The moral of the story, my friends, is chew your food completely and enjoy each bite slowly.

Week 2

This week was interesting for sure. I gained 5 pounds at the beginning of the week. I was so confused by this since I hardly ate anything but now I know that sodium will keep water weight. As soon as I stopped eating so much soup, the weight started to come off again. I am not so pleased with the weight loss this week but at least it is a loss and not a gain.

Here are the results for this week:

Original weight: 295
Weight when I got home after surgery: 283
Last week's weight: 272
Today's weight: 271
Weight loss this week: 1
Total weight loss: 24

Good Stuff

This was a pretty good week. My sleeping is nearly back to normal. I am pleased to announce that my energy level is better than normal. In fact, I don't drag during the day like before and 7 hours of sleep is all I need to keep going all day. I did have a few bumps in the road this week. In the middle of the week it went from one extreme to the next. I was constipated for a day and a half and my stomach was cramping very bad. As it turns out it was my high sodium no fiber diet that put me in that condition. I have been living on chicken noodle soup, scrambled eggs and cottage cheese for a week and a half. Luckily with 2000mg of Vitamin C and some oatmeal I was back on track in no time. Also, I gained some weight in the beginning of the week which freaked me out. Again it was the high sodium that made me retain water. I don't know the exact numbers yet but I will update that part tomorrow.
I had my first surgeon post-op visit on Thursday and he said all my symptoms are typical and I am OK to start a full exercise routine and start eating a regular solid food diet. I was shocked about the diet because all the post-op guides say that I would be on a liquid diet for 4 weeks and a puree diet for 2 weeks after that. The doctor said I am not to worry and as long as I chew my food completely I will be fine. I am not allowed to eat cookies, crackers, cheese, nuts or fast food but everything else is a go. John and I went to dinner last night since it was my first night of real food and his first night of having a warm dinner in a very long time. I had beef and broccoli without the rice. To my surprise I did not get sick. I also didn't enjoy the food either because I kept waiting for something to go wrong. I still can't tell when I am hungry or full but I have a system. When my stomach gurgles, I eat. As far as how much to eat, I eat about a cup of food and stop. I don't know if I am full but I am super fearful of throwing up so I just stop eating. So far I haven't thrown up and after I eat the gurgling stops. I am going to stick to this system until I can start understanding my body again.
Nothing is going as I expected but as long as I loose the weight I can pretty much deal with anything. I feel so much better this week and my extra sensitive sense of smell is fading so I am able to kiss John again...woohoo. Before surgery he bought me some soaps and creams that increase skin elasticity and reduce stretch marks. Tonight was the first night I used them and I am hopeful that they will minimize the amount of extra skin I will have after weight loss. Also, I was reminded of what a thoughtful and loving husband I have. Things are looking up...finally!

Great Weekend

This was a great weekend. I slept through the night for the very first time on Saturday and again last night. In fact this morning I didn't even hear John getting ready for work. All of a sudden he was kissing me good bye. This weekend was good for us. I had most of my energy back and we went for a couple of walks. The fresh air was nice and the company was even better. We stayed home all weekend but we hung out and enjoyed each other. My best friend, Pam stopped by for a visit and I was surprised to find that it was like we were hanging out like any other time. I was not too tired to visit and we got to catch up on some missed gossip. I think I am returning to my normal self and I couldn't be happier. In fact, I am doing laundry right now. I know it doesn't seem like a big thing but last week I could have never considered lifting the basket. Life is getting back to normal and so am I!