SeattleSue

Wow, thanks for the shout-out KayyyBeee...and for the compliment. Let me return one, GIRRLLL You are beautiful. A real stunner; old school style. I can TOTALLY see you singing!!! I'm thinking Brooklyn Tab style hahahahaha A little Kirk Franklin... You've inspired me to start my own blog, so thanks a bunch. I'm looking forward to following your journey too. All the best, Susan

Mmmmm Sounds delish... Tarragon and eggs, a favorite combo of mine...I'm sure it would be amazing with a lemon finish! I think I may try this TONIGHT!

Nothing to add but a thanks for posting. I have been low on iron for-e-v-e-r, so as I'm now headed into my 3rd week post-op, this is a good reminder that I need to start figuring out a way to get back on my iron. I was 650 mg/day pre-op! Thanks again...and good job being pro-active!

Have you had your blood pressure checked? By day 10 I had dropped significantly...probably in large part due to the "low sodium" diet I'd been on for 3 weeks! Anyway, get checked...

If you have a GNC around...go find out if you can tolerate Isopure. It's more like a gatorade. Be warned the colder they are, the less "after taste"...but they come in multiple flavors. 1 bottle has 40 grams of Protein and 0 carbs. But you canNOT give up, you need protein and it is not just pre-op. You will be relying on Protein drinks or shakes for weeks!!!! Try this...1/2Cup Water, 1/2Cup ice, Tspn or more of instant coffee (if you like coffee), 2 capfuls of a sugar free syrup if you want (I love carmel) and 1 scoop of vanilla protein. PUt it in a blender and enjoy your frapp! Again, don't give up. This is NOT negotiable. Best of luck, Susan

I picked up a little egg poacher by Nordic Ware. It's actually called an "Egg N Muffin" for microwave use. Anyway, I paid $0.99 at Goodwill for it and googled for directions. Amazing. 45-50 seconds for a poached egg. So I tried a scramble...perfect. Sprinkle a little cheese on it (or Corn Beef Hash...or ground sausage, or wherever you're at in your diet) and voila! Made a perfect 1 egg omelette in 50 seconds. Cool Beans.

*snort* Where is my emoticon for that!!?

I decided to start a blog after finding out what it is lol I have not done very well updating my status because I totally get distracted by all the new posts I haven't read!! And by the time I read your experiences til I can't see straight, I'm feeling like my status is oldnews. hahahaha So, this is an invitation to follow my Blog (what a weird word). I reposted my original "my story" post of my play-by-play action in Mexico, because I'm "sort of" linear and need to have a start, middle and end. But I have added my update for being 2 weeks post-op. Keep posting. It's amazing how much information is shared on this forum. It's awesome! take care, Susan

Good for you girl! I know you picked that name for a reason...remember what it was and go live life like it IS golden!! We have a second chance and this stall canNOT last! You got a lot of good advice here--the alcohol as you know, has to go. At least for now, maybe forever if you are given to depression. Do what is best for you, not what is easiest. You totally have it in you to do because you chose to get yourself sleeved!!! You are a tough cookie... Stay in touch, Susan

I've settled in with my Isopure/Cranberry cocktail this morning to see if I can get a few thoughts down about what's been going on in (dun dun dun DAH)...The Battlefield of my Mind! Maybe you remember when you were a new parent and someone said, "Oh a baby changes everything." I do, I sort of was young and invincible, and so my response was a mental, "Duh." Of course, not even a week into child rearing and I was like, "Holy crap, this is hard! How do people do this?!! WAHHHH." Do you remember? Well this, THIS little sleeve of mine? It changes EVERYTHING--it truly is a game changer. Now, it's not bad...but change is not always easy (maybe NEVER for some of us certain personality types...you know who you are...). Maybe easy isn't the right word. Comfortable? Whatever, my point is it's not bad, but it's new and what makes it particularly uncomfortable is being at the bottom of this steep learning curve. Having head knowledge of how to change a poopy diaper is different than hands-on experience when you are getting the "full senses" tour. Don't get me wrong, I am all about having head knowledge and being as prepared as you can be. Doesn't mean I always am...and frankly, I have been known to leap without looking a time or two. I'm a cook. I'm a creator-cook. Cooking is what I do, so I have been cooking for my family since I was day 6 post-op. I've made Red Beans & Rice with Andouille Sausage, Arroz Con Pollo, Southwest Taco Chili, Salmon & Rice Pilaf, Beef Peppercorn Stirfry, Sweedish Meatballs... I mean, I like to cook! Now to some of you, that may seem like unecessary torture, but the truth is, I will always be cooking for my family, making lunches for my son's. Preparing delicious meals is what I take pleasure in doing. Now I just have to deal with not "tasting and partaking" like I did. But regardless of what we are exposed to, the fundamental truth to all of us is that we have an addiction (and I realize that not everyone here does...some have physical or chemical reasons for being overweight) but most of us do, and we have to cohabitate and live with our "poison". This isn't like removing all alcohol from our lives to avoid drinking. We still have to eat, period. I read a book some months ago written by the wife of a singer whose teenage son accident'y ran over their little 5 year old daughter. The book is entitled, Choosing to See, by Marybeth Chapman. I know it seems random, but sometimes concepts transcend topics. The books title has stuck with me...as much as the amazing story of healing and courage did. I am choosing to see. Choosing to see the truth of why I eat, why I have to stop, why it is OK to do this for me (this may be a foreign thought to some of you, but it seems to be a real stronghold for people of certain faiths), and that it really isn't just about me but about the impact I'm supposed to have on my loved ones. What I eat impacts others and it does matter. So I said all that to say, someone recently asked me if I still obsess about food. The answer is an unequivical YES. I'm not sure you heard me over there in Idaho, but YEEEESSSS. The motivation has somewhat changed...so I'll cut myself some slack. When you haven't chewed in 4 weeks, even gumming greek yogurt is almost euphoric. I am not overstating this fact. Eating half of a Ricotta Bake (by Shelly), is enough to make you cry. I did. I savored every little tiny miniscule particle that I put on my tongue...all the while knowing that this moment might lead to, gulp, constipation. What's changed is that I'm spending as much or more time on food now because I'm reading labels for a whole new sub-set of information. It's similar to WW with Fat/Fiber/Protein...and yet it's really all about the protein and the carbs. There is some mental gymnastics for hitting daily targets. It's not hard, it's just different. After some time, I expect to know quite a bit about a variety of foods...just as I use to know the point values of most of my favorites. Am I mourning the pleasure of snarfing? Yes. OK, if I tell you somthing, you have to promise it's just between us, ok? My son had McD's in the car (he's a brave boy...get's it from his mamma) and I asked him for a french fry. Just one. SHHHHHHHHH! Yes I did! And I ate it too!!!!!! And it was...G-0-0-D. And one was enough. My guilty pleasure was met and paid for and it was enough. Sure, I chewed it till it completely disolved in my mouth...and yes, I know that it could be a slippery slope....but I felt like I snarfed and it made my screaming mind shut-up. Seriously. I totally nipped my whiny mind in the bud by giving it a fry. It didn't bother me after that. I felt like a won. I certainly didn't feel deprived anymore and ultimately, I felt good about having just one! So, as I head into week 3...did I mention I hit that inevitable "STALL"? Yeah, the minute I introduced yogurt, cream of wheat, etc. I hit the stall. I knew it was coming and I also know that IT is not going to be a game changer for me. Mentally, I've won this battle because really, what the heck can I do? Haha Hopefully it's just a quick blip and I don't lose face on the bravado I'm feeling right now. As I was saying, as I head into week 3...I'm facing the constipation consideration: Not just having less frequent BM's, but actually feeling the urge to go but can't...so I'll increase my water, try to increase my activity a bit, add some fiber. Try to get my BP stabelized--which has dropped dramatically from 145/80 ish to about 95/70....I've had a reduction in meds so we're working on it. It's not just the 30 pounds, but it is the decrease in sodium, no doubt. So as you see...I'm not obsessing-free yet. I totally look forward to that day, but for now, I'll take things one salty slice at a time and try to keep things in perspective. Thanks for listening. May the Lord bless and keep you, Susan

I don't know how long your flight is or will be. Mine was roughly 2 1/2 hours and I purchased an extra seat (which I got refunded after-the-fact because the flight was not full). I also didn't fly into Mexico, my surgery was in Tijuana and I flew into San Diego; we didn't need passports. Govt. issued ID (drivers license) and certified copy of my birth certificate. I know it's different if you 'fly' across the border. Just thought I'd mention it. I have a detailed commentary of my entire trip posted under the "Tell you story" Forum. Maybe Bxmamma, you could do stops? It would take longer, but at least you could get up and walk at about a half-way point. Good luck, Susan

Hi Alice, My Ferritin (?) was very low 6-7, but it was the hemoglobin count my surgeon was concerned with. I took Iron gluconate (OTC) 325 mg twice a day (one in the morning for about 2 weeks, then I added a second at night when I was adjusted to the first). As for pre-op, my surgeons plan was this: 2 weeks prior 2 to 3 Protein shakes per day (min 15 grms protein per drink) dinner - salad with small amount of protein (ie., fish or chicken) 3 Day's prior Clear liquids only: Water, broth, SF Jello, Tea, Decaf coffee (no creamer), juice (apple or cranberry) 12 hours prior NO food or drink

Dee Dee, Are they giving you anything to release the gas? I got something intraveniously...wish I knew what it was... I'm saying a prayer for you; I feel so bad that you are having such a hard time of it. On the bright side, 24 oz is pretty dang good. How about some ice chips that just melt in your mouth, how would that feel? It MAY help reduce the swelling (really I have no idea but my mom instinct is to get ice on it lol...forgive my lame attempt at levity). Feel better soon! Susan

Thanks Ruby, It's very gratifying to know it was helpful. I spent a lot of time in the hall in my junrior high years for talking too much

Well, look who's figured out that BLOG pretty much means voicing the ongoing commentary in my head?! Who knew! The conservative part of my say's, "Oh...this could be dangerous." While the reckless side of me often say's, "You know everyone else is thinking the same thing!" It's like the picture of the puppy with the angel on one shoulder saying, "Scratch on the door!" On his other shoulder is the devil urging, "Pee on the floor!" Ok, maybe not exactly...I promise I'll NEVER advise you to pee on the floor. Well, probably not ever and while we're on the subject (of advise, not peeing) I'm not qualified to advise you on anything. I'm just another voice with my own take on things. This is the part where the little disclaimer voice comes on and say's something like, These statements have not been reviewed by the FDA...or Side effects could include severe cramping, diarhea, complications with breathing...or even, Please check with your physician before starting ANY weight loss plan. I received an email from a fellow forum member kindly asking me how I was doing since I haven't "blogged" about my experience since my super long and garbled post: "New Name; Sleeved in Seattle." I admit I was taken-aback that she cared enough to ask. In fact, I am downright humbled. As a fat lady in an all male household of teenagers and hubby, I often feel like nobody ever listens to me. Good grief...how many times have I said, "I told you...?" Can I get an amen? So, when I received Reb's email, and she gently reminded me on how hungry for information I was when I was Pre-Op, I realized what an honor it would be to shed a little salt and light with my personal observations, experiences, musings and discoveries along this "thin and narrow road". While I give thought to the insightful questions Reb asked me about since my play-by-play post on surgery in Mexico, I thought I would link to my initial post for posterity sake, push the reset button and start my Blog off in linear fashion. My play-by-play experience of being sleeved in Mexico on July 7, 2011, by Dr. Ramos Kelly. Read it here Thanks for listening, Susan

I have been using the huge bag of powdered stuff from costco (Muscle Milk Lite Vanilla = 27 gr of Protein, like 1 carb). This is what my son uses because he's a flipping obsessed football player who is trying to bulk a bit and works out like a fiend. Anyway, I like that it's mixed with only 4-5 oz Water so it's not some HUGE ordeal to get a couple down in a day. Somewhere on this forum (and forgive me, I'd really love to give credit to this genius, but their name escapes me) suggested making coffee fraps like starbucks. OMGOODNESS I actually look forward to this in the morning... 1 Scoop of aforementioned vanilla powder 1/2 Cup water 1/2 Cup of ice 1 Tspn instant coffee (or to taste) 2 capfuls of SF syrup flavor of choice (mine FAV is SF Carmel) I feel like I'm having a frap instead of a Protein shake and that amount of coffee is perfect for me right now. I don't feel deprived of my Joe in the morning since doing these 'proapps'. All that said, I don't have all the "vitamins" probably that prepared "diet" specific shakes have, but I have to take multi-Vitamins and supps anyway. Susan

My 2 cents...I like foam (I like xtra foam on my latte's too). I didn't know it caused more gas...that's something to consider, but I don't have that issue so I guess I never noticed. PROS: Quick & Easy for Protein Shakes Good for quick sauces/dressings LOVE that it has a little handle on it and you get the sippy or snap lids for portability (i.e., running out the door--story of my life) I can whip up 2 Protein shakes in the a.m., pour half into one of the smaller cups, lid it and save it for snack (with a quick shake to revive) and drink the other now Rinse and store blades--easy clean-up. Very little counter space for something I use daily AND portable for overnighters CONS: Does not do well with "foods" as Supermom stated Like SuperMom notes, it's not great for food and It is not suitable for going from solid to purees...but because it is so portable and because it takes up so little space for something I use SO frequently (as does my football/weightlifting son---protein shakes are not new to my house!) it was a great "investment" that has paid off for me. It does great with yogurt consistancy foods. So when I make my own dill yogurt sauce (or others) it is perfect. I use it constantly and leave it on my counter. Susan

OH, that is too bad. I'm so glad you're feeling better now though. You've given some VERY good advice! Keep us posted and welcome to this side of surgery! Susan

TEEEHEEE Glad your recovery is going as well as mine did. Enjoy yourself...Tomorrow is my 14 day anniversary, post-op with Dr. Kelly also! I'm still doing great...except for a good problem, I think I need to have my BP meds reduced! lol PTL So happy for you! Susan

Good for you, how exciting! "Happy Dance"

They carry the most AMAZING Roasted Red Pepper & Tomato Soup. Wow. I've had it a few times in the last days with a dollop of Ricotta...mmmm mmmm I picked up some Chile Lime Chicken Patties and some Scicillian Chicken Sausages that have 15 gr protein per link that I can't wait to try...I expect they will add a lot of flavor to my puree or mushy stages. I got some amazing tzitki sauce (I know I spelled that wrong). Their prices are very competetive with the average grocery store. Something that I usually pick up while I'm there is the Brown Jasmine Rice too. I won't be carbing a whole lot, but this rice is excellent. Oh, and on my last trip I picked up a beautiful basil plant for my kitchen window sill because I LOVE fresh basil and can't wait to add the flavor to "Cheese crisps" (recipe on this site) and basically any marinara type dish (i.e., ricotta bake! YUM re: eggface).

Thanks, I printed off the protein value cheat sheet! This will definately come in handy when I sort of plan my daily menu. I'll keep it on the fridge and try to switch things up!

The only 2 "forever" exclusions on my list is: Chewing Gum, Carbonated Beverages

oops posted too quick. Blue Cheese Laughing cow is very good with thin roast beef...

These are great with all the flavors of Laughing Cow and it makes it very portable.