ElaineB

Here's what I do: you know that 90% of the enjoyment in food is actually in the smell. That's why people who lose their sense of smell get really thin, because they can't smell food anymore.
When I gave up sugar years ago, I learned that just because something smells good, doesn't mean I have to stuff it in my face. I learned to bask in the smell, roll around in it, and get my enjoyment from that.
I have lovely memories of brownies, Cookies, cakes. I think of them like an old lover. It was fun while it lasted, but I certainly don't want it inside me again!

Torani makes a bacon flavored Syrup. I don't know what you'd do with it..... but, it's available.

I couldn't resist last night - hate cooking for the family at the moment - made salmon cooked with capers, onion and peppers with cream sauce, potatoes in small bits, carrots and Beans lightly steamed - all looked and smelt soooo good!
:ph34r: Tasted the sauce and chewed and chewed and ------ yes spat out.
**shame***

Second follow up today and I found out I also had a hernia repair which explains that one spot that still aches from time to time. I was put on soft foods, which is awesome, had salmon tonight and it was so awesome to eat food that looked like it is meant to look.
I do not weigh myself daily so I found out I have lost 38lbs since I was sleeved on the 17th of July,
So shocked and so glad I started this journey.

My Dr says only three meals per day and maybe a light snack if needed but lots of liquid! I am never hungry so I know it's working as far as the hunger it's just the weight isn't coming off like expected. Today marked exactly one month since day of surgery and I've lost 32 lbs since day of surgery!!!! So the scale went down again finally!!!

I'm 3 month post op and feel like I'm still in the honeymoon phase. All positives so far. Best thing I ever did for myself!

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?

Ditto...I am 7 weeks out and feel the same about my sleeve.

Good for you! You made me smile just reading about yours! And yes, I feel the same way three months out.

Oh, it's gets way better. I'm loving my sleeve. Yay

I'm this way now. I still have my problems (lactose intolerant, long stalls, etc.) but I feel this way. I think it is a mix of the extra energy and also knowing that I am working toward a goal.
I am a pretty driven person so goals thrill me ---nerd alert---. Also, I think the fact that I mastered my fear and jumped in and did this, is a pretty good high for me.
However, I have heard about the honeymoon stage during weight loss. I saw some time ago that a person hit goal and then felt lost. I'm working hard to be sure I keep some type of goal/motivation even once I hit that magic size/weight.
I always get really sad when I end something (like projects, etc.) so I know I need to be prepared for that now since I am determined to reach my goal.

Just wait - it gets even better

I have my surgery 9/16/13 and I can only hope and pray I have the positivity that you have. Very inspirational to say the least. Congrats and good luck with your new life, you deserve it!!!!!

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?

Am I crazy? OK, I know the answer to that! I am 3 weeks out today. I've had some problems (can't tolerate whey, lactose or fat), can't eat much at all, either quantity or variety, I was so heavy to begin with (huge belly) that you can't really even tell I've lost weight, I have severe anemia, hemoglobin 7.4, I've broken up with my boyfriend. BUT, I don't care!!! I am giddy. Did I mention I'm off my anti-depressants because I can't stand the thought of crushing another pill. I know this has I be the honeymoon phase or something, but I am beside myself with joy. I've been losing weight for 5 weeks, practically a lifetime record for me. I don't feel controlled by food, which has been a source of shame, pain, frustration and despair for 20 years. That's gone. I feel strong, brave, empowered and in control of my life and my future. I have had no second thoughts, no buyers remorse, no angst about food. I've gone out to eat and had a tablespoon of something while my kids, siblings or friends chowed down on my old favorites and I just feel like a rock star because I don't care and can control myself for a change. So. I want to hear from others who feel like they are so blessed by this. This surgery has changed my brain as much as my stomach. I didn't predict it, but thank you God!!! It's only been 3 weeks and I cannot wait to see what positive things are in store for me. I am laughing more, talking to strangers, making my kids jam out to my (according to them) very unhip music. I love my life. Anyone else feeling this way?