lexi710

I work from home, so I'm fairly flexible during the week, as well. What about a weekday during lunch time? We could meet some place like Baltimore coffee & Tea until/ if we get a larger group. They have some quieter tables to the side. Or we could try the library group study room. The only downside there is that you cannot reserve it - it's a first come situation. Any other suggestions?

And now there are three What works best for everyone? Weekday or weekend? I was thinking that we could start out monthly.

Thank you @jessiquoi There really isn't a hospital in close proximity that offered the support groups and I can't haul it over to the East side during rush hour. @roundisashape Would the Timonium area or Hunt Valley be difficult for you to get to?

Hi everyone, I am located in a Northwest suburb of Baltimore, in Baltimore County. I was sleeved in November 2012 and credit a lot of my success to my online support group here; however, would like an in person support group, as well. The only one I found is in Baltimore City and the 95 corridor... very difficult to get to from this side of the city on a weeknight. I'm hoping that there are more of us on this side of the city that would like to get together. Ping me or post if you're interested and we can find a location convenient to us all. I would love to lead the group. Thanks, Lexi

Photo gallery link... I will be uploading more photos tonight and tomorrow. http://www.flickr.com/photos/lexih/

May I ask the cost? You can PM me if you don't want it out for public consumption.

Hi and congrats! Are you still on liquids?

Hi!!! If you're interested, please message me. I have everything from work out clothes to business suits. All of my clothes are brand name and well taken care of. If no interest by next weekend, it's all going to ebay or consignment.

Thank you everyone! We all need the support and encouragement!

So, I guess this is really an intro and status update. I'm Lexi, 37 married for the second time and have two amazing little boys from my first marriage. I think that my story is similar to most here, that i have struggled with my weight my entire life. Even when I was playing competitive tennis, I really wasn't ever NOT considered plus size. A few years back I was diagnosed with fibrmyalgia - a chronic pain disorder. I wanted to stay away from most of the meds as they packed on the weight, so I began a gym and healthy eating routine. That worked for about 2 years until I tore my ACL and was forced to go on the meds. 80 lbs later I made the decision to start on my WLS journey. My life changed on November 20, 2012. Two days before Thanksgiving I had my VSG surgery and have not looked back since. Highest Weight: 296lbs Day of Surgery: 292lbs and BMI of 51 Today: 239lbs and BMI of 30 Every day is struggle and this is not a fix it all procedure. I was very lucky in my recovery with no complications and a fantastic support team (live and virtual). You must make good choices - this is a lifestyle change and a commitment. But it so worth it when you see the results.I am constantly educating people on the surgery and do not hide the feact that I have had it. It's not like people don't notice I was almost 300lbs and well, now I'm on my way to not. lol So, at just about 3 months out, I am happy to say that I am healthier and happier.. and have 20% less of me! Good luck to everyone just starting out and thank you to the successful veterans who still share and befriend us newbies! Before This week:

Congrats!!!!

I underestimate on mfp. I think the burned calories are a little high. Who are you on mfp? I'm lesslexi if you'd like to add

I bought a $6 organizer from amazon.com that gives me all 7 days- am, afternoon, evening and bed. It has been perfect for me.

You definitely need to stay on top of the office staff... I had mine done Nov 20, 2012 @ bayview. I ended up calling/emailing almost daily at one point, but all totally worth it!

I looooove peanut butter and who can resist chocolate AND peanut butter. Mine is on its way from amazon.com!

Oh, I completely understand! LOL. I love the chocolate Protein shake by Premiere. I get mine at costco, but have seen other sleevers get it at Sam's. For powder, I like BlueBonnet and got it on Amazon. Do you have a whole foods or organic market near you? You can usually get individual packets and shakes to try before buying a lot. Do you have your support system in place? Where are you located? And I bought a 20oz insulated cup/straw from Starcucks. That's the only way I can get my fluids. Crystal Light and decaf Twinings English Breakfast tea.

I started with a straw on day 3! Lol I actually got less air and drank more fluids. I cannot stand a glass touching my teeth!!!

It is really hard to wait when you are ready for the change NOW! It was almost exactly one year from my first consult toy surgery date. The best advice I can give is that you are committing to a lifestyle change... use these next couple of months to start making minor changes in your behaviors. Take your Vitamins, sip your drinks throughout the day, start trying different Protein shakes/ supplements. It will go by faster then you think and post surgery has flown by for me!

And Premier actually tastes good with very little after taste.

That is awesome!!!!! Are you on my fitness pal?

JHB dr office is amazing, but you have to stay on top of the office staff. Who are you seeing? I had Dr Schweitzer.

It is still my go to breakfast. Love the chocolate!

I was at about 8 wks post op for my first business trip and pre op I traveled every week. Make sure you are cleared with your surgeon and discuss clot prevention for such a long flight. Also, make sure you get enough down time. A two day trip for me wiped me out for another two days.

I am 11 weeks out and do the same thing... Premier Protein for breakfast, but have food for the rest of the day. It's fine to like the shakes, but as others have said your stomach needs to adjust back to real food. Good luck!!!