1poundatatime

I love spaghetti squash! In a few weeks I'll have loads fresh from the garden. I cook it a few different ways. Baked (or microwaved) and topped with butter and pepper is good. Or be fancy and top with things like bacon, grilled chicken, parmesan cheese... It's also a great replacement for spaghetti noodles (or other pasta). Just top with sauce

Congrats! It's the little things that make me smile every day!

Salad with protein is my favourite lunch. I'm 4 months out and know how much I can eat at a sitting, so I measure out my protein and veggies and eat them together.

I had a doctors note stating I needed 3 weeks off for medical reasons, but didn't say why and they aren't allowed to ask. After surgery though, I've told everyone!

Definitely! There are so many ways to track your progress! Use them all! Scale, body fat %, measurements, photos, NSV

Lots of good points have been made... better sleep, more energy, increased ability to play with kids, new wardrobe... But for me that biggest realization lately is that I feel like myself again. I didn't even know how encumbered I was by my weight, but being free from it is amazing. I am more outgoing, stand taller, and feel like ME. It's hard to explain. Somehow, over the years I lost myself and eventually I hardly even recognized myself if I caught a glimpse of my reflection. Doing this was an important exercise in making myself, my needs, my wants, my health a priority. As a mom (of 5) it's easy to put everyone else's needs first.

I've always loved a relaxing bath with a good book and can soak for ages... However, I did that less and less over the years as the tub had to hold more of me and less water! As I sat in the bath today, I noticed I don't fill the width of the tub! By the time I reach goal weight, there will be room for two

I eat a little fruit daily. Carbs aren't a huge problem for me. I only have fresh fruit, small portions (track every bite) and combine with protein. Don't add fruit until you are consistently reaching protein goals is the advice I received from my nutritionist. Peanut butter and apple slices are delicous! And so are fresh berries with yogurt

Your surgeon should have given you instructions stating when you're good to shower. I was allowed the day after surgery.

Congratulations! Glad it went so well! Trying on your clothes will be a whole new experience with such a different shape overnight!

Glad you're ok (and I bet you won't eat a bagel again!) and congrats on the new job. I've learned the hard way too that I need to really plan out each day - what I'll eat and when. I always have a snack in my purse. Nuts or a protein bar travel well. And I keep a water bottle in the car.

Kayaking! I've never tried because I was mortified by the thought of not fitting in the seat!

Definitely go see your doctor. Meanwhile, bumping up your fluids is a good place to start to rule out chronic dehydration.

I had loose stools until I was got back to eat more solid food, then things settled down.

Huge congratulations on your progress and for being able to see yourself through new eyes! You have every reason to be proud!!