Orchids&Dragons

If she was that supportive over the phone, she'll be over-the-moon in person. Wait til she gets a chance to hug you and see how much further her arms go around!

I can't speak for allwet, but I'm 6 weeks out and can still only handle a couple tablespoons of solid foods. Literally, last night's dinner was a 1" square of chicken (not thick) and one broccoli floret. I was uncomfortably full. One cheese stick and I'm done.

Lannie, what does your avatar mean? It's very intriguing.

Where on Earth do you find bras? I am constantly challenged. All the bra manufacturers assume that if you're this heavy, a significant part of the weight must have gone to your boobs! Anything smaller than a D is so hard to find. What can I say, Never got a visit from the T!tty Fairy!

I love inspirational pics. You look amazing. Thanks for posting!

Thank you for posting those inspirational photos! You're looking good!

You are an inspiration! Thank you for sharing.

Awesome 1-year stats! Thanks for sharing your inspiring story!

Don't forget, the protein drinks count toward your water goal!

But I am a Texan and I LOVE spicy foods: Mexican, Thai, and all the rest!

Wow, look at that waist! Awesome, thanks for posting the inspirational pics! You look fantastic! Do you feel as good as you look?

Yeah! Hope all goes smoothly and you heal quickly!

I haven't really noticed any change in my taste buds, except that I can't handle anything spicy right now. But, that's more of a stomach rebellion that a change in my taste preference.

I thought I just got disgusted with sweets because so much of the liquid foods are soooo sweet. The shakes and protein waters are just cloyingly sweet. It really makes you appreciate savory!

Yeah, it's still sore but I see the doctor this morning for my 6-week follow-up. I'll see what he says. I'm still on very small portions of anything solid-about a tablespoon or maybe a little more. Hardly seems worth it to dirty the plate!

Congratulations! Hope the healing goes by quickly!

Brilliant idea!

No, it's the site. I just got that on another thread. :-(

Swapping out tuna for pepperoni will definitely get you a thumbs up from your dietitian! No wonder your weight loss is stellar!

There have been some wonderful suggestions so far. I'd also like to suggest volunteering. Not only would it fill some of the boredom, but when you help others, you start to glow from the inside. It helps to strip the negativity away. Focus on the needs of others. If you're near a school, maybe you can help in the office or run copies for teachers, cut out letters for the bulletin board, etc. If you're near a library, see if they need help shelving books or reading to pre-schoolers. If there's a nursing home near you, I guarantee there are elderly or disabled shut-ins who would love someone to talk to, or paint their nails, or pray with them. Good luck, we all wish you the best and truly believe that you can turn this around.

I stayed home one week, then a week of 1/2 days. I probably could have gone back sooner, but I was still pretty sore. Plus, I went home with a central line and I really didn't want to go back to work until I could shower.

Until you get past liquids and purees, the cravings are pretty wicked. Once you get to soft foods, there is often some sort of "option" that helps with the cravings. For me, just to be able to have a couple of whole-wheat crackers was an absolute delight! (I'm a crunchy/salty lover.) Just keep focused on the prize and push through. You'll be amazed at how fast you change.

Not crazy! Give yourself permission to celebrate your success!

My instructions were to be drinking all the time EXCEPT: 30 minutes before, during (approx. 30 min), and 30 minutes after meals or snacks. I've seen other posts where the rule was 20-20-20.

Wow, that's fantastic! Congrats!