SkinnyMe206

I wanted to begin putting my thoughts on e-paper as it helps me process,create and decide on what else but life. What's been going on with me these days? Well--life has been busy! To date I have lost a total of 73-ish pounds I think? It feels good, don't get me wrong, but I am really hard on myself. I still see the gut and the big arms. I see the flaws. Friends, co-workers and family have been very praising of my achievements, but for some reason, it's not enough. I'm learning to try to find at least one thing about me that I like when I see myself in the mirror each day. So--I smile. When I smile I see my dimples and it makes me smile more :-) My workouts have been blah. This time last year I was on point, always at the gym, always putting in 110%. Now with my busy schedule, I simply try to survive. I used to work out 6 days a week. Got my motivation from another lap bander on this site. She lost a ton of weight and maintained it. She was driven. I had to be like that. My decline in motivation occurred when I lost my ipod. I couldn't work out without music, could I? Didn't even bother trying. 6 days went to 4, then 3. I started finding excuses. My body no longer feels strong. On a good note, I got hired AT MY GYM to be a dance fitness instructor! Yes, ME!! They asked me, which is hilarious. I started in July and it's been great. I teach Bollywood Fitness it definitely covers cardio for the week. I teach one-hour long classes twice a week, then go to Bellydance school once a week. So I guess I shouldn't say that I'm a complete couch potato, but I can do better. I know it. My eating has been not so great too. I eat what I can, when I can. That is--if it goes down. I think I have about 8.5 cc in a 10 cc band, so I am tight. It is helping me lose weight, and the doc wants to take some out when I'm at goal weight. I need to start cooking at home again and not eating out so much. Other tips I need to re-introduce is food logging, portion control, cutting sugar out and getting sleep. I've got the tools, just need to implement...

My sister-in-law had Dr. Bock perform her surgery and he is indeed a great surgeon with exceptional courtesy for each patient. He made sure he communicated my sister's progress during the surgery with I thought was sweet as my mother-in-law was in a panic. Dr. Landers is a GREAT person and is quite skilled at his profession. I always have a blast when I visit him for a fill. He's funny and gives really good advice when needed. Some may not like his stoic, dry sense of humor, but to me it really comforting, lol. He's a parent and understands how busy life can be and doesn't look down on you if you sometimes fall off the wagon. I like that he listens to me and encourages me to try new exercises and foods. He's also easily available off appointment time if need be. It's truly been a pleasure having him be a key player in this journey of mine.

OMG I didn't even recognize you! You look amazing! Congrats! How've you been? It's been so long since I've checked in. Are you attending any of the support group meetings in Federal Way? Keep up the good work :-)

You're not the only one!! My first fill was on 7/22 as well and I feel the same: I can eat! I was losing on average 3-4 lbs a week immediately after the surgery, but after my first fill, I seem to have stopped. I've been stuck at 222 for almost two weeks and I'm really frustrated. Granted I do stay fuller longer, but as far as eating, I'm able to eat, eat, eat. I panicked and called my nurse and she said it does take your body time to adjust to the changes, but if after a few weeks, I still feel like I can eat a boatload, to come in for a mini fill. I believe I received 4cc's the first time, but am unsure as my experience getting it was quite tramatic (doc couldn't find port...lots of jabbs to the stomach...had to do xray), so I wasn't really paying attention to what the doctor was saying about how much he was giving me. I do find drinking lots of water helps and a snack here and there, like fruit, veggies, or handful of nuts. Protein is a must! Good luck!

Hi--I'm meeting Dr. Landers for the first time tomorrow for my pre-op appointment. Wish me luck! Will post once I gain insight on what he's all about

Jammin' Juners!!!

Good to know. That's a great idea. Did you have anyone taking care of you for the days following surg?

was it hard for you to not drink water before,during and immediately after eating?

I know, I've been getting so antsy and looking at the calendar every day, as if that'll help :-) I just scheduled my first phone appt. with an Accomplish health educator, so I'm hoping she will keep me motivated. I've already lost 10lbs on my own just by eating right and drinking tons of water. I'm sad I didn't get to make it to the May meeting. My son had a ton of homework he needed help with, so by the time I was done, I was exhausted! I hope to make it to the June meeting. So my main concern these days is how do I prepare for post op life? I went to the orientation last week and got information overloaded on all things lap band, so I think it's easier to ask this forum instead! What kind of foods should I buy for the 1st week liquid diet and 2nd week pureed diet? What kinds of food are people taking for lunch to work? Any ideas will be much appreciated. Hope everyone is doing well!

Hey There! I didn't see ya at the FW group in March. I wasn't able to make it to this month's meeting. I too had a late work night. I've got great news--Just got my surgery date! June 22nd with Dr. Landers. Don't know too much about him but what little I know sounds good so far. I have to say, I'm a bit jittery and overwhelmed. I've waited for this moment so long...never thought I'd see the day! Hopefully I'll see you at next month's meeting! tc

Thanks! I'm sure I'll be asking more once I get my pre-op checklist.

well what a small world! I'm sorry I don't recognize you as it was a rather large group and hard to see everyone :-) A friend of mine indicated this was a good site to gain insight on all things LB, so I thought I'd give it a try. Are you a regular at Fed Way? I think I'm going to enjoy the monthly meetings. I'm going to the meeting in the central district next week too. I apologize, I didn't catch your name at the meeting...