It's great to hear the support, especially from Florence, KY. I spent the last 20 years living in Adams County, OH until the economy got so bad, my husband had to relocate for his job. I really miss the mountains, but I am excited about being close to the beach. I haven't owned a bathing suit in 10 years, hopefully this will change. I am really excited. Just attended my pre-surgery class today and had all pre-op testing done. I have been trying different flavors of protein shakes to find the ones I like best. I know what you mean about the negative people. My mother-in-law is not happy. She keeps telling me all the negative stories...BUT NO ONE IS CHANGING MY MIND! My mother died in November. She was obese, diabetic, had had 2 heart attacks and 2 strokes. She would have been 66. I want to be around alot longer than that. My husband is super supportive, he even joined a gym with me to help me out. My oldest son is a nurse and he thinks its a great idea. Its been really great to look at the progess people have made. It's really encouraging too. I can't wait to start documenting my loss. :laugh: