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imaluckydog

LAP-BAND Patients
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Blog Entries posted by imaluckydog

  1. imaluckydog
    2 Years out... Try and Remember Where has the Time Gone?
     
    I remember being FAT! I sometimes think I am still FAT!!
     
    I remember wanting to be banded and I could not wait!
     
    I remember wanting to lose weight and I could not wait!
     
    I remember my sleep apnea and machine and could not wait for it to go away!
     
    I remember packing up the apnea machine and tossing it away forever!
     
    I remember taking blood pressure medicine and could not wait to get off that stuff!
     
    I remember canceling the order for my Blood pressure meds!
     
    I remember the shots in my knee and the pain not being able to walk!
     
    I remember wanting people to notice I have lost weight, I could not wait to be noticed!
     
    I remember wanting my first fill and I could not wait!
     
    I remember wanting my un fills and there have been many, I could not wait!
     
    I remember wanting to just eat all the foods I love, I could not wait!
     
    I remember not wanting to exsercise and hoping the weight would come off!
     
    I remember starting to exsercise and having the weight fall off while I slept!
     
    I remember snacking and eating those things we as bandsters should not!
     
    I remember making a food plan and sticking to it mindfully!
     
    I remember the mistakes I have made, and could not wait to fix them!
     
    I remember not wanting to go skiing as I could not bend over and buckle my boots!
     
    I remember going skiing again for the first time in 20 years, been skiing now for 2 years!
     
    I remember my fear of flying because I could not sit in the set comfortably!
     
    I remember going on a plane and feeling small in the seat I still have the memories!
     
    I remember waking up in the morning and committing to a healthful and happy day!
     
    I remember the power of a positive attitude, it has change my life!
     
    I remember feeling my body and not ever remembering how it felt thin!
     
    I remember the excess skin hanging off me and I can not wait to have it removed!
     
    I remember making the appointment for skin removal! I can not wait!
     
    I remember thinking what is Abdominolasty, Panniculectomy, I can not wait!
     
    I remember the life decision I made to be banded, I would do it all over again!
     
    I remember just two years ago and now the excess skin will be removed, I can not wait!
     
    I remember being denied by the insurance, I did not have all the correct paper work!
     
    I remember being patent and re submitting the paper work and got approval today!
     
    I remember blogging for the first time and wanting anyone to respond, I could not wait!
     
    I will get my Nip and Tuck on June 27, 201. I can not wait!
     
    I am just a little worried about the recovery, I hope I can bounce back, I can not wait!
     
    My two year Bandversary is right around the corner banded on June 29, 2009
     
     
     
     
    I wish everyone who is starting out on their journey all the best to you and I can not wait to hear from you. imaluckydog
  2. imaluckydog

    Belts

    By imaluckydog,

    Belts
     
    I never ever wore a belt before LB. My pants were always the elastic waist kind. I never tucked my shirt in ever! I needed to hide my rolls.
     
    I wear belts now and I love my new waist line. I am alway looking for new belts to wear. I tuck my shirts in a it is nice to be comfortable in my clothes.
     
    What a difference a year can make by using the lap band as a tool. I am down over 100 pounds and happier than I have ever been in my life. I am not fat anymore.
     
    I was even called tiny yesterday. I have never been TINY LOL.
     
    My head still does not see me as tiny, smaller yes Tiny no. It will take some time for my head to catch up I think.
     
    I am not sure when I will reach my goal, I am not even sure what my body will want as a goal weight. I am still losing. Thats even after 3 un-fills. I do hope my body will fine it’s set weight soon. I am still very happy where I am now.
     
    I am so glad I chose this tool and I would do it again if given the chance. Monday night I will speak to a newbie support group. I am a little nervous. My nurse said I have a lot to share and others would like to talk to me. I am just going to be myself.
     
    I have found this site to be most helpful. I have enjoyed blogging and reading about the journey others have taken. Best wishes to everyone and wish me luck for Monday night. I have never been a public speaker. imaluckydog
  3. imaluckydog

    Blue Bird Day

    By imaluckydog,

    What I did on my winter vacation! It was a cold Blue Bird Day and I did it!!
    Dreams do come true thanks to LB and all the support from this site.
     
    This is my family and the shadow in front is my husband taking the picture.
    I am second from the left light blue helmet and black oversized slimming outfit.
    
     
    If you can see my smile it is bigger than the mountain . I felt young again and have now accomplished my first really BIG GOAL. I better think of another one real quick. It will have to be to go skiing again next weekend. I just loved it and can’t wait to do it again. My husband said I better get a smaller outfit soon. LOL I am just going to wait for the sales. I have to Thank my LB and ALL the determination it took to get to me this point. I still have a long way to go. Maybe not that long.
     
    I have found my head is starting to catch up with the way I am feeling. I am enjoying more physical energy these days, no more food cravings to speak of, and I seem to be satisfied for the most part with my foods. I am enjoying a sense of calm I am not used too. I am still as full as I have ever been. I go back to Dr. Feb 22, 2010. Now that does seem like a long time away. It was my choice, I have had two Dr. visits and have refused two fills. I am hoping that if I wait a good while I may need a fill then and if not I will pass again. I am Happy and Bandlandia is agreeing with me for today. I am just about 40 pounds away from what I think will be a good weight for me. I am just going to keep doing what I have been doing as it seems to work for me. Best wishes to all the newbies I was banded on June 29,2009 lost 77 pounds and for the most part I have followed the rules, be kind to yourself it is an amazing remarkable joyous journey. imaluckydog
  4. imaluckydog

    Blue Bird Day

    By imaluckydog,

    What I did on my winter vacation! It was a cold Blue Bird Day and I did it!!
    Dreams do come true thanks to LB and all the support from this site.
    
    This is my family and the shadow in front is my husband taking the picture.
    I am second from the left light blue helmet and black oversized slimming outfit.
    
    If you can see my smile it is bigger than the mountain . I felt young again and have now accomplished my first really BIG GOAL. I better think of another one real quick. It will have to be to go skiing again next weekend. I just loved it and can’t wait to do it again. My husband said I better get a smaller outfit soon. LOL I am just going to wait for the sales. I have to Thank my LB and ALL the determination it took to get to me this point. I still have a long way to go. Maybe not that long.
     
    I have found my head is starting to catch up with the way I am feeling. I am enjoying more physical energy these days, no more food cravings to speak of, and I seem to be satisfied for the most part with my foods. I am enjoying a sense of calm I am not used too. I am still as full as I have ever been. I go back to Dr. Feb 22, 2010. Now that does seem like a long time away. It was my choice, I have had two Dr. visits and have refused two fills. I am hoping that if I wait a good while I may need a fill then and if not I will pass again. I am Happy and Bandlandia is agreeing with me for today. I am just about 40 pounds away from what I think will be a good weight for me. I am just going to keep doing what I have been doing as it seems to work for me. Best wishes to all the newbies I was banded on June 29,2009 lost 77 pounds and for the most part I have followed the rules, be kind to yourself it is an amazing remarkable joyous journey. imaluckydog
  5. imaluckydog

    Blue Bird Day

    By imaluckydog,

    What I did on my winter vacation! It was a cold Blue Bird Day and I did it!!
    Dreams do come true thanks to LB and all the support from this site.
     
    See first picture.
     
    This is my family and the shadow in front is my husband taking the picture.
    I am second from the left light blue helmet and black oversized slimming outfit.
     
     
    See me second picture.
     
    If you can see my smile it is bigger than the mountain . I felt young again and have now accomplished my first really BIG GOAL. I better think of another one real quick. It will have to be to go skiing again next weekend. I just loved it and can’t wait to do it again. My husband said I better get a smaller outfit soon. LOL I am just going to wait for the sales. I have to Thank my LB friends and ALL the determination it took to get to me this point. I still have a long way to go. Maybe not that long.
     
    I have found my head is starting to catch up with the way I am feeling. I am enjoying more physical energy these days, no more food cravings to speak of, and I seem to be satisfied for the most part with my foods. I am enjoying a sense of calm I am not used too. I am still as full as I have ever been. I go back to Dr. Feb 22, 2010. Now that does seem like a long time away. It was my choice, I have had two Dr. visits and have refused two fills. I am hoping that if I wait a good while I may need a fill then and if not I will pass again. I am Happy and Bandlandia is agreeing with me for today. I am just about 40 pounds away from what I think will be a good weight for me. I am just going to keep doing what I have been doing as it seems to work for me. Best wishes to all the newbies I was banded on June 29,2009 lost 77 pounds and for the most part I have followed the rules, be kind to yourself it is an amazing remarkable joyous journey. imaluckydog
     
    PS Thanks BG Love You
  6. imaluckydog
    Dreams Can Come TURE.....
     
    On the 1,2,3,4,5th,6,7,8,9,....12th.....Day of Christmas I was just wondering if my dreams will come true? I have been so good, so willing, almost too good these last six months as my Bandlandia roller coaster has changed my entire life. Full of Emotional ups and downs, Full of Happy and Sad Sad Sad moments, Tranquillity and Frustration to say a few. But mostly JOY, JOY, JOY to the WORLD!!! The CALMNESS is probably the most profound FEELING of all for me I have never been a calm person, I am NOW.....I am at PEACE....with my being...
    
I just want to SING out loud and clear for all to hear! OK, yes it has been a challenging some what difficult 6 months, but look how fast these days and months have gone by!!! You can do this!!!!!!
     
    I do remember sitting in the psychology group classes before LB and having to think of the one real, THE REAL reason I wanted to lose the weight? LOL does anyone have a REAL REASON? OMG I thought my psychologist was a quack!!! He said in six months there will be some REAL changes. I did not believe him then, I do NOW. I’m going to send him a picture of me skiing.
     
    It had to be SKIING. I wanted to go skiing with my family again. I have not done that since they were two years old and I have missed out on all these years of Family FUN on the Mountain. The kids are now 21 and 20!!!
    I know you are thinking SKIING she is nuts and out of her mind!!!!!
     
    You may say, I can think out a million and one more reasons to lose the weight before I go skiing that is for sure!! YES, I must say I have many more reasons too keep losing as well. But the one I felt I could accomplish in 6 months had to be SKIING. It is WINTER in VERMONT with snow I can cross country ski, sled, walk, NOPE I have to go Down Hill skiing with the FAM. My kids have both been to the Junior Olympics they do the BIG AIR and Moguls events. I always had to wait at the bottom because I could not get my over 250 pound out of shape, Fat body to function on skis without killing myself. I could only watch video of theirs runs.
     
    I am going SKIING this week! Got the boots, skis, poles, helmet, goggles, an out fit that is a little too big, but hey this is not a FASHION SHOW yet I said yet it may be soon!!! I just want to go skiing. I want to have FUN with my family again together. I do not care how I look yet I just want to be comfortable doing it. My son’s GF and I will take a lesson together that will be FUN. I do know how to ski but to help her ease into it and to refresh my spirit and soul again I am also doing this for me too.
     
    It has never been about the numbers but I do think about it a lot. I must let everyone know that I have lost another 9 pounds and a total of 77 pounds since June 29 when my Bandlandia adventure began. I do not own a scale but I dream about being on one everyday. I now wear a teen size and I have been called skinny. I am not SKINNY believe me!!!! When you lose this much weight people see you differently than you see yourself.
     
    Car is almost packed so I will say goodbye, I will be back in a week and will fill you all in on my Wild and Crazy Adventures. I’m going Skiing. LB has changed my life and thanks to all me LB friends who have helped and coached me along the way I would not be doing this without you, you will be with me every inch of the way. I’ll be back soon.
    DREAMS DO COME TRUE!! imaluckydog
  7. imaluckydog

    Giving Back

    By imaluckydog,

    Giving Back
     
    I was asked to speak to a newbie “introduction to surgery weight loss” group Monday evening. There where people from teenagers up to 70 years in age who attended. I would say about 50 people or more interested in surgery and some who have been interested for some time now. It was the first of many series to introduce people to GBP and the Lap Band Process and other forms not covered yet by some insurance companies. This is for many the first step they take.
     
    The night started with one of the surgeons showing and talking about his slide show and explaining to the audience what they will learn from having one of these procedures. He spoke about the many complications and there are so many. SO Many I was even thinking wow I had this done and there are THIS many things that could go wrong! Yikes
     
    OK, so I took the chance and I am SO GLAD I did. The Doctors spoke for about a half an hour and the Nurse Practitioner spoke for about a half an hour. Then it was my turn. I was invited to the stage with another gentlemen who had a GBP surgery. We were introduce and he motioned for me to go first. I said my name and proceeded to say I had my Lap band surgery a little over one year ago and have lost 109 pounds. I had a BMI of over 40, I weighed in at over 250 pounds and I am only five two, I was on medicine for High Blood Pressure and a machine for Sleep Apnea for about 7 years. It is all gone now that I have lost weight with my new tool. I worked well with playing with my Lap band.
     
    No more High blood pressure and no more medicine!
    No more Sleep Apnea or machines hooked up at night!
    I do not huff and puff walking up stairs and I feel great now.
     
    I pulled out a pair of pants the only ones I did not give away. I said and when I wore these pants I thought I looked like the cats meow!! I held them up to me and I can step into one leg. Although, I did not do that but it was clear I am a TINY person now. I said Yes, I thought I looked good but I did not FEEL GOOD about myself when I wore them. They are a size 24 plus and I was bulging out of them on a good day.
     
    All of a sudden the audience started to clap. Well OK, I clapped too. I was in shock I had no idea they were clapping for me. It made me feel good. I have done well!!
     
    The nurse said Between the two of them they (we) had lost over 300 pounds.
     
    I let him speak and he was excellent. I think it may be harder to have the GBP surgery. I can eat anything I want in small amounts, but the GBP patients are limited and cannot eat certain foods ever again as their bodies do not tolerate the same foods.
     
    One man in the audience ask 3 times if he really had to give up soda!! It is funny that people do not want to make little changes even when it comes to the smallest things that can make BIG difference to their health for the rest of there lives. It seems they only want to hear what they want to hear. It is not like they have to give it up forever. I some times have a soda for a treat. But not that often. I need to stir out the bubbles.
     
    I am so grateful I had an open mind and open heart to receive all the gifts this band has offered to me. The audience asked us questions and we answered them to be best of our ability. I felt good I was able to share in an honest and meaningful way with people who where generally and for the most part interested in these surgeries and wanting to be healthier.
     
    I heard them clapping for me!! I have done well! I thank myself and my LB for this everyday
     
    I eat Real Food, Not too much, mostly plants, with Proteins first. I do Not snack in between meals or drink liquids with my meals. Very little if any sugar because it always makes me want to have more. I also do NOT drink soda. I did explain I had a brief withdrawal period from it and I do not even miss it today. Best wishes on your journey. imaluckydog
  8. imaluckydog
    Had a nice CHAT this morning on this site and I did figure out how to start an entry. LOL
     
    I have not had a chance to figure out this new site, it seems very confusing to me the DITZ that I am.
     
    I am a creature of habit and I resist change. I also get in the habit of eating the same every day. It is safe because I know what works for me. I like the foods I eat. I can eat almost anything I want even just a taste and I am satisfied.
     
    Breakfast goes slow it always has and I cannot eat too early. I have my lunch at the same time every day. I guess you would say I have a set routine and it works for me.
     
    I know for a fact that blogging has helped me keep this weight off. It also helped get the weight off. I do not eat when I am at my computer. My Dr said that more people are apt to keep more weight off if they blog or write about their experience. I was resistant at first but it is piece of mind I can put something out in cyber space and let it go.
    I wish everyone well on their band journey. I have had an exceptionally great journey myself almost two years and feeling great. Best wishes imaluckydog
  9. imaluckydog
    In June of 2008 I had to have my ovary's and tubes removed, the operation time about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. My weight was about 280 give or take. I was forever dieting to feel better and I felt like CRAP. I came home to recover from this surgery and my hair fell out when I brushed it. I freaked out and called the surgeon and she said I should try to eat well. In three weeks my hair stopped falling out. I got a hair cut and started to feel better about myself as much as I could at 280 - 270 pounds. Hair loss stopped and new hair started to grow back. It seemed like forever. I kept trying to diet and eat well everyday. Hair loss happened, and hair came back.
    In June of 2009 I had my long awaited Lap Band Surgery. My weight was about 250 pounds when I got my Lap Band. That surgery took about 2 1/2 to 3 hours in the operating room. I had a hernia that needed to be fixed as well. I went home and my hair started again to fall out this time in handfuls. So much it clogged the drain and tub would fill up. I again freaked out and called my LB surgeon and he said to start taking Biotin. I take 5000 mg a day now. In four to five weeks my hair stopped falling out and I started to get wispy new hair growth again. It seemed to take forever. It all came back.
    In June of 2010 my weight was a t 145-147 pounds. I just got my full body "Nip and Tuck". Breasts reduced and tummy skin fold removed and abdomen tightened. The surgery took 6 1/2 hours, I also had another hernia that needed fixing. A week after surgery, my hair again started to fall out. This time I expected the hair loss from my past experience of having surgery. This time the hair loss was way more than any other time before. I feel the hair loss is due to the length of time I was under the knife. This was the longest time by far. The longer the operation took the more hair fell out. It has been six weeks and I am still seeing hair loss. I am taking Biotin everyday and eating very well. I feel my hair will stop falling out soon. Also the recovery for this procedure is about six months. I spent more than two weeks in bed with drain and pain like I never had before. I feel great today, I am wearing compression garment bodysuit and I can bend over now. I am still not allowed to carry anything heavy. It has been six weeks and hair is still falling out but it is less everyday.
    I conclude that the longer the operation takes, the longer you are under the knife, the longer the hair falls out. Eating more quality protein and taking Biotin does help it has for me. I also message my scalp to stimulate the hair growth. I can see new hair growth and I know it will all come back in a few short weeks. I am not sure if everyone has hair loss? I know I have and it does get better with time. Best wishes to everyone on your journey.
    Mine has been amazing one and I would do it all over again if given the chance. Hair loss has not been that bad. The pain was worse!
    imaluckydog
  10. imaluckydog
    I have never been so HAPPY!!!!!!
    imaluckydog week one is over. I have survived Lap Band to talk about it. I do not think of myself as a blogger I hope this is not boring. June 29 Th., 2009 one week ago today I was banded at Lahey Clinic in Burlington Ma. my Dr. was Dimitry Nepomnayshy MD. My surgery took 3 hours because I also had a hiatial hernia he needed to repair while he was in there. Lucky me!!! Dr. Nepomnayshy is a confidante, kind and gentle man with a huge heart of GOLD. The Clinic is a teaching hospital utilizing Tufts University medical students and other area medical students 24-7. It seems like a party every time I am there. I am always asking what I think are the dumbest questions, only to get a very educated answer with a smile back. I am so blessed to have had such a happy and healthful experience. My two week post op meal plan consists of liquid protein drinks 3 to 4 a day with plenty of water or other clear liquid to equal 64 ounces. I do not have a desire to eat any food.
    I do enjoy watching the Food Network http://www.foodnetwork.com/ I seem to be addicted to it now. My mouth starts watering but I do not get hungry. I am starting to think about my next phase the mushy stage. I am entertaining recipes from other LB patient bloggers and I have started a file for all of them. The food network has a lot of recipes I can use it seems to be a wonderful resource. I found a web site that list all High Protein Foods that is easy to
    use http://www.highproteinfoods.net/ Maybe you might find it interesting as well. I have made home made broth and have enjoyed them. I have been walking everyday for brief distances. Yesterday I went to the Gym with my daughter and walked on the treadmill at a really good clip for 30 minutes. I have had no gas pains at all. I will see the Dr. on Friday July 10 for my first Happy visit. I just want to say thank you to all my blogger buddies your notes, well wishes, recipes and thoughts have all been appreciated so much. I have enjoyed the love and respect I have received on this web site. I have never been so HAPPY...........
     
    Love. Life.Lilly. and the Pursuit of Happiness for I’m a luckydog
  11. imaluckydog
    Today is my Birthday!
    Happy Birthday to me I <3 my band.
    I have never been happier in my life, well maybe when my two children were born!
    I was banded June 29, 2009, and have lost 100 pounds and kept it off.
    I have gained and lost up five, down ten, but never any more.
    I have had many Fills and many Unfills.
    I have been so tight it was painful.
    I have been so loose it was scary, because I was able to snack with no control.
    I have tested my band to the limits. My band works when I work with my band.
    I have learned how to eat real food, not too much, mostly plants, with proteins first.
    I choose to prepare all my own foods. I enjoy cooking now. I enjoy eating SLOW!
    I am healthier and my family is healthier today.
    I am three weeks into my recovery from my full body Nip and Tuck.
    My Lap band surgery was way easier and faster to recover from than this.
    My stitches and tape come off next week, four weeks of R &R, I have enjoyed it.
    I have excellent insurance and it paid for everything except what they consider cosmetic.
    I had to pay very little in the big picture. It was well worth it as far as I am concerned.
    I have a NEW Better BODY. I have to look hard to see that it really is me in the mirror.
    I have new clothes and I would do this over again if anyone asked me.
    I want to give Best Wishes to anyone who may be considering this journey.
    I know when I started, I read, and read, and blogged and blogged it helps.
    I am grateful for this site I know it has helped me and my journey has been so much more successful because I have been able to write about my ups and downs along the way.
    Happy Birthday to me I am proud of myself today. When I blow my candles out on my cake tonight it will be wishing the best for all the newbies. Thanks to all my LB buddies I love you. imaluckydog
  12. imaluckydog
    Hello LB Lifestyle I can do this!!!!
     
    Living with the band as a lifestyle. Yes, I can say I am now living the LB Lifestyle. I am 83 weeks from my surgery, lost 110 pounds and I will have my 2 year bandversary at the end of June. I know what I am doing.
     
    My weight has stayed the same for five months and I feel like a million bucks every time I look in the mirror. All of my clothes fit and I have a hard time trying to decide what to wear because I have so many choices now.
     
    The only problem I have encountered during this adventurous journey is I must keep myself well hydrated. If I do not drink enough liquids I feel sick.
     
    I have to have some kind of nourousing liquid going in at all times except at meal times.
     
    I must say following all the bandster rules has also been key to my happiness and success on this journey.
     
    I am starting the process to see if I want to have the "Nip and Tuck" . That is a lot to think about. I was told today it is a six week recovery. I am not sure I am ready for that. The paper work will be submitted to insurance and we will see just what they will or will not cover.
     
    Sure is something to think about! Best wishes all my LB buddies. imaluckydog
     
     
     
     
    I remember being so excited to get the LB and I am just as excited today to be as healthy and energetic as I am. I am never looking back. Those miserable days are gone forever. Hello LB lifestyle I can do this!!!
     
     
  13. imaluckydog
    "Do not question yourself!!!" I said this morning as I was telling someone my story about "My first surgery date that was to be July 20 and how very excited I was. Then it was moved up to June 29 my surgery date, because I had met all the requirements!!! OMG
     
    Holy COW have a cow!!!!" I was shocked, I did not think I was ready, I was worried about the insurance, the surgery, I was worried about the pain, about not eating and only fluids, worried about drugs, you know yata, yata yata, everything you read about was going thru my mind non stop in a loop, Over and over again.
     
    Well, let me tell you I hugged my DR. Yesterday! I never thought I would do that!! But I DID.... I just jumped up and said "can I hug you." He gave me a HUGE hug back, I felt so GOOD!!
     
    I said to him I have the power to change my life now. This tool is helping me change, and I have found confidence as well.
     
    I find support here on this web site, I have not told many of my family, they do not get it. That is OK for me.
     
    It is for me to figure this journey out, it is MINE. I am two weeks Post Op and have never felt better in my life. It is eleven days from surgery exactly!! What a load lifted.......
     
    I have not really suffered. I was uncomfortable for two days after surgery. Drugs helped. Drinking water has never been my thing, I drink lots of water now. The liquid post op is hard, I must say, and/but worth it. Eating slow is even harder, putting the fork down and not picking it up is starting to be funny. I just stare at it. The amount of food is so small. I want to be small. The saying is you are what you eat.
     
    Thanks to everyone who has shared with me their secrets especially Band Groupie. I want to play in your BAND!!
     
    imaluckydog who is helping to create my own destiny. Yipppeeeee I am down 37 pounds in four weeks, wonderland/onederland is just around the corner. Oh happy day
  14. imaluckydog
    Heaven I tell you, just heavenly! Who ever thought I would enjoy 1 slice of pizza so much in my life?????? I have been cooking a lot lately and needed a break from it.
     
    I woke up this morning feeling thinner than I have ever felt before in my life. Is my head catching up with me? You know the body has lost 60 plus pounds.
     
    Before when I ate pizza I would eat 4 or more slices in less than a half an hour. I knew I was having pizza for dinner I planned it that way. Mind you it took me almost one hour to eat my slice of HEAVEN. It was so worth every single bite. I know you want to know what kind. OK, it was a slice of Spinach, Tomato, Cheese, Garlic, and two little pieces of Pepperoni I picked off my husbands side. I could not eat the Crust I was TOO FULL by the time I got to it or I would have tried that is for sure. I do not usually eat Pepperoni but that was the side my husband likes. I just had to have some. So glad I did. It was worth every single bite.
     
    Pizza is not a food I have eaten a lot of since being banded on June 29. Seems so long ago now really. Probably because it does not have the amount of protein my body needs at a meal. I just really need and wanted pizza.
     
    A funny thing happened to me yesterday when I was at work. A co worker came up and stood next to me and she came into my space, you know the physical space around your body. In the past I would have taken a step backwards but I did not. I just stood there as she kept coming closer and closer. I started not to hear her and I started feeling just how much smaller I was to her. Yikes, I felt half the size of her and half the size of my former self. My arms where hanging down by my side and I could really feel the smaller me. OMG I never ever heard her say "so are you feeling good are you having problems?" I was like what Oh yes very GOOD see you later, and walked away in a daze. As she started to ask if I had any problems, my head was not connected to the conversation. I never remember myself walking away from someone but why should I answer questions that are personal to me? I knew she did not really care about me. She was on her way to buy food. I just went the other direction. I am finding that I am not engaging in talk with people that do not care about me. I went and had lunch and shared my little story with my lunch mates and they said they would have done the same thing and as for feeling half the size They said YES YOU ARE HALF THE SIZE OF HER. Wow I was right.
     
    My head is catching up. I am Happy getting healthier and yes I can eat whatever I want. Oh I had to freeze four slices of PIZZA LOL I will buy a small size pizza next time and save some money. Old habits are hard to change.
    Best wishes and have a great day my LB friends. imaluckydog
  15. imaluckydog

    I love to cook

    By imaluckydog,

    I love to cook now more than I like to eat! Go figure!!!! I never thought I would say that!!!!
    It use to be the other way around. I lived to eat. I wanted to know where the next meal was coming from and how much would I be able to eat at one sitting. I just loved stuffing myself into a coma. This is TRUE.
     
    I also hated the way I felt after...........This is TRUE.
     
    I have made spicy spaghetti sauce, butternut squash soup, onion soup, eggplant parmesan, zucchini parmesan, Wendy’s chili, baked fish, fish soup, lobster stew, seafood chowder, edamame corn chowder, salsa, chicken with couscous, salads, fruit cups, home made puddings, fruit and protein smoothies, ricotta pie, tiny bites of beef stew, BBQ pulled pork, chicken fajitas, just to mention a few recipes I have collected. I never knew I was such a good cook. I get complements all the time from my family.
     
    I cannot eat all that much of what I cook but what I cook sure does have flavor. I freeze a lot of what I make. I make home made salad dressing too. I love to watch the Food Network and I get recipes from certain chefs who do not use a ton of butter. My recipes have little or no oil in them and the fat usually comes from the protein source. I do use some olive oil because I like the taste.
     
    I really enjoy my own cooking over going out to eat now a days. I usually bring my home cooked leftovers to work for lunch with me and almost everyone is curious about what I bring and will I share my weight loss secrets with them? I have chosen not to tell and only my family knows about my band. It is better this way for me. I do share I have cut down on my portions which is the understatement of the year. HELLO people... I was a COW, I could eat a COW!!!! If they only knew how much I can eat without my band. Really a COW!!!! I love meat and I am now unable to really enjoy a rare steak. It is OK.
     
    I have enjoyed playing with my band. I have just had my third fill and the music has been kicked up a notch to say the least. I still have to take my time eating and I am chew, chew, chewing to beat the band. I love how food tastes now. I can only eat about a half a cup of anything. You name it, I sometimes have four meals and I have been known to drink a glass of milk before bed. Just for that bite extra protein. I am always making sure I get that PROTEIN if you know what I mean jelly bean! I miss CANDY, FRASCA, DONUTS, COOKIES and cheese curls. I have not had them since June 29, and it is a good thing.
     
    I have lost 60 plus pounds since June and have found a perpetual smile on my FACE. I am in the wonder of oneunderland today. I wish everyone reading this all the best on your journey.
     
    All I can say is thank you to all my band site buddies and friends you know who you are You have helped me become the person I want to be today. I am HAPPY to be in my own skin and in your company. My family likes it too. I could not have done this without your support and personal suggestions. I remember the trip to the hospital not knowing if I would get the surgery that day and I remember B_G telling me, you are creating your own destiny so take charge. I am raising my GLASS high to all of us who are taking charge. Only we can make the change if we want too. imaluckydog Kathy
  16. imaluckydog
    I am not sure about much lately!! :cursing:
     
    I got a call from my nurse to have my surgery moved up to this Monday!!! Yikes, :thumbup: My dated was to be July 20 th. Hard to believe RIGHT? Who really ever has it done early? We are to wait for ever for the LB!!
     
    I was told I may get moved up because I have met all the requirements. But I never believed them. There is a twist, the insurance has not sent back the paper work GO FIGURE???
    They think my surgery is July 20. Monday I will be on the phone first thing in the morning making sure they fax the paper work over ASAP. I have been given approval over the phone. So just being phone covered my not get you surgery.
     
    The PAPER WORK must be signed and in order first or NO surgery. Just my LUCK the Nurse who planned all this left Friday for vacation after our visit. Before she left she gave me her phone number. :cursing: I pray I do not have to call her. She was so mad on Friday at her hospital for not having the paper work done.:rolleyes2: Insurance office is closed for the week end and there is no one to talk to until Monday. So I wait Mind you I am not going to worry about it. Thanks to friends on this site:tt1: If it was ment to be it will be!!!!! I will make sure something happens.
     
    Wish me LUCK for imaluckydog and MAY BE PLAYING with the BAND SOON.:rolleyes2:
  17. imaluckydog
    I am freaking myself out by how much I am thinking about food and the wrong kinds of food too. I said thinking, I am not eating it and I do not want to start cuz I know I can at any moment. I am blogging now and my rule in no food/drinks at my computer so this is helping me at this time. I read about everyone all thinking about food, huh. I am NOT alone!! I know I am an addict for sure. I just need to vent and say yes I think about food too much! I also woke up today and packed food for my trip that I did not get to take because the train was five hours behind schedule. In the past I would have eaten over my disappointments. I still want to eat over my disappointment. Today I find myself writing to you all. I am a real person with real feelings and no one to talk too. I am so glad you are all hear for me today. I do not want to use food as a crutch today. Best wishes imaluckydog
  18. imaluckydog

    imaluckydog Now!!!

    By imaluckydog,

    Lady!! You can’t get that SIZE on this side of the store! “But if you wait a minute I will go next door and check if they have your size on the other side of the store for you, Okay”. She came back with my size. Oops I’m on the wrong side of store. That has never happened before!!
    I have always shopped on this side of the store, I have never been told my size is not on this side of the store before. I shop at a women’s clothing store that has two sides one for Normal size and the other for women’s size. Well welcome to NORMAL size luckydog!!!
    Really imaluckydog NOW!!!
     
    My work mates have said I need some new clothes that fit. I just have not wanted to spend the money yet. With two kids in college, money is tight. I have been using my sewing machine and pants that had pockets do not have packets anymore because I have had to take them in so much.
     
    Well when my daughter came home from school this week end, shopping was on our to do list today. I was blown away that I was not the size clothes I expected to be. My head does not seem to be catching up with my weight loss. I can see my body size is changing. I feel my size is changing and I like the fact my size is changing. I just picked clothes that were still three sizes to big for me. I was in a changing room for almost a half an hour with all the wrong size clothing. I have never had this experience before. My clothes have always been too tight never too loose. I must say I had a good time buying a pair of pants that fit me. A size 16 and it did not have a W next to it (W) is for women’s a fuller and more roomier fitting pant. I was a regular size 16 that I have never been before.
     
    Life is good. I now have a new pair of pants that fit!
    I am grateful for this experience and feel that the Lap band has given me a chance to live a healthier and happier life. I am seriously thinking I will not get my next fill on November 5, I may just go and weigh in and say I am happy were I am now. I cannot eat a lot and everything is going down slow. It is staying down for the most part. Maybe I am at a sweet spot? imaluckydog
  19. imaluckydog
    Has anyone ever heard of going early for Lap Band?
     
    I was content with my July 20 band date which is about 21 days away. OMG on this pasted Friday I got a call and the Nurse she wanted to know if I would be ready to have my Lap Band done on MONDAY yesterday? OMG again I said ???? I was not sure I was mentally ready. She said could I come down to the hospital and sign a few papers. She also wanted to go over the teaching classes with me. I had had all my blood work and Pre Op work just done on Wednesday.
     
    When I got to the hospital late Friday it was about 4:30 p.m. she said we have a glitch she just found out about. Yup you guessed it! INSURANCE Papers not complete yet. Well the insurance approved me back in the beginning of May and my hospital sent in the paper work to then as well. She just needed a signature. She said I could self pay to the turn of Fifteen Grand plus put it on my credit card or I could wait.
     
    I had been advised by many NOT to put it on my credit card because that could open all kinds of problems. I had a chance that the company would pay. I just tried not to spend my entire week end worrying about it, with the help of more friends on this site. I kept extremely busy. Thanks to them and their kind hearted souls and advice.
     
    On Monday I got up early and finished a few odds and ends that needed to be done so I could take a few days off. I also called the insurance co and called the hospital and at one point I had two phones on my head and talking to someone on the computer. I had all the bases covered. I was pretty sure I would have the surgery that day. My husband took the day off and drove me to the hospital and he was the one saying I would only have a 50 / 50 chance. I had to shut him out.
     
    We had to drive about an hour and the traffic was light, many must be on vacation this week.
    Just as I am walking into the hospital me cell phone rings. It was Elana from the hospital she said everything is all in order and to come on down. I told her we are here and I plan to go meet her at the check in. She must have worked a miracle today. But I also help to create my own destiny at the same time. I had surgery at 4 p.m. it was a long day. I am home now a resting quite comfortably in bed. I have been up walking and have not had much gas. I just spent one night in the hospital. Today I was released at about 2 p.m. So far water, sf Jello and broth is all I can have.
     
    I am NOT a JULY BAND BUDDY I need one from JUNE if anyone reads this and were banded in June would you please let me know? Thanks
     
    imaluckydog playing with the BAND early!!!
  20. imaluckydog

    Let's Play MONOPOLY

    By imaluckydog,

    Do YOU know how to play Monopoly????
    It has been so hard for me these past few weeks since my last fill, lets face it. I have been having a hard time with that, "One BITE too many syndrome". I just PB'd because I ate to fast. It was the Good food the protein kind. But when I eat too darn fast there is a learning curve. You know what I am talking about don't you????
     
    Unfortunately I AM a very SLOW LEARNER :-(
    It was my 4th bite and I had to run not walk to the rest room!!! I did not pass GO or collect 200 dollars either!! My fourth bite. I am hungry now.
     
    This Band has a MONOPOLY on my stomach.. I need to learn how to play well with my band. May be I need to make flash cards and study them so I will remember how to do what I am allowed to do. I will not win if I keep playing this way. I know I am not alone either....
    I feel the restriction but I am hungry and want to eat good food. I forget to chew and it makes matters unfavorable.
    My next Dr. appointment is not until October 5th. I pushed the appointment back because I am feeling tight enough right now.
    I am trying to stay positive but I need to learn how play Monopoly quickly. I want to buy PARK PLACE!! Not sure if this has helped anyone but it has helped me to refocus on what it is I need to do. I do not want to gain and I will not get weighed until Oct 5. I am going to make a ricotta pie for dinner tonight Thanks for the recipe my friend. Thanks for playing with me. imaluckydog Kathy
     
    Love, Life, Lilly, and the Pursuit of Happiness
  21. imaluckydog
    This is a GOOD FEELING. Good Morning to all of my LB friends of the world. It is a very Good Good morning this one for sure!! I always wake up with a smile on my face since June 29, 2009, the day I was banded a year ago.
     
    Today my smile is 100 times BIGGER. Yes, The scale said 148 and that is well more than 100. But to me the 100 pound loss is triumphant. The last 5 pounds took almost two months to lose.
     
    Just hang in and follow all the rules and this tool will work for you too. I am living breathing proof. I will have a great day today!! Thanks for all of your support along the way. Best wishes to everyone. imaluckydog
  22. imaluckydog
    I am tight enough I must say. Yesterday, I went for my fourth fill and asked NOT to have it. LOL I feel I am snug enough! I miss eating. Yes, I do.
     
    I can eat a small breakfast. I love my iced coffee in the morning so switching to hot is not going to happen. Even if I could feel more loose. I never have been a breakfast fan, so a little breakfast is fine for me. I am not hungry EVER. I need to force myself to eat.
     
    Lunch is about a half a cup of chili, or stew or eggplant parm, veggie quiche, egg, chicken salad all of which I make myself and protein packed. That is not a lot of food. I do drink water but probably not enough. I never drink anything with a meal.
     
    Dinner tonight was about four bites of a real crabmeat sub (no I do not eat the bread). I gave half of the sandwich to my husband. That made him so happy. I ate 6 potato chips and after about 30 minutes I was able to eat about four more bites a total of about a half a cup of crab total. I feel I am in a state of Band Limbo.
     
    I just miss eating a lot of food. Does anyone else feel that way? Everything I put in my mouth is for a reason to keep me alive. I am probably slowly consuming about 1,700 calories a day most days but not all days. I have been keeping track. I in no way eat low fat. But I do not eat muffins, cake or donuts, very little pasta or any bread for that matter. I am eating as healthily as I can to work with this tool.
     
    I have made many mistakes and I have slowly and painfully learned my lessons well. This is a band Limbo I have found myself in lately. I am happy and sad ;-( at the same time about where I am. Happy I have taken off 68 pounds in 19 weeks. I weighed in on Monday and I lost 8 pounds in 6 weeks. I have lost very steadily and my body has changed so much. I know I have about another 50 to go I am in no hurry, my body will not tolerate anything in a hurry. I eat slowly today and try to enjoy every bite I take. I plan for every meal. I savor the flavor in my mouth and the food texture on my tongue is important to me. I make sure I get enough fruit everyday. I even concentrate on my swallow.
     
    I am in band LIMBO and this is what has happened to me. I still read food magazines and watch the food network and work with food as a professional. I am making the most of what has helped me change for the better. I had another Low Blood pressure reading so I am closer to getting off the medicine. Which will make me even happier. My husband wants me to stop the sleep apnea machine but I am afraid too. He says I do not snore when I do not use it for short periods of time. I am thinking I may give it one night and see if I wake up with a head ache. I have not one head ache since I have been banded and I use to get headaches all the time. It could be because I do not eat crappy food any more. I read labels and set a better table all around me are healthier for it. I have not gone organic don't get me wrong I just prepare all my foods myself now and leave nothing to chance. No MSG.... Use to Make me sick. I love fresh anything. I am Happy with my banded life and am riding a bicycle outside. Nothing makes you feel better than having the crisp fresh fall air in your face as I ride. My next goal is to go skiing this winter so watch out everyone on the mountain I am gonna get the freshies. Those are the first tracks for you non skiers.
     
    Thanks for all your support. I read every blog who needs a support group at a hospital when we have this site. Best Wishes imaluckydog
  23. imaluckydog
    Life is but a Dream!!!
     
    Row, Row, Row, your boat gently down the stream... Merrily, Merrily, Merrily, life is but a DREAM......
     
    I am happily seven weeks post op. I have had some very, very, very good days and only two days I care to forget!!! I went to the Nutritionist today and the first thing she did was weigh me. Yippee DOWN, DOWN, DOWN. She even had the nerve to ask me if I was eating. I told her I was and that it takes me about 45 minutes to eat.
     
    Yes, I do belong to SWA. (Scale Whore Anonymous) You must know that club??? Well I am the member that weighs her shoes at home on a fish scale, so I know how much to take off when I get there. I am on the better than average weight loss track she said to me. That must mean I am doing well!!! I feel WELL!!!!!
     
    I guess that means I’m DOWN my stream just a little more than everyone else!!!!! I am DOWN but not enough for my head. I wanted MORE.. I tell you MORE.....
     
    Going Down my stream has been a DREAM, yes I am singing Merrily along.
     
    I get my next fill August 26, so I will Row, Row, Row my boat a little faster now. I am so close to wonderland/onederland but not DOWN enough. My goal is to be DOWN there by August 26. Going to the GYM in the AM to get the old body moving. I am going everyday now to the gym. Switching up the time of day may help me move faster down my stream.
     
    I must admit I feel so much better today and I am enjoying the gifts of Happiness.
    I am allowing myself to feel the breeze in my face as I Merrily roll down my STREAM. imaluckydog who is not afraid to swim.
  24. imaluckydog
    Hello Three Year Bandversary.
     
    I was banded June 29, 2009 it was three weeks earlier then my original set date. I was ready, you know how ready we get, right! Someone who did not follow all the pre-op diet and all those rules before surgery allowed me to be moved up. Lucky Me!!!
     
    Keep in mind, just remember to follow all those rules no matter how lame you think they are. I honestly felt bad for this person because all I knew was they were scheduled, had the date and did not meet the guidelines. Made my day that’s for sure.
     
    My first suggestion Follow all the rules, no matter what!
     
    As I reflect over my last three years, I can honestly say I have never been HAPPIER with my life.
     
    I would choose this procedure again. It has not made dealing with the everyday life and it’s many traumas really any easier. Yet, it has helped me make better food choices and the issues for me related to the food a whole lot easier.
     
    On my second Bandversary - June 21, 2011 I was able to have the full body nip and tuck and as I remember that was way harder and a much longer recovery than the Lap Band. I thought two weeks and I’d be up and around. It took almost the entire summer to feel better. Two months, so if you are thinking in terms of nip and tuck prepare yourself. It is a much longer recovery and way more painful. I do not regret one minute that I had it done. I love my flat stomach and small breasts now and my arms and legs with exercise don’t look bad. I like swimming and water activities. I can say I am normal, looking and feeling all around now. I love how my clothes fit. I love that I can buy anything I want in any store and I am a normal size. I even see myself in the mirror as normal. I love what I see these days. I never liked the mirror, as a matter of fact I hated it! Looking in the mirror and having a good cry can be a catalyst to change. When you see the results before your very eyes it makes a huge impression. I kept wanting more change. I followed the rules and I did make mistakes. I kept getting back on track. The mirror helps you stay focused on your goal. The scale just validated the number loss. It took a year to lose over 100 pounds. I have kept it off now and am excited to write about it.
     
    My weight has gone up and down 10 pounds and it is always a struggle to lose again. Keeping a positive attitude and blogging made it so much easier for me.
     
    I have had fills and un-fills and more fills do to the surgery, that was my choice. This is what is so wonderful about the Lap Band it all becomes our choices to use the controls inside. Before my nip and tuck I had almost all the fluid taken out. I knew it was risky and yes I did gain weight. Because I gave in to old high calorie habits and choices. I have always said, I want to be small so I should eat small! But if those small choices are HIGH CALORIES there will be problems. I can’t tell you how fast 10 pounds can come back if you make wrong choices. I am getting back to eating real food, not processed, protein first, not too much and mostly plants. They don’t have a lot of calories and are way better for me.
     
    My life has never been happier, my journey has been unique to me and I wish everyone out there all the best on your journey. Keep in touch Blogging helps.
    Best Wishes Love, imaluckydog
  25. imaluckydog

    Nine months

    By imaluckydog,

    Nine months
     
    Wow what can I say but this LB Journey has been BETTER than any amusement park feeling my insurance could buy!! A lot can happen in 9 months. I lost the weight of a small child or young adult for that matter 97 pounds. Wow I FEEL AND LOOK SO DIFFERENT!
     
    I was banded on June 29, 2009. One month early to my surprise. I had all the pre-op work done and I was just doing my job of reading everything I could about LAP-BAND®. I was making sure I was an expert on the subject before I even got banded, Ha Ha LOL I knew absolutely nothing!!! That was of REAL importance to me and my amazing journey. YOU WILL LEARN DAILY!!
    All I knew was eat slow, chew your food well and PROTEIN first and fit all the water and liquids in you can but NOT with a meal. Let me just say there is way more than just this.
     
    I set some goals back in the day, now I will look back at my older blog and see what I have accomplished?
     
    My biggest goal was to go skiing this winter and I did about 10 times I did well and it was just like riding a bike it all comes back to you. I rode a bike too that is so much fun!!!
    I want to dance. Yes. I have been Dancing and it is so fun!
    I want to eat normal. Yes, I eat way normal! EAT FOOD. NOT TOO MUCH. MOSLTY PLANTS.
    I want to think normal. Yes, I think normal!
    I want to look normal. Yes, I look normal!
    I want to FEEL normal. Yes I FEEL normal!
    I want to see myself as NORMAL. Yes, I look at myself and I see normal!
    I want to feel sexy again. Yes, I feel sexy again!
    I want to look sexy again. Ok, I am working on it......
    I want to buy clothes off the rack. Yes, I can buy off the rack!
    I want those clothes to FIT me. Yes, clothes fit me I am a size 12 / 14.
    I want to be looked at, not look through. Yes, people talk to me now and look at me!
    I want to be successful. Yes, I feel and I am successful!
    I want off blood pressure medicine. Yes, I am NOW OFF all Medicine! Yippee.
    I want off my sleep apnea machine. Yes, I am off my apnea machine! Yippee.
    I want my normal body back, the one I had when I met my husband. I am Working on it.
    I was NORMAL I DO remember how it feels. Yes, I must say I FEEL NORMAL again Thanks to my LAP-BAND®
    I HAVE FORGIVEN MYSELF. MANY TIMES
     
    I was invited to speak to a group of newbies and there were about 50 people with many questions. I was with a young man who had GBPS and was at his goal. I am not at goal yet but have been successful on my journey and work well with my band. I was able the thank my Doctors and give back to the program that has given so much me. Wishing you and all my FRIENDS the best on your journey. I am still learning everyday. imaluckydog

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