I was banded 2 years ago and had a lot of initial success, but for various reasons I slacked off for about a year. I've gone back to basics, with lots of protein shakes and eating simple, protein-rich foods. Toward that goal, I started a blog, and I'm aiming to write in it every day -- I'm taking the weekends off, generally. My blog is called I'm With the Band, and it's here. The blog and renewed effort have paid off. In the week since I started the blog, I've gone back to losing weight. I'm always thinking about my eating and it's kept me on track. My goal is to break into Onederland by Oct. 6, my next doctor appointment, and I'm pretty sure that will happen. I'm not one for writing in journals, but I do enjoy writing for an audience (I have another blog about my efforts to publish my novel, but it's not going as well as the weight loss). I'd love to hear from anyone who reads it. And good luck to everyone in their losing efforts.

Congrats on getting back on track, Julia! Don't lose sight of the fact that you're 78.5 lbs healthier already.

Hi Julia,

Read your blog. Was great! I have never tried to do one. I used to write as young girl(many moons ago!) I; also, was banded in 2009. Mine was Oct. 30, 2009. I have met goal, but maintenance is a bugger for me. Anyway, I will follow your blog. Friend me if you like. Karen

Thanks for reading, everyone. I've been feeling great! I feel like I've taken my life back, and it's carrying over to other parts of my life.

Still following your blog! Do you have a direct access to it? I have to find this title to access it. Today it was on the 2nd page. Can't believe you slept that late; my husband would be so proud of you. Karen

Still following your blog! Do you have a direct access to it? I have to find this title to access it. Today it was on the 2nd page. Can't believe you slept that late; my husband would be so proud of you. Karen

Thanks for reading! The direct URL is TheJuliaNelson.blogspot.com. The posts go in reverse chronological order, so the newer ones are at the top.

I book marked it, so I can follow your blog. I totally agree with the last entry about just making a mistake and starting over, again Karen