Last night for some reason I was feeling a bit down... I've said this many times to many folks - when this happens dig deep in your tool box and pull something out that will *fix* that mood. These are a few pics of me I took last night. This was my original size pants in the black (of course... lol) size 28W... I used to fit these at my heaviest, 330+ Lbs. They were even tight!! I refused to cross over into the 30's. My tops were a 3X, even sometimes a 4X (not as much) but still...

They are matched up against my "goal" jeans, size 8M. How did I not realize how large I really was? I've never been able to really recognize the true me, I still don't now. I might never, though I hope to someday.

Anyway I have redirected my new goal to a size 4M with those same style/cut jeans. After that I'm done... finish... even if I weigh 180 Lbs. In a few years when I have the excess skin removed, whatever doesn't fix itself in that time I'm sure that will be a few more pounds off anyway.

This is for all those who are pre-op, on the fence, not sure, just searching, or even feeling low due to stalling or whatever reason... it can and will happen for you! I have endured many stalls in my journey. I have gone weeks with little or no losses. My weight is coming of slow... but you know what (I've lost 75 Lbs in 8 months)? Something about me, I NEVER GIVE UP AND I NEVER GIVE IN!!! I am very close to goal and I FEEL LIKE I'M THERE ALREADY!!! Just a little fine tuning away.

Lotsa hugs and smiles, Irene.

Before/The Beginning:

Currently:

LilMissD,

All I can say is "Wow, what an amazing transformation!" Just the inspiration I need because I'm getting sleeved on

Weds.! I will be sure to save a pair of pants (26WP -- I'm barely 5'1") for moments when I forget where I've been

and where I'm going!

To be able to say (or type the words) "150 pounds gone forever" -- you achieved that!!! What an accomplishment!

Thank you to all the "veterans" for being honest and encouraging! I couldn't do this without all of you!

LilMissD,

All I can say is "Wow, what an amazing transformation!" Just the inspiration I need because I'm getting sleeved on

Weds.! I will be sure to save a pair of pants (26WP -- I'm barely 5'1") for moments when I forget where I've been

and where I'm going!

To be able to say (or type the words) "150 pounds gone forever" -- you achieved that!!! What an accomplishment!

Thank you to all the "veterans" for being honest and encouraging! I couldn't do this without all of you!

I cannot say enough how important it is to remember where we've been. Without remembering the past you cannot appreciate your future, and I do!!! We're also doomed to repeat it, and I'm here to tell you I NEVER EVER WILL!!

I'm not quite at 150 Lbs gone forever yet, that is my next mini goal. I'm working on it though!!! I'm working really hard for it too. The pounds sure aren't as cooperative now as they were in the beginning. It's ok though, I think that will just make me appreciate them all the more.