Hello fellow sleevers,

just thought I would start a thread for all those who want to get to goal in 2012, regardless of where we are in the process.

I posted it the 'Slow Loser' thread, because that is what I am!! (I am not complaining by the way, just pleased to be a loser...lol)

For me to get there, I know that at 18mths out I need to be strict, accountable and have support from those in the same 'place', who understand that the sleeve isn't a miracle but a tool.

I have done well so far, but the weight hasn't 'melted' off me and since 6mths post op I have had to fight for each and every pound. At first it made me a little bitter, frustrated and I started to get into a 'dark place' about it, now the scale victory tastes sooooo sweet!

I have taken the month of December 'off'... I needed to rest from the constant worry of food, cals, water, carbs and protein... my head was spinning and I was starting to feel very frustrated and overwhelmed at not being at goal again. I needed time out!

I have thoroughly enjoyed the Christmas period and I have eaten what I wanted and when I wanted it; this includes ALL foods, no food was off limit and I let my sleeve do its job! The quantity was low but I still enjoyed every mouthful. Interestingly, I found that my cravings were satisified very quickly... 1 or 2 biscuits/sweets, and so on, hit the spot, instead of 5,6,7,... you get the picture. Subconscious damage limitation? I don't know but I like it!

I have learnt a lot by doing this. I now know that I can eat a little more if I 'try'... I know that I can enjoy food again without feeling guilty and I know that food doesn't have to be the enemy. So, with all that, what was the outcome? Yep, I have gained 2lbs above my personal bounce! Oops!

I am not, in the slightest, worried about this because I KNOW what is the cause... sugar and salt! And this time, I am sure it will come off as quick as it went on!

So, what is the plan?

Per my surgeon's instructions: I am going back to basics... yep that ole one...lol

• 3 meals a day - no snacking.
  
• Weighing my meals between 6-8oz depending on what is on the plate.
  
• Protein first, followed by veggies.
  
• Plenty of water.
  
• A limit of 1000 cals a day.
  
• Continue with my exercise - boxing twice a week, gym in work 1-2 times a week (depending on work load) and walking my dog (just over a 2 mile circuit). The exercise is the only thing that I have stuck to in December... I actually enjoy it now!!
  

As a side note, and I ain't sure if my American friends can get this, but here in the Uk, on SKY there are a few fitness channels. I have recorded some aerobic workouts that are really good... they're free and can be done at home... this is saving me some money on classes and DVDs and if I don't like the workout I can delete and look for another!! Bonus!!

Ok, who is ready to join me on the final stretch to goal... hope on board and enjoy the ride my friends...

Laura, you look great!!!and your son is too cute!

Laura' date=' you look great!!!and your son is too cute![/quote']

Thank you

Laura you and your son look so cute! Love the progress you've made! Keep it up.....I need to go back and read the posts, I've been up in the mountains tearing out the kitchen cabinets and cleaning.....i'm so tired, but sad I haven't been able to keep up with every one......Have fun in Colorado.....

My son and I on our ride yesterday

Challenge June_SummerChallenge.xls

Cutie pies!

My son and I on our ride yesterday

You both look so healthy and happy! Have a safe trip home!

My son and I on our ride yesterday

Hey Laura you look fantastic and it's great to see you out there having fun.

Good news is, I have quit drinking, back on a healthy diet and doing all the right things. We are planning to bring our 7 year old granddaughter to Disneyland in May so maybe we could catch up for a coffee?

Hey Laura you look fantastic and it's great to see you out there having fun.

Good news is' date=' I have quit drinking, back on a healthy diet and doing all the right things. We are planning to bring our 7 year old granddaughter to Disneyland in May so maybe we could catch up for a coffee?[/quote']

Wendy,

That's is good news! You know I've been rooting for you

And if you come to California you'd better let me know!

Two weeks ago I met up with another member of this forum (deedadumble up there)when she came into town, it's always nice meeting people face to face

Ok ladies I'm off to Moab today! Maybe I'll sweat some of this weight off!

FYE hope your having fun at the coast! Coops must be in Spain by now. And skinniness knowing you did the cabinets yourself is going to make them that much better!

Have a wonderful sweaty day at Moab today.....make sure you drink a lot of water too.............and I am totally excited about those kitchen cabinets too....They will look so beautiful to the house...... Good hard work.... LOL

Ok ladies I'm off to Moab today! Maybe I'll sweat some of this weight off!

FYE hope your having fun at the coast! Coops must be in Spain by now. And skinniness knowing you did the cabinets yourself is going to make them that much better!

My husband was in Moab yesterday, he drove over 700 miles straight through to Sacramento! Crazy mofo! Anyway, hot as h*ll all the way. 108 today. Drink lots of aqua girl!

My son and I on our ride yesterday

Challenge June_SummerChallenge.xls

You are both so cute, and you look like you are having so much fun!

Okay, I'm craving Peanut Butter but its got so many calories for so little and I know it has protein but I think ill overdo. Has anybody used PB2 stuff and honest reviews?

Okay, I'm craving Peanut Butter but its got so many calories for so little and I know it has protein but I think ill overdo. Has anybody used PB2 stuff and honest reviews?

I have used it in shakes and protein cakes and it gives a nice flavor and is not gritty at all. However, I never tried mixing it with water and turning it back into "peanut butter", so I can't comment on that. If I am really craving peanut butter, I have some natural stuff in the fridge that I sweetened myself with stevia. I warm up a couple of tablespoons in the microwave and have it with an apple. Then you still get the peanut butter without eating half the tub and the apple really helps to fill you up!

Now you have me craving peanut butter with apples!

Thanks for the input on PB2. Gonna try it. Here's hoping.