Hello -

I havn't been here in at least 6 months -crazy life. I've been banded now for just over a year and have lost almost 60 pounds.

For some of the folks that have been around for awhile they know my husband has been gone since about 2 weeks after my surgery. (Although he did get leave in Feb). I feel as though he'll be coming home to a whole new wife. Even though I've still not reached my goal (got another 40lbs or so) my entire life / attitude / confidence is completely different. I've actually started becoming a little cocky (imagine that!!).

My children and I recently took a month long vacation and visited many relatives that I havn't seen in years or have never met before. Most of the places we visited were up north so of course there were many STAIRS which I managed with NO problems at all. We went to a couple of theme parks (I fit in the seats) we toured DC, Philly, Detroit, went hiking, and even CAVING with NO PROBLEMS AT ALL.

For those of you who are scared or questioning whether or not you should have the band - I too, was FREAKED OUT - WHAT WAS I GOING TO DO TO MYSELF? The scars? The pain? The problems? The food? If I had to do it all over again, I would - IN A SECOND.

I am happy for your weight loss- Im THRILLED your husband will be coming home!! Im hoping Everything is better than you expect!! You have my prayers for his safe return and please tell him THANK YOU for his sacrifice and allowing me to have my continued freedom!!!

GOD BLESS our armed forces!!

Cheryl, you have done absolutely amazing. How wonderful to be able to take a months long vacation with your children and touring like you did, I bet that will be a lifelong, beautiful memory.

So, if it is not being too forward, would you mind sharing your before and after pictures with us?

Thank you so much - it has been a VERY long year.

And, yes, we had a wonderful vacation, just wished everyday that my husband could have been with us.

I did just post my pictures on the Before and After page.