It is 4 months today since..

I woke up before the sun, drove to the hospital full of apprehension, ready to flee the scene before someone sedates me, but putting up a brave front to keep my mom's nerves at ease.. got greated by some friendly nurses and a funny anesthesiologist, everyone wishing me an advanced happy birthday (it was 9 days from the surgery..) and got sleeved into a new life.

I cant believe it is 4 months already..! I remember everything from my surgery day (up until I was transfered to the operating table o'course) like it was yesterday...

Deciding to not run away from the hospital was probably the second best decision of my life..

Having said that.. It was not a easy ride.. the chewing, 30 minute no drinking rule, slimies, trying to get in enough fluids, Protein, countin calories, carbs, dirty looks from the waiters when I ask for a to-go box, hair loss, and oh yes.. the dreaded stalls! I seem to be in more stall weeks than in loss weeks in any given month.. but hey if thats how my body wants to roll..

Will I do this all over again..? I don't know.. will a surgeon be ok with removing 85% of my already 15% stomach?

Here are a few pictures of the journey.. please don't mind me not smiling.. I can't.. really... put a camera in front of me.. and I have no clue what to do!

In the last picture..it is my.. "I'm in a stall.. again! what do I do this time" face.. :ph34r: I don't see any difference in the 2.5 and 3.5 months pic.. but the clothes surely fit more loosely..

Keep it up you are looking fantastic!

I can totally see a difference!! You look mahvelous!

I can definitely see it, you're doing great!!

You look great! I was 4 months out yesterday! It seems like so long ago. A whole new way of eating and I love it! Keep up the good work!

Here are a few tips to learn how to smile for pictures:

1. Say the word "Sea" - your mouth has to smile to say the word

2. Think of how much weight you have lost just as the picture is being taken

3. Say "Banana Pants" outloud - for some reason that always makes me laugh

4. Imagine the look that would appear on your doctors face if you asked him to remove 85% of your 15% stomach!

Seriously though - you look great. I think when you hit your next goal you need to challenge yourself to post a smiling picture!

Wow great job!!