Ok, every year I think really hard about my NY resolution. It's always the same. I'm going to lose weight and get healthier..lol. And, what happens is I usually end the year weighing MORE than I started. But, this year, I can say that and actually KNOW it's going to happen. A few months ago, I decided that I needed to be around for my grandkids to help them win battles against their parents and to give them an occasional break from those worn out aggravated parents. And, also to relieve my children from the joys of parenthood, which should really be called the joys of grandparenthood. Because, honestly, when we are experiencing parenthood for the most part it's hectic, tiresome and becomes a routine of day in, day out and unfortunately, you don't take time to smell the roses. However, when we're grandparents, we get to actually enjoy those kids and see things through their eyes. No longer are we the disciplinarian, but, the one that gets to provide the extras and the fun days out.

Anyway, back to my resolution. with my decision to finally lose weight and be successful, since dieting just didn't work for me, Call me weak, not motivated or a loser, I don't care. You're right. I DID NOT have the will power to do it. Anyway, I had weight loss surgery on Oct. 21st. And, now here I am, 8 weeks later, and down 48 pounds. Yay! I weigh less now than I have in 10 years. Sad, but true. I still have 60 more to go and although it seems like I should reach it pretty quickly, I know that there are going to be stalls and roadblocks, but, dangit, I'm ready.

I can already tell a difference in my energy level, my snoring is almost gone, I have legs again that are actually able to cross, and a jawline. Along with that, there are some negative things that I will have to deal with, like the fact, I thought my boobs were perkier than they really are, because once the pillow started going away they were sitting on, let's just say they have more of an elongated look.....oh well. And, although my legs are looking like legs again, I'm not sure what that droopy stuff is above my knees or the jigglies under my arm. But, these are things I'm willing to accept for the sake of gaining an extra 10 or more years to enjoy my life with my family.

So, why am I writing this. BECAUSE, I hope that someone (anyone) will read it and make changes to get healthier in 2014. Because the damage you do to your body is sometimes irreversible. Yes, I had surgery to lose weight and I will, but, let's face it, irreperable damage has been done and other than having surgery to fix EVERYTHING, which I can't afford, I'm stuck with the damage I have done to my body for 25 years.

So, my resolution this year is to exercise more and TRY to get some of MY body back in shape. And, to warn anyone that will listen not to become a couch potato snacking on meals of chips and hot sauce, topped off with Rocky Road Ice Cream without realizing you, too, will pay the price.

Congratulations on your journey thus far.

I was just telling someone the other day it's so nice to NOT be making "go on a diet" as a New Year's resolution. It always got broken anyway

Mine is save money for plastic surgery.

Love your post!

Congrats.