We'll today is a major milestone for me. For the second time in my lifetime I have lost 127 pounds. The first time was when I turned 40, I lost a total of 127 pounds on the Body for Life Program. Today 9 months after my lapband surgery I have lost another 127 pounds. Last time I gained it all back plus another 20. Here is why I know this will never happen to me again.

The first time I lost all the weight, I thought that when I lost the weight I could stop and go back to the way I was before. Big mistake. I have now learned that changing the way you live is for life. Weight management is for life and we need to focus more on the change in lifestyle than just counting the pounds. Last time I learned how to work out very hard, drink lots of Protein shakes and it worked for awhile until I fell back into my old habits. This time I finally learned to eat properly. Take small bites and to chew my food well and to eat slower. I finally learned to listen to my body when it was full instead of eating so fast I never even really had a chane to taste the food. This time I learned to incorporate exercise into my daily routine rather making it a chore. This time I learned to use food as a fuel for my body and not a solution for any stress I may be feeling.

If I could offer everyone who may be starting on their journey one piece of advice. Focus on the change and not the pounds. If you succeed with the change the pounds will take of themselves. I hope I haven't been too preachy, but I thought the advice could help some of you.

Thank you for sharing this with us! Congratulations on your accomplishments!

I hear you.... I lost 100+ pounds TWICE before (how sick is that?).... Both times in my twenties. I'm now 53 and may be at a 100+ pound weight loss. I say "may be" bc I only weigh at the doc's every month and I won't weigh again till Feb. 8. Last month, I had reached a 98 pound loss. I, too, have become an exerciser. I look forward to an hour if cardio six or even seven times a week. I have learned to listen to my body and study my FULL signals. And this time, I'M NOT ON A DIET!!! I eat healthy food to fuel my body and my buddy, the band, helps me with portion control. Congrats on your weight loss. That's a hell of a weight loss!!!!!!

Wonderful post. Thank you, thank you. Need the encouragement just now!

Thank you! I needed this today! Congrats on your weight loss and thank you for being an inspiration to those who are just beginning our journey!

Wonderful and congratulations!!!