I took a bit of a break from the forums because I was obsessing a bit. Went out of town (so soon after surgery?!) and that was craziness. It wasn't fun at all... but it wasn't horrible? Anyways... I know how it feels to be bulimic because as I slowly introduce "real" food, I eat too fast or too much, and the food hangs out in my throat... so I throw up the excess. This happens A LOT unfortunately. I am trying to be careful! What can ya do... just suffer through it.

On the positive end of things, I have found several ways to get Protein in each day and I'm lovin' it. My doctor was very disappointed when I went in (July 10) and I told him I wasn't getting enough protein in (20g-30g) per day. So he made some suggestions, etc. I also saw the psychologist the same day. That helped immensely to regain focus and be more positive. Follow up appointments have been scheduled with both, as well as a NUT, which I have yet to see.

SOOOOOOOOOOOO I tried Syntrax nectar Lemon Tea flavor Protein powder. SO GOOD. Tastes like an Arnold Palmer. Here's my little process: Mix the protein powder with purified Water (room temp), pour over ice and squeeze a fresh lemon into it and voila... Arnold Palmer. I love it because I'm getting 23g of protein AND roughly 12oz of water. Bonus!

My mom also showed me this awesome smoothie recipe (she had the sleeve 3 years back and she's just getting back on track). It's super easy but this early on, I can drink about a quarter of a smoothie. The other problem with smoothies is that they melt and refrigerating/freezing them doesn't work so well. HOWEVER, if I drink as much smoothie as I can, take a break, then get back on it, I am able to get 25g of protein within a few hours. I will take it! Some days it doesn't work with the schedule but that's why I have my protein Arnold Palmer that I can take anywhere.

Speaking of, I am investing in a BUNCH of these travel cups with straws (I know, straws are supposed to bad) and they work extremely well on the go. I can drink my protein or eat my smoothie on the go and it is very, very helpful.

Needless to say, I am OVER pre-made, "milky" Protein shakes for the moment. Not to say I will never have them again but for now, they are on my "DO NOT CONSUME" list, along with a few other things that my pouch isn't ready for.

In conclusion: I am about 8 weeks out from surgery, I've lost about 37lb so far, I am getting 60g or more of protein in per day and my next step is getting 30 minutes of cardio in. Also, I've come to the realization that I don't need to be so down on myself for failing or not doing what I'm supposed to, as long as there is an effort put in every day. Mentally and emotionally, it is difficult but now I am on the up and up of my process and I am happy that I finally have a good grasp on my lifestyle. BABY STEPS!

You are doing fantastic! Keep up the good work. You can't change overnight - take one day at a time and set realistic goals. You will get there! Rock on!!

Carol