I'm about half way through the tons of pre-op clearance appointments for a December surgery. It's a tough place: both of hope and fears.

But... today, I am celebrating baby steps and a few pre-op non-surgery victories.

I have 4 kiddos: twins that are 15, a 5 year old, and a 3 year old. All girls. Where's my gold star for that alone?

Anyway, I'm currently sharing plates, bowls, and utensils with my toddler. I did not get upset today when I had to have green instead of pink. I cut up her food before I diced mine to pencil-eraser size. I tried not to be jealous of her cute sippy cup sitting next to her plate. Tried. Seriously, not drinking before, during and after a meal is rough!

So woot woot for me! Anyone else?

Actually, it is woot woot woot for anyone who is is still on this journey. It is not easy. I read an article in the New York Times about six months ago that said --only half the people who start on this process actually make it to the OR. There are so many hoops to jump through. Show up for all your appointments, be on time, get all the tests, deal with all sorts of problems that might pop up. It takes a lot of courage to approach bariatric surgery. When it gets hard for me, even now that I am about 10 days away from my surgery, I remind myself of how far I have come. So hang in there, everyone!

Gold stars for you!

no. Gold Stars for you!!!