It was so easy to deal with buffets and food fairs when I had my band. Knowing that one bite too many would result in a really uncomfortable situation gave me the strength to choose tiny amounts of quality foods judiciously. But the other day we went to an international festival at my daughters' school, and OH. MY. GOD. With nothing to stop me, I sampled foods from 17 countries with abandon.

I can't wait until I get my new band.

I feel your....well,not pain, Alexandra. I was unfilled for almost 3 weeks and gained 8 pounds - mostly because I was allowed only liquids and mushies, but part self-pity, too.

I got a small fill last week, but my restriction is almost nil. I'm due for another on June 4th...thank goodness. In the meantime, once I got over feeling sorry for myself, I got really angry at self for having so little discipline. I joined a gym and punished myself for an hour each last Wed, Thurs, and Fri. (I also rewarded me with a nice lay-out session by the pool, a relaxing 10 or 15 minutes in the whirlpool each day, and awesome visits to the Eucalyptus steam room.)

Last night we ate Chinese (buffet) after church and it was awesome. I haven't been able to eat some of those things in almost two years. Enjoying it while I can, but looking forward to no fried won ton in my future.

Hi Alexandra, Oh the pain! When will you be getting your new band? I am so grateful that this wonderful technology is available to us now. Imagine twenty years ago people did not have the option of having a band inserted. Imagine the technology in another twenty years.

Meanwhile hang in there. Susannah