Hey Everyone,

I got a coupon in the mail for the Avenue store. If I buy 75 dollars worth of stuff, I get 30 dollars off my purchase. So I went there yesterday because I need a new coat for the winter and I figured that would eat up the dollars. I also dont own a sweater, need pants etc. Truthfully, I dont have anything for that matter and I have been too cheap to buy clothes. I tried on a 14-16 coat. It was a little too big, but I figured if I put on heavy sweaters underneath it would be fine. It was the smallest size in the store, so it wasnt like I had a choice anyway except to leave. I know that this will be the last year I will be able to wear it, but it was cheap and cute. At least I will be able to wear it between here and goal next year.

I tried on shirts that were size 14. They were all too big and falling off my shoulders. I picked up a pair of size 14 pants. Holy cow, they fit!!!! This is the first size 14 I own since 1983 for pants since I am bottom heavy. So it seems like I am officially out of plus size stores!!!!!!

On top, I went from a size 26 to a woman;s large or size 12, and on the bottom I have gone from size 28 and I am now a 14 (Gasp!) and sometimes 16.

It was clear that some of the women that worked there thought I was nuts jumping around both in the dressing room and at the cash register. I still cant believe that I have gotten this far. No more AVENUE OR LANE BRYANT ever again. This was my last trip there and I am so excited that I never have to go there again!

Babs in TX

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Babs, that is wonderful. I think for me having more choices in clothes is going to be marvelous. And deadly to my pocketbook.

Babs, you are an inspiration to those of us in the early part of our band journey -- no, you are an inspiration, period. Congratulations!

Hi Guys!!!

All of you are great!! Thanks for all the kind words!!!

Babs in TX

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6/23/03

Gosh, Babs, I don't even know how to buy clothes in regular stores. Wow, what must that be like? Lots of success going on around here. I'm worried for myself because my head hunger is a huge problem, so I'm glad I can come here and see all this hope. But a regular size clothing store? That blows me away. Congrads in a big way.

Hi Lisa,

You are doing great despite the problems you have had with your band and infections. You are right on track to lose 100 pounds or more your first year with the band. Heck, you are ahead of the curve. It feels great being able to go anywhere to buy clothes. Now if I only had the money for a new wardrobe life would be grand. But business has been slow and I am being frugal for now......!!

Babs in TX

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