I just have an observation about my journey (short as it might be: I was sleeved on 5/23/16). I had to go through a comprehensive program before I could get a referral to the surgeon. Nutrition classes, support groups, psych eval, exercise classes, smoking cessation lectures, monthly weigh-ins...pretty much the whole shootin' match. I was explicitly instructed on every aspect of the surgery of my choosing. I was given a goal weight to reach and was not to gain ANY weight or I got to go back to the beginning and do it all again. Once I completed all of this "stuff", I would advance to the next phase. I am sure this is no surprise to anyone here by now; it's pretty much the gold standard in weight loss centers of excellence. So here's the part I am finding the most fascinating and INFURIATING: I did it all flawlessly. I sailed through that program and got approved for surgery in three months. Then, I endured my two week pre-op liquid diet like a champ. Never cheated once. I reached my surgery goal weight and all was well! Fast-forward to today. I have done everything by the book...and NOW I can't seem to lose ONE damn pound? Wasn't the surgery supposed to make things happen? Wasn't it supposed to be a great tool that might even make things a little easier? I am so disappointed in myself and the "process". The thing I hate most of all is this: I can't seem to relax and let this happen. I just wake up every morning, still at the same weight, and keep on keepin' on. And I ask myself: What have I done ANY of this for? I am so afraid I will end up the same fat person with the same fat problems, only my insides got rearranged and I went through a lot of sh*t to lose 30 pounds. And then I pray. I pray for success. I pray for patience. I need this to work. Is it going to work?

Disclaimer: I am in no way meaning this to be a pity party, and I don't want anyone to feel sorry for me. I just needed to get this off my chest, and maybe hear from someone who also struggled like I am. Nothing more, nothing less. Thanks for listening.

Stay off the scale if it's bothering you. Measure your success by how your clothes feel. Remember, you can lose inches without pounds.

Also. Find a pair of leggings and a tank top. Put them on and have someone take your picture, front, back and both sides. Do this from the same distance once per week.

Best comparison shots ever. I say black pants and white tank because these are basics and easy to find as you shrink out of your originals.