This is what it's all about

[gowalking 10,790]

As a banded person for more than 3 1/2 years, and on maintenance for more than two of those years, I weigh myself daily to keep in check but do not focus on the numbers.

I don't post much anymore but I still go on the site regularly to see what's up. As a veteran, I try to let folks know that there really is a rainbow at the end of all this fear and uncertainty.

I understand completely that if you are new, or still losing weight, that the numbers are important. Just remember to focus on living your life, and enjoying the experiences you once could not. It's not what you weigh, but how involved you are as a participant in life. Most of us know what it's like to be on the sidelines looking in rather than being part of what's going on.

That picture of me and my grandson was taken just the other day. I went to an amusement park with my family and walked all over. I got on to the rides with the baby. I fit everywhere...I participated in everything. And with every step I took, and with every ride I went on with him, I sent up a prayer of thanks for getting my life back.

The gentleman I'm with is my boyfriend. His late wife was sick, obese, and mobility challenged. He knows I was once in her shoes. He appreciates what I did to get healthy and supports me always. We do things together and while he loved his wife and still does, he also loves that he has a companion now who can do things with him rather than have to stay at home.

The last picture is me when I was obese...and that's not the largest I was either. I wanted to have that picture juxtaposed with me on the bicycle to show the difference between before and after. I went riding that day in Central Park to make sure I could handle it as I was heading to London and planned on riding through all the Royal Parks on a tour. I struggled for sure, but I made it. And had a great time as well.

So..the story here is...pay attention to your weight loss journey, but make it about your life and your experiences, and not what you weigh. Success is not measured in pounds, it's measured in being an active participant in your life.

Have a great weekend everyone.

[AgentSmith 39]

Good on you! I know exactly what you mean and it's a beautiful thing! I try to do everything I couldn't do before and love every minute! Great job!

Sent from my iPhone using the BariatricPal App

[Cervidae 2,389]

Yes! Great post! And something I really, really needed to hear and must remember during the times when I get obsessed with the number on the scale. I have a LIFE now and a future. Thank you for reminding me! And thank you for sharing this beautiful story and your pictures.

p.s. - I'm going to an amusement park tomorrow, and I'm going to ride every single ride that I haven't fit into since I was 14.

[#9grammy 274]

What a great success story, bravo to you! You look wonderful and full of life enjoy, for as long as you can.

[Valentina 2,642]

Great post, Friend.

I've decided NOT to hold it against you just because you are a METS fan. (the METS do have one of my favorites with them now---Granderson).

Enjoy your joyful journey!

[Julie norton 2,850]

Jackpot. On life... And the boyfriend who likes baseball...⚾️⚾️happy for you and yours. Your message about enjoying the ride is wonderful. Numbers change on the scale, but a healthy life goes on and on... Hopefully