Hey all.

So there's a bunch of us in this group, all split up into our different banding days. I was thinking that it might be a good idea to have one master thread as we move through the month, in which all of us could post as we go, from the pioneers going on March 1st to the finalists on March 31st.

I'd love to talk about our anticipation and any worries as we approach our banding date, for people to talk about exactly what happened from the moment they walked into the hospital door until the second they walked out, about how recovery is going, about weight loss and plateaus, about non-scale victories and challenges.

I was thinking that if we all contribute to one thread, it'll form a more substantial channel for information and support. At the moment, I was thinking that we might be too spread out into individual date, and that a central thread would be a really good backbone for the group, in addition to the date-specific threads.

What do you think?

Fenton

Lisa- fantastic list of things that you have accomplished, and many NSV's!!!! It made me reflect on the things that I am grateful for too. Thanks for sharing:)

Wifey- I have noticed for myself, as I go thru this life's journey... When I began to pay more attention to my needs, instead of running around and taking care of everyone else... unfortunately this can sometimes lead us into unexpected places. My DH and I have had some very serious issues in the past, that divorce has been discussed. Thank goodness, we have come to an understanding, and have decided to stay together and raise our children together. The problem will always be there, but so far we both have put each other and our children first... and we are both very content with our lives the way it is. However, no guarantees in life, it could change at anytime... but I know I put forth the best I had to offer. I wish you peace and happiness with wherever this leads you:)

Lynn, so sorry about the loss of your dog. Been there, done that. It sucks for everyone, including other canine friends left behind.

I'm blessed with a rather wonderful relationship with DH. It might not be everything I always wanted but its everything I need.

Sometimes when he's sleeping I look over and cry because there might be a day when he's not there. He is 18 years my senior so that is a very real possibility.

I have been divorced since 1998, and am glad I made the choice. I have had my stryuggles, emotionally, financialyy and such over the past years.. but over all the best choice I could have made. There have been many dates and some relationships over the past 10 years, but always something to derail them.. Taking the current relationship slow, and seeing how it all plays out..

UGH. weigh in in a few days!!! not sure any wait loss again this week, but Fiday will tell the truth.

Hi Shamrocks!

Robin - I have to tell you that I have heard a lot about how relationships have problems once one person changes dramatically in some way, so I don't think you are alone.

Lynn - sorry to hear about your dog. I was pretty upset when mine died. I'll see you tonight at the meeting.

BrandNew - Nice to see you back. WOW, 70 pounds is a lot of weight to have off. Don't beat yourself up for the past, just do what you need to do now. Very cool that people are now seeing you. That is such a good feeling. There were times when I felt invisible as well.

Jennifer - Wow, what a couragous decision. It sounds like you are trying to take care of yourself. Good for you!

I am finally "coming out" about my surgery to several friends. I basically only told three people. Two of them were getting the surgery after me and I knew they would keep my secret. I now feel that I won't "fail". I am also much stronger and think I can handle any nonsense that I suspect is out there. You know, that "your taking the easy way out" crap. If they only knew!

I am looking forward to getting on the scale on Friday. Holy cow, did I say that?

Hi all! I haven't been on in awhile either. I do love to check in and just read to see what's going on with everyone. You all seem to be doing well. Keep up the good work.

OK, Shamrocks! THursday today, tomorrow's the big weigh-in day!

Today is LAST CHANCE WEIGHT LOSS DAY!!!

Everyone must try extra hard to stick to the straight and narrow intake-wise, and to maintain their exercise schedule!

And Sugarbean: the eyes of a watching nation are upon you!

Not really, but I'm hoping you managed to reverse course for this week.

In other news, we've finally sorted out my gym membership issues; I restart February 1, after which point: look out!

Do we really have to weigh in tomorrow??????????

YES! There is no other option!

Everyone must weigh in tomorrow, or face the wrath of... THE CLAW!!!

Hi Fenton, I could not wait and I weighed in early. I am excited to say that I have finally lost the 2 lbs and I have now lost 100!!!!lbs. )))))) WOOOHOOO!!!

I was getting a little frustrated. I just could not get rid of the last 2lbs of the first 100lbs. But I did it. I can not believe it. Thank you to everyone for being a part of our Shamrock group. You have really helped me to stay motivated and helped me to push through the rough times.

Now on to the next 80 lbs to GOAL!!!

And Sugarbean: the eyes of a watching nation are upon you!

Thanks Fenton for all the pressure.

[quote=potatie;1119168 I am excited to say that I have finally lost the 2 lbs and I have now lost 100!!!!lbs. )))))) WOOOHOOO!!! Now on to the next 80 lbs to GOAL!!!

YOU GO GIRL!!!

Potatie! OMG! FANTASTIC!!!

Pat yourself on the back!

And tomorrow, weigh in again and post in the right item - or FEAR THE WRATH OF THE CLAW!!!

Sugar, it ain't no thing - you do the best you can, and we've got your back. And if you didn't make it this week, you'll make it next week - or face the wrath of the CLAW!!!

I've been having a day of ungood eating. Yesterday was my monthly Day of Indulgence. Today I was back in the groove, and then this whole thing with the US Air flight happened, and it let me a bit upset. I shall go out to dinner tonight to Celebrate their escape. And there will be champagne, and red wine and whatnot, and even dessert. And tomorrow, I shall face the wrath of the CLAW!!!

Hi Fenton, I could not wait and I weighed in early. I am excited to say that I have finally lost the 2 lbs and I have now lost 100!!!!lbs. )))))) WOOOHOOO!!!

Awwww, potatie, that is amazing!!! Congrats! I am 30 lbs away, and I hope to be really close by my 1 year anniversary. I refer to it is my other birthday now, as I feel like that is when I started a whole new life.

EXCELLENT JOB!!!!!!! :thumbup:

Fenton - What is the deal with the wrath of the CLAW?

You are cracking me up. :wink:

Sorry, it wouldn't let me include a photo, but this ought to explain things neatly:

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Q7yhoj_JZ1s/SROBfW5agcI/AAAAAAAAAuE/0qchhPW_sWc/s1600-h/claw.jpg

Edited January 16, 200917 yr by Fenton