OK, so I was just reading the thread "Things I wont miss about being obese". I thought it would be a neat idea to jot down a few things about the things that have changed in my life since I have become a bandster. I hope others will join me as well in doing this.

Things that have changed are:

*After 14 pounds lost I can now put on my comfy blue jeans without having to lay on the bed and suck my gut in to zip and button them.

*I can now walk to the bus stop with my kids and not get out of breath by the time I reach to middle of the road.

*I haven't had the first Asthma attack (knock on wood)

*I have quit smoking (haven't had one in 3 weeks and 4 days now)

*The big thing that has changed is THE 14 POUNDS I HAVE LOST THAT WILL NEVER EVER GO BACK ON!!!!

the list could go on and on and on, but I will stop there.

I am not winded going up several flights of stairs.

I feel like I can walk or bike forever. It is now not a matter of taking a rest, it is more like I have other things to do.

My heart rate is lower and it takes a lot more to get it going. What was vigorous activity for me before is now only moderate. Standard workouts just don't cut it for me anymore.

I used to find that I was always "catching up" to my husband, now that has been reversed. Sometimes he can't keep up with me since I have sooo much more energy.

I physically feeeellll goooddd. Better than I ever have. It is like I never even knew how good it could be to feel this great, because I thought how I felt before was normal. I have a spring in my step that definitely wasn't there before.

I love my band!!!

My life has completely changed in five months. Completely!

I can run a flight of stairs (doesn't wind me anymore)

I can get in and out of my car without groaning

I play with my children

I get out of a chair without help - even off the floor too!

I can RUN! (Huge one for me)

I shop in the misses section (1st time in 10 years)

I tie my shoes so they aren't lopsided

I can cross my legs

I enjoy sex again (maybe TMI - but hey I used to hate it)

Non-Elastic Pants

Dresses

I no longer need naps and I get up early

I have energy

I found my confidence

I LOVE ME AGAIN!!!

i read that thread as well - but this one is more relatable, as i'm living the changes - not wishing for them.....both are great inspirations!

* i like feeling the air between my legs when i walk. no more rubbing together

* i love that my activity level is off the hook. i work out often, run & it does not feel like a chore...

* love the fact i'll look better in my 40's than i did in my 30's

* in changing my diet; i pay attention a whole lot more as to what i put in my mouth. i read labels, shop for fresh food, & all around make healthier choices regarding food. that too is not a chore.

* clothes just look a lot better when you purchase them to "fit" - not hide.

* getting my social groove back. sorta went into seclusion after the weight gain & now i can't wait to get out & about these days.

* hubby is a FT gropper. everday he tells me how "great i look" - the smile is back & i am more confident and it shows....

could keep going...the band has just been a positive thing for me!!

I have to hijack this thread briefly -

Ladies - you have all done such an amazing job!!! It is so fun to read about the little things that make such a big difference in our lives. I'm just starting the process but have all the things you have mentioned to look forward to.

Leslie you started at the weight I am at now and it is so encouraging to see what is possible.... thank you all for posting and keeping my faith and hope in this process going!! Sometimes I slip into the "I've failed at everything else" mentality but then I tell myself I will NOT fail at this! I think when you get to the point where you consider surgery and all the work it entails - you want it more than ever before.

bambam

bambam - the great thing about the band is for me it hasn't allowed me to slip into that "I've failed before" mentality. It doesn't let me. It stops me from binging, from over eating and from letting food control me. I now have the control for the first time in my life - albeit surgery gave it to me. I love my band for that! You can and will succeed with enough hard work and persistance. Keep your faith - you are worth it!

:thumbup:Very inspirational- I'm not banded yet but this is great to see.