I decided to go to the mall and get some new clothes as my last set of new clothes is getting saggy baggy. I was in Macy's (great sale) and found some really cute work and casual clothes in the "regular" women's section. I had to go to another floor to look for pajamas and walked through the plus size section. I teared up when it hit me that I do not have to shop in the plus size department anymore. I tried to explain this to my DH and bless his heart he smiled and said that was great but I don't think he got it. Just wanted to share my little NSV with people who would understand.

Hello there!

I was wondering. Have you been banded yet? If so, how long before you returned to work? Are you an RN? I am working in the ICU and so far I've only requested 1 week off of work because I do not know exactly how much time I will need. let me know what your experience is?

dolphin:wink_smile:

Hi dolphin,

I was banded on November 7th. I'm a clinical manager in a pediatric ER that has a level one trauma center, and I'm taking my full three weeks to recover. If I had a desk job and knew for certain that I wouldn't have to quickly lift, wrangle a psychiatric patient, or do CPR, I would go back sooner. I don't want to take the chance of messing up my surgery, and I have the time to take off, so I'm just enjoying recuperating and becoming acquainted with my band. Plus, I won't be drinking only liquids when I return and won't raise any questions at lunchtime eating yogurt or cottage cheese. I didn't tell many people at work I was having this surgery, so being at that stage of foods when I return won't readily give me away.

When is your surgery? If you have a date, I'm sure you're excited!

I did not expect to feel so emotional but obviously buying things in the plus size department affected me more than I thought. I used to pretend to have fun shopping with my friends, picking out cute clothes for them. I found my solace in shoes. Lots of shoes!!! :mad:

I continue to be impressed and inspired by all the success stories people share on LBT. It is not a quick fix but it really does work.

And kareng...holy cow a size 6. That is truly fabulous and you are a rock star. Size 6!!!!!!!!!!!

I never enjoy shopping for clothes. It's all about necessity. :thumbup:

My mom never could understand that until she gained weight in her late 50's (had always been trim until then). Then she "got" it. Welcome to my world... :frown:

I cannot wait for the day when I am back down below 200. My surgery is on Tuesday, November 11 and reading your post gives me hope!!!

I hope everything went well with your surgery and you're well on your way to recovery.

Hear hear!

I went to the outlets with my mom this past weekend. The Vanity Fair store had Riders jeans for $6 a pair. So I figured I'd grab some that were smaller and work my way into them for that price. So, I grabbed a size 20. (I am still wearing anything from 24-26 and a lucky pair of 22's from Catherines). So, I went to the fitting room to try to see if they'd go on somewhat well enough for me to tell if they were going to work, height and all... Well, I was floored when they buttoned and zipped! I had tears rolling down my cheeks. I haven't seen a 20 in over 10 years! Now, I know sizes vary... blah blah blah... but for me, less than 2 weeks post-op, it was so very encouraging!! I can't wait to be able to shop anywhere I want!

That is so FREAKIN' FANTASTIC, Bridgette!!! WOO HOOO!!!!

I am at as of yesterday 199 lbs. and believe me I was tearing up. It feels so good to accomplish this small goal on my way to the big goal. Keep it up girl and I will see you in the regular size department soon....

WAY TO GO STACY!! I know that's gotta feel fantastic!!

Congrats Stacy!

My teary moment was when 2 nights ago my son fell asleep in my bed. After my shower in order to avoid waking him by going in my room to get a change of clothing I remembered that last winter I had stored all my sweats in the guest room closet. I pulled out the pants I wore to the hospital the day of my surgery, Dec. 31, 2007 and when I put them on they literally fell down. My husband and older kids could not stop laughing when I came downstairs. Even though I knew I had lost a lot of weight I think what hit me was realizing how big I had been. I started out at 231 pounds and am now down to 129 pounds.

Wow, I actually teared up just reading this! Every one of you are such an inspiration to me! I have not got my Band yet, but I'm getting it VERY soon and I absolutely cannot wait now!!! You have all done so great and I Thank You for sharing all of your inspiring stories with us. It makes me feel that I can do this, Cuz im gonna be honest, im scared to death!!! But you ladies have inspired me so much!! Thank You!!! =)

imb, WOW! I'm so thrilled for you and it's stories like yours that keep me inspired when I get frustrated. Thanks for sharing.

I do understand!!! I do!!! I am still working on my mind catching up with my weight. My hubby doesn't get it either, when I have tried to express my insanity I have teared up talking about the weight I have lost and bless his heart.....well, we know the rest

Congrats!!!