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My Three Year Bandversary Today

Hello Three Year Bandversary.   I was banded June 29, 2009 it was three weeks earlier then my original set date. I was ready, you know how ready we get, right! Someone who did not follow all the pre-op diet and all those rules before surgery allowed me to be moved up. Lucky Me!!!   Keep in mind, just remember to follow all those rules no matter how lame you think they are. I honestly felt bad for this person because all I knew was they were scheduled, had the date and did not meet the guidelines. Made my day that’s for sure.   My first suggestion Follow all the rules, no matter what!   As I reflect over my last three years, I can honestly say I have never been HAPPIER with my life.   I would choose this procedure again. It has not made dealing with the everyday life and it’s many traumas really any easier. Yet, it has helped me make better food choices and the issues for me related to the food a whole lot easier.   On my second Bandversary - June 21, 2011 I was able to have the full body nip and tuck and as I remember that was way harder and a much longer recovery than the Lap Band. I thought two weeks and I’d be up and around. It took almost the entire summer to feel better. Two months, so if you are thinking in terms of nip and tuck prepare yourself. It is a much longer recovery and way more painful. I do not regret one minute that I had it done. I love my flat stomach and small breasts now and my arms and legs with exercise don’t look bad. I like swimming and water activities. I can say I am normal, looking and feeling all around now. I love how my clothes fit. I love that I can buy anything I want in any store and I am a normal size. I even see myself in the mirror as normal. I love what I see these days. I never liked the mirror, as a matter of fact I hated it! Looking in the mirror and having a good cry can be a catalyst to change. When you see the results before your very eyes it makes a huge impression. I kept wanting more change. I followed the rules and I did make mistakes. I kept getting back on track. The mirror helps you stay focused on your goal. The scale just validated the number loss. It took a year to lose over 100 pounds. I have kept it off now and am excited to write about it.   My weight has gone up and down 10 pounds and it is always a struggle to lose again. Keeping a positive attitude and blogging made it so much easier for me.   I have had fills and un-fills and more fills do to the surgery, that was my choice. This is what is so wonderful about the Lap Band it all becomes our choices to use the controls inside. Before my nip and tuck I had almost all the fluid taken out. I knew it was risky and yes I did gain weight. Because I gave in to old high calorie habits and choices. I have always said, I want to be small so I should eat small! But if those small choices are HIGH CALORIES there will be problems. I can’t tell you how fast 10 pounds can come back if you make wrong choices. I am getting back to eating real food, not processed, protein first, not too much and mostly plants. They don’t have a lot of calories and are way better for me.   My life has never been happier, my journey has been unique to me and I wish everyone out there all the best on your journey. Keep in touch Blogging helps. Best Wishes Love, imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

3
 

Hair Loss Not an Expert but this is what happened to me

In June of 2008 I had to have my ovary's and tubes removed, the operation time about 1 1/2 to 2 hours. My weight was about 280 give or take. I was forever dieting to feel better and I felt like CRAP. I came home to recover from this surgery and my hair fell out when I brushed it. I freaked out and called the surgeon and she said I should try to eat well. In three weeks my hair stopped falling out. I got a hair cut and started to feel better about myself as much as I could at 280 - 270 pounds. Hair loss stopped and new hair started to grow back. It seemed like forever. I kept trying to diet and eat well everyday. Hair loss happened, and hair came back. In June of 2009 I had my long awaited Lap Band Surgery. My weight was about 250 pounds when I got my Lap Band. That surgery took about 2 1/2 to 3 hours in the operating room. I had a hernia that needed to be fixed as well. I went home and my hair started again to fall out this time in handfuls. So much it clogged the drain and tub would fill up. I again freaked out and called my LB surgeon and he said to start taking Biotin. I take 5000 mg a day now. In four to five weeks my hair stopped falling out and I started to get wispy new hair growth again. It seemed to take forever. It all came back. In June of 2010 my weight was a t 145-147 pounds. I just got my full body "Nip and Tuck". Breasts reduced and tummy skin fold removed and abdomen tightened. The surgery took 6 1/2 hours, I also had another hernia that needed fixing. A week after surgery, my hair again started to fall out. This time I expected the hair loss from my past experience of having surgery. This time the hair loss was way more than any other time before. I feel the hair loss is due to the length of time I was under the knife. This was the longest time by far. The longer the operation took the more hair fell out. It has been six weeks and I am still seeing hair loss. I am taking Biotin everyday and eating very well. I feel my hair will stop falling out soon. Also the recovery for this procedure is about six months. I spent more than two weeks in bed with drain and pain like I never had before. I feel great today, I am wearing compression garment bodysuit and I can bend over now. I am still not allowed to carry anything heavy. It has been six weeks and hair is still falling out but it is less everyday. I conclude that the longer the operation takes, the longer you are under the knife, the longer the hair falls out. Eating more quality protein and taking Biotin does help it has for me. I also message my scalp to stimulate the hair growth. I can see new hair growth and I know it will all come back in a few short weeks. I am not sure if everyone has hair loss? I know I have and it does get better with time. Best wishes to everyone on your journey. Mine has been amazing one and I would do it all over again if given the chance. Hair loss has not been that bad. The pain was worse! imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

4
 

I'm NOT hungry I am disappointed

I am freaking myself out by how much I am thinking about food and the wrong kinds of food too. I said thinking, I am not eating it and I do not want to start cuz I know I can at any moment. I am blogging now and my rule in no food/drinks at my computer so this is helping me at this time. I read about everyone all thinking about food, huh. I am NOT alone!! I know I am an addict for sure. I just need to vent and say yes I think about food too much! I also woke up today and packed food for my trip that I did not get to take because the train was five hours behind schedule. In the past I would have eaten over my disappointments. I still want to eat over my disappointment. Today I find myself writing to you all. I am a real person with real feelings and no one to talk too. I am so glad you are all hear for me today. I do not want to use food as a crutch today. Best wishes imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

4
 

Happy, Happy Second Band-Birthday to me ;-)

Today is my Birthday! Happy Birthday to me I <3 my band. I have never been happier in my life, well maybe when my two children were born! I was banded June 29, 2009, and have lost 100 pounds and kept it off. I have gained and lost up five, down ten, but never any more. I have had many Fills and many Unfills. I have been so tight it was painful. I have been so loose it was scary, because I was able to snack with no control. I have tested my band to the limits. My band works when I work with my band. I have learned how to eat real food, not too much, mostly plants, with proteins first. I choose to prepare all my own foods. I enjoy cooking now. I enjoy eating SLOW! I am healthier and my family is healthier today. I am three weeks into my recovery from my full body Nip and Tuck. My Lap band surgery was way easier and faster to recover from than this. My stitches and tape come off next week, four weeks of R &R, I have enjoyed it. I have excellent insurance and it paid for everything except what they consider cosmetic. I had to pay very little in the big picture. It was well worth it as far as I am concerned. I have a NEW Better BODY. I have to look hard to see that it really is me in the mirror. I have new clothes and I would do this over again if anyone asked me. I want to give Best Wishes to anyone who may be considering this journey. I know when I started, I read, and read, and blogged and blogged it helps. I am grateful for this site I know it has helped me and my journey has been so much more successful because I have been able to write about my ups and downs along the way. Happy Birthday to me I am proud of myself today. When I blow my candles out on my cake tonight it will be wishing the best for all the newbies. Thanks to all my LB buddies I love you. imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

7
 

Thank You, My Lap Band Family!!!

Thank You, My Lap Band Family!!!   I am one week out from my full body "Nip and Tuck" It's over, I am WELL!! I am two years out from my Lap Band weight loss tool procedure, I survived!! I am three times stronger today than yesterday!! I am four times healthier than the day before!! I am five foot two inches tall, I am short, and I am small!! I am six times a day on heavy duty medicine, to take the REAL pain away!! I am seven health issues better today and FOREVER!!   Obesity (disordered eating, suffered for more then 40 years) Sleep Apnea (suffered with and used a machine for 10 years) Sleep Aid dependancy (30 year psychological struggle) High blood pressure (suffered and took medicine for 6 years) Knee and joint pain (suffered with got shots and medicine for 6 years) Migraines (suffered for 20 or more years) Diabetes (was given the warning signs, I took as a death sentence)   I am on eight ml Roxicet an Oral Formula, I am feeling no pain!! I am on my ninth Life!! Best wishes, I believe do you? imaluckydog                            
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

6
 

Successful Two Year Bandversary and Nip and Tuck

It is my two year Bandversary. I was banded June 29, 2009 and I was running around Disney World in Florida with my daughter less than two weeks after being banded. I have as much if not more energy today as I did back then. Being banded was so exciting.   This past Monday was my full body "Nip and Tuck". Yup, I went for it!! It was considered a medical necessity and my insurance paid for three fourths of it and I paid the rest because it was deemed cosmetic. I probably would have paid for it all because I wanted it that bad. It is better to have the insurance pay for it. I can buy new clothes with the money I saved.   I will need new bras for sure. I have gone from a DD to a B/C I am looking pretty perky!   My waist is no longer a double muffin top if you know what I mean. It will take a few weeks for all the swelling to go down. I am sore but the pain medicine is working just fine. I was so scared to have this done and now that it is I am trying to figure out why I was worried sick about it. I can get up and walk around and I can do stairs and sit up for a spell. I am tired and need to rest but that goes hand in hand with any surgery. I have to lay low for at least 2 weeks. I can do that.   All is well and if you have any questions I'd be glad to help you out for imaluckydog just playing with my BAND. Best wishes
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

2
 

2 Years out... Try and Remember Where has the Time Gone?

2 Years out... Try and Remember Where has the Time Gone?   I remember being FAT! I sometimes think I am still FAT!!   I remember wanting to be banded and I could not wait!   I remember wanting to lose weight and I could not wait!   I remember my sleep apnea and machine and could not wait for it to go away!   I remember packing up the apnea machine and tossing it away forever!   I remember taking blood pressure medicine and could not wait to get off that stuff!   I remember canceling the order for my Blood pressure meds!   I remember the shots in my knee and the pain not being able to walk!   I remember wanting people to notice I have lost weight, I could not wait to be noticed!   I remember wanting my first fill and I could not wait!   I remember wanting my un fills and there have been many, I could not wait!   I remember wanting to just eat all the foods I love, I could not wait!   I remember not wanting to exsercise and hoping the weight would come off!   I remember starting to exsercise and having the weight fall off while I slept!   I remember snacking and eating those things we as bandsters should not!   I remember making a food plan and sticking to it mindfully!   I remember the mistakes I have made, and could not wait to fix them!   I remember not wanting to go skiing as I could not bend over and buckle my boots!   I remember going skiing again for the first time in 20 years, been skiing now for 2 years!   I remember my fear of flying because I could not sit in the set comfortably!   I remember going on a plane and feeling small in the seat I still have the memories!   I remember waking up in the morning and committing to a healthful and happy day!   I remember the power of a positive attitude, it has change my life!   I remember feeling my body and not ever remembering how it felt thin!   I remember the excess skin hanging off me and I can not wait to have it removed!   I remember making the appointment for skin removal! I can not wait!   I remember thinking what is Abdominolasty, Panniculectomy, I can not wait!   I remember the life decision I made to be banded, I would do it all over again!   I remember just two years ago and now the excess skin will be removed, I can not wait!   I remember being denied by the insurance, I did not have all the correct paper work!   I remember being patent and re submitting the paper work and got approval today!   I remember blogging for the first time and wanting anyone to respond, I could not wait!   I will get my Nip and Tuck on June 27, 201. I can not wait!   I am just a little worried about the recovery, I hope I can bounce back, I can not wait!   My two year Bandversary is right around the corner banded on June 29, 2009         I wish everyone who is starting out on their journey all the best to you and I can not wait to hear from you. imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

9
 

Had a Chat on this site was a lot of FUN Try it

Had a nice CHAT this morning on this site and I did figure out how to start an entry. LOL   I have not had a chance to figure out this new site, it seems very confusing to me the DITZ that I am.   I am a creature of habit and I resist change. I also get in the habit of eating the same every day. It is safe because I know what works for me. I like the foods I eat. I can eat almost anything I want even just a taste and I am satisfied.   Breakfast goes slow it always has and I cannot eat too early. I have my lunch at the same time every day. I guess you would say I have a set routine and it works for me.   I know for a fact that blogging has helped me keep this weight off. It also helped get the weight off. I do not eat when I am at my computer. My Dr said that more people are apt to keep more weight off if they blog or write about their experience. I was resistant at first but it is piece of mind I can put something out in cyber space and let it go. I wish everyone well on their band journey. I have had an exceptionally great journey myself almost two years and feeling great. Best wishes imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

1
 

Hello LB Lifestyle I can do this!!!!

Hello LB Lifestyle I can do this!!!!   Living with the band as a lifestyle. Yes, I can say I am now living the LB Lifestyle. I am 83 weeks from my surgery, lost 110 pounds and I will have my 2 year bandversary at the end of June. I know what I am doing.   My weight has stayed the same for five months and I feel like a million bucks every time I look in the mirror. All of my clothes fit and I have a hard time trying to decide what to wear because I have so many choices now.   The only problem I have encountered during this adventurous journey is I must keep myself well hydrated. If I do not drink enough liquids I feel sick.   I have to have some kind of nourousing liquid going in at all times except at meal times.   I must say following all the bandster rules has also been key to my happiness and success on this journey.   I am starting the process to see if I want to have the "Nip and Tuck" . That is a lot to think about. I was told today it is a six week recovery. I am not sure I am ready for that. The paper work will be submitted to insurance and we will see just what they will or will not cover.   Sure is something to think about! Best wishes all my LB buddies. imaluckydog         I remember being so excited to get the LB and I am just as excited today to be as healthy and energetic as I am. I am never looking back. Those miserable days are gone forever. Hello LB lifestyle I can do this!!!    
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

5
 

Work.Play.Live.Love.Food.

I remember it took me forever to feel better after my surgery about two weeks. I read someone's blog this morning which made me think I should blog myself today.   I work with food, play with food, create with food and YES I dream in food with all kinds of textures and colors. I am also addicted to food! I am now 67 weeks into this journey, 1 year and 3 months and I have had to re learn how to think and deal with food, handle food, eat food and chew my food, the thought of food, the taste of food, the smell of food all the food triggers and the reminders of food that have brought me to where I am today. Sounds like a confession LOL. I must say I ask for help every day.   I always say as a reminder to myself I must eat real food. Not fake food my body cannot digest. Nothing packaged or overly processed this has helped me regain my understanding of how I got this way and how my body needs food to work properly. I strive for a healthy and clean food plan today with lots of fresh cooked and raw veggies and real Proteins not the fake ones that is all my body craves now. That is so weird because I used to be a starchy, crunchy, salty and sugary addict.   Get this I dream about Broccoli soup now. I am now being nourished with whole foods that my body is able to use and I do not have the struggle anymore with the elimination process if you get my meaning. I do cook a lot and freeze my own foods in portions for later use. I make sure I eat enough Protein and never drink with my meals ever. I find I stay full way longer. I have had one soda in my LB journey and it was because I needed something to hold. I kept stirring it and as it flattened I was able to drink it. I do not drink soda anymore I just do not need it, waste of money I could buy on clothes.   I have kept off my 110 pounds and I think I would like to lose more but I am in no hurry. I have a new wardrobe that fits and if I take off more I will need to buy more clothes and I am not ready for that. I wear a size 10/12 in almost everything. I feel small, and normal, I am not the heaviest one in the room now ever. I even swim and do water exercises and I am not the whale I used to be, I feel very comfortable in the water now. I have lost so many inches with the exercises I do and people always say don't lose anymore now or you will waste away. Like RIGHT me ever waste away that will never happen!   I have a 10 cc band and I have had about 6 fills and about 3 un-fills to get me to my sweet spot. I can eat anything I want now. The amount of what I can eat has changed as well. I do better with Veggies and Proteins than I do with muffins and breads. Although I can eat them I must go extremely slow. I love my life as a thin person with a better handle on how I work, play and live with food in my life. Thank you to all my LAP-BAND® friends who have encouraged me along my journey, I know I could not have done this without you. I am enjoying this crisp Fall day. Some Pray for Snow! Best wishes imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

4
 

Wish me Happy Birthday!

Please Wish Me Happy Birthday!   It’s my Birthday and I will do what I want! Sound familiar!! Eat what I want!! I used too eat all I wanted and then some. Now I just eat what I want and what my band will allow and I am very happy with that.   Yes the new me has lost 110 pounds and is healthier then I ever imagined thanks to my Lap Band. I am going on a boat to a beach today. I will be wearing a bathing suit OMG. I would never have done this in past weighing in at over 250 pounds, thats just ugly. I am just a little feather now. I love it. I feel small, I look small and I am smaller than most of the people I know. I have never been so HAPPY in all my LIFE. I am living today.   I wishes all my band buddies and anyone who may read this to know it has not been easy! Nothing in this life has ever been easy for me. I have done this with the help from all of you and my band. Thanks for being there to help me. Best wishes imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

15
 

Giving Back

Giving Back   I was asked to speak to a newbie “introduction to surgery weight loss” group Monday evening. There where people from teenagers up to 70 years in age who attended. I would say about 50 people or more interested in surgery and some who have been interested for some time now. It was the first of many series to introduce people to GBP and the Lap Band Process and other forms not covered yet by some insurance companies. This is for many the first step they take.   The night started with one of the surgeons showing and talking about his slide show and explaining to the audience what they will learn from having one of these procedures. He spoke about the many complications and there are so many. SO Many I was even thinking wow I had this done and there are THIS many things that could go wrong! Yikes   OK, so I took the chance and I am SO GLAD I did. The Doctors spoke for about a half an hour and the Nurse Practitioner spoke for about a half an hour. Then it was my turn. I was invited to the stage with another gentlemen who had a GBP surgery. We were introduce and he motioned for me to go first. I said my name and proceeded to say I had my Lap band surgery a little over one year ago and have lost 109 pounds. I had a BMI of over 40, I weighed in at over 250 pounds and I am only five two, I was on medicine for High Blood Pressure and a machine for Sleep Apnea for about 7 years. It is all gone now that I have lost weight with my new tool. I worked well with playing with my Lap band.   No more High blood pressure and no more medicine! No more Sleep Apnea or machines hooked up at night! I do not huff and puff walking up stairs and I feel great now.   I pulled out a pair of pants the only ones I did not give away. I said and when I wore these pants I thought I looked like the cats meow!! I held them up to me and I can step into one leg. Although, I did not do that but it was clear I am a TINY person now. I said Yes, I thought I looked good but I did not FEEL GOOD about myself when I wore them. They are a size 24 plus and I was bulging out of them on a good day.   All of a sudden the audience started to clap. Well OK, I clapped too. I was in shock I had no idea they were clapping for me. It made me feel good. I have done well!!   The nurse said Between the two of them they (we) had lost over 300 pounds.   I let him speak and he was excellent. I think it may be harder to have the GBP surgery. I can eat anything I want in small amounts, but the GBP patients are limited and cannot eat certain foods ever again as their bodies do not tolerate the same foods.   One man in the audience ask 3 times if he really had to give up soda!! It is funny that people do not want to make little changes even when it comes to the smallest things that can make BIG difference to their health for the rest of there lives. It seems they only want to hear what they want to hear. It is not like they have to give it up forever. I some times have a soda for a treat. But not that often. I need to stir out the bubbles.   I am so grateful I had an open mind and open heart to receive all the gifts this band has offered to me. The audience asked us questions and we answered them to be best of our ability. I felt good I was able to share in an honest and meaningful way with people who where generally and for the most part interested in these surgeries and wanting to be healthier.   I heard them clapping for me!! I have done well! I thank myself and my LB for this everyday   I eat Real Food, Not too much, mostly plants, with Proteins first. I do Not snack in between meals or drink liquids with my meals. Very little if any sugar because it always makes me want to have more. I also do NOT drink soda. I did explain I had a brief withdrawal period from it and I do not even miss it today. Best wishes on your journey. imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

3
 

Belts

Belts   I never ever wore a belt before LB. My pants were always the elastic waist kind. I never tucked my shirt in ever! I needed to hide my rolls.   I wear belts now and I love my new waist line. I am alway looking for new belts to wear. I tuck my shirts in a it is nice to be comfortable in my clothes.   What a difference a year can make by using the lap band as a tool. I am down over 100 pounds and happier than I have ever been in my life. I am not fat anymore.   I was even called tiny yesterday. I have never been TINY LOL.   My head still does not see me as tiny, smaller yes Tiny no. It will take some time for my head to catch up I think.   I am not sure when I will reach my goal, I am not even sure what my body will want as a goal weight. I am still losing. Thats even after 3 un-fills. I do hope my body will fine it’s set weight soon. I am still very happy where I am now.   I am so glad I chose this tool and I would do it again if given the chance. Monday night I will speak to a newbie support group. I am a little nervous. My nurse said I have a lot to share and others would like to talk to me. I am just going to be myself.   I have found this site to be most helpful. I have enjoyed blogging and reading about the journey others have taken. Best wishes to everyone and wish me luck for Monday night. I have never been a public speaker. imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

5
 

One Year Bandversary! I lost more than 100 pounds

What can happen in one Year? This is what happened to me   I was banded on June 29, 2009 it was a beautiful sunny Monday. I actually got a call that Friday and my surgery was rescheduled a month early. Go figure how does that happen? Today is one year from that glorious day. I can not believe where the time has gone!!! I am in awe of what my body and I have accomplished together in a year. I can say for sure, I have never been as Happy, as I am today!!!! Or can I remember ever being this healthy and thin. Yes, I said it. I am THIN. I am NORMAL. I am HAPPY.... and I LIKE IT...   Living with a Lap band has changed my life. The changes were small in the beginning and with change came many new and exciting experiences and huge weight loss my goal of being able to go skiing again with my family came true as well.   I can remember not wanting to let go of my food ways. The OLD HABITS the amounts of food, the types of food, I thought about food and still do all the time. Well, I found other things to do like blogging because I do not eat at my computer. It was a gift to be able to write my feelings and share my thoughts. I even got some responses and made new blogging friends. Nancy, I love you and all of these people even though I do not know who they are. We all had one thing in common.   I would not be where I am today if it were not for their wisdom and their support along my life journey with LB. Thanks to everyone out there I appreciate your comments and suggestions, this site is so helpful.   My bandversary!! Yes this is it. I so wanted to be able to say I lost 100 pounds. I have actually lost 103 pounds as of this morning. Yes, I waited to see if I could make my personal head set goal. I am OK with this and have been for a few months now weight loss has slowed down. Maintenance is a little tricky I have gone up and down and given this, I still have done quite well. My body has a set weight it wants to be and I just need to listen to my own body now and again and continue to make the best choices.   Fifteen days after my surgery I took my daughter to Disney World. We ran around the park for a week. I felt great I had no problems. I had a little pain in the upper most incision but that was it, felt like stretching pains only. I never had so much fun in my life I felt like a little kid again. I had this new rebirth kind of feeling. I could eat anything I wanted, but I didn’t. I followed the rules. I stopped drinking liquids with all meals and never ever had any kind of soda. That was very hard for me. I used to drink soda 24-7. I had a little withdrawal. It passed quickly, took about 5 days. Then I didn’t even think about it. I sometimes miss it a little today. Although I will not drink any.   I found my body just did not need the amounts of food I used to eat. I started eating less and less, I just needed less. I also ate vegetables and foods I did not like before like proteins and yogurts. I only ate junk before and this was why I weighed in at over 250 pounds before surgery.   My first fill was about one month July 29 exactly four weeks out. I had a little fluid placed in my band it was called a primer during surgery. My fill Nurse was the aggressive type. I could feel restriction about four days after my fill. I am not sure why it took so long to kick in, but it did.   My second fill came on August 26, again four weeks from the first. Four days later I felt the restriction again. It feels like if you take another bite you know you will not be able to swallow it. It is a full feeling a push away from the table and call it quits feeling. Now I did not always push away like I was supposed to. Yes, I have a food addiction and the food calls me by name and I love the taste and smells and the chewing I love it all.   If the feeling comes STOP EATING and STOP NOW do not pass GO as you will never be able to collect the 200 dollars. Because you will be stuck over a bowl or over a zip baggie in solitary confinement until it passes. By the way I have on hand in my purse even today a LARGE ZIP TOP BAG. I never leave home without one.   I was feeling good by my second fill. I felt comfortable with how much and what I was eating. I was following all the Bandster rules like there was no tomorrow. l was going to be the best Bandster out there. I was afraid to make a mistake and I stayed way away from all those foods everyone has trouble with. I must admit at first I missed bread the most. I choose not to eat white bread or anything white for that matter. The Lack of nutrients in white, I like nutrient dense foods today and lots of color and textures.   I eat Real Food, Not too much, Mostly plants with Proteins first. It sure does work for me. I wanted to be small so I eat small and it has worked for me. Yes, I did and do have HEAD HUNGER all the time. It needs to be controlled. Mind over matter helps. I practice mindful eating and I go real slow my fork goes down to rest while I rest, talk, and participate in the dinner conversation. I also listen a lot more at meal times.   My third fill came on the 4th of October. I put off an earlier appointment I just was enjoying life and felt good doing what I was doing. My nurse was aggressive again and I was as tight as I ever wanted to be. I have learned the new meaning of tight I MEAN TIGHT. My stress also had a way of tightening my band as well.   I am not sure how I lasted as long as I did being so TIGHT. I was a little depressed when I could not eat the foods I wanted to eat. I had food withdrawal and I was sad at the lost of my comfort in food. There was NO MORE COMFORT in food any more, those days are now gone.   I had to eat to keep myself alive. I counted calories and had to make sure I was keeping to 1,200 calories a day. If I did not I felt lazy and slow and had no energy. I wrote everything down I was eating. I prepared all my own foods I hardly ever ate out. I found a blog with amazing recipes “Thanks Lena” and I tried almost all of them. My food became interesting and I enjoyed eating my own cooking because I knew what was in it.   I created a goal back in Psych 101 that I wanted to go skiing when I lost enough weight to be able to do it again. Last time I skied was 21 years ago. My family loves to ski and I was bound and determined to do it this winter. I went skiing 10 times it felt GREAT!!   November came and went no fill needed, friends and family started to notice I was losing weight. I found it hard to take the complements at first I was sensitive and then I got real used to hearing people tell me how good I looked and to be careful not to gain it back. LOL I never told anyone. They have no idea. I pray I never gain it back.   December I started skiing and passed on the fills I was doing just fine. Losing and feeling great with every bite of exercise, I just loved the new found energy and fresh outdoors. The exercise was fun once again.   February busy winter skiing and traveling, March kept busy as it flew by.   April came in like a lion and I was hit with mega amounts of work and stress like no other. I had not had a fill for 5 months and my band began to tighten all on it’s own. Stress can cause the band to tighten. I got myself all worked up and was unable to relax. The muscles got the best of me. I started to have acid reflux at night time and while prone, it was a scary feeling. The food was coming back more often and I was uncomfortable so that I got a slight un fill in the end of April. I figured I was fine and one week later I was asking for another un fill. I had about four weeks where I was much more relaxed. It was a nice break. I was normal and just kept doing what I had been doing all along. I am glad I did not gain and all stayed the same.   The band is a fabulous tool. I felt like I was on vacation and then I said enough of this and lets go get a slight fill in May. I am now at what I am feeling is my sweet spot. It took a while to get here but when you are here all is well. It is all about the proper adjustment and feeling your best. I can go out to eat today and feel just fine. I make healthy choices I have had lots of practice. I know I can live the rest of my life in happiness now.   May has been a good month to look back at how far I have come on this Happiness Journey. I have never been happier in my life. I can buy clothes from any store and all the clothes fit. I wear color and lots of it. I used to only wear black and have only one outfit to wear. Now I have ten or more to choose from. I love my new wardrobe. I am so Happy to be me today. I trust this tool I know I can work with it. It does keep me honest, and most importantly I must be honest with myself I am the only one that matters.   I am wishing myself a Happy Bandversary with many more to come. Best wishes on your Happiness Journey imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

11
 

Staying Mindful a Traveling Day

One women trying to get from one place to another today. It will take more than one taxi, two planes, and 3 meals to get me there. My thoughts for the day are....   I am almost at my one year mark lost over 100 pounds. What I have found is I have "disordered eating" I can only speak for myself. I have food problems, major issues with food, and food plays head games with me 24-7 day and night.   AA does have a workable philosophy so does OA and I do use it mindfully, although I do not go to any meetings. For some it becomes a way of life.   My band tool is my way of life now and forever!! If I cheat the only one I hurt is yourself. I gave this tool to myself as a last ditch effort to save my life from my own self destruction. A year ago I was 250 plus and a size 24 plus on a good day.   I try everyday to make the best possible choices with food. I sure can eat anything I want even after many fills and un-fills. Today, I make better and more healthier food choices. I have Forgiven myself and I have moved to the next level of this game of life. Living   I last weighed 148 and wear a size 10. I am just trying to get from point A to point B today. Traveling can be so stressful and I will try my best today with all the tools I have in place to guide me. I will believe in the power of positive thoughts today. Best wishes imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

2
 

LOST 100 pounds in less than 1 year ;-)

This is a GOOD FEELING. Good Morning to all of my LB friends of the world. It is a very Good Good morning this one for sure!! I always wake up with a smile on my face since June 29, 2009, the day I was banded a year ago.   Today my smile is 100 times BIGGER. Yes, The scale said 148 and that is well more than 100. But to me the 100 pound loss is triumphant. The last 5 pounds took almost two months to lose.   Just hang in and follow all the rules and this tool will work for you too. I am living breathing proof. I will have a great day today!! Thanks for all of your support along the way. Best wishes to everyone. imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

9
 

Succeed!! Be a Winner at Losing :-)

Succeed!!   S = Set a goal. Not necessarily a "number" goal. Can be any goal. Like, I want to bend over and tie my shoes w/o holding my breath! I want to make it up this hill. Whatever.   U = Use the tools available to you. Support groups, the internet, books, blogging and veterans....your band is not your only tool.   C = Create a game plan. Make menus and schedule your workouts, etc into your week.   C = Consider yourself. You know what your weak points and strong points are. You know what you can handle and what you can't. You know when your hungry/full/emotional.....analyze and consider yourself. Write about it.   E = Eliminate excuses. If you're not supposed to eat it (sugars, carbs, chips, cookies, cakes) don't buy it. Do not "negotiate" with yourself (if I work out for an hour, I'll give myself a cookie!) or justify food (I'm on my period/I'm stressed).   E = Excercise!! Working out gives you that little bit of added wiggle room for when you do break down and have sugar or something you're not supposed to. It also tones and firms, helping with excess skin. It is possible to be an unhealthy thin person. Do you want to be healthy or thin?   D = Determine that you will SUCCEED! You're the only one that can make the changes you are making and stick to them. It's nice to have cheerleaders on the sideline, but they're not the ones that play and eventually win the game.   I am two weeks away from my 1 year Bandversary. I have never been so excited in my life. I eat Real Food. Not too much and mostly plants with Proteins FIRST! I am now 2 pounds away from being a member of the 100 Pounder Club. I am psyched.   I want to first Thank myself for being kind to myself and taking care of "me" for the past year when all I ever did was to take care of everyone else. I took care of me and everyone else survived as well.   I want to thank everyone on this site who has helped me. The blogs I read are all so meaningful to me and most of all meaningful to those who write them. I always learn something. I love to write on blogs it keeps my paws out of the cookie jar.   I am on my way out to enjoy this sunny beautiful thinner day. I am a 98 pound Loser in one year, Go me. I feel great! Best wishes to all imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

2
 

Nine months

Nine months   Wow what can I say but this LB Journey has been BETTER than any amusement park feeling my insurance could buy!! A lot can happen in 9 months. I lost the weight of a small child or young adult for that matter 97 pounds. Wow I FEEL AND LOOK SO DIFFERENT!   I was banded on June 29, 2009. One month early to my surprise. I had all the pre-op work done and I was just doing my job of reading everything I could about LAP-BAND®. I was making sure I was an expert on the subject before I even got banded, Ha Ha LOL I knew absolutely nothing!!! That was of REAL importance to me and my amazing journey. YOU WILL LEARN DAILY!! All I knew was eat slow, chew your food well and PROTEIN first and fit all the water and liquids in you can but NOT with a meal. Let me just say there is way more than just this.   I set some goals back in the day, now I will look back at my older blog and see what I have accomplished?   My biggest goal was to go skiing this winter and I did about 10 times I did well and it was just like riding a bike it all comes back to you. I rode a bike too that is so much fun!!! I want to dance. Yes. I have been Dancing and it is so fun! I want to eat normal. Yes, I eat way normal! EAT FOOD. NOT TOO MUCH. MOSLTY PLANTS. I want to think normal. Yes, I think normal! I want to look normal. Yes, I look normal! I want to FEEL normal. Yes I FEEL normal! I want to see myself as NORMAL. Yes, I look at myself and I see normal! I want to feel sexy again. Yes, I feel sexy again! I want to look sexy again. Ok, I am working on it...... I want to buy clothes off the rack. Yes, I can buy off the rack! I want those clothes to FIT me. Yes, clothes fit me I am a size 12 / 14. I want to be looked at, not look through. Yes, people talk to me now and look at me! I want to be successful. Yes, I feel and I am successful! I want off blood pressure medicine. Yes, I am NOW OFF all Medicine! Yippee. I want off my sleep apnea machine. Yes, I am off my apnea machine! Yippee. I want my normal body back, the one I had when I met my husband. I am Working on it. I was NORMAL I DO remember how it feels. Yes, I must say I FEEL NORMAL again Thanks to my LAP-BAND® I HAVE FORGIVEN MYSELF. MANY TIMES   I was invited to speak to a group of newbies and there were about 50 people with many questions. I was with a young man who had GBPS and was at his goal. I am not at goal yet but have been successful on my journey and work well with my band. I was able the thank my Doctors and give back to the program that has given so much me. Wishing you and all my FRIENDS the best on your journey. I am still learning everyday. imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

10
 

Blue Bird Day

What I did on my winter vacation! It was a cold Blue Bird Day and I did it!! Dreams do come true thanks to LB and all the support from this site.   See first picture.   This is my family and the shadow in front is my husband taking the picture. I am second from the left light blue helmet and black oversized slimming outfit.     See me second picture.   If you can see my smile it is bigger than the mountain . I felt young again and have now accomplished my first really BIG GOAL. I better think of another one real quick. It will have to be to go skiing again next weekend. I just loved it and can’t wait to do it again. My husband said I better get a smaller outfit soon. LOL I am just going to wait for the sales. I have to Thank my LB friends and ALL the determination it took to get to me this point. I still have a long way to go. Maybe not that long.   I have found my head is starting to catch up with the way I am feeling. I am enjoying more physical energy these days, no more food cravings to speak of, and I seem to be satisfied for the most part with my foods. I am enjoying a sense of calm I am not used too. I am still as full as I have ever been. I go back to Dr. Feb 22, 2010. Now that does seem like a long time away. It was my choice, I have had two Dr. visits and have refused two fills. I am hoping that if I wait a good while I may need a fill then and if not I will pass again. I am Happy and Bandlandia is agreeing with me for today. I am just about 40 pounds away from what I think will be a good weight for me. I am just going to keep doing what I have been doing as it seems to work for me. Best wishes to all the newbies I was banded on June 29,2009 lost 77 pounds and for the most part I have followed the rules, be kind to yourself it is an amazing remarkable joyous journey. imaluckydog   PS Thanks BG Love You
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

6
 

Blue Bird Day

What I did on my winter vacation! It was a cold Blue Bird Day and I did it!! Dreams do come true thanks to LB and all the support from this site.  This is my family and the shadow in front is my husband taking the picture. I am second from the left light blue helmet and black oversized slimming outfit.  If you can see my smile it is bigger than the mountain . I felt young again and have now accomplished my first really BIG GOAL. I better think of another one real quick. It will have to be to go skiing again next weekend. I just loved it and can’t wait to do it again. My husband said I better get a smaller outfit soon. LOL I am just going to wait for the sales. I have to Thank my LB and ALL the determination it took to get to me this point. I still have a long way to go. Maybe not that long.   I have found my head is starting to catch up with the way I am feeling. I am enjoying more physical energy these days, no more food cravings to speak of, and I seem to be satisfied for the most part with my foods. I am enjoying a sense of calm I am not used too. I am still as full as I have ever been. I go back to Dr. Feb 22, 2010. Now that does seem like a long time away. It was my choice, I have had two Dr. visits and have refused two fills. I am hoping that if I wait a good while I may need a fill then and if not I will pass again. I am Happy and Bandlandia is agreeing with me for today. I am just about 40 pounds away from what I think will be a good weight for me. I am just going to keep doing what I have been doing as it seems to work for me. Best wishes to all the newbies I was banded on June 29,2009 lost 77 pounds and for the most part I have followed the rules, be kind to yourself it is an amazing remarkable joyous journey. imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

1
 

Blue Bird Day

What I did on my winter vacation! It was a cold Blue Bird Day and I did it!! Dreams do come true thanks to LB and all the support from this site.   This is my family and the shadow in front is my husband taking the picture. I am second from the left light blue helmet and black oversized slimming outfit.    If you can see my smile it is bigger than the mountain . I felt young again and have now accomplished my first really BIG GOAL. I better think of another one real quick. It will have to be to go skiing again next weekend. I just loved it and can’t wait to do it again. My husband said I better get a smaller outfit soon. LOL I am just going to wait for the sales. I have to Thank my LB and ALL the determination it took to get to me this point. I still have a long way to go. Maybe not that long.   I have found my head is starting to catch up with the way I am feeling. I am enjoying more physical energy these days, no more food cravings to speak of, and I seem to be satisfied for the most part with my foods. I am enjoying a sense of calm I am not used too. I am still as full as I have ever been. I go back to Dr. Feb 22, 2010. Now that does seem like a long time away. It was my choice, I have had two Dr. visits and have refused two fills. I am hoping that if I wait a good while I may need a fill then and if not I will pass again. I am Happy and Bandlandia is agreeing with me for today. I am just about 40 pounds away from what I think will be a good weight for me. I am just going to keep doing what I have been doing as it seems to work for me. Best wishes to all the newbies I was banded on June 29,2009 lost 77 pounds and for the most part I have followed the rules, be kind to yourself it is an amazing remarkable joyous journey. imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

1
 

Dreams can come true !!

Dreams Can Come TURE.....   On the 1,2,3,4,5th,6,7,8,9,....12th.....Day of Christmas I was just wondering if my dreams will come true? I have been so good, so willing, almost too good these last six months as my Bandlandia roller coaster has changed my entire life. Full of Emotional ups and downs, Full of Happy and Sad Sad Sad moments, Tranquillity and Frustration to say a few. But mostly JOY, JOY, JOY to the WORLD!!! The CALMNESS is probably the most profound FEELING of all for me I have never been a calm person, I am NOW.....I am at PEACE....with my being... 
I just want to SING out loud and clear for all to hear! OK, yes it has been a challenging some what difficult 6 months, but look how fast these days and months have gone by!!! You can do this!!!!!!   I do remember sitting in the psychology group classes before LB and having to think of the one real, THE REAL reason I wanted to lose the weight? LOL does anyone have a REAL REASON? OMG I thought my psychologist was a quack!!! He said in six months there will be some REAL changes. I did not believe him then, I do NOW. I’m going to send him a picture of me skiing.   It had to be SKIING. I wanted to go skiing with my family again. I have not done that since they were two years old and I have missed out on all these years of Family FUN on the Mountain. The kids are now 21 and 20!!! I know you are thinking SKIING she is nuts and out of her mind!!!!!   You may say, I can think out a million and one more reasons to lose the weight before I go skiing that is for sure!! YES, I must say I have many more reasons too keep losing as well. But the one I felt I could accomplish in 6 months had to be SKIING. It is WINTER in VERMONT with snow I can cross country ski, sled, walk, NOPE I have to go Down Hill skiing with the FAM. My kids have both been to the Junior Olympics they do the BIG AIR and Moguls events. I always had to wait at the bottom because I could not get my over 250 pound out of shape, Fat body to function on skis without killing myself. I could only watch video of theirs runs.   I am going SKIING this week! Got the boots, skis, poles, helmet, goggles, an out fit that is a little too big, but hey this is not a FASHION SHOW yet I said yet it may be soon!!! I just want to go skiing. I want to have FUN with my family again together. I do not care how I look yet I just want to be comfortable doing it. My son’s GF and I will take a lesson together that will be FUN. I do know how to ski but to help her ease into it and to refresh my spirit and soul again I am also doing this for me too.   It has never been about the numbers but I do think about it a lot. I must let everyone know that I have lost another 9 pounds and a total of 77 pounds since June 29 when my Bandlandia adventure began. I do not own a scale but I dream about being on one everyday. I now wear a teen size and I have been called skinny. I am not SKINNY believe me!!!! When you lose this much weight people see you differently than you see yourself.   Car is almost packed so I will say goodbye, I will be back in a week and will fill you all in on my Wild and Crazy Adventures. I’m going Skiing. LB has changed my life and thanks to all me LB friends who have helped and coached me along the way I would not be doing this without you, you will be with me every inch of the way. I’ll be back soon. DREAMS DO COME TRUE!! imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

4
 

Loving my LIMBO, Snug Enough

I am tight enough I must say. Yesterday, I went for my fourth fill and asked NOT to have it. LOL I feel I am snug enough! I miss eating. Yes, I do.   I can eat a small breakfast. I love my iced coffee in the morning so switching to hot is not going to happen. Even if I could feel more loose. I never have been a breakfast fan, so a little breakfast is fine for me. I am not hungry EVER. I need to force myself to eat.   Lunch is about a half a cup of chili, or stew or eggplant parm, veggie quiche, egg, chicken salad all of which I make myself and protein packed. That is not a lot of food. I do drink water but probably not enough. I never drink anything with a meal.   Dinner tonight was about four bites of a real crabmeat sub (no I do not eat the bread). I gave half of the sandwich to my husband. That made him so happy. I ate 6 potato chips and after about 30 minutes I was able to eat about four more bites a total of about a half a cup of crab total. I feel I am in a state of Band Limbo.   I just miss eating a lot of food. Does anyone else feel that way? Everything I put in my mouth is for a reason to keep me alive. I am probably slowly consuming about 1,700 calories a day most days but not all days. I have been keeping track. I in no way eat low fat. But I do not eat muffins, cake or donuts, very little pasta or any bread for that matter. I am eating as healthily as I can to work with this tool.   I have made many mistakes and I have slowly and painfully learned my lessons well. This is a band Limbo I have found myself in lately. I am happy and sad ;-( at the same time about where I am. Happy I have taken off 68 pounds in 19 weeks. I weighed in on Monday and I lost 8 pounds in 6 weeks. I have lost very steadily and my body has changed so much. I know I have about another 50 to go I am in no hurry, my body will not tolerate anything in a hurry. I eat slowly today and try to enjoy every bite I take. I plan for every meal. I savor the flavor in my mouth and the food texture on my tongue is important to me. I make sure I get enough fruit everyday. I even concentrate on my swallow.   I am in band LIMBO and this is what has happened to me. I still read food magazines and watch the food network and work with food as a professional. I am making the most of what has helped me change for the better. I had another Low Blood pressure reading so I am closer to getting off the medicine. Which will make me even happier. My husband wants me to stop the sleep apnea machine but I am afraid too. He says I do not snore when I do not use it for short periods of time. I am thinking I may give it one night and see if I wake up with a head ache. I have not one head ache since I have been banded and I use to get headaches all the time. It could be because I do not eat crappy food any more. I read labels and set a better table all around me are healthier for it. I have not gone organic don't get me wrong I just prepare all my foods myself now and leave nothing to chance. No MSG.... Use to Make me sick. I love fresh anything. I am Happy with my banded life and am riding a bicycle outside. Nothing makes you feel better than having the crisp fresh fall air in your face as I ride. My next goal is to go skiing this winter so watch out everyone on the mountain I am gonna get the freshies. Those are the first tracks for you non skiers.   Thanks for all your support. I read every blog who needs a support group at a hospital when we have this site. Best Wishes imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

9
 

imaluckydog Now!!!

Lady!! You can’t get that SIZE on this side of the store! “But if you wait a minute I will go next door and check if they have your size on the other side of the store for you, Okay”. She came back with my size. Oops I’m on the wrong side of store. That has never happened before!! I have always shopped on this side of the store, I have never been told my size is not on this side of the store before. I shop at a women’s clothing store that has two sides one for Normal size and the other for women’s size. Well welcome to NORMAL size luckydog!!! Really imaluckydog NOW!!!   My work mates have said I need some new clothes that fit. I just have not wanted to spend the money yet. With two kids in college, money is tight. I have been using my sewing machine and pants that had pockets do not have packets anymore because I have had to take them in so much.   Well when my daughter came home from school this week end, shopping was on our to do list today. I was blown away that I was not the size clothes I expected to be. My head does not seem to be catching up with my weight loss. I can see my body size is changing. I feel my size is changing and I like the fact my size is changing. I just picked clothes that were still three sizes to big for me. I was in a changing room for almost a half an hour with all the wrong size clothing. I have never had this experience before. My clothes have always been too tight never too loose. I must say I had a good time buying a pair of pants that fit me. A size 16 and it did not have a W next to it (W) is for women’s a fuller and more roomier fitting pant. I was a regular size 16 that I have never been before.   Life is good. I now have a new pair of pants that fit! I am grateful for this experience and feel that the Lap band has given me a chance to live a healthier and happier life. I am seriously thinking I will not get my next fill on November 5, I may just go and weigh in and say I am happy were I am now. I cannot eat a lot and everything is going down slow. It is staying down for the most part. Maybe I am at a sweet spot? imaluckydog
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

8
 

imaluckydog playing with the band early!

Has anyone ever heard of going early for Lap Band?   I was content with my July 20 band date which is about 21 days away. OMG on this pasted Friday I got a call and the Nurse she wanted to know if I would be ready to have my Lap Band done on MONDAY yesterday? OMG again I said ???? I was not sure I was mentally ready. She said could I come down to the hospital and sign a few papers. She also wanted to go over the teaching classes with me. I had had all my blood work and Pre Op work just done on Wednesday.   When I got to the hospital late Friday it was about 4:30 p.m. she said we have a glitch she just found out about. Yup you guessed it! INSURANCE Papers not complete yet. Well the insurance approved me back in the beginning of May and my hospital sent in the paper work to then as well. She just needed a signature. She said I could self pay to the turn of Fifteen Grand plus put it on my credit card or I could wait.   I had been advised by many NOT to put it on my credit card because that could open all kinds of problems. I had a chance that the company would pay. I just tried not to spend my entire week end worrying about it, with the help of more friends on this site. I kept extremely busy. Thanks to them and their kind hearted souls and advice.   On Monday I got up early and finished a few odds and ends that needed to be done so I could take a few days off. I also called the insurance co and called the hospital and at one point I had two phones on my head and talking to someone on the computer. I had all the bases covered. I was pretty sure I would have the surgery that day. My husband took the day off and drove me to the hospital and he was the one saying I would only have a 50 / 50 chance. I had to shut him out.   We had to drive about an hour and the traffic was light, many must be on vacation this week. Just as I am walking into the hospital me cell phone rings. It was Elana from the hospital she said everything is all in order and to come on down. I told her we are here and I plan to go meet her at the check in. She must have worked a miracle today. But I also help to create my own destiny at the same time. I had surgery at 4 p.m. it was a long day. I am home now a resting quite comfortably in bed. I have been up walking and have not had much gas. I just spent one night in the hospital. Today I was released at about 2 p.m. So far water, sf Jello and broth is all I can have.   I am NOT a JULY BAND BUDDY I need one from JUNE if anyone reads this and were banded in June would you please let me know? Thanks   imaluckydog playing with the BAND early!!!
imaluckydog

imaluckydog

8
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