I told my husband that "the camera make me look fat" is just what fat people tell themselves to try and make themselves feel better. We had this disucssion after having him take some current "before" photos for my journey. I hate these photos. But I realize its important to have an accurate way to measure my future results!

I'm taking measurements on my left side.

Today at 249 lbs they are as follows:

Upper arm: 16 3/4 in.

Chest: 46 3/4

Waist: 42 3/4

hips: 52

Upper Thigh: 28 1/2

Calf: 17 3/4

I hate those measurements too. :phanvan

I ordered Omnitrition Liquid Vitamins today. They have a better absorption rate and Elaine (step Mom who is an RN) said the people she knows who do well with WLS have all used some form of liquid multivitamin.

Here are my before photos - in my unflattering purple bikini. I'm going to wear this for all my photos - until it starts to fall off me anyway! I think wearing the same thing each time is a good way to really see a difference. Posting them here for the world of LBT to see is daunting, but I feel compelled to share my starting point.

I applaud you for being so bold. Pictures are a great way to see your progress. Good Luck

Girl - you look good - seriously - I expected to see a different body shape - you are smart and ahead of the game getting the band at the weight you are now - good decision! You'll have that bikini falling off you soon enough!

I agree -- pics (with same clothing) IS the best way to see a difference - keep doing it - because even if you don't see a difference - we will! Everyone always complains they can't see ay difference with weight loss early on (including me) but others can see it and will give you a boost!

Hey thanks for posting your pics & measurements. You gave me the courage to do the same. Even if you are smaller than me. Go for it!!!