:tongue:So I guess what I was doing this week (despite groaning) was helping. I was so happy to see the scale move again. At 24.1 down now. And yes, I keep track of the decimals.

I am trying to find ways to reward myself that aren't food related. I got a mani/pedi and eyebrows waxed, which was nice. I bought myself flowers. I'd like to find rewarding things that don't cost money, too, but I haven't been able to think of any. It would be nice to take a walk but it's pouring rain here in CA.

My co-workers have been great. There's a percentage of them that know and I share my successes with them. We have formed a walking group and walk at lunch if it isn't raining. I also exercise on my elliptical at home - in 15 min. increments (morn/night if I'm really doing well). I can go up to 20 now and tried "hill" and it was pushing my lungs (glad I quit smoking).

I remember reading everyone's blogs here and seeing them say that their only regret was not getting the surgery sooner. I agree. I still have about 80 lbs to lose to goal, but I feel a great sense of confidence - not just for the loss, but because I feel in control...finally. Don't get me wrong, I still struggle. In fact, right now I'm struggling because I'm hungry and I've had liquids so I can't eat for another 30 minutes.

I have my first post-op visit with the surgeon this Friday. His office is pissed at me because I missed the Jan 27 appointment. My advice to them would be don't tell patients about appointments when they're on morphine. I discovered it because I was going through my all-things-gastric folder and saw the card. I have very little recollection of the conversation. It was like, "your doctor will see you in ::fuzzy:: - weeks, okay?" I was a little disturbed that they didn't call to tell me I'd missed an appointment. I wonder how long I would've gone. I think my stitches are dissolvable so it's really a liability check on their part, I think.

First fill will probably be in early March. I'm excited and nervous for it.

Next week is the end of the mushies. Then I work in...soft solids? I'm not sure - I'll have to look it up.

Valentine's Day. Hmm. I'll be onto real food, but I don't know how my husband and I will celebrate. Dinner seems way premature, unless I can find a place that will serve a healthy appetizer.

Oh, gross. Has anyone noticed the "drooling" smilie below their text when posting? It's the second one on the last line. This smiley thing is getting ridiculous. That's right. I said it.

See you at 25. :biggrin:

Okay, so I use them too.