Well, today marks day 14 on an extremely strict Atkins diet of eating 20 or less of net carbs. I am happy to report I have lost 6.5 pounds! My surgery weight needs to be at 213.5 and I am now at 212.5. So proud of myself. It hasn't been easy at all but I feel good that i am getting a good jump start on making sure i eat protein first and then veggies. My hunger is down, my face looks thinner and my clothes are a bit more comfortable. I am going to stick to the phase 1 portion for 1 more week then move on to phase 2 next week.

So, I met with my dietitian today and we went over all thats expected after surgery. I was pleased to know that i will have no pre-surgery diet since my weight is down to where it needs to be. I brought my food journals like she asked and even did the 2 day "mushies" diet like she requested, which was not easy being on the Atkins diet! She said I was her star patient. I was pretty pleased with that. I just did what she asked me to do before meeting with her.

I did find out that I will get a surgery date when I meet with my surgeon (March 16). I can't wait. I have finished everything except the 2 last support groups that insurance requires. Fingers crossed for the end of March.

My first pre-op hurtle: I had an all girls party last Saturday where my friends and I got together to have drinks and food. I was really worried about this and thought about not going so I could avoid all the food. Then I realized i needed to go for my own sake and sanity. I can't hide from these social events. I need to go out and embrace them and be strong. So, i decided not to drink so I wouldn't give into the temptation easier. There were sooo many goodies and all the stuff i love like chips and dip, ziti, cookies, etc. I ate before I went and sipped my water all night. I made it through successfully but it wasn't easy. My friends are so used to me drinking and eating along with them, that of course I stuck out like a sore thumb. First question: Are you pregnant? Thats a huge negative. So, i told a couple of the girls and it was nice to talk with them and get their support. I have decided to tell people about my choice of WLS and I am not regretting it yet. I have had a lot of support and I know I will need it to make me be successful on this journey.

So now, I continue to diet and exercise and wait for March 16th.

You are beautiful! You will do just fine, and the Date for your surgery will be here before you know it! Best of luck to you!