I can't believe that tomorrow it will be 1 year since I have had my surgery. I am so thankful that I made the decision to do the lapband. I can't say that it has all been easy. In the past 6 months, I have only loss an additional 10 pounds for a total of 65 lbs. However, I have to be honest. I am a work in progress. The lapband is a tool. "I" and "I" alone must make the decisions that affect my body. I am doing great with the diet part of this journey. It is the exercise that has been more of a challedge. I could give you a thousand excuses...my husband has been working the last year out of town, I worked full time and had to run my 4 children to all of their activities....however....I have realized....these are just excuses. No matter what, it is my responsibility to get up and out to exercise. Truthfully, I could "make" the time. It is really about being honest with yourself and doing what you need to do. This is not an easy fix. I do not think any of these weight loss surgeries would qualify as an easy fix. Most of us who have issues with weight must find out what issues truly drive us to gain weight. Only then...can we be truly successful. That has been the biggest part of my experience this past year. I have restarted my focus on exercise. "I" will not allow any excuses.

What tips do I have for those who dread exercise such as me...

1. Find an activity that you enjoy. I walk/jog (barely a jog) because I enjoy being outside. I have a hard time with the treadmill. However, it does great when there is bad weather outside.

2. I lay out my workout clothes the night before. I put them on first thing in the morning. It is a contant reminder until I finish my exercising. I also know that for me....if, I don't do my exercise in the morning, I could tend to put it off later in the evening.

3. Get an MP3 with upbeat music to help keep you moving.

4. Try new things...I am signed up for Kayaking lessons....keep you posted on that one (LOL).

5. Know that YOU are worth it!

Good luck to all of the new bandsters as you embark down this road!