I am fairly newly banded (8/19/2011) and I remember...

when I started my pre-op diet how I could not wait to taste solid foods. We I eat solid, but don't miss the junk foods like I thought I would.

I remember how I thought I would never feel full again. Now I look at what other put on their plates, and ask myself where do they put all that food.

wondering if this journey was going to be a struggle. I have found my journey to be rewarding in that I stick to the plan rules, my convictions and know I am doing the right things, even if my scale does not go down for a few days, or even up a pound here and there. I FEEL CONFIDENT.

wondering if I would have strength to bypass all the goodies on holidays and special occasions - you know, pizza, birthday cake and ice cream, cookies, chips and dip, breads, etc. I found out I am must stronger than I ever realized.

the gas pains that set in a couple of days after surgery, feeling like I had done about 100 sit ups on day 3 post op, and thinking I would never be able to exercise. Well, the gas pains eventually fade, the sore stomach goes away, and I do exercise...I love my bicycle and if it is too cold, I go to the gym and ride there.

I believe every one of us have doubts, worries, challenges along the way in some shape or form. But we will survive and we will conquer the fat demon that has been riding us for so long.

Keep up the good work and know that we are all there for each other.

I LOVE MY BAND.

zIL