How truly excited am I to begin this new chapter of my life? There are no true words to describe it.

I find myself standing in a visible cross roads, tomorrow I cross to the right path. I decided for once that I was going to take a stand and truly take control of my life and health, and that no longer will I make or allow excuses for myself. I never remember myself being thin, since I was a small child I was nagged about my weight. When have I worn a single digit dress size? well that's easy, never. At 29, I decided enough is enough and decided to jump head first into this expirience. I am putting myself first for once.

So now I am writing my first blog entry on the eve of my surgery. I am so excited, yes there are nerves and questions on what to expect but what is the most amazing its the incredible level of hope.

Hope that I can do this,

Hope that I will be able to live a rewarding and fulfilling life,

Hope that it brings a bucketload of blessings and opportunities

Once my mind was made up, I went for it. The entire process for me from seminar to surgery has been 6 weeks. My job gave me amazing insurance that did not require a 6-month diet; a primary physician that did everything in his power to get me this help; friends and family that have demonstrated a sheer level of love and support that I did not think it was possible.

And here I am, 14 days into my pre-op liquid diet, hungry, cranky but sooooooo happy. The diet was the hardest thing I have done so far, I was so strict and on point. Imagine this I spent 10 of those days vacationing in Puerto Rico and I could not drink or eat anything I wanted while every one else indulged. I never cheated, not once because I knew how important this is for me. What was the result of the effort? I have lost an amazing 20 pounds and I can't even believe it.

Tomorrow I get banded and I will treasure the beginning of my new life.

Good luck to everyone on their journey and I hope that in whatever comes next just keep that initial hope. I know I will :-)