General: WOW, I can not believe that it has been 5 weeks since I had my lap band surgery. Where has the time gone? I can really say this has been an unique experience and a challenge. Those people that say that bariatric surgery is the easy way out, they are clueless. I think it is more challenging because it forces you into accountability.

RECOVERY: Well, as far as my recovery goes, my incisions have completely closed and healed. The incision where my port is, is healed but there is a stitch about an inch long that is sticking out of my skin, my incision healed around it and there are no signs of infection so I decided to address this at my 6 week appointment next week.

DIET: The first two weeks after surgery was very awkward It was a time of "finding myself" or "feeling things out" I think I pretty much know how to listen to my body when it comes to eating. Head hunger -vs- the real thing. I currently feel no restriction at all and I am hungry often (thank God for the protein shakes they help a lot with this problem) but the sweet cravings are still there and stronger than ever.

FIRST FILL: Unfortunately I have to be 6 weeks post-op before I can get my first fill. I wonder why some people can get their fills as soon as 2 weeks after and I have to wait 6 weeks? I don't know. I am excited and nervous about my fill but I guess I will be OK after I experience the first fill. I hope I get a lot more restriction than I have now.

WEIGHT LOSS: So far I have lost 43 pounds about 24 of those I lost after surgery and about 19 before surgery. I also go to the gym at least 4 times a week. Friday I am going to try a new workout class, belly dancing (picture that) I will let you know how that goes) Well that is all for now, I will post more pictures next week on Thursday or Friday of me slowly deflating LOL, until then GOOD LOOSING!!!