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Just a little over a year ago, I wrote about what I thought 2012 would be like for me. I was experiencing a lot of stress at the time thinking how drastically my life would transform by having weight loss surgery, adopting a baby and potentially changing my job; three major life changes. The weight loss journey has been a unique ride into a bizarre world where I am valued and found to be attractive by people around me. While it was difficult physically, it was not any harder than what I had expected. Mentally and emotionally, the journey has been surreal. I’m still not sure what to make of everything and I’m still trying to get used to this new life. I was very anxious about my surgery. I was worried about having medical complications and I was concerned about the impact the surgery would have on my life. Fortunately, I had nothing to worry about. The surgery and recovery went smoothly. I was worried about standing out in a crowd or drawing attention to myself because of my dietary needs. My anxiety was unfounded as I have discovered that I am no different than anyone else except that I eat less food. I don’t mind telling waiters and fellow diners that I’ve had surgery and therefore am not able to eat large quantities of food. I am not ashamed of my surgery in the least. I know I could not have lost this weight without the surgery. Last year, I had a lot of new experiences with food and people. My goal this year will be to take what I learned last year and apply it. I still have 60 pounds I want to lose. I need to focus on my recovery and weight loss once again like I did a year ago. It is necessary for me to use what I learned about protein shakes, eating slowly, and making better food choices to take my journey to the next level. I bought bicycles last year but did not use them very much. After losing weight I was more active than I had ever been before. I went on several walks and then there was that infamous kayaking trip. It is very easy for me to revert back to my old sedentary habits; therefore, I need to make a conscious effort to continue to stay active in 2013. Finally, this year I need to learn to become more comfortable in my own skin. I need to learn the social skills required to make new friends and confidently talk to strangers. I think this has more to do with my self-esteem and confidence than anything else. I don’t believe in making concrete New Year’s resolutions, but I think some lifestyle and behavioral changes are always a positive thing. In a push to grow as an individual, I will make an effort to be more active; more social; and practice healthy eating behaviors. As it is getting late, I will discuss the adoption and career at another time.

You guys ive lost only 24 lbs!! but i think im losing inches rather than weight, i was at a stall for 3 weeks!! but i didnt let it discourage, i keep reminding myself the sleeve it's just a tool and not a miracle surgery so ive noticed that even though im eating less portions i wont lose any weight if i keep choosing the wrong foods. So it's been a struggle but i thank God i made this decisions! this website and all your testimonies had helped me a lot on a daily basis and i wanted to thank you! Remember it took most of us a lifetime to gain this weight we shouldn't give up just because we dont see the weight shed fast enough. This is a about healthy living not just looking thin..that's just bonus

Maybe she insecure and afraid you will steal her thunder when you reach your goal. Giving you bad, but potentially dangerous advise, shame on her. This serpent has shone her fangs, stay pisitive at a safe distance. : )

thanks u have now validated for me that I need to choose the right foods. I have been eating very small portions prob 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup portions 3 times daily. but I can tolerate some bread, crackers, and carbs that arent good ones. i tend to go for them instead of healthier choices. but now I am set on eating only foods that are the most nutritious for me. thank you! your right, its about changing what up in ur head as well that makes the difference!

You look amazing!!! Keep up the great work.

Great blog. We can be our worst enemy or our best friend, it's our choice. Happy New Year!