Bandista

70# in six months is amazing. Congratulations on the hard work and commitment that got you there. I was going to suggest changing something up as far as what/how/when you are eating. The Chris Powell carb cycling sounds very interesting for just that. Maybe add a unit of exercise somewhere each day? Stairs at work, around the block an extra time, change gym routine, etc.? But don't stress, your body will start letting go again.

I am loving this thread! Thanks so much for posting. The comments so inspiring. I am just about to begin and the thing I'm looking forward to most is the change in relationship with food. Like getting out of jail. For me, though, one small point of clarification. I was a good dieter. Still could not do it, however. That's why I need this band. No more deprivation for me -- nor the swing the other way and having too much. Just an easy, gentle approach to food as nourishment in small amounts with plenty of time between meals. I don't want to be thinking about what's next all the time and having more. I'll let you know how it goes. Not expecting overnight success but a trend in the right direction is going to get me there one pound off at a time.

Hi Cindy, so happy for you -- and inspired by your commitment to getting healthy whatever it takes. I know that return to self feeling, the renewed energy and connection. That is a wonderful place to be. I am feeling just a bit of that on my pre-op diet. Maybe it has to do with focus and intention -- that clarity of wellness. And Congratulations on reaching Onederland, too! Yippee!

New Hampshire here! Getting nippy -- had our first real frost last night. Day six of pre-op diet. Feeling clear and focused. Just got another canister of protein powder. The pea protein is amazing -- 26 grams protein for only 160 calories. Olympian Labs Lean & Healthy from Vitamin Shoppe. It's also less sweet than the other pea protein I've been using (Thorne Mediclear). Happy weekend everyone!

You must be so glad to have this behind you now -- sending best wishes your way. This is going to be such a big change in your life. Many happy thoughts for all the long walks you're going to be able to take. And dancing!

Work it, baby!

Beautiful post! Thank you so much for the inspiration.

So happy for you guys! Way to go. I am getting banded November 5th and really look forward to this coming year. Love your thoughts on the investment in our lives and well-being. So true. Here's to LIVING!

Glad you are going to see your surgeon -- it sounds like you're ready to get the next 27 off! Don't beat yourself up, but get your band working for you. Hope you find an exercise plan that works for you -- whether walking, a dance class, etc. Even when I have to drag myself to the basement to get on the treadmill, afterwards it feels so good.

Sending you best wishes for a speedy recovery! I am right behind you, 11 days from now. Hope you feel better soon, back to yourself. It will all be worth it!

I was told no finger or toenail polish when I had the pre-op interview. Fingernails no big deal as I never wear polish (I'm a gardener and also make art -- they are pretty rough at times), but I love having my toes done. I will use this as an outing/reward post-band. Not that they'd kick me out if they found gold or fuchsia toenails but I will adhere to their protocol. Every place is different, I'm sure.

Choosing yourself first is a powerful thing, and not succumbing to old ways of dealing with emotions. Admiring your fortitude sending best wishes your way! Happy Saturday!

No basement workout today but have been cranking outdoors. It's blustery here and good to get everything put to bed before the snow flies.

Sending well wishes your way!

I'm going to be overnight, too (11days from now!). The hospital does a barium swallow the morning after to make sure all is well before I go home. It's a 23 hour stay so not a technical overnight.

I started in June and will be banded early in November. While the process at times seemed excruciatingly slow because I was so excited about moving forward, I think it was good for me to have that time to really learn about the band. I did that here, reading people's posts and asking questions, really delving into what the post-op life will mean. I recommend taking your time and learning all you can. That will help assure your success. Good luck to you and welcome to the forum!

Whoops, that is Yippie!, not hippie. iPad helping me, not.

Hippie! Such good news -- thanks for sharing. I am 11 days pre-op and this is so inspiring. Can't wait to be a month out! Best wishes to you.......

Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Didn't you have a whole stuck event last night with the rice and then the stress of a job interview as well as a fill today? I don't know much about the band as I don't even have one yet (!) but that was too much all at once. Take good care and let yourself heal up -- that was terrible last night and probably the fill today should have waited a bit until you were really recovered from that. Hope you can put your feet up and rest.

Hi there, I had the psych eval and first meeting with my nutritionist on the same day. Each one took about an hour and I was glad to meet both of these members of the medical team. Psych eval sounds just like the one in the video above -- about 500 questions on graduated scale with an interview afterward to discuss food issues, etc. It was a piece of cake. Well, the only cake I am having for a while.

Happy Bandiversary -- you look great! And we wear the same uniform (jeans and black top). It's so encouraging to read your post. I am waiting to be banded and hope with just that same kind of relationship with food. And I'm with you on the "real" food.

Hi Sallie, two pounds could be anything -- don't get discouraged! But glad that you are getting back on the banded wagon. Just think what next month could be -- keep your chin up. And the legs walking, walking, walking.......

Wow! Happy happy!

I think clarity and true inner beauty are threatening to some. You are both of those things -- clear and beautiful, inside and out. I love how you did not use food to tamp down old feelings of unworthiness or anything else -- you took care of yourself. Sending best wishes your way!