senickisncis

So here we are on our way for another weekend away at the beach.At the moment I have a bad cold and flu.Didnt take any meds until just now.
 
I got some loritadine with pseudo noreffedrine (or something like that) Wasnt sure what it would do to my tummy and an hour and a half later I know it still doesnt like meds.Will take some nose spray and panadols from now on as I dont like this full swollen feeling I have on my tum now.
 
The fabulous thing is I HAVE LOST MY APPETITE now for aver a week.I think for the first time ever.After the sleeve I never once didnt feel like earing,now I just cannot even look at food.The bad thing is for the first time I am not getting enough protein and seeing as my hair is still falling out at 8 months,this is a bit of a worry.
 
Because I have severe bathroom issues since the sleeve my main focus is protein with ispagulla husk and vitamins as I am not absorbing the vits very well at all.When some labs looks ok,others drop.After reading some newish studies on iron deficiency 3 years out,I am very concerned about this.Iron supplements causes constipation for me and I cannot take it at all as an addition.Now,trying to eat enough food with enough iron seems quite impossible at the moment.When I eat enough iron rich veggies,I cant get enough protein.When I add the fibre supplement,it keeps me full for hours and hours and cannot eat enough of anything.
 
We dont find fibre gummies here and to import it I will have to permission from the ministry.Which I will tackle next week as why cant I just order it online and import it?There is a list of banned medications as long as life itself and I will have to check and see if fibre gummies is on the list...lol
 
I sometimes dont think people in the US realize how lucky they are to have all the resources that they do.Life is so much harder without some things.
 
At least the hotel food sucks so badly (really bad food for a 5 star) that I wont be tempted to eat too much.What is a challenge for me is the pina quiladas that I like way too much.Dont like other cocktails so am not tempted but this place makes a mean PQ.And the weather is stunning.Hot,but not too hot,clear skies!
 
This morning my weight was 188.Slow now,but at least coming down all the time.
 
I also finally arranged to work out with the personal trainer from monday next week as the holiday is around the corner and I am still like jelly!Hope I can at least tone some in the next 6 weeks.
 
Sometimes I do worry about the long term problems I see people have with the sleeve.Many have iron issues and others have GERD.I pray that the Lord have mercy on me as I dont know if my very expensive private expat medical insuarance will ever pay for anything related to the surgery.It is not always non compliance that causes complications sometimes its just bad luck.But it surely seems like a very fine balancing act to get enough protein,firbre and the correct amount of every vitamin we need.I think maybe drinking a protein shake every day forever might help some of the issues but not all of it.And not ever eating the food that I know will cause reflux (lots of experience with this and food does make a huge difference even though some people will not admit it)
 
Ok,long update.But quite necessary to see I have to go and get those protein pancakes with fibre that I made for breakfast (its almost dinner time here) and eat them.It feels somewhat aurreal to me to have to force myself to eat.Wish it could stay like this until goal!

Today I had my first dumping experience. I decided to try and new protein shot, I normally use the Body Fortress 26 g shot and this time I decided to use New Whey liquid protein 42 g grape, I only drank half. I was driving home and I had to pull over into a parking lot until I was well enough to drive the rest of the way home. It started with feeling hot and sweating, then I started to have stomach cramps and dry heaving. I had to turn on the A/C on full blast and I fell asleep for about 15 - 20 mins. Once I felt okay to get back on the road, I went straight home. It started to happen again by the time I got home and then I started to have stomach issues. I was so tired after this, I had to take a long nap to get myself together. I had a lapband for 5 yrs and had never have had this type of experience, Ive had my sleeve for 16 days and all I can say is Lord i hope this doesnt happen to be again Lol.

The closer January comes, the more nervous I become. I wish there were some other way to loose weight and keep it off forever. I am convinced that there isn't. The more I research, the more I believe this procedure are sound and will help me, even over the long run. Never-the-less I am scared.
I'm sure almost everyone was feeling this, and are now healthier without all of the weight they were carrying around. (Deep Breath) Stay calm and Carry on.
If anyone knows of a support group in Phoenix/Scottsdale that anyone can attend please let me know. The one that is offered by Banner is not feasable, as I just can't get there on time.

Week 33
 
Last week’s weight – 191.8
This week’s weight – 191.8
Total weight lost this week – 0
 
Beginning weight – 246 lbs
Total weight loss since surgery – 54.2 lbs
 
This week I stayed the same weight wise, which I am grateful for. I’m currently recovering from a Breaking Dawn movie theater binge – small popcorn with light butter and a bag of sour gummies (ugh!). Don’t have any giant Thanksgiving plans so I should be ok next week.
 
Hoping to get into the 180's over the holidays.

Well, I had yet another bad night last night! Not sure what happened. I was fine all day until about 5:00 p.m. then all of a sudden I got all nauseated again. The only thing I had all day was a 1/2 cup low cal tomato soup, a snack pack size of sugar free pudding, and a cup of chocolate soy milk. Plus water to drink through out the day. OK, so what of those things made me sick??? I was nauseated, vomiting mostly stomach acid type stuff, and had to keep using the bathroom because I still had lots of gas, and loose stools. I felt awful from 5:00 p.m. until probably 2:00 or 3:00 am! I went to bed at 9:00 p.m., but was up and down several times during the night. Why is this happening to me??? Do you think it's the dairy as in the pudding, or the dairy in the tomato soup? Has anyone else had this problem? I'm 10 days out since my sleeve.

It is interesting to see how little I really eat.Also will be interesting to see what the scale does when I get back home.
 
We are staying in a hotel and we have breakfast included.This is what I ate.Half a soft boiled egg,.25 of a arabic flat bread,about half an once of brie cheese,one teaspoon of hummus,half a slice of deli beef.A cappucino before I ate.
 
Then at 12:00 2 pieces of beef jerky.At 2:30 we ordered lunch.I ordered a beef burger that looked so great I told the kids to get the camera,Im going to eat the whole thing...lol.Well,I ate .25 of the hamburger patty because I first saw some lettuce leaves with a little balsamico and I had to eat that.At 17:30 we decided to have a pina quilada in the sea while gently rocking on our chairs in the water.This made me so nauseous I am still recovering...lol.Also a bit giggly as I still havent learnt to stop after half a drink which would have been just enough.Now there is a international buffet my family wants to go to and I will have to see what I can eat.
 
The thing is I am totally HOOKED on protein pancakes.It is so crazy!I miss them so much when I cant have it.It like a meal,protein and pudding all in one for me and I just love them!
 
Tis stupid scale at the hotel weighed me 3 pounds heavier than my home scale just whe we arrived and of course this makes me paranoid.Hope it isnt right though I doubt it.
 
We went on the boat today with the kids on the tube.Tomorrow we will go and snorkel ar Dibba rock and then join the kids for a joy ride on the banana tube just to show how brave mom's gotten.
 
We played badmington on the beach for a long long time and my energy is endless now.
 
Life is so different now that i am so much lighter.I dont sit and watch everyone do the fun things any more,I participate in every thing there is to do.
 
I cannot wait to go skiing some time early next year.
 
More than anything I cannot wait to lose this last 30 pounds so I can start looking into plastics.My butt is hanging behind my knees and no bathing suite stays over it.I am constantly pulling and tugging to keep it in place and will seriously have to look for a different style one.The wrinckly skin also bothers me a little,but hey,I dont know anyone one here so am not too self concious (spelling!)
 
Life is good and not even the cold I have could spoil the fun this time around!

Soooooooooooooooo close to my first goal weight!!! I'm only 3.4 lbs away! But I'm soooooo happy to still be going down in weight! Sometimes I fear getting out of bed to weigh myself, afraid I might be disappointed like I did in my previous fat kid life, but this sleeve has changed me so much. I see the scale going down, and I'm just so incredibly thankful. Even though I'm not dropping big numbers, every little bit counts, and I'd rather be going down than up!! Tomorrow marks my 3 month surgi-versary and I will be taking my monthly photo's in my bikini like I've done every previous month and I'm nervous. I hate that bikini right now- it's still not my friend. But I know that with progress there are pains, and I need to document this journey as thoroughly as possible so that when I reach where I'm going, I can look back and say never again.

So everyone stay tuned! Tomorrow there will be 3 month surgi-versary pictures!
 
 
Height: 5'9
 
Highest (Surgery) Weight: 216
 
1st Primary Goal Weight: 169
2nd Optimal Goal Weight: 145
 
Sleeve Journey:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 8/17/12- PreOp/Surgery Day w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 1 (8/24): 204.8 (-11.2)
Week 2 (8/31): 200.6 (-4.2)
Week 3 (9/7): 196.8 (-3.8)
Week 4 (9/14): 193.5 (-3.3)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 9/17/12- 1 Month Anniversary w/Pics Posted in Blog (-22.5 lbs)
Week 5 (9/21): 191.6 (-1.9)
Week 6 (9/28): 190.1 (-1.5)
Week 7 (10/5): 187.0 (-3.1)
Week 8 (10/12): 181.9 (-5.1)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 10/17/12- 2 Month Anniversary w/Pics Posted in Blog (-11.6 lbs)
Week 9 (10/19): 181.4 (-.5)
Week 10 (10/26): 177.9 (-3.5)
Week 11 (11/02): 176.8 (-1.1)
Week 12 (11/09): 174.7 (-2.1)
Week 13 (11/16): 173.3 (-1.4)

Happpy Birrrthhddaayyyy to meeeee! The greatest present I could have ever given myself? VSG. Period. End of story. I paid out of pocket and went broke for this surgery, and my only regret is that I didn't do this sooner. I've never in my life experienced this kind of weight loss success, the little bit I did came from extreme dieting, deprevation, and I dare say an eating disorder. Nothing ever lasted. I might get excited at a few Weight Watchers meetings than, bam, it would come right back on with in a month or a couple of weeks. I use to be relieved to lose just a few pounds over the course of a month, today I'm now down over -40 lbs since surgery 12 weeks ago. This week I lost an addition -2lbs and yesterday I celebrated my 29th birthday. Normally this event has me plotting out my food plan of attack 2 weeks in advance. I would eat anything and everything and use my birthday as an excuse to binge. This year I did not, and could not. Old habits are hard to break, I even picked up a couple of my favorite go to items, and low and behold my sleeve wasn't having any of it. I felt foolish for even trying.
 
I found a dress (a business bodycon style dress) in my closet that I bought over 2 years ago online. I was overweight but I figured if I lost 20 lbs it might fit and I was in love with the style. When it arrived in the mail I was so deeepresssseeeeddd to learn that even if I lost 20 lbs that dress was NOT going to fit. I felt bad and humiliated as usual, but instead of returning it as I should have, I hung it up, tags still attached and moved it to the back of my closet... because maybe, just maybe one day something magical might happen. Last week I rediscovered it and almost gasped. Could it be?? The dress?! But have I lost enough???? Well, I put it on and bam... it fit. Like a glove. It only took -40lbs! But it fits!
 
I wore it for the first time yesterday on my birthday, then wore it watch Maya Angelou lecture on women in leadership, then proceeded to a dinner date. It wasn't a huge blow out birthday, but it was GREAT. And I felt GREAT. And I felt beautiful. I haven't been able to say that in a long time. I felt beautiful. Today I took the day off from work, and spent have the day at a spa getting a massage and facial, and the other half of the day completely gutting my closet. I literally cleared out HALF of my clothes that are too big for me. My room is a disaster, but I knew that these items had to go. I finished up with a late lunch with my exboyfriend who has been randomly appearing a lot more lately (giggles). Tonight is my birthday party with friends, followed by a going away party for another friend tomorrow night. I'm about to see a whole lot of people I haven't seen in a while and I know there will be LOTS to be said!
 
Birthdays use to be about food, and celebrating with food. This birthday was about celebrating me, and I went a totally different direction. I definitly see more birthdays with Spa Day's involved including a new special birthday outfit. Here's to new beginnings, new bodies, and new traditions. Cheers!
 
Height: 5'9
 
Highest (Surgery) Weight: 216
 
1st Primary Goal Weight: 169
2nd Optimal Goal Weight: 145
 
Sleeve Journey:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 8/17/12- PreOp/Surgery Day w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 1 (8/24): 204.8 (-11.2)
Week 2 (8/31): 200.6 (-4.2)
Week 3 (9/7): 196.8 (-3.8)
Week 4 (9/14): 193.5 (-3.3)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 9/17/12- 1 Month Anniversary w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 5 (9/21): 191.6 (-1.9)
Week 6 (9/28): 190.1 (-1.5)
Week 7 (10/5): 187.0 (-3.1)
Week 8 (10/12): 181.9 (-5.1)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 10/17/12- 2 Month Anniversary w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 9 (10/19): 181.4 (-.5)
Week 10 (10/26): 177.9 (-3.5)
Week 11 (11/02): 176.8 (-1.1)
Week 12 (11/09): 174.7 (-2.1)

I lost -1.1 lbs this week. Nowhere near where I wanted to be. I'm now at 176.8 lbs and next week is my birthday. All I wanted to see was that glorious 169 lbs mark as a birthday present to myself. Just doesn't seem to want to happen on my time. But lately that seems to be the story of my life. I don't like when people play the victim. I feel we are all masters and commanders of our own lives and weight loss journeys. That being said, I've done a terrible job of steering and I feel like I've run my ship aground. I've written a lot about toxic people and time to clean house and surround myself with positive people and energy. But sometimes it's easier said than done.
 
After a very rough weekend last week during the championship water polo tournament, I've made the decision to quit water polo for the duration of this semester. I've had so much going on in my life that when I constantly get questioned and torn down, I have to wonder- am I doing it for myself or just to prove a point? I've proven what I can do. And maybe I will go back in the spring semester- maybe I won't. I'm still trying to swim 3 days a week on lunch, but I once again got back lash from people in my office who think I take too much time to work out and feel it is affecting my work (how, I'm still not sure) and reported me and now I have to cut my workouts down dramatically since I have to check in and out. I've really been feeling defeated lately.
 
I've come to the conclusion that haters are just going to hate. While most people will smile and say good job on your weight loss, many people would rather down play your hard work, tare you down, and even find ways to sabotage you. Some intentionally and some just because they are negative. They are friends, coworkers, associates, etc. In my case it's all of the above. I love my friends and especially those who have really kept me positive, but sometimes you need to close ranks, and build some pretty high emotional walls. I would love to go in to detail and discuss what it was like to have people say that I'm a bad mother for working out, that I'm liar and obviously must have eating disorder or be on drugs (because I haven't told many people I had WLS)... but I'm not. I'm not going to discuss it. I've already cried my tears. Gone through self-pity. And you know what? I'm still going to lose weight, I'm still going to finish school, and I'm still going to be a great and HELATHY mom regardless of what anyone else says. I'm not married, I don't have a partner to share all my intimate details and thoughts with. Being a single mom and going through this journey has really opened my eyes to independence and confidence. I've really looked at other people to inspire me then let them break me down instead. You have to be your own best friend sometimes. You've got to be your own super hero and save yourself.
 
Height: 5'9
 
Highest (Surgery) Weight: 216
 
1st Primary Goal Weight: 169
2nd Optimal Goal Weight: 145
 
Sleeve Journey:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 8/17/12- PreOp/Surgery Day w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 1 (8/24): 204.8 (-11.2)
Week 2 (8/31): 200.6 (-4.2)
Week 3 (9/7): 196.8 (-3.8)
Week 4 (9/14): 193.5 (-3.3)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 9/17/12- 1 Month Anniversary w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 5 (9/21): 191.6 (-1.9)
Week 6 (9/28): 190.1 (-1.5)
Week 7 (10/5): 187.0 (-3.1)
Week 8 (10/12): 181.9 (-5.1)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 10/17/12- 2 Month Anniversary w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 9 (10/19): 181.4 (-.5)
Week 10 (10/26): 177.9 (-3.5)
Week 11 (11/02): 176.8 (-1.1)

I'm finally in the 170's!!! I'm so relieved to see the 170's I can't tell you! My primary goal is 169 lbs, and my birthday is in 2 weeks. Today I weighed in at 177.9, which means I'm only 8 lbs away from my goal- most importantly my birthday is in 2 weeks!!!!! I want so badly to make my goal by my birthday, a present I've never really been able to give myself before. I have friends coming to visit me and I'd like to get dressed up in a fabulous tight dress and show everyone AND take pics!! I still haven't told the rest of my social world about my surgery (not really planning too) but I also haven't posted ANY pics since my weight loss started, and now every time someone see's me they kind of freak out a little bit. So I figure my birthday in two weeks is a great coming out party for weight loss pics, and even bigger motivator to get this last 8 lbs off! I can do this!
 
And my NSV this week? NSV... my skinny jeans/pants I bought in Nurnberg, Germany years ago on the Euro size chart at H&M... FIT! Like a glove. Hallelujia! About a size 9/10 on the American standard. Here is my before and after 2.5 months after surgery! Size 16 to size 9/10!!!! Check out the before and after below!!
 

 
Height: 5'9
 
Highest Weight: 216
 
1st Goal Weight: 169
 
 
Sleeved:
(8/17/2012): 216 lbs
 
Week 1 (8/24): 204.8 (-11.2)
Week 2 (8/31): 200.6 (-4.2)
Week 3 (9/7): 196.8 (-3.8)
Week 4 (9/14): 193.5 (-3.3)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 9/17/12- 1 Month Anniversary w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 5 (9/21): 191.6 (-1.9)
Week 6 (9/28): 190.1 (-1.5)
Week 7 (10/5): 187.0 (-3.1)
Week 8 (10/12): 181.9 (-5.1)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 10/17/12- 2 Month Anniversary w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 9 (10/19): 181.4 (-.5)
Week 10 (10/26): 177.9 (-3.5)

Well, this week I only lost -.5 lb. ONLY a half a pound after a -5 lbs weight loss last week. But, such is the journey of weight loss. I didn't stall, I didn't gain, and the scale went down, if only a little bit, it still went down. And for that I'm very thankful. I posted my 2 month post op pics on Wednesday, and I am really starting to see a difference. Mostly in the way my clothes are fitting me. Everyday this week I've worn something that had been in my closet collecting dust for years. My next hurdle, is to sit down and really go through EVERYTHING and clean out my closet and organize by size and really start getting rid of stuff. I've held on to so much in fear my weight would go up and down. My closet ranges from size 8 to size 16. Just think of all the closet space for new clothes once I finally get to my ultimate size?! And as for what that size is??? I don't know. Smallest I've ever been was a size 8, and that lasted for a few weeks and yo yo dieted myself up back to a size 16. So maybe size 8? Maybe a size 6? I really don't know. I do know it will be a journey, it won't happen overnight. I'm still wearing my favorite pair of size 10 jeans that I fit into for the first time just a few weeks ago, and they are already starting to get lose on me. Until I get to my first goal weight of 169lbs, I'm really not buying anything new, re-discovering all the old clothes in my closet, and preparing for a mass spring cleaning!
 
Height: 5'9
 
Highest Weight: 216
 
1st Goal Weight: 169
 
 
Sleeved:
(8/17/2012): 216 lbs
 
Week 1 (8/24): 204.8 (-11.2)
Week 2 (8/31): 200.6 (-4.2)
Week 3 (9/7): 196.8 (-3.8)
Week 4 (9/14): 193.5 (-3.3)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 9/17/12- 1 Month Anniversary w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 5 (9/21): 191.6 (-1.9)
Week 6 (9/28): 190.1 (-1.5)
Week 7 (10/5): 187.0 (-3.1)
Week 8 (10/12): 181.9 (-5.1)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~> 10/17/12- 2 Month Anniversary w/Pics Posted in Blog
Week 9 (10/19): 181.4 (-.5)

I haven't updated in awhile as I'm back to my busy life. Returned to work this Monday, 12 hours shifts, no restrictions. I am doing pretty well, keeping up, keeping hydrated. I was afraid of not having time to drink, let alone eat, but so far I've been able to make it work. I'm also babysitting my 1 year and 2 year old grandsons-that seems to wear me out faster than work! I had this surgery to help me keep up=but so far I'm struggling just as much as before. A bit disappointing, but I'm hoping my stamina increases as I lose weight and get a regular exercise regimen. Speaking of which, I started back to the gym on Saturday. My plan is to go every day off, even if I'm babysitting I will go afterwards. But there is no way to go on work days.
Other issues I'm running into include constipation, back pain, and so much gas!! I think the back pain is just due to the abdominal muscles having gotten weak since surgery. For the constipation I have increased the fiber I take daily and now taking colace daily as well. This may also be contributing to the gas thing.
So at least I'm finally losing weight again, I said goodbye to the 240's this Tuesday. I also got into some size 18 jeans and my work jackets that I had "outgrown". In case anybody is curious about my stats, i started out this journey at 277lbs, wearing size 22 jeans and 3x scrubs. My scrubs at work are now XL pants and 2x tops. I'm an apple shape-that hasn't changed too much yet. But I'm hoping I will become a thinner apple!!

Today I wish I was normal.Not only thin normal but not ADD or OCD and not I wish that I could take medication to "fix" me! All I wanted to do today was eat,all day long!I couldnt stop thinking about food for a minute.It was one of those me me me me days that I just hate.
 
And I wish I lived in a country where it wasnt such a mission to find a therapist that is going to stay put.But we are all expats,habitual movers!
 
Once I found a pill,for 2 weeks..lol.I went to my gp and said I am sick of myself and need something.He yanked a sample of Cymbalta out of his drawer and said try this and see me in 2 weeks,remember it only works after 10 days.After exactly 24 hours I knew that was what normal felt like.I was calm.My OCD was gone,my mind started focussing for the first time EVER!Didint have a 100 tracts playing in the head all at once!I could drive a car without it being a competition to see who wins,I could deal with life without the impending sense of doom and having to tell myself a million times a day that everything is fine,nothing to worry about.I slept a full night for the first time in my life and most important,my fear of people all but disappeared.
 
Then my kidneys function started being affected but I couldnt care less.After 10 days I could hardly walk but happy as I have ever been.Said they would have to wressle the little suckers out of my stone cold hand after my death.He just didnt give me a perscription and that was the end of that! Lol
 
I have been a born again Christian for 15 years now and the Lord have really changed me since then.But I am still me and non of the things I have considered very important like the above mentioned,have changed.I suppose there were so many other things that needed change that this might not even have made the list.I really love the Lord and I know He loves me but boy I wish He would renew my mind more! But He clearly has a plan for my life.And He clearly smiles patiently upon me when I tell Him to hurry up and change me more NOW!
 
Accepting ourself,warts and all, might be so important in a successful future with the sleeve.I am blessed beyond measure in so many aspects of life that I should be able to say its ok to be me.Its ok to not be perfect,its ok!
 
Well,it is the middle of the night now and close to my bed time.Tomorrow,or just now..hehehe...is a new day.I can put this one behind me,live just for the new one,not worry about the future and breathe.
 
God is good all the time and maybe I dont really need that pill.
 
 
 
 

About my surgery! Date 11/8/12 - Dr.Garcia booked through Ready4AChange
 
Arrived in San Diego at car rental place 11/7/12 and Samuel picked my sister and I up on time. He was very pleasant helped load our bags into the minivan and he spoke to us the whole ride into Mexico. He answered any questions we had which was great.
Arrived at the Marriott in Tijuana - it is BEAUTIFUL the pool area is also very relaxing. Ok back on track! When we arrived at the Marriott, the bell hops helped with the bags (they also are very very friendly) and then Samuel helped us check in and mentioned that Rosie would stop by later to talk to me about my surgery the next day.
 
We went upstairs got settled in, and the beds are COMFY!!! Rosie did stop by later on and she went over what time I would need to be ready the next day and also let me know about ordering the broth, popsicles and water. Also, just as a note because we weren't aware of this, if you are going through Ready4AChange if you are bringing someone with you or if you want to order Jell-O or something not included in the package from the hotel restaurant just let them know you are with Ready4AChange and you should receive a discount I think it is like 10 or 15%.
 
After Rosie left my sister and I took a walk to the Casino and Wal-Mart although it looks like it is right behind it is a little bit of a hike maybe like 2 ½-3 NYC blocks. Yes the exercise is great but I didn’t realize what a hike it was going to be for me. We were too tired to walk back so we just took a taxi back to the hotel. The whole time we used US dollars I think you make out better, I wouldn’t exchange into Pesos.
 
The next morning arrived 11/8/12 - YAY surgery day is here! We went downstairs to the lobby with our belongings and waited to be taken to the hospital. While sitting there, we bumped into others that had the surgery already and they were speaking with us letting me know there is nothing to worry about. It kind of made me feel a bit better, not that I was worried but always great to hear the great stories of post-op ya know. I think it also helped my sister calm down some; she was the nervous one for me.
 
When we arrived at the hospital, it is smaller than the ones here in the US but still very clean. We were greeted by Melly she is also awesome helping answering any questions we had. She helped me hand my paper work in and then also let me know what to expect. They took me down to the 2nd floor for blood work that was over in a matter of minutes (faster than any US place I have been). I then went back upstairs to the 3rd floor where we were waiting for the room to be cleaned. We were brought into the room and it had 2 beds and a TV so my sister stayed in the room with me. I was given the beautiful gown to put on along with the compression stockings. TMI*** my monthly friend was visiting so as a suggestion on the day of surgery just use a plug and afterwards you can go to the pad otherwise I was told the OR nurse would place pads for you while in there. I didn't want that.
 
While waiting for surgery the nurse came in to start the IV and I knew she was having a hard time finding the vein (it’s the story of my life) but when she couldn't get it she kept trying and trying and it actually had me crying my sister ran out to get Melly and at that time the nurse stopped and placed a band aide over where she tried. When Melly came in my sister explained what happened and we were told that she should have stopped once I was in pain. After this the Anesthesiologist came in to speak with me and he let me know that he was going to take great care of me and place the IV in when I was knocked out (that was fine with me).
 
The next doctor that came in was Dr.Velazco, she was just letting me know after surgery I need to walk walk walk this will help with the gas pains and that I should get up and walk about 15-20 mins every hour. The next doctor (I can't think of her name) the internal doc was just explaining to me the importance of blowing into the breath tube to help prevent pneumonia and she also had surgery I can't recall if she had the bypass or sleeve but she was also very very nice.
 
The last doctor to come and see me was Dr.Garcia he is like a cute cuddly teddy bear. He is very nice he had his iPad and drew up a diagram of what he was going to be doing and asked if I had any questions but from all of the research I had done I really didn't have any questions, I knew what to expect. Also each doctor aside from all being very nice each also stressed the fact that I needed to walk to help with the gas pains and also to help prevent blood clots.
 
So, moving on.. It’s time for surgery. They bring me into the OR and I lay on the table. The anesthesiologist mentioned the first breath of air may feel a little irritating boy was he right oh my word I felt like I was going to be suffocated but by the second breathe I was out because the next thing I remember was them bringing me back to my room asking me to scoot over into my bed. I was barely alert and my sister kept calling my name to get me to get up and walk. Oh my goodness how the heck am I supposed to walk when I can't even keep my eyes open ha-ha.
 
Eventually I came too and got up to walk and use the ladies room. That is when I discovered the drain, at first I was freaked out but then I just tucked it between the waistline in my panties so it wasn't dangling by my ankles. The nurses came in with 3 different shots to place in the IV one was for nausea, the other was for pain and the last was an antibiotic. I was ok after these shots but did start to feel a bit sick so later in the night when it seemed everyone was sleeping I went out to the nurses’ station and let them know I was feeling very sick and that I needed something. So, the nurse came in with a shot that he had to give me in by butt cheek lol (I am 31 and I can't remember getting any shots there in at least 20 something years so it was quiet funny).After the shot I started feeling better so I tried to sleep, but that was a no go. I was coughing and coughing and then before I knew it with the walking and trying to sleep here comes another 3 shots into the IV. This time almost immediately after wards I was in the bathroom getting sick.
 
11/9/12 - In the morning I was taken downstairs for the leak test, I was hoping I would be able to keep it down which I was so that was great. No LEAKS!!! Yay! I was brought back upstairs where there was more walking. I was also able to shower and had my bandages all cleaned and changed.
 
Since I passed the leak test I was now able to have some liquids so a few hours passed and I was given some Gatorade. I drank a little and it was ok then they asked me to drink the blue dye to check my drain I was able to take 3 sips with no problems. A little later on here come 3 more meds into the IV. Once again I felt sick and right to the restroom I went to get sick. At this point I was trying to figure out what was making me sick, but still wasn’t sure. Dr.Garcia also came around to check on me to see how I was doing and to answer any questions I had, he also mentioned that the next day if there was no blue dye in my drain it would be taken out the next day. I almost forgot, along with Melly, Dr.Velzaco also came around to check in on me.
 
Later that night Holly and Harmoni came to visit me I knew Holly from one of the message boards and just met Harmoni that night. It was very nice of them to come and see me I just felt bad that I couldn’t talk much because I was feeling so sick from one of the meds. Eventually later that night I asked that they stop giving me the pain meds because I thought it was making me sick, when they stopped I started feeling a little better, not 100% because it was still in my system but a little better.
 
11/10/12 - The next day it was shower time and pack up time. I had seen Dr.Garcia and then Dr.Valzco came in asking how I was feeling and mentioned my drain was going to be taken out. A little later the nurse came in and removed my drained cleaned the area and re-bandaged me also changed and cleaned up my other incisions. After this I was ready to go J
Melly helped us downstairs and I was not allowed to lift anything just had to sit and enjoy the wheelchair ride to the van. When we got to the van they were bringing down two other patients Harmoni and Sheila. I was feeling so sick on the ride back to the hotel that as soon as we got there I had to run straight to the restroom. Rosie had come with me in there to make sure I was ok (what a sweetheart). After that little incident Rosie walked me back to check in and all 3 of us that just had surgery we are staying on the same floor which was awesome. Harmoni and Sheila came to visit me a few times, I just felt bad because I was still feeling a bit sick and had no voice I really didn’t leave the room.
 
Rosie came back later that night to check on me and explained that Dr.Luna would be by the next day to take out the staples which was awesome! That night I tried to sleep but was only able to dose off maybe for 2 hours in a propped up position but I kept coughing so that kept me awake.
 
11/11/12 - The next day Rosie and Dr.Luna showed up, he looked at my incisions and removed the staples and placed the stitch tape stuff over them. He also checked my drain incision and cleaned that up for me and just reminded me that I could wash my incisions with soap and water but the incision where the drain was I could use antiseptic spray and Neosporin and have to cover it back up. The others the tape will come off in a few days and by then they should be ok. Later that day Samuel was supposed to come by so that a few of us could do some shopping I believe it is on Revolution Street. He wasn’t able to make it but he father filled in and so my sister, Harmoni and another couple went shopping which was great. That night I was able to actually sleep for about 4 or 5 hours which was great! I was no longer feeling sick since the meds would have finally left my body and the new meds that I was on were great. The whole time I was never in any pain so I opted not to take the pain meds that I was sent back with.
 
11/12/12 - I couldn’t believe that my time in Mexico was coming to a close it all seemed to happen so fast and those beds I just wanted to take one home with me. My sister and I went downstairs so that she could order some food, also as an FYI I believe his name is Hector, which runs the restaurant he is a sweetheart and is very helpful. So if you need anything during your stay from the restaurant I am sure he is the one you will be speaking with.
 
We get back to the room after she eats we start packing up and at noon time we are outside in the minivan with another couple and one other woman that had the surgery. We were lucky to not have to wait on a long line coming back through the border. Samuel had some type of medical pass that let us skip a lot of the line and then when we got to the booth he just had to show our passports or birth certificates and IDs and we were good to go, no inspections.
 
We were dropped off at the San Diego airport and we were prepared to sit there for hours until our 9pm flight home but God was on our side and the flight that was supposed to leave at 11:45am we delayed and was now departing at 3:30pm so we were able to have all 3 seats in the back of the plane to ourselves. I also requested wheelchair assistance which was great I really didn’t have to wait in any lines for security and I was able to board the plane first.
 
I have been home for a few days and today 11/15/12 is my one week out and I am down 14 lbs from surgery. Getting my liquid in has been a little bit of a challenge for me only because I forget to sip every 15 mins. Tomorrow I start with my protein intake and also allowed to start warm cereals if my tummy can tolerate them.
 
This is a very exciting journey to be on and I will post more updates maybe on a weekly basis.
 
-If you can check your luggage you may want to bring some neosporin and or antiseptic spray and if not using ready4Achange you may want to see if your company will provide any guaze and tape if not you may want to pack that as well.
- I also brought pedialyte pops with me for after the surgery and they worked well, better then just the liquid
-Gas-X strips helped a little - walking helped a lot more

Hi, I had my sleeve surgery on August 6th, 2012. I actually tried to get the lap band back in 2006 but due to insurance regulations and morbidity-lacking qualifications, I was unsuccessful back in 2006. Jump forward a couple of years to 2012 and I finally had the right insurance and actually had some morbidities that helped me get the desired surgery. I kinda felt alone having to do this surgery because none of my family members have had some type of weight loss surgery, or had any friends that has gone thru this type of surgery. My husband was not very supportive in my decision and basically said "why ask my opinion when your mind is set already". Pretty much it was a true statement. All of my friends, coworkers, and mom stated that I didnt need the surgery, "your beautiful just the way you are". I appreciated all the kind words and concerns BUT none of them could even start to comprend what I see every day. Im not talking about being on a scale, Im talking about seeing myself in the mirror every day. Before finding this site, I started blogging my thoughts, my journey on www.blogger.com (Rhelm of Droopy). I hope you take the time to check it out, you will see my pre-surgery picture and my monthly pictures that I try to update on the 6th of every month give or take a few days.
 
Lets make my first blog entry short, my consultation weight was 235. My two-week liquid diet before surgery weight was 210. My two-week follow up weight was 191. My two month post-surgery weight was 189 and just this past Tuesday, November 13th, I weighed in at 176. So give or take, Im losing 10 pounds a month, Im going to be honest, wish it was more but Im happy nontheless. Clothes are starting to be baggy, I've gone thru alot of clothes and have given some to the salvation army. My face is alot thinner and thou my double chin still is visibily seen, its not as much as before. In my blogs I mention how a chubby girl notices weird things. I noticed that my inner thighs got thinner. By this I mean, when I walked my thighs would rub sometimes even chaffe from the friction. I guess you have to be chubby to understand this feeling but now I have notices that they dont rub as much as before. There are so many things that a chubby girl notices that a slimmer individual would take for granted. Yes, I have lost some pounds, BUT I'm looking for particular things in my weight loss and they may seem weird but it's something I personally want to see. Im not saying that everyone is the same, Im saying these are things I want to see personally in my "transformation". They are, naturally the weight loss, duh who doesnt! I want to see my collar bone popping out, I want to see the bone on the top of my shoulder's popping out, I want to see my torso start slendering rather than see my love handles sticking out or as I call them "my arm rest" defining my pants. I hope this makes sense because honestly in my head it does lol.
 
Getting rid of my clothes gave me anxiety. I kept telling myself "no save that or save this, what if you dont loose your weight, you wont have any clothes". I swear my mind is my own worse enemy. I did however get rid of alot of clothes and kept telling myself "you will loose weight". I was an 18/20 and currently Im a snug 14. My tops that I normally would buy in a XL or 1X are falling off my shoulders. My pants that are 16 or 14/16 are real bagging in the crotch area but I refuse to buy any clothes for the simple reason that Im going to try to reach my goal weight and to be buying clothes every time I go down a size is just really crazy. I dont know about you but I know I surely dont have money growing on my tree in the back yard. So yes, Im wearing baggy crotchy pants, and the shirts/blouses I have are in the 14/16 range in size. I actually went to the store yesterday and just window shopped. Funny how I would like a blouse and automatically would look for a 1X or an X-Large when clearly I could possibly may fit in a Large now. My mind is so used to being a certain way that even thou I see my full figure transformation I refuse to see my Skinny figure transformation. My mind is my worse enemy! Im not going to lie, I am my own worse critic, I still see the chubby me every day in that mirror. You would think that im on a scale daily to see my progress BUT im not. I have fear of gaining and a bigger fear of not losing. Make sense? Im not saying that this will happen to you, Im telling you that this is what Im dealing and going thru on a daily basis.
 
Im glad I found this sight, I hope that I can read some of the blogs and in some way compare notes, take pointers on how someone is dealing with particular things, find some sort of comfort knowing that Im not the only one that may feel this way or that way and most importantly, find moral support that we may have in common.

So here i am, most of my friends and family are just as excited as me...some even more than me. But then there are the select few who tell me "i'll support whatever choice you make, but i wouldn't do it if i were you." Hearing those things makes me hesitant to go through with this. It almost feels like they think i'm not trying hard enough or that i'm taking the easy way out. In fact...this isn't easy for me at all. Those of you reading this already know that though. I struggled to make this choice and come to the conclution that this is what i need to do. In fact, a year ago i thought i didn't need this surgery and that i could do it on my own. I lost 15 pounds then, but a year later, i am at my highest. Well, that was 6 days ago that i was at my highest. Thankfully i have lost 10 pounds so far during this pre-op waiting game. Anyways, they tell me of all the horror storied of the people they know who've gotten the bypass (which i'm not getting) and how you turn into a totally different person even down to your personality, how i'm going to have these crazy adiction transfers, and how i might lose my loved ones because of how much i'll change as a person. Stuff like that obviously scared the crap out of me...but i had to think, what's more important: having a healthy life where i know i wont die before 45, or POSSIBLY running into one or more of those previously stated issues? After asking myself that AND if i really thought that "without surgery would i be able to lose this weight and maintain it on my own", i realized that this is my only choice. Thank God i have insurance, otherwise this wouldn't be possible.
 
So, again, here i am......and this time i'm fully excited. I haven't really told my nay-sayers about my decision, but when the time comes, i will. I'm keeping a tottaly WIDE open room for communication with my boyfriend to make sure that he feels comfortable with all this and that he doesn't feel like i'm dragging him on this rollercoaster. haha
Soon i'll tell the rest of my family, cause so far only my mom, grandma, and cousin (who had bypass surgery) know of this. But for now i'm just making a YouTube journal of this whole thing (JessiesSleeveJourney) and documenting on here now too. My mom says i shouldn't tell any of my family when we go to Thanksgiving, but i'll let you know if i do. haha
 
-Jessie

I've been thinking about what I'll wear under my clothes after the surgery.  Right now I fluctuate between Body Magic (horrible when you have to go to the bathroom) and Squeem.  I tend to run cold so I'm always layering and if I can find something to nip and tuck, I'm game.  I've tried Spanx but they either don't stay in place or are so thin they are not worth it.
 
So as I read the many posts here about compression garments, I've wondered if anyone knows of any scientific studies that show they help.  I ask this because I didn't wear anything right after my c-section but once I finally started it was a whole new world...far less pain.  I always wondered if it was all in my head or if it really helped me in some way.
 
Now, in speaking with my surgeon, he didn't have a preference.  I'd like to go ahead and buy now (if it is worth it) during the holidays since there are a few promotions going on.  But I'd like to know if it was worth it for any Sleevers that may have tried them post-op. 
 
Specifically,
Did you find it helpful? If so, why...if not, why not? What brand(s) did you buy? What model/item? How soon after surgery did you wear yours? Was it painful to get into? Do you still wear it? Anything else that I should know to help me decide? I'd really appreciate anything anyone has to offer regarding this.  Thanks!

This is a rant, so I apologize in advance for being all over the place...
 
So the last few days I've had ZERO motivation to work out.  I'm just coming off my cycle so I know that's part of it.  However, I just feel so blah.  Part of me knows it is the cold weather too, the sunny days, late nights of summer...I hate the heat but love the summer...
 
Okay back on task...I'm just in a funk regarding exercise.  I walk daily but that is not enough.  I have literally every exercise DVD, tape, etc. known to man.  So there is variety I'm just not feeling it.  I even have an exercise bike, bands, weights, you name it but still no motivation.
 
I had the great idea to buy something (my other form of therapy I'm working on) a new workout outfit and a new piece of equipment.  I thought I'd buy either a home gym thingy (like the one Chuck Norris uses) or a treadmill (my 3rd one - I've given the others away).  Then I thought I'd buy one of those exercise chairs like on the Steve Harvey show, (see it here) until I saw it was $700 for something I can basically make myself.  Don't judge me, it takes me a while to figure out the real deal with me sometimes.
 
That's when I knew I was avoiding the real problem...no motivation. I've never been the type that gets a rush after exercising.  Even when I was thinner I didn't feel all giddy after working out.  It was/is a means to an end. 
 
Now don't get me wrong...I love belly dance, pilates, and bollywood dance.  So I know there are things I enjoy.  I think I'm just a combo of bored and lazy.  Plus, when I do those, I don't get as good a workout as when I used to hit the gym or lift weights.  So it feels like they are not worth my time. I do tolerate callanetics and t-tap which are good exercises but man they get boring really quick.
 
Which brings me to my next point...I don't want to go to the gym.  My days are literally full enough without going to a gym for a hour a day (I live in the country rual suburbs).  Plus, to pay for what I already have at home seems like a huge waste.
 
After all this, I guess there is no real point to my post other than I'm bored and lazy.  I guess I'll get back to my pilates and callanetics and maybe buy myself something to use when doing pilates.  Don't judge me, I'm still a work in progress.

I had a very bad night last night, and a bit of a set back! I was doing fine most of the day, vacuumed my hardwood floor, put dishes away in my dish washer, made my bed, and even did a little laundry. I was still feeling OK, but now just a little tired. About 5:00 p.m. I made myself some beef bullion with some unflavored protein powder in it, then heated it in my microwave. I slowly drank that down over about an hours time. I started to not feel so good about 7:00 p.m. I got more and more nauseated, and started to vomit. Plus I was still having problems with my stools being very lose, and allot of gas. By 9:00 pm. I was feeling so bad, and was feeling very weak and tingly in my arms, and legs. I was feeling like I might pass out! Mind you, I am home alone as my hubby works 2nd shift! I tried not to call him at work, but by 9:00 p.m. I was getting worried that something was wrong with my sleeve, or something! I called my hubby home, and he took me in to the ER at the hospital where I had gotten my sleeve 8 days ago. They ran some test on me, gave me anti nausea meds., pain meds., and IV fluids as I was dehydrated by then. We were there 4 hours, and they said everything looked OK with my sleeve, and told me to double up on my Prilosec, and take one A.M., and one P.M. to help with excessive acid my stomach was apparently making! My doctor that did my sleeve thinks I need to give dairy a break for a bit. I don't know what happened, but I know I felt terrible! This morning I feel allot better, and I'm going to be more careful about what I eat, and try to stay away from things that say they contain MILK! I can't wait until I can add more things to my diet for some variety. Anyone else experience anything like this?

Last night I went for my Surgeon Seminar.  There the surgeon discussed all things WLS.  He also, made a few points that I think I knew deep down (I'll get to that in a bit). 
 
However, what had me really worried and upset was the wait times.  He mentioned he is one of only 2 Kaiser surgeons in my area.  Yes the DC Metro Area.  So that means, a really long wait.  In fact, one guy there last night mentioned he was not only approved, but also met with the surgeon 3 months ago and was still waiting on his date.
 
What..A...Bummer!  6 months pre-qualification only to find out you have to wait 6 more months!?!?  This guy (on tap for a Feb surgery) will have waited a full year from his initial meeting.  That is horrible.  I realize you don't want your surgeon to rush, but I mean 1 year.  That is a long time especially given that 6 months of that was AFTER you qualified.
 
So after getting over that.  I was happy that my husband seemed a lot more at ease and learned a lot about the WLS.  Much of the pre and post-op diet "stuff" I knew from stalking reading this site.  But I was glad he had a chance to hear the risks and other information so he wouldn't be worried about me.
 
Now, the interesting part...the surgeon totally disagreed with the diet the Nuts have been promoting for post-op.  He mentioned that there was absolutely no way anyone would lose weight following their diet.  He said in fact it would lead to gains. 
 
The reason he didn't agree is that he said the amount of carbs (via fruits and veggies) the Nuts want us to eat, would be too high.  (I totally knew this but thought I must be wrong).  He said, he wants us to stick to 30g of carbs a day (if possible for life).  He mentioned that 1 small banana would overshoot the 30g alone.  So he said, throw out the idea that we need these pretty meals that have...a protein, veggie, fruit, grain, etc. and especially the idea of 6 meals.  Sure a snack perhaps but 6 small meals...no way.
 
I'm so glad he mentioned that because I know for a fact, even though I love berries, I have to eat them sparingly if I am going to lose weight.  He also mentioned what we all know already about walking and other exercise daily.  But...and this is a big BUT...
 
I had NO clue that I'd have to give myself shots twice a day for 2 weeks post-op.  This is to prevent blood clots which is certainly important.  BUT I am the biggest punk when it comes to needles and didn't even have to do this after my very painful c-section.  I mean I'm a cry, roll around on the ground, really low threshold type of punk person. 
 
This surprised me.  I thought I'd take something orally.  His response, no, the shots or no surgery.  I didn't expect to have to inject myself twice a day.  So, all in all I guess it is a good thing that I have a few months longer before surgery.  I'll use that to build up enough courage to do those darn shots.

OK, so un-lucky me, I had to be one of the "UN-lucky" ones that had a very hard time with nausea either from the Anastasia, or the fact that my doctor had to also repair two hernia's while he did my sleeve! I had a higher up one and a belly button one too. I didn't feel to bad the day of my surgery, and thought, "Oh well, this isn't so bad"! Unfortunately the next day I was not doing so swell! I woke up feeling like I'd been hit by a Mack truck, and so nauseated I just wanted to "leave my body", and go somewhere, anywhere else, but in my body right now feeling like I did. They gave me drugs to help with nausea, but it didn't help really at all. I hadn't pre-pared myself for feeling this badly! My poor husband felt so bad for me, and I could tell he wanted to help me, but there was nothing he could do for me! I thought I'd only be in for a couple days, but ended up in there from Tuesday morning until Friday morning! I got to say, I was thinking, "What did I do to myself"? That is until I got home, and felt a little better on Friday, a little more better on Saturday, and little more better on Sunday, and then woke up Monday morning feeling like a NEW women!! The nausea was completely GONE!!! Things actually smelled good again, my drinks actually tasted good again too. My wonderful nurse's in the hospital kept telling me that I would turn the corner one of these days, and start feeling better, and they were right! I went in for my post op check up, and I lost 5 pounds since day of my surgery, but I'm still swelled up, and have fluids from my hospital stay. Would I still do it if I knew then what I know now? Yes, yes I would! It will get better! I promise!

OMG!! I received approval from my insurance today!! I am sooo happy. I was in such a slump...this has been such a roller coaster so far. After being denied by BCBS of IL a few weeks ago (said I needed more documentation for my two co morbidities) I went back to my primary MD, had more labs done and resubmitted. I called the insurance yesterday and was told it was denied again because there wasn't anything new submitted. I very nicely started to ask questions about the new info we had sent...hight cholesteral, started on new med, etc. She had not seen that and started to look thru my submission again. She agreed to send an email to the doctor that decides. Today I received a call from her and the new information was enough to get it approved for the vertical sleeve. I am so happy. This just goes to prove what everyone else has said...keep trying. Surgery date won't be till around 1/13.

Hey everyone. Long time no see! Sorry, I just have so many different things to do online that I just can't get around to them all. I still lurk around a bit but just don't have much time to post. I belong to 2 support groups on facebook that I frequent but I also just started my very own blog.
 
I've recently made a new acquaintance, Holly over at www.300poundsdown.com and during our correspondence she suggested I should start a blog. At first I did not like the idea but over the weekend I really thought about it a lot and decided maybe it's not such a bad idea.
 
So I did it. I made a blog and I was wondering if anyone would like to connect with me and get the word across. I'd like to follow anyone but other blogs as well related to WLS that use blogger/blogspot. Feel free to follow me and I'll follow right back no matter what kind of blog you have!
 
My blog is Weight Loss: My Version and the link is http://www.my-version.org

I bought my flights today... From here to Houston, hang out for a day, then Houston to San Antonio with my travel companion and then back to Houston/Georgia. Will be a whirlwind weekend!
 
I am stalking the post op forums because I want to know EXACTLY how I am going to feel for the first few days. It seems like Dr. A's patients are okay a few days out. I should be fine, but you never know, ya know? I want to be ready!
 
Being prepared eases my mind and my nerves.
 
According to the finance company they will fund around 2 weeks out, so the beginning of December. And then it'll be REALLY REAL.
 
I am weirdly enjoying the liquid diet. I cannot stand trying to decide what I can eat, what I should eat vs what i WANT to eat but shouldn't eat, what time I should eat. I just have a selection of things I've purchased and I have that and I am good to go, even at home.
 
I am about to have some soup and run some errands. I order my passport tomorrow. I need to make a list of things to buy to pack and things to have in the house when I come back. Because my parents will be in town, I am coming back to Atlanta instead of hanging out in Houston.

Sleevers!! I'm getting sleeved in Mexico on Thursday!! I'm real scared!! My mom decided that it would be a good idea to call me and put the fear of God inside me 2 days before my surgery. Ugh, have any of you guys gone to Mexico for your surgeries?! If so how was it? Did you feel safe/unsafe? Did everything go as planned with no complications? If so, what happened. Any advice and opinions would help!! I'm real scared now and I don't want to chicken out because mama decided to put all these doubts in my head, but I'm freaking out now and I don't know what to do. PLEASE HELP!!! ANYBODY!!