Inner Surfer Girl

Sounds like you are on track by taking the first step and asking for help. I am not as far along as you in my journey but wanted to let you know I am rooting for you. Going back to basics sounds like a great place to start. You have received some great advice above. I also would encourage you to consider talking with a therapist or counselor, attending support group meetings through your bariatric program and/or other group like OA. Stress is a major issue for me, and all of these resources can help you learn to deal with stress in healthy ways. Stopping and taking stock of how far you have come is always helpful for me, too. Embrace the Stall! http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/351046-Embrace-the-Stall

FYI -- Sleevers don't have pouches.

I wasn't aware that "most people here" drink juice. Whether you make it fresh or buy it, it is still full of sugar. It isn't recommended by my program. The only juice I drink is V8. I never drink fruit juices. I do eat fresh fruit. Juice just concentrates the sugar.

Congratulations! You have been such a blessing and an inspiration to me. I am very grateful you are still around BariatricPal sharing your journey.

Schedule a spa day or weekend for the two you!

Gift certificate for a massage, mani/pedi, spa day, or something similar.

Stalls are a normal, natural, and necessary part of the process of losing weight. None of us lose at a constant or steady rate and if you intend to lose a large amount of weight you will stall. Focus on getting in all of your Protein and fluids (at least 64 oz) every day, take your Vitamins and supplements as directed, and exercise. It sounds like you need to work on getting more Water. Embrace the Stall! http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/351046-Embrace-the-Stall

I eat salsa on lots of things. Refried beans, scrambled egg, turkey burger, and even cottage cheese.

I have this too. How long did you have to wear it? I was told I could remove it when it goes flat on either Monday or Tuesday. I think I wore it a couple of days when I got home.

I was sleeved and was told absolutely no NSAIDs (like ibuprofen). Tylenol is ok (acetaminophen).

Everyone varies because none of us are "average". Just focus on following your program. Get in all of your Protein and fluids, take your Vitamins and supplements as directed, and exercise. As to "having problems with shakes" you have to get in your protein. You don't have to use shakes but you have to find something that works. Talk to your NUT if you need help. Embrace the Stall! http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/351046-Embrace-the-Stall

I am not a mom and have no idea how anyone (married or single) has time or energy for taking care of kids, so kudos ! That said, I know the local Wellness Center that I belong to and the YMCA that I belonged to in a previous city, both offer child care. Lots of parents take advantage of that. Plus, your kids get to burn off energy, too.

Someone mentioned hiking clubs. Check out The Sierra Club. They tend to have lots of outings, hikes, etc.

Just one idea: Do you have a local or community theatre? They always need volunteers. I used to volunteer usher at a theatre and it was fun and a great way to meet people. I volunteered at at the Atlanta Fox so got to see some great shows (Broadway, Opera, Concerts, etc.) Now, that I live in a more rural community, we don't get as many touring shows, but there are still several community theatres in the surrounding area. I have only been as a paying guest but may consider volunteering as I get more energy. Of course, if you are more brave than I am you could audition for a play!

That was very rude. But, I wonder if she was a former patient...who knows, just because she looks like "Barbie" now, doesn't mean she always has.

I didn't. But, I did have this interesting ball of numbing agent that was wired into me and hung from my neck.

Sounds like you have received great advice and know what to do. Embrace the Stall! http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/351046-Embrace-the-Stall

Since surgery I have only been on two short road trips to see family. I took a little travel cooler with some premier protein and a few quest bars. I had the premier really as a backup but they came in handy when I was short on my protein.

Stalls are a normal, necessary, and natural part of the process. Make sure you are getting in all of your Protein and fluids. Try shaking up your routine. Try a different kind of exercise. Vary your calories. If you are still unhappy with your progress or even just impatient, why not make an appointment with your NUT? Embrace the Stall! http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/351046-Embrace-the-Stall

I need recipes, it's like my brain shut down. My recipe? Go to the freezer section of the store and get Green Giant or other brand of frozen vegetables. Put them in your freezer. Pull them out and nuke them, following the directions on the package. Another of my favorite recipes? If you are fortunate enough to have a Lee's Famous chicken nearby, go through the drive through and buy green beans. Add a tablespoon or two to your Protein. Added: you can also get prepared vegetables at Boston Market, and even some grocery stores.

First, I hope you were cleared to get in the pool. Three weeks seems a bit early, but as long as your incisions have healed then you should be ok. Second, I agree that juice is not a very good choice for post-op. Our nutritional requirements and limitations post-op are completely different from any "diet" we may have had short-term success with in the past. Third, stay off the scale. Fourth, follow your program. Make sure you get in all of your Protein and fluids every day, take your Vitamins and supplements as directed, and exercise moderately until you are able to eat enough to support more strenuous exercise. Fifth, read this: Embrace the Stall! http://BariatricPal.com/index.php?/topic/351046-Embrace-the-Stall

Welcome and congratulations on your success so far. This is a great site. I have learned so much from all of the great folks on here.

Instead of a starch, try eating a vegetable instead. What stage are you on? I liked really soft green beans when I was on soft foods. I also like cooked cauliflower with cheese.