Hello everyone! I had gastric bypass on April 2nd, 2014. I was self pay so the whole process took just about a month from initial visit to going under the knife. During that time I read a lot on the process and tried to mentally prepare myself for the monumental event I was about to undertake. No amount of preparation could have got me ready for this journey I have begun. It has been the most difficult thing I've ever done and there are days when my head screams for the days when I could rely on my old addictions. But I look at the pain I felt everyday before my surgery and know the new hardships are worth it and that I have to be successful if I want to live healthy and strong. I have lost 76 pounds in just shy of four months and I am eager to lose more. I have had problems with mood since the surgery as well as problems with falling back to old habits. It's been a slow process building up exercise and getting my alloted protein in has been difficult as well. I truly admire those individuals who follow the weight loss guidelines perfectly and are exercising machines. I need advice from anyone who will give it to me as it seems my mind is my worst enemy at times. I'd love tips on how to get more active, healthy food ideas, and ways to combat the lies my head tells me. Excited to go through these forums and happy to meet fellow bariatric patients.