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Lori, no what I mean is that the step-parent relationship is weird - her own mother couldn't raise the kids cause she's a druggie too -- still is even at age 49 -- so she's no help. Even though I have raised her I kinda "know" my place if you get my drift - I have to be careful what I say to my DH - he's very supportive and grateful to me but I still watch what to say - I can't call the shots like I could if it were my own child. He knows I'll support him in any way I can - financially, raising Aylah, etc. But because of the "step parent" status it can be difficult -what I think/say doesn't affect them the way it does if he says it -- not sure someone who never raised step kids can understand that -- it's just different. CBL Linda

I can't believe no one's been on here today except for me and Janet. forgot to mention that Katie is still in hospital - but finally a new doctor with a new diagnosis which actually seems to match her symptoms - its rhabdomyolysis -- which at first doesn't sound like it would be her problem -- but the more you read/investigate the more sense it makes - due to her drug abuse. Her doctor was very forthcoming with my husband about the drug issues and told him exactly what was found in her system -- yes, it would be considered a breach of doctor/patient confidentiality -- but I think the doctor realizes it's probably the only way to save her life -- this has after all, been going on for 2 years and 6 months - he made a judgment call on it and for which we are grateful to finally have someone to be honest and upfront. She's still in hospital - still cannot keep anything down -- and has to go on and off oxygen for her pneumonia. Sigh. Hopefully my DH will follow through as he's promising -- you have to understand - I'm in a weird position - it's his daughter and even though I've raised her since age 9, I can't call all the shots here. Anyway, just checking in. Will CBL. Linda

Good Morning everyone. Missing Chris -- hope he's doing well - i think he went back to work. Hope he stopes in some day and says hi and how he's doing. Julie, glad to haar from you -- sorry about the hair - your poor DD with that text messaging already making her upset and then that and being pregnant! Good thing you were there and available to help. But as you said, it will grow -- at least not something permanent. Your DD will have her hands full with a new baby in the house -- I'm sure you'll be helping quite a bit. We lucked out -- no snow -- we're right between the two storms I think - it's colder (25 not bad) but so far (knocking on wodd) no snow. Had a few flurries yesterday but didn't stick or accumulate. Apples, hope your found the jackets for your FIL. He sounds so cute - and I bet he's very happy you're planning to come back every year. Hope you make it home okay -- what day are you leaving? Charlene, so nice of your DM to offer to pay for the injections -- she's so adorable. I love Texas women - when I was a little girl my grandma had a friend (Kitty was her name) who lived in San Antonio and used to come visit us every summer. I remember her turquooise jewelry the most -- but always loved her accent. So I've always loved to listen to Texas women talk -- love that accent. Cheri, hope DH has come to his senses! I understand - my ex DH was very much like him. You have the right spirit though -- just do your own thing and let him stew until he figures it out - does no good to sit around and wring your hands. Hope your week at work goes well for you. MyTurn -- welcome -- I never ate cold cuts -- I always worried about the sodium in them - I usually ate fish or chicken. I don't know anything about ketosis -- I think I read something about it at "the Neighborhood" -- google 5 day pouch test and you'll find it -- it's another on line support group for people who've had any kind of weight loss surgery -- then do a search for ketosis there. Sorry I'm not much help to you. Congratulations on the band and good luck. Hope you'll come back here and stay in touch with us. Laura, love that robot -- so cute. LauraK sorry about your weather -- that's a bummer. Gotta cut this short -- time for Water aerobics. Did Zumba last night followed by 15 mins. on the elleptical and then my weights -- felt good but was tired. CBL. Have a wonderful day everyone! Linda

Good Monday Morning to you all. Charlene, that recipe sounds good - mushrooms and zucchini would be good additions also. I also love okra -- just thinking about it makes me want some. LOL. Laura, what did Nelson buy you? Can't wait to hear. LOL. When do you leave on your trip? Did you parents ever decide if they are going with you to Atlantis? Not sure if you ever said what they decided. I've been sleeping better since I decided to try ear plugs -not sure why I never tried them before (DH snores) but one day I saw something on the doctor's show - I feel so dumb that I never even thought of wearing them before. Years and years of sleeping badly -- honestly I haven't heard him snore since I started wearing them. It's like a miracle. LOL. So if any of you have this problem. try earplugs -- they really do help. Katie is back in the hospital - she has pneumonia again (not as bad as before) and her other problem with her digestion. Honestly we are so used to it it's almost like part of our daily lives - It's a relief for me to go to work and escape this part of our lives. Do most of you have today off as a holiday? We don't -- our first holiday isn't until Good Friday. I did my step aerobics yesterday for an hour, will go to Zumba after work tonight. Hope everyone has a great week. Linda

Good morning everyone. Raining here this morning - 37 -- most all the snow was already melted except for just a tiny bit whre the huge drifts were so now it's all gone which is just fine with me. Supposed to turn to snow flurries tomorrow. Apples nice to hear from you -- glad you've had a good time-- you both deserve it -- happy that you found a place you like with great weather - next year the weather will be even nicer I'm sure. Sorry to hear you were under the weather -- sounds like you girls shared a virus. Kristy, I'm surprised you're even allowed to exercise yet -- Ithink I had to wait at least 2 weeks after surgery. Good going this close out even those 10 mins. are extremely beneficial. Gotta run Aylah wants my attention. Linda

Arlene glad you're feeling better today too -- good news on your mom -- I'm happy for her too. Linda

LauraK, your new guy sounds great - I too love Arena Football - so fun! Hope the weather forecast is wrong for you -- hope the snow doesn't happen. We are having another pretty, sunny day and it's 43. I went back to Penney's - had a coupon for $10 off a $50 purchase and another coupon for 15%. Found more stuff for $2.97 -- this time I got turtleneck sweaters one in a teal and one in a rose color that will be great for next winter -- and a pair of skinny black jeans for $2.97 in the junior dept - not sure why they were so cheap -- but hey, I'll take them -- they were 11 jurnior short ones -- which I need so maybe they just didn't sell. I did pay a little more for a Valour top ($4) and another top and I got two new bras -- buy one regular price get one 1/2 -- so I could meet the $50 to get my $10 off. I got another little top for $14 so all in all I think my total was $68 with tax. I got another top for $2.97 but I can't even remembe what it was - now that's bad. LOL. They had boots on clearance too - but don't really need them but hard to walk by them. This shopping thing has proven to be the biggest NSV in my world - I never ever got clothes so cheap -- it's wonderful to be able to walk in a regular store and buy stuff cheap that fits!! Wow. Laura, if you feel up to it you should try the 5 day pouch test before you get another fill - it's hard to tell if you have good restriction -- I used to think but I was eating so many sliders and carbs that would make me hungry between meals. Good to hear from you Julie -- sounds like you're feeling a bit better, hope so anyway. Hope everyone is having a lovely weekend. Linda

Morning to all. It looks to be another nice, sunny day - high yesterday around 50 - we are all loving this so much. DH took Aylah to the park the other day and again yesterday afternoon -- still wearing hats, gloves and coats, but it still feels good. Supposed to get some flurries next week - -doubt it will amount to much - I AM positive thinking the weather to be good for awhile - let's see how that works. Ha. Janet did you get Vista? I really like it - I've had it about 2 years now - so there's probably something even newer out there now. We went out for Mexican last night - they had a "chicken fahita salad" which is basically just the same as fahitas except they throw it in a crispy shell and add a little lettuce to the top - didn't eat any of the shell. And, instead of it costing $12 (fahitas) it was only $7.40. And it was more than I could eat. It was tasty indeed. Aylah loves tacos so she had a taco and fries and Beans -- I'm so glad she loves beans -- she got up this morning and wanted leftover beans for her Breakfast. I love that!! I have our awards lunch on Wednes. and they sent the menu out the other day -- 4 cheese and sausage lasagne, cesear salad, garlic breadsticks and turtle cheesecake!! Wow, that's more calories than I usually eat in a few days. Oh well, I'll nibble -- at least my DH will be attending this one since I'm an honoree this time and he can eat half of my food. I wish they'd have some "healthy" options but all they ever offer is vegetarian and like this time it was the same food EXCEPT they don't put the sausage in the lasagne so it wouldn't be much better. Cheri hope all is well with you -- not like you to be missing for a few days -- I guess school is keeping you busy. Jodi, how's the bat mitzvah plans coming along? Have you found a dress for you yet? Gotta get ready for the gym -- have a great weekend everyone! Linda

Laura, you are special special special to help that young man -- I believe you have probably made a HUGE difference in his life -- for a health care professional to do that for him is a tremenous gift - I do hope he follows through -- you should feel so good about yourself and be proud of what you are accomplishing -- you are wonderful!!! Love you and hope you have a fabulous time next week and a fabulous birthday. Linda

Phyl, so sorry to hear you are so ill -- take it easy and hope you feel better soon. Lori, hope the court date went well -- I'm sure it did. Hope you get to go meet Katelyn soon!!! I can't wait for the pics!! Eva, you are so sweet to everyone -- that book really helped me when I was trying to convey "feelings" and "emotion" and I thought they explained it well and made it easy to understand. Glad it was helpful to you. Gotta work -- sunny and in the low 50s -- still lovely -- almost all the snow is gone. CBL Linda

Also Kelley, there's lots of good recipes on the Neighborhood website -- go to www.5daypouchtest.com and you'll see a link to the "neighborhood". I meant to include this in my original post and forgot. Linda

Morning all! Meredith, have a safe trip and have fun with your sister. Give that puppy a big kiss and hug for me too. Kelley, welcome back. On the food -- Janet makes "one pot wonders" -- with her meat and veggies in one pot -- she can give you some ideas. I also eat a lot of fish - -I just usually bake it with a little olive oil and seasoning. I make a little tarter sauce out of light mayo, lemon juice, capers and dill relish and eat a small amount of that with the fish. I don't eat beef often (I wasn't much of a steak eater before, so still not too keen on it and I seldom eat pork - maybe three times in two years I'd say. I also eat a lot of chicken breast. I buy boneless chicken breast and I butterfly them - then I season and marinate them in light Italian salad dressing mixed with several tablespoons of lemon juice. Then I either throw them on the grill outside or put them in my George Foreman. Because the lemon juice partially cooks the meat, they are done very quickly and aren't all dried out. I've had really good results in cooking the breasts that way. If you only cook them a few minutes they stay pretty moist. Then I eat them plain or with hummis or put them in a salad. I cook up several and then cut up into bite sized pieces and reheat for 25 seconds in the microwave with a wet paper towel covering them. Don't be afraid to eat fats -- I tried to cut the fats the first two years and I really wasn't getting satisfied and made my journey much harder becaise having some fats will help satiate your hunger and you will feel more satisfied and stay full longer. If you stick to Protein and no carbs you will lose the weight. Yes, regular exercise is important - i think most surgeons recommend an hour a day -- others say less -really depends on you. During the weight loss phase I did two hours most days -- it's also important to do some strength training as well as cardio - by making your muscles more efficient, you will burn fat more efficiently. I just told myself I needed to give myself that time for ME each day. I had been doing for my family for years and years and now it was MY time to do what I need to do. Yes, it's not easy and yes, there's days when I don't want to do it but I've been doing it for over 2 years consistently and yes, it's a drag but something that has to be done. Try to find something you really LIKE and it makes it a bit easier -- I've now settled into doing Zumba three times a week, Water aerobics two times a week, step two days a week and bike elleptical at least twice a week as well as strength training at least twice a week just to maintain my weight. So, it's definitely something to commit too - but you don't have to join a gym -- besides the Wii and Konnect games, there's tons of good dvds out there -- you can buy weights to do at home, etc. Can't remember where you live but if it's in a warm climate you can bike/walk year round. Like I said, the important thing is to make it something you love and instead of dreading it you'll look forward to it. Okay, gotta get ready for my step class -- have a great Friday everyone - we sure enjoyed our weather yesterday - got up to 69 and sunny -- wow -- felt sooooo good -- today supposed to be a bit cooler and maybe some rain. All that snow is gone -- just a few Patches where the drifts were really high, but mostly gone. CBL. Linda

OMG it's 70 outside!! Faboulous!

Eva, thanks for not thinking i'm weird, especially after I told about that dream from this morning. LOL. Janet, Katie is "sick" -- not sure what is going on. My DH doesn't want to do anything about it at the moment, so it appears I'm stuck for now. I just worry constantly about Aylah when she's over there, so I'd rather have her with us. But yes, it's exhausting. Gotta work -- cbl. Linda

I was able to get rid of the machine after I had lost 50 pounds -- so about 4 months or so. Linda

Morning everyone. I must have been sleeping very deeply cause I was dreaming about having an apt. with a horse in it as a pet -- it acted more like a dog. LOL. I also had a pet snake so I know it was WEIRD as I am totally scared to death of snakes. It's weird what we dream sometimes! If any of you want to interpret that for me, feel free. LOL. Lorie, glad you are home -- glad you enjoyed yourself and happy that your DD didn't go into labor while you were there. Any day/minute now -- so exciting! Phyl so sorry to hear you are sick -- hopefully it will clear up quickly - nothing worse than being that sick when you have company. Janet, I hope you're feeling better too - what you have sounds like what I had last week -- I was really feeling "sick" but had no energy and had terrible body aches. Hope today is better. WE've had Aylah all week -- she's fun but I'm tired. Poor DH is really exhausted as he's been with her day and night. Shanaya, welcome. I was pretty scared the morning of surgery as well. I think part of is because it's elective surgery and we think "I don't HAVE to have this surgery" mentality that causes us to panic. I remember when they came in the room to put in my IV that I kept saying to myself "are you doing the right thing". I didn't say anything but even as I walked into the operating room I was thinking that. But after I woke up I was glad I had had it done. Just letting you know it's normal to feel scared and anxious but the surgery is the easiest part of the process - the hard part is changing your lifestyle. As I recently tested and found out -- we can never eat like we did before -- because if we do, we'll gain weight back. We have to eat healthy as Janet says "98% of the time" and enjoy our treats "occasionally when we plan them". You also need to commit to exercise -- at least one hour every day - if you have small kids you'll probably be pretty active chasing them -- but even better if you can work in an hour of some type of exercise and ME time as well. As someone who lived most of her life obese, I can tell you I wish I had lost the weight when I was young like you. I wish I had learned these lessons early in life so I could pass them along to my children also. Before surgery I had sleep apnea, hight blood pressure, high cholesteral. Within just a few months of having surgery I was healthier, was able to get off the sleep apnea machine and quit taking most of my meds. I was lucky I wasn't diabetic. I had decided I wanted to "live" and see my grandchildren grow up. Did you have to do a pre surgery diet? Well gang, hope you all have a great day -- it's Thursday and supposed to be in the 60s here today -- OMG -- we are all so excited -- you just don't know how exciting a promise of a spring day is here in cold country. LOL. Gotta get to Water aerobics. CBL. Linda

Hi all. Site was down this a.m. -- makes me frustrated. Kristi -- wow, 20 lb. -- wtg and good going -- makes you feel good, doesn't it? So happy for you. I must be weird -- but I can talk about food and have food in my house that I love, but unless I "plan" to eat it it doesn't bother me-- right now I have home baked Cookies in freezer, leftover fudge in fridge - lots of other crap -- chips, dips, etc. etc. and it doesn't bother me. If I choose to have a treat, then I eat it but everyone eats it all around me and it never bothers me. I must be very strange -- of course, I was never a snacker -- my problem was eating fattening carbs -- I LOVE mashed taters, gravy, mac & cheese, Pasta dishes, bagels with heaps of cream cheese on them, etc. etc. you get the idea -- that's what makes my mouth Water. Ice cream, pies, cakes, cookies, chips, etc. don't even sound that great to me -- give me enchilada casserole over any of those any day. LOL. And I think the more I talk about food the better I actually do -- but I have to tell you that I eat the same all the time -- I get stuck on a "taste" and eat the same way over and over again for like 6 or 8 months and then change -- i.e., when I first started solids I ate green Beans and fish for the first 6 months with occasionally eating chicken. Now I mostly eat chicken and fish - with salad greens - and sf fat free pudding with Protein powder in it for my "treat". I realize I'm weird - I make food for my DH and never even taste it. Not every day though -- I cook him stuff once a week so he has food to heat up. Hope everyone has a great evening. I have Zumba tongiht -- love love love it. Makes me happy. Linda

Morning everyone. Glad everyone had a nice valentine's day. Aylah was here and I enjoyed her for Valentine's Day. I'm sure most of you saw my roses on FB that my son and DIL sent me. So nice. My DH and I never do much for it -- it's his previous anniversary so we just exchange cards usually. LauraK sorry about the fall -- hope you heal up quickly. Lori -- glad you're enjoying hawaii -- hope your aches and pains are finally subsiding. Apples enjoy your shopping -- so happy you are enjoying yourself and the weather has been nice for you. Our weather has been improving -- supposedt obe over 60 on Thurs. Then back to reality with some colder weather and a forecast for snow next week. I'm just thankfui for this little week of great weather. Meredith, we all sabatoge ourselves, but proud of you for making it through the 5 days - the important thing is to return to normal eating today - don't think about what you ate last night and just return to Protein today. I can't remember if you are also exercising? I bet Andrew enjoyed the cheesecake -- give the rest away -- save him one more piece or two and then take the rest to work or something -- I'm sure you did a great job on it. Nice present from your parents too. Do you have siblings? I don't remember you ever mentioning any. Just curious. Well, time to go to Water aerobics - have a great day everyone!

Thanks Janet and Sandy for mentioning that about the medically necessary TT difference - I never would have known that -- I wouldn't go through with it if the muscles weren't tightened I don't think. Cost isn't as bad as I would have thought. Thanks for the info. Linda

Not sure why that copied more than once. Sorry about that. Hope you enjoy the article though.

Here's a great article by Kaye Bailey re snacking: LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest The Four Rules: #3 No Snacking When snacking hurts; When snacking helps February 9, 2011 Greetings! I hope this newsletter finds you warm and well this second week of February. Today we continue our discussion of the Four Rules - we are at Number 3: No Snacking. It's a tough one and I dare say most of will or have struggled with snacking following weight loss surgery. And, as you will see from the articles in this newsletter, not all bariatric centers follow the same Four Rules that include no snacking. But what is consistent, across the front lines of those of us living with weight loss surgery, is that out-of-control snacking on poorly chosen foods leads to a stall in weight loss and may possibly lead to weight gain. So please, take a look at the information here and revisit the information you were provided at the time of your surgery. Find your personal position on the "No Snacking" rule based on knowledge, experience, and environment -- it is the most empowering thing you can do for yourself in this ongoing battle of weight management in a world where it is much easier to be fat. Happy 2011 - We are all in this together! Kaye KayeBailey@LivingAfterWLS.com A Note: We have received the fourth printing of the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood cookbook earlier than anticipated. We are processing backorders as quickly as possible - so look for yours in the next few days delivered by US Postal Service. Thanks for your patience! Link to view the previously published Weekly Digests in our 2011 Four Rules Series: Rule #1 - Protein First: LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest January 20, 2011 <P style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"> Rule #2 - Lots of Water LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest February 2, 2011 The Four Rules: Before surgery most of us were taught the Four Rules we must follow in order to achieve the best results with weight loss surgery - any procedure. Those rules (with minor variations from one bariatric surgeon to the next) are: Protein First Lots of Water No Snacking Daily Exercise In order to maintain weight loss and keep the obesity from which we suffer in remission we must follow these rules for life. When we meet patients who have maintained a healthy body weight for several years with weight loss surgery we learn that in most cases they live by the Four Rules. If it has been a while since you have given consideration to the Four Rules I invite you today to spend a little time refreshing your knowledge and enthusiasm about Protein First. Actually, this is my favorite rule because it means good food without the guilt! Link to the articles of interest and take a look at some of our great WLS recipes. There is something for everyone as we get excited again about the Four Rules! Every now and again it serves us well to step back into our pre-op mindset when we were hell-bent on making surgery work to achieve weight loss and improve our health and quality of living. Take a look at this article with your pre-surgery eyes. I think it will help renew your enthusiasm for working "the tool" and living well today: Understand the Four Rules of WLS Before Going Under the Knife Weight loss surgery is frequently perceived as an easy means to weight loss that requires little or no effort by the patient. However, patients who undergo bariatric surgery are prescribed Four Rules of dietary and lifestyle management that they will follow for the rest of their life if they wish to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Here is what you need to know about the Four Rules of weight loss surgery before going under the knife. LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest The Four Rules: #3 No Snacking When snacking hurts; When snacking helps February 9, 2011 No Snacking. It is the rule that works. Rule #3 - No Snacking Excerpted with permission from Day 6: Beyond the 5 Day Pouch Test by Kaye Bailey Pages 43-45 - Copyright 2009 - Kaye Bailey - All Rights Reserved "Without a doubt, the "No Snacking" rule is the most divisive in the weight loss surgery community. In fact, I've received more angry letters on this topic than any other of the Four Rules. One school of thought is that snacking is absolutely forbidden. The other school swears that three meals plus two Snacks a day are essential for the nutritional survival of the weight loss surgery patient. "I am not a doctor and I am not a nutritionist. But I work on the front lines with weight loss surgery patients every day, patients who are many years out from surgery; patients who have lost touch with their bariatric centers. What I do know for certain is this: patients who snack and who are not engaged in extreme athletics gain weight. There is a fine line between snacking intelligently and grazing and few, if any, of us have the self-control to toe the line. In my experience and in my opinion there is no reason for the average person post-WLS to ever engage in snacking. If we follow the I {heart} DIET we will not be hungry in the 4-6 hours between planned meals; there will not be a blood glucose emergency and there will not be a physiological need to snack. "This may be a very unpopular stand for me to take. But I have spent the last six years working with my fellow weight loss surgery patients and in every case of weight regain snacking has been involved. And in most cases the initial instructions from the bariatric center were for the patient to eat every 3 to 4 hours and somewhere along the third year things went wrong. Snacking on Protein Bars or nuts became grazing on pretzels and crackers washed down with soda, coffee or tea. Slider foods overruled sensibility. "No Snacking. It is the rule that works. "Now, I'm obligated to tell you to follow the very specific instructions given you by your bariatric center. If they instructed you to have three meals a day and two snacks a day that's fine: please do not feel I'm beating you up here. But please, go get your original notes and instructions. Review the list of approved snacks. Copy that list and post it on your refrigerator to keep your memory refreshed. The snacks your center permitted during the phase of weight loss are the only snacks you are allowed for the rest of your life if you want to maintain your weight loss. "I personally feel the "NO Snacking" rule is a tremendous relief. For several years of my adult life, prior to surgery, I had a 40-minute commute to and from work each day. My morbidly obese irrational thinking had me convinced that I could not last that commute without a large soda and giant cookie: both morning and night. Looking back that was about 1,200 calories of snacking I was taking each day just to "survive" my commute. Twelve hundred calories is equal to our full day caloric allowance after surgery! How was it again, that I became morbidly obese? Hmmm. My car was always full of crumbs and the back seat littered with empty cups and cookie wrappers, not to mention the expense of my snacking habit. What a relief when "No Snacking" took that burden from me. "One reason we are prone to break the "No Snacking" rule is because traditional snack foods are ever present in our society and they tend to set more comfortably in our stomach pouch than protein dense food. Have you found yourself able to eat an endless bag of crackers or chips yet struggle to get a few bites of roast chicken down? The crackers are soft and when consumed with liquid create slurry that never compacts in the pouch the way protein does. The cracker slurry slides right through in a steady stream: slider food (more on this in Part II: I {heart} DIET Basics). Solid protein, on the other hand, settles in the pouch like an unwelcome second cousin on your sofa and lingers just a little too long. So naturally we prefer to eat something that gives us comfort, not discomfort. "But the fact is, the pouch when it is used correctly, is supposed to be a little bit uncomfortable. The discomfort is the signal to stop eating. When we are snacking on slider foods we do not get that signal and we do not stop eating." LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest The Four Rules: #3 No Snacking When snacking hurts; When snacking helps February 9, 2011 Greetings! I hope this newsletter finds you warm and well this second week of February. Today we continue our discussion of the Four Rules - we are at Number 3: No Snacking. It's a tough one and I dare say most of will or have struggled with snacking following weight loss surgery. And, as you will see from the articles in this newsletter, not all bariatric centers follow the same Four Rules that include no snacking. But what is consistent, across the front lines of those of us living with weight loss surgery, is that out-of-control snacking on poorly chosen foods leads to a stall in weight loss and may possibly lead to weight gain. So please, take a look at the information here and revisit the information you were provided at the time of your surgery. Find your personal position on the "No Snacking" rule based on knowledge, experience, and environment -- it is the most empowering thing you can do for yourself in this ongoing battle of weight management in a world where it is much easier to be fat. Happy 2011 - We are all in this together! Kaye KayeBailey@LivingAfterWLS.com A Note: We have received the fourth printing of the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood cookbook earlier than anticipated. We are processing backorders as quickly as possible - so look for yours in the next few days delivered by US Postal Service. Thanks for your patience! Link to view the previously published Weekly Digests in our 2011 Four Rules Series: Rule #1 - Protein First: LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest January 20, 2011 <P style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"> Rule #2 - Lots of Water LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest February 2, 2011 The Four Rules: Before surgery most of us were taught the Four Rules we must follow in order to achieve the best results with weight loss surgery - any procedure. Those rules (with minor variations from one bariatric surgeon to the next) are: Protein First Lots of Water No Snacking Daily Exercise In order to maintain weight loss and keep the obesity from which we suffer in remission we must follow these rules for life. When we meet patients who have maintained a healthy body weight for several years with weight loss surgery we learn that in most cases they live by the Four Rules. If it has been a while since you have given consideration to the Four Rules I invite you today to spend a little time refreshing your knowledge and enthusiasm about Protein First. Actually, this is my favorite rule because it means good food without the guilt! Link to the articles of interest and take a look at some of our great WLS recipes. There is something for everyone as we get excited again about the Four Rules! Every now and again it serves us well to step back into our pre-op mindset when we were hell-bent on making surgery work to achieve weight loss and improve our health and quality of living. Take a look at this article with your pre-surgery eyes. I think it will help renew your enthusiasm for working "the tool" and living well today: Understand the Four Rules of WLS Before Going Under the Knife Weight loss surgery is frequently perceived as an easy means to weight loss that requires little or no effort by the patient. However, patients who undergo bariatric surgery are prescribed Four Rules of dietary and lifestyle management that they will follow for the rest of their life if they wish to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Here is what you need to know about the Four Rules of weight loss surgery before going under the knife. LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest The Four Rules: #3 No Snacking When snacking hurts; When snacking helps February 9, 2011 Greetings! I hope this newsletter finds you warm and well this second week of February. Today we continue our discussion of the Four Rules - we are at Number 3: No Snacking. It's a tough one and I dare say most of will or have struggled with snacking following weight loss surgery. And, as you will see from the articles in this newsletter, not all bariatric centers follow the same Four Rules that include no snacking. But what is consistent, across the front lines of those of us living with weight loss surgery, is that out-of-control snacking on poorly chosen foods leads to a stall in weight loss and may possibly lead to weight gain. So please, take a look at the information here and revisit the information you were provided at the time of your surgery. Find your personal position on the "No Snacking" rule based on knowledge, experience, and environment -- it is the most empowering thing you can do for yourself in this ongoing battle of weight management in a world where it is much easier to be fat. Happy 2011 - We are all in this together! Kaye KayeBailey@LivingAfterWLS.com A Note: We have received the fourth printing of the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood cookbook earlier than anticipated. We are processing backorders as quickly as possible - so look for yours in the next few days delivered by US Postal Service. Thanks for your patience! Link to view the previously published Weekly Digests in our 2011 Four Rules Series: Rule #1 - Protein First: LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest January 20, 2011 <P style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"> Rule #2 - Lots of Water LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest February 2, 2011 The Four Rules: Before surgery most of us were taught the Four Rules we must follow in order to achieve the best results with weight loss surgery - any procedure. Those rules (with minor variations from one bariatric surgeon to the next) are: Protein First Lots of Water No Snacking Daily Exercise In order to maintain weight loss and keep the obesity from which we suffer in remission we must follow these rules for life. When we meet patients who have maintained a healthy body weight for several years with weight loss surgery we learn that in most cases they live by the Four Rules. If it has been a while since you have given consideration to the Four Rules I invite you today to spend a little time refreshing your knowledge and enthusiasm about Protein First. Actually, this is my favorite rule because it means good food without the guilt! Link to the articles of interest and take a look at some of our great WLS recipes. There is something for everyone as we get excited again about the Four Rules! Every now and again it serves us well to step back into our pre-op mindset when we were hell-bent on making surgery work to achieve weight loss and improve our health and quality of living. Take a look at this article with your pre-surgery eyes. I think it will help renew your enthusiasm for working "the tool" and living well today: Understand the Four Rules of WLS Before Going Under the Knife Weight loss surgery is frequently perceived as an easy means to weight loss that requires little or no effort by the patient. However, patients who undergo bariatric surgery are prescribed Four Rules of dietary and lifestyle management that they will follow for the rest of their life if they wish to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Here is what you need to know about the Four Rules of weight loss surgery before going under the knife. LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest The Four Rules: #3 No Snacking When snacking hurts; When snacking helps February 9, 2011 Greetings! I hope this newsletter finds you warm and well this second week of February. Today we continue our discussion of the Four Rules - we are at Number 3: No Snacking. It's a tough one and I dare say most of will or have struggled with snacking following weight loss surgery. And, as you will see from the articles in this newsletter, not all bariatric centers follow the same Four Rules that include no snacking. But what is consistent, across the front lines of those of us living with weight loss surgery, is that out-of-control snacking on poorly chosen foods leads to a stall in weight loss and may possibly lead to weight gain. So please, take a look at the information here and revisit the information you were provided at the time of your surgery. Find your personal position on the "No Snacking" rule based on knowledge, experience, and environment -- it is the most empowering thing you can do for yourself in this ongoing battle of weight management in a world where it is much easier to be fat. Happy 2011 - We are all in this together! Kaye KayeBailey@LivingAfterWLS.com A Note: We have received the fourth printing of the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood cookbook earlier than anticipated. We are processing backorders as quickly as possible - so look for yours in the next few days delivered by US Postal Service. Thanks for your patience! Link to view the previously published Weekly Digests in our 2011 Four Rules Series: Rule #1 - Protein First: LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest January 20, 2011 <P style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"> Rule #2 - Lots of Water LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest February 2, 2011 The Four Rules: Before surgery most of us were taught the Four Rules we must follow in order to achieve the best results with weight loss surgery - any procedure. Those rules (with minor variations from one bariatric surgeon to the next) are: Protein First Lots of Water No Snacking Daily Exercise In order to maintain weight loss and keep the obesity from which we suffer in remission we must follow these rules for life. When we meet patients who have maintained a healthy body weight for several years with weight loss surgery we learn that in most cases they live by the Four Rules. If it has been a while since you have given consideration to the Four Rules I invite you today to spend a little time refreshing your knowledge and enthusiasm about Protein First. Actually, this is my favorite rule because it means good food without the guilt! Link to the articles of interest and take a look at some of our great WLS recipes. There is something for everyone as we get excited again about the Four Rules! Every now and again it serves us well to step back into our pre-op mindset when we were hell-bent on making surgery work to achieve weight loss and improve our health and quality of living. Take a look at this article with your pre-surgery eyes. I think it will help renew your enthusiasm for working "the tool" and living well today: Understand the Four Rules of WLS Before Going Under the Knife Weight loss surgery is frequently perceived as an easy means to weight loss that requires little or no effort by the patient. However, patients who undergo bariatric surgery are prescribed Four Rules of dietary and lifestyle management that they will follow for the rest of their life if they wish to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Here is what you need to know about the Four Rules of weight loss surgery before going under the knife. LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest The Four Rules: #3 No Snacking When snacking hurts; When snacking helps February 9, 2011 Greetings! I hope this newsletter finds you warm and well this second week of February. Today we continue our discussion of the Four Rules - we are at Number 3: No Snacking. It's a tough one and I dare say most of will or have struggled with snacking following weight loss surgery. And, as you will see from the articles in this newsletter, not all bariatric centers follow the same Four Rules that include no snacking. But what is consistent, across the front lines of those of us living with weight loss surgery, is that out-of-control snacking on poorly chosen foods leads to a stall in weight loss and may possibly lead to weight gain. So please, take a look at the information here and revisit the information you were provided at the time of your surgery. Find your personal position on the "No Snacking" rule based on knowledge, experience, and environment -- it is the most empowering thing you can do for yourself in this ongoing battle of weight management in a world where it is much easier to be fat. Happy 2011 - We are all in this together! Kaye KayeBailey@LivingAfterWLS.com A Note: We have received the fourth printing of the LivingAfterWLS Neighborhood cookbook earlier than anticipated. We are processing backorders as quickly as possible - so look for yours in the next few days delivered by US Postal Service. Thanks for your patience! Link to view the previously published Weekly Digests in our 2011 Four Rules Series: Rule #1 - Protein First: LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest January 20, 2011 <P style="MARGIN-TOP: 0px; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0px"> Rule #2 - Lots of Water LivingAfterWLS Weekly Digest February 2, 2011 The Four Rules: Before surgery most of us were taught the Four Rules we must follow in order to achieve the best results with weight loss surgery - any procedure. Those rules (with minor variations from one bariatric surgeon to the next) are: Protein First Lots of Water No Snacking Daily Exercise In order to maintain weight loss and keep the obesity from which we suffer in remission we must follow these rules for life. When we meet patients who have maintained a healthy body weight for several years with weight loss surgery we learn that in most cases they live by the Four Rules. If it has been a while since you have given consideration to the Four Rules I invite you today to spend a little time refreshing your knowledge and enthusiasm about Protein First. Actually, this is my favorite rule because it means good food without the guilt! Link to the articles of interest and take a look at some of our great WLS recipes. There is something for everyone as we get excited again about the Four Rules! Every now and again it serves us well to step back into our pre-op mindset when we were hell-bent on making surgery work to achieve weight loss and improve our health and quality of living. Take a look at this article with your pre-surgery eyes. I think it will help renew your enthusiasm for working "the tool" and living well today: Understand the Four Rules of WLS Before Going Under the Knife Weight loss surgery is frequently perceived as an easy means to weight loss that requires little or no effort by the patient. However, patients who undergo bariatric surgery are prescribed Four Rules of dietary and lifestyle management that they will follow for the rest of their life if they wish to lose weight and maintain a healthy weight. Here is what you need to know about the Four Rules of weight loss surgery before going under the knife.

Happy Valentine's Day to all! Sandy, good luck on the TT - I still want to check it out but can't afford to do it unless I can get my ins. to cover it -- is your insurance covering yours or are you self pay? Janet, good to hear from you - glad you had a good time with the girls - sounds like it was a great time. Well, gotta work -- unfortunately -- again another gorgeous day -- sunny and already 40!! Wow! I LOVE this kind of spring weather - hope it sticks around. Linda

Joyce, no, I don't think you posted about getting some taken out -- you did post about the prescription -- glad it's helping. I don't understand how you can get a gas bubble in your stomach - makes no sense to me - but glad you can eat again -- did they do a scan to look at it? Happy Birthday to Sandy -- hope you have a lovely day and a wonderful year!! Arlene, sorry you are under the weather -- hope it clears up soon - OMG - I just noticed that it's 46 outside!! Aylah and I took merry for another walk earlier - may have to get back outside and enjoy some more of this gorgeous spring like weather while it's here. How's your weather Arlene? Has it warmed up? Hope so. When long were Eva and Apples staying? are they going home today or maybe tomorrow -- hope they post some more pics. No loss on the scales again this week - normal for me -- I did have two off days this week where I ate carbs -- so happy not to have gained any weight. CBL - hope you all have a great day! Linda

Morning everyone. It's a balmy and sunny 36 degrees already!! Whoo Hoo!! Feels sooo good. Was nice yesterday -- took my Merry on a short walk -- she loved it and did great - haven't walked her much since her surgery -- she always loved her walks -- and she still does. She's such a trooper. Aylah spent the night - she's feeling better. She fell asleep early so she's still fighting off the bug, but not too bad. Not much else going on - went to Zumba and then the gym afterwards yesterday -- had a good workout and then came home and cleaned house. Kiskis, I add Protein powder to my sf pudding -- I just add an envelope of unjury unflavored protein mix to one box of pudding with two cups of skim milk -- you can't really tell it's there and that makes it even more beneficial when you eat it. It really helps curb hunger when you get hungry. Gotta run -- have a great day everyone. Linda

Morning everyone - wonder if the site was down last night since no one posted after Melissa. I agree, it's good to re-share our stories to remind ourelves and others why we needed this surgery to egin with - very inspiring to read them. Kiskis -- sounds like you have a good surgeon who has given you a good plan to follow -- good for you for getting a massage. If you feel good and do good things for yourself during this phase you'll do better -- you have to really be a bit selfish during the process and put yourself first. You haven't told us much about yourself - are you married or have a signifiant other or have kids? Do you work? We are nosy and love to get to know our newbies - if you feel comfortable sharing with us we'd like to get to know you better. I see you live in Canada, Peaches is in Canada -- she checks in here occasionally but is more involved with her Lucky Sevens thread. I'm so disappointed -- they canceled the tea this afternoon - Aylah was the only one who rsvp'd so they only had her coming and so they canceled. I can't believe in this crummy town there weren't 7 other little girls who wanted to dress up and go to "tea". I hope they'll try again - maybe they didn't advertise it well enough. And Aylah is just disapponted beyond belief -- I'll have to take her to a real "tea" place -- I think there's some around Des Moines, just gotta find one. Laura you and Nelson have fun at the opening day activiites - sounds like fun - I bet he's excited. Gotta get ready for Zumba. Have a good weekend/Sat. everyone. Janet, Eva, Apples - hope you're having fun - post some pics. Linda