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I am exactly 5 months post op today, and am doing great! I'm not the biggest loser, but my loss has been fairly steady and I'm happy. So far I'm down 64 pounds since surgery (105 total) and a total of 40 inches since surgery (including 7 from my waist). Still a ways to go to get to goal, but I'm committed for the long run. NSVs I am walking around 2 miles most days. Pre surgery, I could walk but was in pain from arthritis and tendinitis after a very small amount I went hiking last weekend and did 6 miles pretty easily I've outgrown pretty much all my old clothes, even the "small" ones from storage My arthritis pain is significantly lower than it was I am not exhausted and falling asleep on the couch in the evening. (when we are allowed, I'd feel good enough to go out and do things on weeknights) I have my 6 month appt (via phone) in about 3 weeks and I'll get my blood work done before that, but I think things should be well since I'm doing well with food, fluid, and vitamins.

Well I have been having ups and downs. I am almost 9 months out. I have stopped weighing myself all the time and decided to try to maintain my weight loss. It has been hard and I haven't been doing a very good job. I have decided to try to shock myself back in a low carb high protein mode this week. Just because I need to get the cravings out of my system. I am still hitting the gym. Because of a couple of things that came up unexpectedly and out of town meetings I actually had only 2 days working out this week. That is the least I have worked out since about November. I guess I'll have to watch that. I did go shopping and was able to fit my big fat butt into a size 10 skirt!!!! :thumbup: I couldn't believe it! I don't ever remember wearing a size 10! I also bought my first little black dress. It is a size 14 (the girls are always bigger) I have just recently gotten out of plus size shirts) It is Calvin Klein and it looks AWESOME! Now I just need a place to wear it! So I am still having some NSV, but I have to admit that I am feeling very fat again. Part of it is what I am eating. If I was eating right all the time I wouldn't feel like look so fat. I'll have to work on that. I know that I have gotten used to seeing myself like this so that is part of why I am starting to not see a skinny me in the mirror anymore. That will change when I start loosing again. I am still looking forward to visiting my family and surprising them with my 100+ weight loss. I leave a week from Thursday. I have been tanning and worrying about what to wear and what they will say. I will look forward to coming home and getting back on the weight loss wagon. I am starting to think that weight loss will be much MUCH easier than maintenance....I guess I'll have to work on that. Much love to all! Julie Ann Preop/Surg/Now/Goal 285 / 271/ 177 / 142.5 Surgery - October 29, 2008 Dr. Kirshenbaum in Aurora, CO - Self Pay $9950

Hi all, just wanted to share the NSV I had today - I bought 3 new tops today two size 12's and a medium! I didn't expect any of them to fit, and almost fell over in the change rooms when I put them on and they did - they were from Valley Girl, Supre and the "teenage" section in Target! Woo!! The last time I wore a size 12 was when I was about 12!

Ok guys and gals.......... I am sooooo happy to report for those who are pre-op and very newly post-op that my sex drive has returned. I used to blame my lack of sexual excitement on the fact that: 1. You don't have as much sex once your married( however this was one sided as my husband thought buying the cow meant more milk!) 2. The kids....always around, sleep in the bed with you blah blah blah 3. There is so much more I could productively be spending my time on such as laundry, cooking, cleaning...excuse excuse excuse and then it hit me while watching BBC the show that comes on and takes all the food people are eating and lay it out on the table is gross. And the host told the couple that was on there that when they drew thier blood how food was ruining everything and this married couple was only being intimate three to four times a year. Anniversary, each birthday and maybe Valentine's day or Christmas. And I realized it was my weight. Sooooooooooooo 5 1/2 weeks post op and 30 lbs lighter and I am frisky! I noticed more energy during intimacy. I enjoy it again, it's not another chore on my list, I have even tried on some of my old sexy night gowns. My husband even requested a particular one! This has been a major NSV for me as I am sure all of you ladies can relate. So am I close to goal.......nope, has my life already changed.....yep the second I woke up from surgery! If you are pre-op and needing reassurance just know it will be difficult but sooo worth it. Take back the years that have been given over to obesity, bad health and being unhappy with who you see in the mirror. And welcome that healthier you that has been locked away! GO GET YOU!

I am truly shocked that week 4 wasn't too bad!!! True story - during the second 3 minute run (alternates 5 and 3 min runs) I actually FORGOT I was running and was jerked back into consciousness when the guy told me to stop! This is truly a MAJOR NSV for me - I have never "forgotten" that I was exercising before in my life!

Lol ... That's not something I'll be looking forward to as a NSV.

Guys, I don't know the proper ratio here but get this: I am down nearly 60lb and have gained an additional 1" of usable (ahem) appendage. Now I guesstimate there to be an additional 1.25" in captivity. Yeah I checked. And without giving actual dimensions I can say that I and my S.O. seem pleased.Good thing that isn't fat because I'm sure we'd be in a panic mode at the thought of losing ANY of it.

Wow. I learn something new every day! Cute that this is postes as a NSV

That's a pisser of an NSV!!! What?? Ok... I'm going...

Oh Jess! This is a marvelous NSV! Congratulations my friend, you have taken control of your life! *hugs*

Bravo Jess! thats not NSV, its a pure SV!! a huge success! congratz for you!

What does NSV mean?

NSV - Shopping - Walker Tracker Challenge! Posted by AngieB, Today, 09:57 AM Admin/Owner Options Make This Entry A Draft

Hi everyone!! Yoda...............Hmmmmmmmmmm, wellllll yaaaaaa your forgiven:) !! Astrotoes, our breed of sheep are called Rideau-Arcotts, they are known for having mutiple lambs and out-of-season breeding.:huggie: Green, I swear, my husband never goes near the computer. But he walked past and saw the words exotic stuff and he's like, whoa, whats that about. I'm like it says exotic, not erotic stuff!!! So now he's saying, Oooooo ask her where the REALLY GOOD shops are. You may have to PM me with that info. God, I'm so sorry!!:nervous Anyway, thank you for the info. I'm making a promise to myself to come up from underground. I say that every year, then I get to scared. I'm afraid of freaks or maybe I'll get shot, I dunno. But I'm going to make myself go walk around. Thanks again!!! :update: .......Okay, had to go to the docter today for a physical. She was totally impressed with my weight-loss. I think that is the first time ever, I didnt dread getting on their scale. But, 2 new NSV's -my blood pressure went from 147/94 to 125/73!!!! Woo Hoo!!! -my doc cut my asthma medication from 250 mg to 125 mg!!! Woo Hoo!!!

I got my last fill (a total of 2.75 ccs in a 4 cc band on February 27th). This morning actually just now, I had a crustless quiche (which is 1/4 of a pie plate about a cup total) it has eggs (duh) deli ham, swiss cheese and onions and yesterday I probably could've eaten more. Today right now at this moment if you put another slice in front of me I'd probably push it in your face and make you eat it (in a loving way though, because I love you whoever you are). So, yesterday when I was thinking "boy I don't feel restriction" to this morning of "holy crap I'm full" is a big differnce. So, the lesson is to you noobs and veterans out there, don't get discouraged, sometimes there is a delayed reaction for me it's approximately 8-9 days after a fill. I'm going to keep track of this next month as well. Actually to think about it last night I had some homemade general tso's tofu, broccoli and brown rice, ate the whole thing, and the rest of the night had a pain in my shoulder and left side maybe that was a signal to stop eating, and trust me I didn't eat for the rest of the night, just a glass of water to clear out my pouch (IDK why I do this but I've been doing it lately lol). I was a bad girl and didn't go to the gym yesterday, it was only for weights so I will do my weights tonight after c25k (grrr). Oh and some NSV this weekend: Didn't eat my whole meal the times we went out to dinner Fit into pants I didn't fit into in September Realized that my bra straps that go around me don't hitch up and chafe my side parts, they actually lay nice and flat now I don't buy junk food when I grocery shop and I grab a water out of the cooler at the supermarket and drink it while I shop (don't worry I pay for it!) I can wrap a regular towel around my body when I get out of the shower (even though there's some side boobage showing Also, whereas I thought I had some good luck yesterday turned out to be bad luck. I was looking at a vending machine near my office that has "healthy options" aka a 100 grand bar (really is that healthy???) and I see on the machine that there's a credit for $1.00 so I'm like "hey, pay it forward, right?" so I pick a granola bar (Nature Valley) OMG I looked at the nutritional info and almost died! I could've had a candy bar instead! I usually have a Kashi TLC granola bar thing right before I get out of work to hold me over between then and the gym (for some reason I'm starving late in the afternoon) I'll have this for a snack but never again! WTH do they put in that stuff? Anyway lovelies, have a wonderful day and if anyone is paying attention only 17 days until I leave for Key West!

Spent several hours at the mall today. I haven't done that in 5-6 years. Today I went to "normal" stores, bought clearance shorts and capris in a size 14R (down from 22/24W 6 mos. ago), shoes 1 size smaller than 6 mos. ago, and two shirts in a size SMALL (down from 1-2X). The size small is an outlier 'cause I've got some big hooters, but I'll take it! I can't remember the last time I didn't have to shop in the "big lady" section. Still can't believe this is all real. Sent from my iPad using VST

Unfortunately, yes. Its as if I am not invisible anymore. More people look and smile more. Whereas before I felt as if I was kind of ignored. Now part of that probably has to do with the fact that I have a different attitude but still. One thing that irritates me is that a man almost always holds a door open for me now. I know its a nice gesture and it is not his fault men didn't do that before but its a reminder of where I came from and there sooo is a world of beautiful overweight people that out there that deserve that kindness too. The clothes part has had a strange twist I didn't see coming. I gravitate back to the plus size section every time. I am (or was) comfortable there. But its not where I belong anymore. Yet when I go to the regular sizes I feel like I don't belong there either. Its a work in progress. Funny NSV (non scale victory): that I had to adjust the seat in the car because since my bum shrunk, I was sitting lower in the seat. Losts of little things you never thought could be affected that are. Its very fun. Size wise I am a comfortable 14 with a few 12s. My personal goal is to be comfortable in a size 10. I think its doable.

@@JamieLogical I've been hearing you talk and get ready for this run for a long time i've had my eyes on you just like having WLS - nerves, emotions are normal, even freaking out!! you've practiced, run other long distances too You ARE ready you know what to do go for it!! you'll do great!! (hmmm analogy for Newbies? LOL you'll be terrific, i know you will!!! we're all watching you No Pressure LOL run the race have fun with it such an accomplishment wonderful NSV on your mark get set go!!!!! good luck bud you ARE a winner hugggggs kathy

One Year Bandiversary Well, I’m about here. Next Friday will be my one year mark since receiving the band. <O:p</O:p In this first year, I achieved 77% of my weight loss goal, going from 307 to 244 pounds, for a total loss of 63 pounds, leaving 19 more to go. The weight loss period is not over yet. Since I still have up to 2 years of potential weight loss left to go, I am confident I will get that last 19 pounds off, and realistically, had I followed all of the Bandster rules religiously, I am sure I would have already taken those pounds off, too. <O:p</O:p How did the year go? I went from abject terror prior to surgery, full of fear from reading the various threads and claims about successes and failures, to an immediate sense that “everything would be alright” on the morning that I awoke from my really, not very invasive surgery. Sure, the incision from my port hurt a lot for the first two weeks. And the nausea I experienced for the first 10 was so monumental, that the memory still stays with me. But after that initial recovery period, I feel truly blessed to have had the opportunity to receive this life saving device. <O:p</O:p Other than the occasional bout of having food that I shouldn’t eat, or that I ate to fast, come back up, I don’t have any side effects at all. <O:p</O:p How did life get better, and what are those NSV’s that are always asked for at the one year mark? I have had many, many more than the ones listed below, but here are the ones that come to mind: <O:p</O:p 1) My wife and I delivered a healthy baby boy 2) My blood pressure went from around 154/100 to about 121 over 75 3) My pulse went from an average of 110 to about 65-70 4) My painful, swollen feet which were so bad that I couldn’t walk in the morning, are no longer swollen or painful. In fact, they’re just fine. 5) My shortness of breath, which left me red and stressed and gasping after walking only a few blocks, is completely gone. Now when I go running with my dog, the dog runs out of energy well before I do. 6) As my weight fell away, my physicality picked up to the point that I am much more active in my favorite sports, (i.e. karate, skiing, walking and running.) I can ski for 6 hours straight, and the only reason I get off the runs, is because the lifts close, not because my legs are tired, and not because I can’t breathe. Now I am planning on rock climbing, hiking, and biking. I would have never considered this before, and now I really look forward to it. In fact, I feel like I have to do it, because my other exercises seem to fall short in terms of trying to get my heart rate up, and trying to really get a good workout. 7) My knees no longer hurt. 8) At night, I used to gasp, and feel like I was suffocating. I had to lean up in bed in order to breathe. I used to snore really loud, and my dear wife just had to deal with it. Now, I don’t snore, and I don’t have any problem sleeping at night. In fact, I probably went from the worst, loudest snorer in my whole family, to the least, if at all. 9) My waist dropped from a tight 46 to a tight 36. My shirt size went from an XXXL to an XL. I can now go to any store, and am still flummoxed when I select clothes, that I pick it from the MIDDLE of the range of sizes, rather than searching for ANYTHING that might be big enough for me. It also means I can now buy a pair of walking shorts at costco for $15 rather than paying $65 for an inferior quality pair at the big and tall store. I can go swimming with my kids now and be seen with my shirt off, and not feel embarrassed. 10) My friends and co-workers tell me that I have never looked better. Old friends know that I look better now than I did 25 years ago. <O:p</O:p Most of all, I look forward to what I hope will be a longer, healthier life, that I can share with my family. And it just keeps getting better. <O:p</O:p My thanks to Doctor Layton Alldrege at the Sandy Medical Center</ST1:p, and to Vivienne Sullivan, his fill nurse, and the rest of his team. He has the most amazing practice, staff, and follow-through. I am thankful that I was fortunate enough to have chosen him and to receive his care.

What a wonderful NSV, I'm so happy for you and PROUD of you! Awesome job!!! I love your smile, that dress could be a rag and your smile would shine right through! My wedding dress (15+ years ago) was a size 24 and I'm wearing a 14 now, so it definitely is NOT a goal of mine to fit back into that dress, but maybe someday I will renew vows and wear a smaller sized dress AND redo all my photos!

Today I put a shirt on that was an 18/20.....an 18/20...down from a 26/28 (but I was barely barely barely fitting in them....that's bad)..an 18/20!!!!!! YEAH!!!! Lorraine

My weight hasn't changed all week, which considering the amount of calories I am consuming seems unbelievable. So getting dressed this morning delivered a much needed NSV. My "skinny" jeans - hardly skinny but jeans that have never fit well - feel pretty darn good and a shirt that I tried on a week ago suddenly has room to spare. The shirt really threw me because I had tried it on just a bit ago and decided it made me look pregnant. Now, it is loose in the stomach and doesn't leave an imprint across my butt from being so tight. It's amazing what an NSV can do for your mood. Plateau, schmateau.... Though I still hope to see the numbers actually go down soon!

I finally broke down and started cleaning out my closet over the weekend. I had been putting it off for so long. I have lost 60 pounds since my surgery on 1/19/07 and lost 15 pre-surgery so that is like 75 pounds since last year this time. Surgery day I was wearing 26 bottoms and 26/28 tops and today I am in 18 bottoms and 18/20 and XL tops.I have enjoyed trying on and buying new clothes, underwear and bras. But for some reason have been reluctant to part with any of my old stuff. This is my first time losing enough weight that I had to buy all new stuff and in the back of my mind, I have been kinda paranoid and think what if I gain it back and need my old clothes again? I was watching Lifetime on Saturday afternoon and something told me that it was time. I bagged up 5 huge bags of stuff for Goodwill and a huge bag for one of my cousins. It was very interesting pulling out those clothes & remembering wearing them. But then I got so sad and mad at myself. How could I have let myself get that big? AND I had way more size 30/32 than I recall buying. I have pretty much been the same size for 15+ years so you can imagine the amount of clothes I have and have not even touched upstairs yet. I got mad, called my best friends and blessed them out asking them, "how come you didn't tell me that I was that big?". They all were like "I thought you knew?". Evidently I was in some serious denial and even if they had said anything, I would probably have gotten mad at them for something that was not their fault. I tried on some clothes that I definitely remember wearing and they are bagging off of me. I held them up and they were huge pieces of material. I got depressed temporarily thinking about the past and how I feel as if I have wasted like 15 years of my life, but then I snapped out of it, became grateful for the long way I have come and was able to hang all my new smaller clothes in the old place. I think I have gotten over my anxiety of parting with my big old stuff and I am looking forward to throwing out the rest that is upstairs to make room for even smaller clothes. It really changed my perspective because i have been unhappy lately with this weight loss lateau thing that i am going through despite losing inches and having to buy new clothes. Seeing so many of my old clothes at one time really put things in focus for me. I am shedding the old weight, old clothes, old everything.

I think that is a verrrry nice NSV anything that encourages the purchase of sexy pants cannot be a bad thing Nina x

i didnt eat any candy this halloween. i stuck a tootsie roll special edition (vanilla) in my mouth. chewed a couple of times and spit it out. not something i intended, but DD needed one in half. it was an instinct just to bite it and eat the other half. sooo glad i thought and out it went. i was banded October 2006, i found one pic that DH snapped while i (begrudgingly) posed with DD last year. this year, i wanted to see the difference. 102.25 lbs down from last halloween. yeah, i can see it!