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You are committing to no alcohol your whole life time? Not even a sip? How far out are you?

I had wine after three months on a cruise - no issue. Keep in mind alcohol consumption will stop weight loss in its tracks. It also didnt take a whole lot to get loopy. A reasonable doctor will tell you that you will need to live your life. Its not reasonable to assume you will never drink alchohol, eat something fried, eat cake, eat something bad for the rest of your life. If you are reasonable about it you can do those things once in a while.

I too suffer from anxiety an depression; I have for at least 20 years. I've been on several medications since diagnosed, but the one I remain on consistently is Zoloft. I take 200 mgs a day, which, from what I understand is a pretty high dose. I also have Xanax and Valium to help control my panic attacks. I'd be lying if I didn't say I self medicated with alcohol as well pre-op. It was hard getting it under control but I did. Since surgery, 9 weeks ago today, I am still on my medication. However, I haven't needed the Xanax or Valium. I feel like the exercise I am getting is helping me cope with the stress to the point that I don't need those medicines anymore. Also, seeing weight come off has really helped boost my morale overall. I haven't tried to lessen my Zoloft dose, but as things progress I plan on trying. Over all I feel better both mentally and physically.

My only regret would be I wish I had had bypass first! I was a revision from band to bypass in May 2014. I am 2 pounds under my goal weight. Which was a normal bmi. Thrilled doesn't even begin to describe it. The only issue I have is with alcohol. I don't handle it very well. It's probably a good thing lol. I didn't exercise, the weight still came off.. I do eat sweets now and then. I feel fantastic and I look the best I probably ever have. It was a much easier surgery for me than the band was and I had my band removed at the same time I was revised to bypass. It's soooo much easier than the band.

On thanksgiving I was 4 weeks out my doc said non carbonated alcohol was fine. Hard boiled eggs are also on my soft foods list. If you drink your protein shakes calories don't matter, you will lose fat and keep muscle. I get about 500-1000 calories a day, just depending on the day but 10 days out I barely ate anything.

I had my first drink 3.5 months post op. A gin and tonic that I sipped slowly and go about 1/4 way through. 3 nights later at the same bar I took an hour or more to finally finish one and then again 3 days after that. It was too much trouble so won't do that again for awhile. I am not sure if I could cross addict from food to alcohol but don't really want to try. I go to enough 12 step meetings and then with the bariatric support meetings I am never home. LOL!

I really need for someone to please tell me if sugar alcohols are allowed in pre- op. No one can tell me. My sugar free protein bars have them in them and I just realized it and it's after hours

I had my first fill last week and it was pretty uneventful. I went in they weighed me, asked me how I was eating, was I getting full between meals and what my portions size was. Then he had me lay back on the table and he kind of poked around to find my port. Then he said you will feel it get cold (he cleaned the area with alcohol) and a little needle stick. I felt the stick (just like a shot) and he kind of moved it around a little and then said all done and pulled the needle out. That felt a little weird because it tugs on the port a little. He put a band-aid on and had me drink some water. The water was to make sure he did not over fill. He said if it feels like it is sitting in the back of your throat it is to tight. He said mushie for 2 days and then solids. I had a hard time because I was still have not mastered small bites and slowing downing so I had a few "stuck" episodes since but have really watched it the last couple of days and am doning great. Don't worry about the fill it is really simple.

I'm kinda bummed about the very minimal alcohol thing as I'm turning 22 next week and have definitely not lived out my partying days yet lol. I know it's a small thing to give up in perspective but it will be annoying not to be able to have a few drinks out with my friends and stuff. Guess I'll always be the DD from now on..

Every program is definitely different! My doc released me to full food at 2 weeks, some programs require liquids for a month post-op. I don't really understand no alcohol for a year, though? Is it for weight loss purposes? Our dietitians are very strict, but they're for guidance in my world, they don't tell me what I can and can't do, only my MD does that. I've been advised by our dietitians to use fake vegetable Protein, to use aspartame, to use only non-fat dairy and on and on. There's also been quite good advice, but I take what makes sense to me and leave the rest. I actually get a lot of advice and support from my case manager, a successful 9-year RnY patient. She's been there, done that on so many situations and is a wealth of info. I cherish her

Hey all the December sleevers. I wanted to share a diet I am starting today! I have 20 pounds to go and am only losing 1 pound a week on 1000 calories and 5 days of exercise for 1 hour at the gym. So to speed things along I have decided to do the Mayo clinic diet. It says you will lose 20 in 2 weeks. how convenient thats how much I have left to lose If anyone would like to join me or try this diet I have included the menue and rules. I think my body has become used to what I have been doing so im gonna try this for the next 2 weeks and hope to God that these last 20 pounds fall off Mayo clinic diet Diet for 2 weeks only Abstain from anything not included in the diet and be sure to eat what is assigned rather than do without. NO EATING BETWEEN MEALS!!! Breakfast is the same everyday 1 or 2 eggs,grapefruit or a cup of grapefruit juice + coffee/tea no sugar or cream. Monday lunch: 2 eggs, grapefruit/juice Dinner:2 eggs ,grapefruit/juice,combination salad,1 piece dry toast,coffee black Tuesday lunch:2 eggs , tomatoes, coffee dinner:steak,tomatoes,cucumber,lettuce,olives,coffee Wednesday lunch:2 eggs , spinach,coffee dinner:2 lamb chops,celery,cucumber,tomatoes,tea Thursday lunch:2 eggs,spinach,coffee dinner:2 eggs, cottage cheese, 1 toast, cabbage Friday lunch:2 eggs , spinach, coffee dinner: fish, combination salad,dry toast, grapefruit/juice Saturday lunch:fruit salad(put in any fruit you want) eat as much as you can dinner: plenty of steak,celery , cucumber,tomatoes , coffee Sunday lunch:chicken,tomatoes,carrots,cabbage,grapefruit/juice, coffee dinner:Cold chicken, tomatoes, grapefruit/juice Warning: do not stay on this diet for more than two weeks Weight loss should be about 20 pounds in 2 weeks, basis of diet is chemical and maintains normal energy while reducing weight. quantities are only important were indicated. whiskey may be taken on days when meat is eaten, otherwise NO Alcohol So, I got this diet from my sister. today's day one. if anyone wants to give it a go and test it out let me know how you do . My weight today is 170 I'll check back and let you all know how I did have a nice day

Here are some other things that I should not have to pay for. But you should, since you love your government sooooo much and want to give it your full support. 1. The federal government made at least $72 billion in improper payments in 2008. 2. Washington spends $92 billion on corporate welfare (excluding TARP) versus $71 billion on homeland security. 3. Washington spends $25 billion annually maintaining unused or vacant federal properties. 4. Government auditors spent the past five years examining all federal programs and found that 22 percent of them–costing taxpayers a total of $123 billion annually–fail to show any positive impact on the populations they serve. 5. The Congressional Budget Office published a “Budget Options” series identifying more than $100 billion in potential spending cuts. 6. Examples from multiple Government Accountability Office (GAO) reports of wasteful duplication include 342 economic development programs; 130 programs serving the disabled; 130 programs serving at-risk youth; 90 early childhood development programs; 75 programs funding international education, cultural, and training exchange activities; and 72 safe water programs. 7. Washington will spend $2.6 million training Chinese prostitutes to drink more responsibly on the job. 8. A GAO audit classified nearly half of all purchases on government credit cards as improper, fraudulent, or embezzled. Examples of taxpayer-funded purchases include gambling, mortgage payments, liquor, lingerie, iPods, Xboxes, jewelry, Internet dating services, and Hawaiian vacations. In one extraordinary example, the Postal Service spent $13,500 on one dinner at a Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse, including “over 200 appetizers and over $3,000 of alcohol, including more than 40 bottles of wine costing more than $50 each and brand-name liquor such as Courvoisier, Belvedere and Johnny Walker Gold.” The 81 guests consumed an average of $167 worth of food and drink apiece. 9. Federal agencies are delinquent on nearly 20 percent of employee travel charge cards, costing taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars annually. 10. The Securities and Exchange Commission spent $3.9 million rearranging desks and offices at its Washington, D.C., headquarters. 11. The Pentagon recently spent $998,798 shipping two 19-cent washers from South Carolina to Texas and $293,451 sending an 89-cent washer from South Carolina to Florida. 12. Over half of all farm subsidies go to commercial farms, which report average household incomes of $200,000. 13. Health care fraud is estimated to cost taxpayers more than $60 billion annually. 14. A GAO audit found that 95 Pentagon weapons systems suffered from a combined $295 billion in cost overruns. 15. The refusal of many federal employees to fly coach costs taxpayers $146 million annually in flight upgrades. 16. Washington will spend $126 million in 2009 to enhance the Kennedy family legacy in Massachusetts. Additionally, Senator John Kerry (D-MA) diverted $20 million from the 2010 defense budget to subsidize a new Edward M. Kennedy Institute. 17. Federal investigators have launched more than 20 criminal fraud investigations related to the TARP financial bailout. 18. Despite trillion-dollar deficits, last year’s 10,160 earmarks included $200,000 for a tattoo removal program in Mission Hills, California; $190,000 for the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, Wyoming; and $75,000 for the Totally Teen Zone in Albany, Georgia. 19. The federal government owns more than 50,000 vacant homes. 20. The Federal Communications Commission spent $350,000 to sponsor NASCAR driver David Gilliland. 21. Members of Congress have spent hundreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars supplying their offices with popcorn machines, plasma televisions, DVD equipment, ionic air fresheners, camcorders, and signature machines–plus $24,730 leasing a Lexus, $1,434 on a digital camera, and $84,000 on personalized calendars. 22. More than $13 billion in Iraq aid has been classified as wasted or stolen. Another $7.8 billion cannot be accounted for. 23. Fraud related to Hurricane Katrina spending is estimated to top $2 billion. In addition, debit cards provided to hurricane victims were used to pay for Caribbean vacations, NFL tickets, Dom Perignon champagne, “Girls Gone Wild” videos, and at least one sex change operation. 24. Auditors discovered that 900,000 of the 2.5 million recipients of emergency Katrina assistance provided false names, addresses, or Social Security numbers or submitted multiple applications. 25. Congress recently gave Alaska Airlines $500,000 to paint a Chinook salmon on a Boeing 737. 26. The Transportation Department will subsidize up to $2,000 per flight for direct flights between Washington, D.C., and the small hometown of Congressman Hal Rogers (R-KY)–but only on Monday mornings and Friday evenings, when lawmakers, staff, and lobbyists usually fly. Rogers is a member of the Appropriations Committee, which writes the Transportation Department’s budget. 27. Washington has spent $3 billion re-sanding beaches–even as this new sand washes back into the ocean. 28. A Department of Agriculture report concedes that much of the $2.5 billion in “stimulus” funding for broadband Internet will be wasted. 29. The Defense Department wasted $100 million on unused flight tickets and never bothered to collect refunds even though the tickets were refundable. 30. Washington spends $60,000 per hour shooting Air Force One photo-ops in front of national landmarks. 31. Over one recent 18-month period, Air Force and Navy personnel used government-funded credit cards to charge at least $102,400 on admission to entertainment events, $48,250 on gambling, $69,300 on cruises, and $73,950 on exotic dance clubs and prostitutes. 32. Members of Congress are set to pay themselves $90 million to increase their franked mailings for the 2010 election year. 33. Congress has ignored efficiency recommendations from the Department of Health and Human Services that would save $9 billion annually. 34. Taxpayers are funding paintings of high-ranking government officials at a cost of up to $50,000 apiece. 35. The state of Washington sent $1 food stamp checks to 250,000 households in order to raise state caseload figures and trigger $43 million in additional federal funds. 36. Suburban families are receiving large farm subsidies for the grass in their backyards–subsidies that many of these families never requested and do not want. 37. Congress appropriated $20 million for “commemoration of success” celebrations related to Iraq and Afghanistan. 38. Homeland Security employee purchases include 63-inch plasma TVs, iPods, and $230 for a beer brewing kit. 39. Two drafting errors in the 2005 Deficit Reduction Act resulted in a $2 billion taxpayer cost. 40. North Ridgeville, Ohio, received $800,000 in “stimulus” funds for a project that its mayor described as “a long way from the top priority.” 41. The National Institutes of Health spends $1.3 million per month to rent a lab that it cannot use. 42. Congress recently spent $2.4 billion on 10 new jets that the Pentagon insists it does not need and will not use. 43. Lawmakers diverted $13 million from Hurricane Katrina relief spending to build a museum celebrating the Army Corps of Engineers–the agency partially responsible for the failed levees that flooded New Orleans. 44. Medicare officials recently mailed $50 million in erroneous refunds to 230,000 Medicare recipients. 45. Audits showed $34 billion worth of Department of Homeland Security contracts contained significant waste, fraud, and abuse. 46. Washington recently spent $1.8 million to help build a private golf course in Atlanta, Georgia. 47. The Advanced Technology Program spends $150 million annually subsidizing private businesses; 40 percent of this funding goes to Fortune 500 companies. 48. Congressional investigators were able to receive $55,000 in federal student loan funding for a fictional college they created to test the Department of Education. 49. The Conservation Reserve program pays farmers $2 billion annually not to farm their land. 50. The Commerce Department has lost 1,137 computers since 2001, many containing Americans’ personal data.

patty: "440,000 people die annually from cigarette smoking, and the solution to it is very easy. Outlaw it like they do other things. That is 9X more than those without health insurance, yet noone gives a crap about those people who die. Absolutely NOTHING is being done about it. They force us to wear our seatbelts in the car, but they can't take away the cigs? And what about alcohol related deaths annually? There are so many people who die in the country from all sorts of things, that doesn't mean that the national government needs to make sure that these deaths don't happen. It doesn't mean that the feds need to take on the problem. To take on all that responsibility would be impossible. The national government was not created for these reasons." So what are you saying, patty? You WANT the Feds to control everything (taking away their cigarettes and your twinkies to save lives) or NOT ("all that responsibility would be impossible"). Can't you make up your mind? Or are you having a giant argument with yourself? patty: "I care about everyone. Jesus said, 'The poor you will have with you always.' This is just life." Sounds like you've interpreted that Jesus quote to mean that we shouldn't bother with the poor. They're here to stay and we can't be saving them all. Shucks, it's just too bad about them, but they don't work like everybody else so they deserve what they get. Jesus didn't mean that. You've taken something out of context to make your point. Jesus cared deeply about the poor. Far more than the rich people. You suggested that we give all the money that would be spent to the corporations. That's a telling statement, to be sure! At least you're open about your non-charitable views.

So I wanted to check on my weight, since you asked. and it has been eating me alive wanting to know LOL I am now down to 324. That is a 7 pounds loss. And that is with mass alcoholic consumption saturday night. Pretty nice! I will do this until my surgery time, and see if I can get as close as possible to 300. I have met my little mini goal though! I wanted to be under 330 for the surgery. I have done that! I gave up on the idea of being 300 for the surgery, but I might get close!!!!

Hi all-- Cindy, when I do the individual freezing, I usually just use a double zip lock bag, so I can get in and out of it easily. But for things like the green Beans Betty told me how to do etc, I use my food saver all the time! I use it for leftovers---then I can just pop them into Ricks lunch, or into our cooler when we go camping. I buy meat in the big Value Packs, and break it down, into smaller packages. With them, I actually lay them all out, pierce them with a fork, mix up my marinade, and put 2 steaks to a package, (Rick eats one, I eat part of one, and make him a sandwich out of the other part for work the next day!!!) pour in the marinade, and seal...by the time they are thawed they are ready! When the apples on the tree are ready to freeze, I will do the same with them, add the butter, cinnamon, and a bit of flour to the bag, and seal. Ready to thaw, mix a bit,a nd dump in a pie crust. With our green chile we put up. I do half of it whole but cleaned and peeled, and the other half I will clean and dice before freezing, then when I freeze it, I freeze it in the wide bag, and flatten it out, so when I need some, all I have to do is pop it against the edge of the counter, and it breaks off a section, then I just seal it again and put it back in the freezer. Back when I froze it in chunks, you had to thaw the whole thing to use it. Plus using wide bags, and freezing things flattened out, you can store it in less space, and it stays more organized on the shelf. I prefer taking a day to do the work, then when I am in a rush cooking, most of the tedious work is done! We also used the food saver once to make these ice packs, we used them for a long time too!!! You fill a food saver bag with some Water, and freeze it--we stood it up in a bowl-because the top is still open. When it is froze solid, you pour in half a cup or so of rubbing alcohol. With the frozen ice, it allows you to sit the bag in a way that the liquid does not all run out---and then seal. When the ice thaws, it them mixes with the alcohol, and will never freeze solid again---it remains fairly flexible, and can be ice cold in the freezer for use. We eventually ended up sending them all off with kids, and friends---hadn't thought about making more, until telling you!!!! With my daredevil grandkids, I better make some more!!! Well girls I went to the Dr. yesterday, my DH was having a conniption fit. I have had a headache for several days. I attribute it to sinus issues. But I do have a tumor in my mastoid, also one in my fibula, they have been there for many years now, but I have a yearly bone scan to keep them monitored, and see if more ever develop. They were discovered when they did my work up following my cancer diagnosis. They are not real serious---more than a simple bone dysplasia, but not malignant at the last biopsy, and there has never been a change in them through the last 5 years. My scan was due several months ago, but with the year we had with Ricks health, and no obvious changes I put it off, as well as my mammogram, and all the other fun checks. Not really intentionally, but time just kept going by.... Then I was whining for several days about the headache, and Rick freaked out when he found out I missed my scan. So I went to the Dr. yesterday. He thinks the tumor in the mastoid feels as though it may have grown. I don't agree. It sounds silly---but I swear it is weight loss!!! Anyway...I now am scheduled for my bone scan on the 6th, mammogram on the 10th, and yearly physical on the 18th! Doesn't that sound like a fun month to everyone!!! The bone scan is NOT my favorite thing. The body scan is not an issue. When they bring that monster ass machine down onto my head, it IS an issue. I had them so frequently in the begining, and one woman, Julie, did them always, she would tell me when it was coming down, and when it was going to touch me, and would tell me every step of the scan, count it down, etc. Then time before last another lady did it. I ask her if she was going to warn me when it was coming down. I am on my side, and cannot see anything other than the side arm of this beast machine. Overall the scanner part is really not that huge, but when it is pressing on your head---it seems gargantuan! She kinda sighed and said yes she would tell me. The way she said it, I mistakenly assumed that the way Julie did it was standard, and was lying there, she told me "coming down" and it was there immediately, pushing HARD on my head. MY claustrophobia kicked in--I pulled out from under it (scraped the hide off my head doing so!), tried to get up---keep in mind I am on a table about a foot wide, and I am at my heaviest, and my feet are taped together to keep them upright and still. I managed to heave myself into a sitting position---this is all happening in nanoseconds, I am in full panic mode, and hyperventilating---and I puked all over her legs and feet! So.....it took serious effort to get me back last year, as well as a good dose of Verced! This year, it is a new neurosurgeon, my old one left, and she does not prescribe relaxants unless she sees you first, and there is no appointment open with her until October. So....I am going to self medicate...and try to get the scan done so she will have all the results when I see her in October. For the scan, I go it, and they start inject radioactive isotopes interveiniously, and I leave for 2 hours, over which time I have to drink minimally 36 ounces...then the contrasting isotopes, are spread throughout the body, and they can detect if there are new hot spots, and how the already noted hotspots react to them. In the film---I could see the tumors, as well as the injection site, and my bladder---all full of the glowing junk---but you could see my fat blob body in pale outline, I was excited to see it this time, and found out it will all be on the computer only, I will not have films to compare myself...dangit! Anyway----I come home, with my head continuing to pound---and said to heck with it, I dug into the medicine cabinet for the only thing that EVER took these sinus headaches away, and come out with a box of Advil Cold & Sinus. Just before dinner, when I knew I would have food in my belly, I took one...it passed without issue, and lo and behold----no headache! No one ever listens to me!!!! I am NOT worried over this testing. They have biopsied my leg 2 times, never the mastoid, due to the tissue make up of the mastoid, sometimes disturbing it causes over growth of the honeycomb type of bone tissue it is made of. So while it is not changing they have left it alone. If ever this causes me problems, or if they were to end up keeping me in the hospital with issues over it, I will have DH, or DD or someone come in and let everyone know. Promise. Cindy, your Dads gift sounds great! I bought my girls birthday gifts Monday. Lord of the Dance is coming, right between their birthdays in October and November....so that is what they are getting. Amanda will love it--without any question. I am hoping Abbey will too. Well I have a list of things to do today, none of which I am wanting to do----oil changed in the van, to take my Dad to ABQ Friday...banking, laundry, sorting things to pack if we get to go camp at the rally Sat. & Sun. Lotsa fun!!! Eileenie, I am glad to see you pop in---just like old times!!! Betty---I printed the recipe--going to try that. I am usually not a big eggplant fan, but DH likes it....so we are going to try it!!! So I better get busy, or another day will go by with me not getting these things done!!!! TTYL Kat

hellllllloooooooo out there :wave: Hope everyone is doing well today and was able to rest a bit. Went to one of DH's coworkers cookouts today at their summer home. Man...small but very nice cottage by the Water and his friend did it all over inside. Very very nice...beautiful peaceful place. I can see why they love going there on weekends. DH did some fishing off the dock and I relaxed with a nice frozen Margarita :shade:. I haven't had alcohol in so long that after two I was feeling prrreeetty rrrrrelaxed :guess:wacko:. The only problem was it took people so long to get there that they held off grilling anything so my freakin hands were in the chips, dips, cheese, crackers ya know all the stuff you try to stay away from. :hurt Oh well. Before we went, I had to bring something so baked a batch of brownies and put toffee chips and chocolate chips on top of them. Good thing they stayed there and we left right after we each had a burger cause I would of eaten those too haha. Got home took a 2 hour swim in the pool. Burrrrr the water was soooo cold but, I did it anyway. Had to burn off those margaritas ya know lol So I won't feel so guilty if we go for ice cream later hahaha. After the pool I decided to try a recipe I found called chicken and Veggie Couscous. It allowed me to use the fresh basil I've been growing not knowing what to do with it hee hee. Well, it tastes ok but it's missing something to me. I can't put my finger on it either. But ya know it's good and different. It called for 1 cup couscous and 1 cup chicken broth but honestly I had to use 2 cups broth so I wonder if it was a typo. I found the recipe on SparkPeople which has mostly healthy recipes so probably why I feel somethings missing...like BUTTER lol. I can bet it would be good cold too. If you want the recipe you can find it on SparkPeople.com under Chicken and Veggie Couscous. Now DH is sound asleep on the couch with the Harry Potter book on his lap haha. The pups are sleeping, son is working during this Sales Tax Free weekend here in Massachusetts and I'm bored out of my mind. I should be studying my reiki stuff and will probably do that after I finish this post. My tattoo is finally done. Looking kinda funky because it's healing. So I'm kinda scaley haha. Lets say the planets Saturn and Earth are looking rough along with the shooting stars. I'll post a picture as soon as it starts to look like it's suppose to. Sounds like everyone has been keeping busy Eileen - Work week was HELL this week to say the least. I really am looking forward to the day I'm doing ONE job only. Personality clashes are making things tense and moral seems to be down...hopefully it will turn around soon. My boss was in a bit of a funk this week too but, she's been under alot of pressure home and work so I can understand why. She's cool to work for so at least I have that part going for me Sorry to hear your boss was being a turkey this week. Like you said...maybe he needs a bit of fun then he'll be better on Monday Did you go in your pool today? Man ours was so cold today, took a while to get used to it. Cindy - You really look great in your picture with your daughter. They've been working on alot of roads here too. One of which I use to get to work and found myself going around town to get passed it. You really do feel like your car is getting ripped apart going over it. Speaking of Cars...UGH....my stupid engine light came on so I had to bring it in. *GASP* $600 later and I'm back on the road grrrrrr. Stupid air sensor, a small part about 3'' long cost $250 for the part alone. Geeeepers! Patty - Funnel Cakes huh? Do you make flavored ones or plain with powdered sugar? Do you use cinnamon and sugar? Been Years since I had one of those or Fried Dough. My mom used to make us donuts by using the pilsbury biscuits and deep frying them. They puff up and she'd take them out and roll them in cinnamon and sugar. OH BOY they were yummy! Easy to make too but, I don't make them now cause I'd eat em lol. How are you feeling with your band? Chrispy - Did you go to that family cookout thing today? How was that Friday date? I miss ya We gotta get together again soon! Ya know before Disney cause I need to do some shoppin! and you are the gal to shop with cause you help me pick out nice things...cause you know me. I HATE everything I try on lol. I need someone to nominate me to be on that TLC show "What NOT to wear" I think it's called? MAN I'd love help picking out outfits to compliment my body......I have no confidence in that. Mandy - Ya know I won't even pack until the night before we leave lol. I just never do for any trip because I use all the stuff I take with me. I will have to pick up some sun block too I guess. Hey...question for ya....did you say you have Staples deliver water to your room? I'd heard someone doing that to save money on the water since it's so expensive in the park. Just curious. Betty - WOWZA you've had some high temperatures there. Ya sure you don't want to come to New England for a visit to cool off? You're more than welcome to stay here if you'd like I think the hottest we've reached so far here is maybe 90....not sure on that as my weather man is sleepin on the couch right now lol. He's the weather guy...Hun whats the temp today is what I usually ask him before I dress for work lol. He's got an entire weather station set up here at the house and his webpage has our local weather and results from his stations so friends can see it. Hmmmm I don't even go to the site...my bad huh? Kat - Are ya saying we're old if we have to scroll back to remember what people said here. RUT RO...I'm in troubl then cause I have to do it all the time hahaha. I think that's a great idea on the concert tickets for birthday gifts. Pretty cool! You're right...I can't even remember what my mom used to give me for my birthday....now she gives money for everything. She doesn't really shop at all. She said this way she knows everyone likes it. EH I'm fine with it but, I find if I get money....it ends up going toward house stuff versus if she gives a gift certificate to a restaurant it gets put to the use she intended ya know? But of course I'm thankful for anything I get Sounds like things have toned down a bit for ya...shhhh that's great Darcy Darcy Darcy - I've missed ya girl! I'd love to see pics of your new place. I can bet it's looking so nice I hope you're enjoying it and the peacefulness around it. Sounds so nice. Thinking of ya! Well I think I got everyone...well at least as far as the scrolling will allow me hahaha. Hope everyone is doing well and shrinking cause my freaking scale needs to hit the road. Hmmm if I give it a swift kick do ya think it will move? probably only from kicking it huh? hahaha Oh if anyone is thinking about seeing Bourne Ultimatum...do it...it's awesome!

Sacred Heart Medical Diet This 7-day eating plan can be used as often as you like. If correctly followed, it will clean out your system of impurities and give you a feeling of well-being. After only 7 days of this process, you will begin to feel lighter by at least 10 pounds and possibly 17 pounds, and experience an abundance of energy. SOUP: 1 or 2 cans of stewed tomatoes 3 plus large green onions 1 large can of beef broth (no fat) 1 pkg. Lipton Soup mix (chicken noodle) 1 bunch of celery 2 cans green Beans 2 lbs. Carrots 2 Green Peppers Season with salt, pepper curry, parsley, if desired, or bouillon, hot or Worcestershire sauce. Cut veggies in small to medium pieces. Cover with Water. Boil fast for 10 minutes. Reduce to simmer and continue to cook until veggies are tender. This soup can be eaten anytime you are hungry during the week. Eat as much as you want, whenever you want. This soup will not add calories. The more you eat, the more you will lose. You may want to fill a thermos in the morning if you will be away during the day. DRINKS: Unsweetened juices Tea (also herbal) coffee Cranberry juice Skim milk Water, water, water DAY ONE Any fruit (except bananas). Cantaloupes and watermelon are lower in calories than most other fruits. Eat only soup and fruit today. DAY TWO All vegetables. Eat until you are stuffed with fresh raw, cooked or canned veggies. Try to eat green leafy veggies and stay away from dry beans, peas or corn. Eat veggies along with the soup. At dinnertime tonight reward yourself with a big baked potato and butter. Don't eat any fruits through today. DAY THREE Eat all the soup, fruit and veggies you want. Do not have a baked potato. If you have eaten as above for three days and not cheated, you should find that you have lost 5-7 pounds. DAY FOUR Bananas and skim milk: Eat at least 3 bananas and drink as much milk as you can today, along with the soup. Bananas are high in calories and carbohydrates, as is the milk but on this particular day, your body will need the potassium and carbs. Proteins and Calcium to lessen the cravings for sweets. DAY FIVE Beef and tomatoes: you may have 10 to 20 ounces of beef and a can of tomatoes, or as many as 6 tomatoes on this day. Eat the soup at least once today. DAY SIX Beef and veggies, eat to your heart's content of the beef and veggies today. You can even have 2-3 steaks if you like with green leafy veggies but no baked potato. Be sure to eat the soup at least once today. DAY SEVEN Brown rice, unsweetened fruit juice and veggies, again, be sure to stuff yourself and eat the soup. You can add cooked veggies to your rice if you wish. By the end of the 7th day, if you have not cheated on this diet, you should have lost 10 to 17 pounds. If you have lost more than 17 pounds, stay off the diet for two days before resuming the diet again. This diet is fast. The secret lies within the principle that you will burn more calories than you take in. It will flush your system of impurities and give you a feeling of well-being. This diet does not lend itself to drinking any alcoholic beverages at any time. Because of the fat build-up in your system. Go off the diet at least 14 hours before any intake of alcohol. Due to the variety of digestive systems in individuals, this diet will affect everyone differently. After day three, you will have more energy than when you began, if you do not cheat. After being on the diet for several days, you will find that your bowel movements have changed. Eat a cup of bran or Fiber. Although you can have black coffee with this diet, you may find that you don't need caffeine after the third day. The basic fat burning soup can be eaten anytime you feel hungry during the seven days. Eat as much as you wish. Remember the more you eat, the more you will lose. You can eat broiled, boiled or baked chicken instead of the beef. Absolutely no skin on the chicken. If you prefer, you can substitute broiled fish for the beef on only one of the beef days. You need the high Protein in the beef for the other days. Continue on the diet as long as you wish and feel the difference both mentally and physically. DO NOT - DO NOT No bread, alcohol, carbonated drinks (including diet drinks). Remember, absolutely no fried foods. DO - DO - DO - DO Drink plenty - at least 6 to 8 glasses - of water a day, as well as any combination of the following beverages: black coffee, unsweetened Fruit Drinks, cranberry juice and skim milk

Pnut, I am worried, you're obviously such a sweet vivacious person, and alcohol, especially large quantities is -so- hard on the body. Please take care, I have a brother who is an alcoholic, who has been sober now for a few months, his common law wife of a few years also an alcoholic passed away from massive organ failure due to her alcoholism earlier this year, the time he quit drinking was right after her death. She was only 36 years old, and alcohol killed her, it came as a shock to all of us. I truly believe we all have a right to do what we want with our bodies, but I can't help but feel the forums are here partly to help support one another in getting not just thinner, but healthier. I don't know whether you have a problem with alcohol or not, but please, do take care of yourself. A lot of us who struggle with food/sugar addiction, also struggle with alcohol or other addiction... It's been a fine line for me once years in the past. Be well. XO Leila

Also don't drink alcohol the night before. I want to run a half mary now. I'm wondering if I can do it by the Fall?

The alcohol is always a big question and big issue. I am quite sure my alcohol consumption had something to do with my excessive weight. I am being sarcastic of course, but alcohol should always be accompanied by moderation, self-control, etc. My brother had a gastric bypass and his doctor gave him two stern warnings: 1) your body cannot process this stuff like it used to and 2) if you drink and drive with a bypass you will get a DUI. The physical difference between the band and bypass is obvious. For me, I need to be aware of my new diet (and changes) and change my definition of moderation. Personally, I like Bombay Sapphire martinis - dry with two queen olives. It has been two months and my wife and I will be going to Vegas on business the end of this month. I would love a martini, but if it is not on the diet or advisable then I will just wait. I like a good single malt scotch too (as well as a good Churchill). I like chicken fried steak to but that is over. I guess it is a matter of personal preference, ability and need. I have made the mental adjustment to booze early in the game because above all else - a good Delmonico needs an excellent cabernet. I just need to adjust the portion size accordingly.

Alcohol AND common sense...Hmmmmmmmmmmmm...Interesting....It will never catch on!!

Ok, my turn for sappy... we adopted our daughter. She moved in just before her 2nd birthday and her adoption was final 1 1/2 years later. She's now 4. We also have a 10 year old son (biological). Sarah's story is also a sad one... her family was already under the watch (and care) of Children's Aid when her mom became pregnant with her. She is the youngest of 4 kids to parents that are alcoholic drug users. They could barely take care of themselves let alone all of their kids. Sarah was born at 26 weeks (way too early) and barely survived. She had lots of health problems out of the starting gate, but kept fighting to make it. She finally went home 4 months later, but only stayed with her birth family for about 3 weeks before Children's Aid stepped in. Then she bounced around the system for 18 months before she came to us as a "Foster with a view to Adopt" child. Which in Canada means we were taking her in with the intention to adopt her once she became a "crown ward" (similar to "state ward"). That took about a year for them to get all the paperwork in order and the judge to approve it. Sarah has fetal alcohol effect and many other issues that will impact her life, but in many ways she is a wonderful, funny, loving little girt that drives us insane... but we love her so much. Jesse, our son, has lost of special needs too. He is hearing impaired, intellectually disabled, has epilepsy, and a few other things too. Our intention when we set out to adopt was to give Jesse a sibling, we didn't intend to adopt another special needs child. But you can't tell your heart what to do... it tells you. So be it. In the end, it was the best choice we could ever have made. Sarah is so much like me and Jesse is so much like my DH... looks and all! Ok, enough sap! Leslie, I always love to hear adoption stories, especially successful ones. Thanks for sharing. Renewed, I've said it before, but I'll say it again... you're amazing! Georgia, a snake would have completely freaked me out. I would have had to leave the house and had someone in right away before returning. We had a baby mouse that we saw run into the house. It was 2 days before we caught it and let it go in the park (a long way from our house). I didn't sleep, and my DH certainly didn't get any rest (I wouldn't let him :biggrin:). I hope your ankle is feeling better, but congrats on Day 1 Week 2!!! Other than the trip, it sounds like the run went well.

I'm getting mine on the 17th. I'm so disappointed on myself. I cheated yesterday with alcohol on my pre op diet

When was the last time you were on a roller coaster? If you’re like me, it’s been a while. In fact, the last time I was on a roller coaster I was 310 lbs and could barely fit into the seat. The restraint almost didn't go around my tummy. I was squeezed in like Cinderella’s step-sister’s foot must have tried to squeeze into that tiny shoe. Yep. I was Drizella’s foot and the coaster seat was the glass slipper. I’m sure it was a comical, if not sad and pathetic site, for those around me. It was embarrassing to me, to say the very least. But I laughed it off and went on, as I tended to do. That roller coaster was a wild ride. It had huge climbs, steep drops, loop-de-loops, sharp turns, and at one point it feels like you’re lying on your side. Honestly, it’s a wonder I stayed in the coaster even with the restraint!! The end of the ride was abrupt - it felt like my insides were coming out of my mouth when it stopped short back at the beginning of the track. When it was over, I felt accomplished, in a way. I’d survived that coaster ride, wild and uncomfortable as it was. Many people don’t realize that life before, during, and after weight loss surgery becomes a roller-coaster ride of it’s own. It has the huge climbs of elation and joy and excitement, the steep drops into anxiety and depression, and the loop-de-loops, sharp turns, and lying on your side moments of uncertainty, worry, and fear. Here are some of the emotional dealings that will occur before, during, and after surgery that you might not know. 1. Pre-Surgery Elation. This happens when you are finally approved for surgery. It’s going to be a reality! You are going to get a brand new lease on life! The period of life where you are having to go through diet after diet is finally coming to an end! You might tell everyone you know or you might decide to keep your secret to yourself. Regardless, you are excited and ready to go! 2. Pre-Surgery Blues. This is when you realize that you are going to have to say good-bye to one of your best friends ... Food. You come to the realization that there are some favorites that you are just not going to be able to eat anymore. Depression sets in slightly, and you might even go on a food bender - similar to what an addict might do. At this point you might even question your decision to go through surgery. 3. Day of Surgery. You’re going to be going through a myriad of emotions during this time. You’ll feel excitement, anxiety, apprehension, and impatience all at the same time. You’ll be worried because, after all, it is a major surgery you’re about to go through. But at the same time, you’ll be excited at what’s about to happen. When you wake up from anesthesia, you might be scared, especially if you’re having a rough transition out of anesthesia. You might be a little confused, wondering where you are. When your body settles down a bit and you remember where you are and what just happened, you might feel a little concerned. "Did everything go okay?" "Is this going to work?" "Did I just make the biggest mistake in my life?" On the other hand, you might wake up beautifully, singing the praises of your surgeon and his/her team, excited to begin your new life. These feelings and emotions will likely cycle throughout the day as you’re getting used to the idea of what just happened and your body relaxes and comes out of shock from surgery. 4. Going Home. When you’re finally released to go home, you’ll either be excited or scared. Thoughts might rush your brain like “will I be able to do this on my own?” and anxiety might set in again. You might, again, question your decision to undergo surgery, especially once the monotony of the liquid diet phases set in. The first few days might be easy, and the next might be excruciating. You’ll be in some discomfort because of incisions and if the surgeon inflated your abdomen with gas prior to surgery (commonly done in laparoscopic surgeries), and this might heighten your doubts and anxieties. You might begin to worry about issues such as leaks, slippage, or staples coming loose. 5.The first few months. You will be going through a mourning period at some point, and for some that occurs during the first few months after surgery. You no longer are able to lean on food for emotional support, so you might feel sad. You might even go through a type of “withdraw” from food, similar to what an addict might be going through their first few days in rehab. You’ll be able to eat more some days than others, and that will lead you to worry if your surgery is working or if there’s something wrong. Some days you’ll be jealous of watching everyone around you eat foods that you once loved. Others, you’ll be glad you can’t/don’t eat those things anymore. By the time you've finished all of your phases and are on to real food, you’ll be relieved and excited, and likely worried and anxious as well. Whereas before, you were relying on liquids for sustenance, now you’re on your own and have to rely on figuring your food choices out for yourself. 6. The losing phase. From the moment you leave the hospital until you reach your goal you are considered to be in the losing phase of surgery. For the purposes of this article, we’re going to call the losing phase the time period from month 3 (about the time you transition into full solids) to the point where you reach your goal. There will be many frustrations, joys, and concerns in the months ahead. Some days you’ll forget everything you were taught about nutrition and make yourself sick on something you shouldn't have eaten. Other days you’ll be 100% on track. You’ll have moments of pride and joy, and moments of shame and weakness. You’ll revel in finding out you can eat something as simple as asparagus and despair over not being able to eat rice pilaf. You’ll finally reach your “groove” point sometime during month four or five, and things begin to go well. You’ll reach a stall or two (or five ...) and wonder if you’re doing something wrong or if you've messed up your new tummy. You’ll marvel over losing 10 lbs in one week. You’ll wonder why you only lost 2 lbs the next week. When your loss starts to slow down, you’ll worry that you’re not exercising enough, that you’re eating too much or too little, or worry that your surgery is beginning to fail. You’ll relax more when you are consistently losing, even if it has gone down to 1-2 lbs a week. 7. The maintenance phase. When you reach your goal weight, you will have reached what is called “maintenance”. This is the final stage that you will likely be in for the rest of your life. Here, you will change your diet slightly in order to not lose or gain any more weight. You will get frustrated a time or two - especially the first time you gain a few pounds. You will marvel at what you've lost, but are concerned with the way your body looks now. You will have loose skin, which may cause body image issues. If you’re single, you might notice more possible suitors paying more attention to you. You might fall from one addiction (food) into another (sex). You might also be tempted into other addictive substances or habits such as alcohol, cigarettes, shopping, or pornography. Alternatively, you may look back at your loss, as meaningful and inspirational. You might revel in the way your life has changed and be happier than you have ever been and be ready to branch out and help others succeed in their bariatric surgery journeys. Tips on Riding the Roller Coaster Knowing that these emotions are possible doesn't mean they will happen for everyone, and doesn't mean you can’t get through them. The following tips will help you stay on the road to success and prevent you from falling off the wagon and into an abyss of self-doubt and depression: 1. Support. This is the number one most important thing for WLS patients. Even more important than food is support. Support can be found at home, through friends and family, in a hospital or surgery center support group, or even online forums such as Bariatric Pal. 2. Stick to the plan. As tempting as it might be to veer off and eat something you’re not supposed to, stick with your doctor or nutritionist’s eating plan as closely as possible. This will ensure that you continue to lose steadily, decrease the length and amount of stalls you’ll experience, and will speed up the healing process. 3. Vitamins. It sounds very cliche, but remember to take your vitamins! Focus on Iron and B Complex vitamins especially.A vitamin deficiency can result in depression, physical weakness, and poor sleep habits. 4. Speaking of sleep ... Make sure you’re getting plenty of it! At least 8 hours a day for an adult! Lack of sleep can lead to fatigue, weight gain, and (you guessed it!) depression! 5. Remember that “this too shall pass” ... These stages of emotional turmoil certainly won’t last forever. You’ll get over them as quickly as they overcame you. And keep in mind that each stage after surgery only lasts a short time in the grand scheme of things. Most eating phases last, at most, a month. After which you’re on to the next phase. 6. Keep a plan handy. Know that you will likely feel some unpleasant emotions or feelings and plan for them. Know what you’re going to do when you get upset, depressed, feel head hunger, or even feel physical pain from surgery. Have a list of friends to call at the drop of a hat, have a bottle of water ready to sip on at all times, or have your doctor’s phone number on speed dial. Know that these feelings will likely happen at some point in time, and be ready to deal with them when they do. 7. Remember that everything you’re going through is completely normal and OKAY. It’s important and helpful to know that everyone goes through a stall at some point. Everyone has pain during the first couple of weeks after surgery. Everyone eats something they shouldn't at some point. Whatever it is you’re going through - someone else has likely gone through it! 8. Finally, DON’T GIVE UP! Remember that this is a journey. As the old saying goes, “It’s a marathon, not a sprint.” There will be ups and downs on this wild roller-coaster ride. There will be twists and turns and loop-de-loops and there will be many moments when you feel like you’re laying over on your side. But, in the end, it will all be worth it. Your health, your life, and YOU ARE WORTH IT!!

Hi everyone, I just learned about the C25K program and found this tread. I've read most of your posts... and feel like I know you. I'm going to start the program now (Day 1 Week 1), and am nervous but excited. My DH is a runner (or has been in the past... not so much lately), and I've always envied his dedication and the high he gets from it. I've never really enjoyed running much in the past, but have a lot of energy now and want to put it to use. I'm coming up on my 1 year bandaversary, and have lost 70 lbs so far. I'm a little worried about my size and running, but will take it slow. I'll let you know how it goes. BTW, do most of you run on treadmills or outside? I have a great treadmill, but its also summer, so wasn't sure which to choose (although its a little hot out right now). A little about me... my name is Kathy, and I'm the mom of 2 special needs kids. We have a son (10) who is hearing impaired, has epilepsy, intellectually delayed and has ADHD. Our daughter is 4, we adopted her when she was 2. She has fetal alcohol, hydrocephalus, learning problems, sensory issues, and generally a major handful . Love the both dearly, but OMG they can be a lot of work. I'm hoping I'll get the sense of euphoria from running that my hubby gets :Banane03: