GOAL REACHED!

At exactly 13 months, 1 week & 3 days since my RNY, I'm at Goal!

It's sure been a long ride to get to Goal. I'm uber excited, the feelings going on inside are incredible. It almost all seems unreal at the same time very much realistic.

I have no idea how I will celebrate this important, exciting occasion.  Seeing all the comments of congratulations posted to facebook and to OH are more than apprciated and are helping me celebrate.

Thanks to all of you who have supported me through this entire journey.  The journey never ends....it continues forever!

Cheers,
Dee

Mystery Date

After a long anticipated month of waiting to find out what my mystery date with Geoff was going to be, it finally arrived!  Last night, I did as instructed and had my hair all done up.  I went home, ate my supper and then slipped into my size 12 cocktail dress.  We left the house around 5pm and arrived at the National Arts Centre around 6pm.  Geoff thought the play would start at 7pm, however when we asked, it wasn't starting until 8.  So we decided to walk over to the Rideau Centre to do some window shopping.

Geoff pointed out to me that there was alot of people staring at me or just plain checking me out.  He said that even the women were looking at me.  LOL  We walked into Danier Leather and I tried on a leather coat, the clerk asked me what size I was trying on, I said  medium.  She said 'Oh you look like a small'.  I couldn't believe someone would say that about me.  I guess there's still alot of getting used to with all these changes.

I have to say, I did feel like a million bucks last night.  It was very different then previous outtings with Geoff.  I've always looked at other women all dressed up to the nines and wished that I could look like that too.  Well, last night, I think I finally did!

We went to see 'Fiddler on the Roof'.  This was my first time ever seeing the play, it was a spectacular show.  I absolutely loved it!  We arrived home around 1am, so without saying, I am a bit tired, but all well worth it.

I love Geoff with all my heart.  I'm wishing for the fairytale relationship with him never end!

Cheers!

Please not under the knife again!

This is a bit off topic from my RNY surgery, however, since having 3 surgeries in a 10 month period, I'm not looking forward to my next follow-up appointment with my Gynecologist.  Why you may ask?

For the past 3 days, I've been experiencing pain again around my right ovary.  The pain worsens when my bladder fills and that when I do go to relieve myself, it hurts then too.  The pain comes and goes throughout the day, just like it did before my last surgery on September 1st.

I've been experiencing some short-term memory loss from being administered anesthesia three times!  I'm afraid that the news will not be good come December 21st when I have an ultrasound done to find out if the cyst is returning. 

I'm not so sure if I can tolerate another surgery emotionally and physically.  It's going to be a long month waiting to find out if the cyst has returned.  If it has, it will be the portion that they could not remove from my bladder. 

If they have to do surgery again, they will be removing both my ovaries which will kick start me into menopause.  My mind isn't really registering all this right now, I'm having a hard time just accepting that I may need surgery again.  I'm going to be 40 January 8th, 2011....I feel like these surgeries are making me feel like I'm 50.

I need all the prayers that I can get.

One Year Already

My journey to well being…


When I first started this whole journey, I wasn’t so sure if it was going to work, but I had the feeling like a kid that someday I would open up the best Birthday present ever, and that present would be the healthier me. October 27th is like a new birthday to me.

June 2009, I met a lady by the name of Shannon. She was my car sales lady and sold me my first SUV. Shannon shared with me about her surgery and gave me information on how to get started. I approached Geoff (my hubby) about it and he obviously wanted to learn more, but was behind me 150% of the way. Geoff has been a blessing to me. Throughout this whole year, he’s seen me change from a large person he fell in love with to a smaller person that he loves that much more. I can’t forget my boys throughout this whole process. They’ve seen me have difficulty eating some days. They’ve seen me throw up when I ate too fast. Their support has been continuous and encouraging. The best part is that they have me here for a long time and that I can now be part in whatever activity they include me in.

My dear closest friends & tiny little family I have left, you have been so supportive throughout this whole change. Although I know it’s sometimes difficult for someone to accept the changes that happen so very quickly, the support and words of encouragement have never fallen on deaf ears. I love you all!

My OH friends. I’m overwhelmed by the amount of friendships I’ve made. Whether we’ve met face to face or not, I still feel the strength & kindness from you all. The support that has come from the OH forum has been greatly appreciated over and over. It’s been a place where I can either vent, ask questions, get support, but most of all, a place where everyone seems to understand to tiniest wow moment and how big of a meaning and impact it has on your life. Thanks to all of you for your time and compassion!

My life has changed!!!

I’m now part of Goodlife Fitness taking the Body Flow classes while learning Yoga & Tai Chi, as well as taking on classes like Newbody and Body Vive. Last year this time I was perfecting being a couch potato while most likely eating a back of them. This year I’m working on perfecting my new body.

The decision of getting the RNY was not a light one. But I do have to say that it’s the best decision I ever made in my life!

This birthday has now finally come. The road has been a bumpy one with three surgeries in 10 months. Roux-en-Y, October 27, 2009, Gallbladder removal, April 9, 2010 & Cyst removal September 1, 2010. Although your body keeps telling you that it’s had it’s toll and that it really doesn’t want to keep going, I’ve always known in my mind & in my heart that I was strong enough to get through it all, especially with the great deal of support from you all.

Starting my journey at 280 lbs and continuing on the right path to success less 128lbs as of today!! I am 2 lbs away from my personal goal at being 150lbs.

Whether you are starting out a new journey to health, or you’re already on your own journey to life, never forget the old you, that part inside of your heart that gave you the strength to get where you are now. I will always keep my promise that I made to myself July 30, 2009:

I will remember me for who I am now today, as for when my body changes, my heart & soul never will.

Thankful

What a year this has been!  We just got through Thanksgiving weekend and I was so thankful for so many things.  I realized very quickly how blessed I am.

I have two very healthy boys who love me to no end.  They both are succeeding very nicely in their schooling and I'm extremely proud of them both.

I am engaged to be married to the most loving, patient & caring man on earth.  He steals my heart everyday.  I can never get enough of the 'blowing kisses' and his loving comments that come out of nowhere..like 'hey sexy, hey gorgeous'.

I've had three surgeries in 10 months and have been able to get enough strength to get through them all.  With the love and support from my friends, I felt stronger everyday.

My house finally sold in Perth and Geoff and I were able to move our family to Brockville which puts me only 4 kms from where I work.  We are able to build a new life and new memories in 'Our Home'.  As small as it may sound, I'm also thankful that my cat Trixie adjusted so well to being an indoor cat after being an outdoor cat for 5 years.

I'm super happy that I met so many new friends throughout this journey, whether it was through Obesity Help, Bariactric meetings or simply just walking down the road and saying hi to someone, not knowing that it would spark some kind of friendly chemistry and become great friends.

I'm extemely thankful for not having to lug around an extra 128 lbs anymore.  I feel super healthy and I have more confidence.

Thank you to everyone for being there for me, supporting me throughout this journey.  The journey never ends.....it continues every day, every hour, every minute, right down to the seconds.  Thanks for being part of it all.

Cheers,
Dee :D

Loving & Rocking My RNY!

Happy is the word!  I'm happier than I've ever been in my entire life and everyday gets better.  My self-confidence has risen so much.  I'm still 'me', but just a better and more wonderful 'me'. 

I'm meeting so many new people and loving it!  I've lost 121.5 lbs now.  Fitting in either medium or small size clothing.  I never thought in a million years that this would ever happen.  I was thrilled to finally fit in an XL, let alone fitting into Small or Medium! LOL

I am returning for surgery September 1, 2010 to have my fallopean tube removed, maybe both.  I will be off work from September 1st, 2010, returning on September 13th.  Three surgeries in less than 10 months...wowzers!!

Just touching base with everyone and letting you know that I'm anxious to meet more people, and I'm SO anxious for my wedding day July 23rd, 2011!!  I'm feeling fabulous and loving & rocking my RNY!!!

God bless everyone and thanking everyone for your support and love during the past months throughout my journey.

Cheers,
Dee

Prince & Princess for a Day

I had gone to Boldt Castle years ago, however, going there once again was like the first time.  They've done so much work to the place.  The romantic 'Heart Island' provides the saddest love story ever told.

Geoff and I both enjoy travelling to different local areas around where we live.  There's so much to see already in our own Country.....let alone our own Province!

The day was gorgeous and sunfilled with a gentle breeze that kept us cool enough while visiting the castle.  We entertained the idea of getting married at the castle, but, we want simple, and the castle would be too elegant for the type of wedding we are looking to have.  Campground, marshmallow, crazy guitar people singing around a campfire is going to be it!  I'm anxious to be married to my prince, and I don't need a castle to say I DO!

I haven't written on here much about weight loss these days.  The reason is that the weight has slowed down quite considerably and basically there isn't much to report.  I am still going to the gym as much as possible and seems that the pounds are not coming off, but the inches still are.  The only explanation for this would be that while working out, I'm building muscle which weighs more than fat, and I'm toning, therefore losing inches around the places I really want to lose them.

It was really neat how I didn't mind Geoff taking shots of me at the Castle.  I actually enjoyed having my picture taken for once.  It's a big change for me to have my picture from head to toe taken of me.  Prior to my surgery, I didn't allow anything below my neck most of the time.  I'd crop the pictures.  Now, I'm who I am, I still have faults, still have some hang ups about parts of my body.  After massive weight loss, there is no escape from skin sagging, except for plastic surgery.  The important aspect of the surgery, was primarily to be healthy!  And that I am!

If you have your passport and want to take a boat cruise to Heart Island, I definetely recommend it.  Take your loved on with you to share a romantic and loving experience together.

Cheers,
Dee

My Pursuit of Happyness

2010 is definetely my Year!  We have now moved in to 'OUR' new home in Brockville and we are absolutely loving it.  We purchased new living room furniture which is refreshing and the boys are enjoying not having to ask for a ride everywhere anytime they want to go out to bike or get together with friends.  I must admit, I'm very much enjoying not having to be taxi mom as much.  It takes me about 10 minutes to get to work, then I walk home, which takes about 45 mins.

I've also recently joined Goodlife Fitness and am addicted to it!  The people are super nice and there is so much variety of things to do.  I'm down 111 lbs now and I'm feeling great.  The weight loss has slowed down quite considerably.  A bit of pain on my right side every afternoon, but we think this is caused by either a pulled muscled and/or the cyst that the docs are currently investigating.

Everything happend so nicely.  God is definetely still looking after me and my family.  Geoff found out 3 days before we moved that he was transferred to Brockville.  What a relief, as we thought he would have to commute back and forth to Carleton Place. 

I hadn't seen Geoff's son since Christmas, and we spent the afternoon at Fort-Coulonge in Québec.  He has grown quite a few inches and his voice has change, it's deeper now.   We had alot of fun!  It was nice to see him again.

Work is about the same, however, when coming back from my 2 week vacation, I finally dealt with the issues with one of the workers here.  It's been a long 3 years of her and I building walls and I decided that enough was enough and we went down in the conference room and shouted, then calmed down and talked about it all.  We are putting the past where it belongs and moving forward.  That's a big relief!

I'm very happy and am amazed at the drastic positive changes in mine, the boys and Geoff's life.  After all, we both deserve this happiness!

Thank you to all who have been there for Geoff and I....you know who you are.  God bless!

Cheers,
Dee

Moving in 12 Days!

Wow..I can't believe how fast time is going.  I'm moving in 12 days and I'm overwhelmed by the amounts to be packed!  I'm also running out of boxes darn it! LOL

I'm so anxious to get moved closer.  Ever drive to work seems endless these days, because I know how close it is, but yet still far away.  We packed up most of the garage yesterday and man was it ever a beautiful day.

Saturday I attended a workshop for Body Compostion and it was alright except for with my RNY, it contradicted some things that I have to do.  It was still very informative.  After the workshop, I went out for lunch with friends and had a great time.   I was able to order from the kid's menu.  They weren't going to let me order from it until I showed them my medical card that Dr Graber's office gave me.

I'm down 107 lbs now and feel wonderful.  So much energy to burn off it's nuts! LOL  Good for me since I'm needing it so much these days.  My incisions are healing very nicely.  I'm feeling more self-confidence these days...I actually cut the lawn with short shorts and my bikini top yesterday.  I was a bit uncomfortable at first, but then didn't really care.  Geoff finds me sexy, and that's all that matters to me :D

Better get back to work....hope everyone had time to enjoy the wonderful weather yesterday.

Cheers!

Goal Weight Dilemma answered

Our trip to Utica was quick, unlike my last trip to have my second surgery.  We went through all the steps we normally do for my check-up then for Question and Answer period we posed the question about how does the weight loss stop.  The Physician's Assistant explained that when I was 280 lbs, my body needed so many calories, probably in the 1600 calories per day area.

Once I had my RNY, my calorie intake was reduced to 500-600 which resulted in the drastic weight loss.  I am presently working at building my calorie intake to 600-900 calories per day.

Once my body attains it's 'ideal' weight, where it will only need the 600-900 calories per day, both the calorie intake and body weight will level out and therefore I will be able to maintain a healthy weight.  They also advised me that it is normal to re-gain approximately 25 lbs as well. 

The PA also mentioned that their target goal weight for me is 170 lbs, which means that I'm only 7.5 lbs away from that.  However, based on the ideal weight chart, they would still like to see me in the 130-150 lb range, but will be very happy with the 170 lbs.  I've lost 104.5 lbs since October 27, 2009 (6 months, 1 week).  The weight loss has slowed down, but I'm still losing.  I have a feeling that I will attain the 'ideal' weight as it's proven that I will be alot healthier.

The PA also has lifted all restriction, therefore I can return to the gym!  Yippee!  Not to mention, it will make it alot easier for my move May 28th by not having any lifting, pushing or pulling restrictions!

Cheers!

Confused about Goal Weight

Geoff and I started talking about my weight and some comments that were made at my work.  One person in particular said that they hoped that I wasn't going to lose anymore weight.  I was shocked!  So this definetely became a topic of conversation Friday night. 

After doing some research, we found out that in order for me to be within the 'Normal' BMI range, I would have to be between 130 and 150 lbs, which would now mean that I still have 27 lbs left to lose.  The way I feel about it though is that I feel comfortable the way I am right now, just need to tone some muscles (mostly abdomen, arms and legs).

I'm off to Utica tomorrow (May 4th, 2010) for a checkup for my recent surgery and Geoff and I will be addressing our concerns about the weight loss, how much they feel I should weigh, discuss what I feel I should weigh and how to maintain the weight that I'm comfortable with.  Also, we will be asking how all this weight loss stops.  I really don't want to be so tiny that I look like a twig...seriously..my man likes meat on his woman! LOL

Cheers!

101 lbs Lighter and Feeling Much Better

Although I'm still sore on my right side, it's not as annoying as it was.  Sleeping is still a bit difficult, but I'm feeling much better.

My insurance had finally contacted me and agreed to keep me off work until April 26th.  I'm looking forward to returning to work.  It's only been 2 weeks, but it somewhow feels alot longer.

I've finally lost 100 lbs and I'm so happy!  It's almost like that 1 lb just wanted to linger there forever to annoy the living crap out of me LOL!  I'm lighter than my youngest son, and only about 12lbs heavier than my oldest.  AWESOME!!!

Anyhoot, just wanted to touch base to let you know I'm doing much better and hopefully things keep improving.

Cheers!

On an Emotional Roller Coaster Ride

My RNY was October 27, 2009 and now had a 2nd surgery on April 9th for an intestinal hernia and gallbladder removal. I think I've been in denial for the past week, thinking that I could function normally and that this surgery this time around is a cinch. I even tried to return to work last Thursday (not even a week after surgery).


But then it finally hit me last night and I started balling. Geoff held me so tight, almost like he understood how I'm feeling. I've listened to my surgeon (Dr Fitzer) on all counts for this type of surgery and it makes me angry that even though I did everything right, I still ended up with a 2nd surgery. Not only did I get 6 incisions with my 1st surgery, I've got again 6 more!!! Looks so pretty having 12 incisions....makes me feel so sexy! NOT!!!!

I haven't hit rock bottom, but I'm emotional and a bit depressed I guess. I hear of these people that eat what they want, even drink alcohol and never have any complications...and I do everything by the book and still ended up with complications. I keep telling myself, 'if you didn't do it right, it could have been worse'.

I'm returning to work tomorrow (Wednesday).  I haven't heard from my insurance company or received anything from them.

I'm sorry to vent, but I'm just really frustrated right now.

Getting Better

Today is Monday, and I'm starting to feel better, it's been 1 week since my surgery.  Bedtime is a bit of a challenge since my right side hurts so much.  The abdominal swelling is a nuisance, since I can't fit into most of my clothes yet.  Moving is going to be a challenge as well, since I'm once again not allowed to lift, push or pull for 6 to 8 weeks (which brings us right into move day!).  Thank God I have Geoff, Zach and Brodie with muscles!

UGH!  Why did this have to happen now?  I get exhausted very quickly again, as if my vitamins or something is out of whack!  Everything else is wonderful in my life, just wonder why I have to have this one obstacle.

On a good note, Geoff shared with his son yesterday that he asked me to marry him.  His son was asked before how he would feel about it and his answer was 'I wouldn't have a problem with it'.  So he was happy for his dad.  Geoff also mentioned to him that we sold the house and were moving to Brockville and he seemed to be happy about that too, since there will be so much more for him to do there. 

Today, Geoff is home thank God!  I will be relaxing today again, so that I can get better to get my butt back to work!

Cheers

This is so Exciting!!!

Geoff asked me to marry him on April 13, 2010.  We've set a date for our wedding of July 23, 2011.  It will be a campground wedding and hoping to have a Hippie theme.

I'm so happy!  With all the changes in my life, this is, thus far, the most exciting piece! 

Most people have been very happy for us, some have not been so supportive.  However, the end result is what matters and this will be that Geoff and I will be united as husband and wife.

Thanks to all who have passed on their congratulations, we are very lucky to have you as our friends.

On a weight loss note, I am 1lb away from losing 100 lbs! 16 lbs left to goal weight!

I'm looking foward to looking stunning for my groom.

Back to Basics

I'm back in Canada and my surgery went well. I'm still in pain but figure I will be back to work by Wednesday or Thursday. The surgery was to repair an intestinal Hernia, remove the gallbladder, and to disconnect some abdominal adhesions. All were related to my surgery back in October. 

They also accidentally found a lump 9cm in diameter in the location where my uterus is suppposed to be (I had a hysterectomy in 1999).  This will be looked at here in Canada since it is unrelated to my Roux-en-Y.   I had complained to my doctor about pain in my lower abdomen, however, they said there was nothing there???  Dr Graber gave me pictures of the lump!  Now I have proof!  I've lost alot of faith in the Canadian medical system.

I'm quite happy that I've been following the guidelines that Dr Graber's team set out for me.  I was able to confidentally tell them that I have been doing everything they've told me to do.  It was really nice to hear that this was not caused by 'me', that I'm a rare case when it comes to intestinal hernias.

Dr Graber's team was delightful, respectful and caring.  Their care is nothing that I've ever experienced before with a medical practice.  Dr Graber is fighting OHIP as I am still in my first 6 months since surgery.  We may need to appeal to OHIP, however Dr Graber said that if for some reason they do not approve, he will pick up the tab.  He strongly feels that I should not have to pay for this, that it is a legitimate expense.

Geoff had bought us tickets to go to the NAC to see 'A Comedy of Errors'.for Saturday, April 10th.  We were going to be dressing up to the nines!  The title is a bit ironic however. 

I need to go rest.  Two surgeries in less than six months!  I'm stronger than I thought!!!!!



Dee

Wonderful Easter!

For our Easter trip this year, we decided to visit with Geoff's brother up in Alma, Quebec.  Although it was about 10 degrees colder there, it was still a beautiful weekend full of sunshine.  

Our trip began Thursday night where we made it into Laval (Montreal), Quebec and stayed the night at the Radisson.  Friday morning we left around 9:15 for our trip to Alma.  It took longer than we expected, but the scenery through Jacques Cartier Parc was breathtaking.

We had alot of fun and laughter, went bowling and shopping.  I had to clean up my french a bit.  I found out that I'm quite rusted.

Sunday morning we left Alma, Quebec to treck down to 'Le View Québec'.  We had so much fun.  I had a caricature done by Fernando. 

Do you see the resemblance? LMAO!!!

If you ever get the chance to go to 'Le View Quebec', please do!
It such a beautiful place.






I was away from the scale all weekend, but to my delight, I weighed myself this morning in at 186.5.  I've lost 93.5 lbs and only have 21.5 lbs to go to my goal weight.  I'm enjoying the new shopping experience into different stores, that previously, I wouldn't even darken their doorway.  I still have that 'staring' feeling sometimes when going into the stores as if they are saying in their minds 'What the hell do you think you're doing in this store?  Nothing fits you here!'.  I'm sure this feeling will eventually go away, but it may take longer than I expected.

Either way, I'm feeling more and more energetic and beautiful every single day!

Hope everyone had a wonderful Easter!

Cheers,
Dee :D

It's Been a While

Hello everyone.  Not a whole lot going on these days except for packing and finding a house since my house is SOLD!  We have rented a storage room so that we can move some boxes everyday.  Then on moving day, there won't be as much.

I've lost a total of 87 lbs so far and I'm very pleased with the results.  I was on vacation last week and enjoyed my time with my boys.  They are truly special to me and love them with all my heart.  Geoff and I are adventuring into a new life together, into a new home that will be ours and where we can make our own memories.  I'm really anxious for that.  My house is alright, but too many memories that I want to leave there.

I had Peter's ashes in the garden at the front of the house.  I was going to bring him to a lake that he and I used to go to almost every weekend.  However, after thinking about it, I contacted his sister Marion and asked if the family wanted his ashes.  She was delighted to know that I was giving them the chance to hold on to him.  I've already passed him over to the family and I feel really good about it.  I was always afraid that if I gave him away that I would forget his face, but I will always remember Peter.  I will be moving away from the home that Peter knew, and didn't feel right bringing him with us to our new home. 

The family will be burying him next to his father.  I told Marion that I didn't want to be part of the burial, that I felt that I've moved on and am ready to let go.  I did ask her to put a rose with Peter for me and she agreed.  She smiled, gave me a hug, and said she was really happy for me.

Another chapter of my life that I can close.  It feels good and now I have a new chapter with Geoff that keeps blooming more and more everyday.  I love Geoff very much and really appreciate all the understanding and compassion that he gave me during this decision about Peter. 

Now my new life begins....a new chapter....a happy loving relationship and a new home!

It just keeps getting better and better.

Cheers,
Dee :D

February Picture

I guess I forgot to post this picture to my blog. Today I weighed myself at 194 lbs.  I don't have a whole hell of alot to say today since my mind is on packing and 'un-packratting'! LOL  Here's my most recent pic.

Weight Loss History

Here is my weight loss history starting August 2009 - March 6, 2010:

New Goal Weight & Calculation

I forgot to post that my goal weight has changed.  Originally I was planning on my goal weight being the 'ideal' weight of 150 lbs based on my height and age.  However, the is NOT realistic in any way.  When I went for my consultation, they explained that I would lose 70% of my excess weight, therefore that becoming my goal weight.  So here is the calculation they used for me:

My highest weight = 280 lbs
Minus My 'ideal' weight = 150 lbs
The difference = 130

130 X 70% = 91

280 - 91 = 189 lbs

Personally, I'm aiming for 165 lbs, so that means I have 43.5 lbs left to go.

At the rate I'm going at losing approximately 0.5 lbs per day, I don't see any problems reaching my goal.  Healthy eating habits along with my regular exercise at the gym, I'm going to make it!!!

Cheers :D

Trip to Utica, Niagara Falls & Toronto - Happy Valentine's Day!

Wow, what a wonderful weekend I had with Geoff.  We took off Friday morning at around 6:45 to head to Utica, New York for my check up.  The appointment went very well, except for finding out that now my Thyroid is too low (meaning it is now Hyperactive instead of Hypoactive).  Besides that, they are very happy with the amount of weight loss to date.

After leaving the surgeon's office, we took some time to do some shopping (vitamins & clothes).  Then we headed back to Canada towards Niagara Falls.  What a lovely place, it's almost like a mini Las Vegas! We didn't stay too long as it was getting late.  We headed for our hotel room in Toronto. 

Saturday, we took a trip to the Royal Ontario Museum.  For the first time in my life, I took a subway.  I couldn't believe that when I went through those metal turney things that you have to pass through after paying, that my butt fit through!!!  It was very cool!  We met some people on the subway from Orillia and chatted up a storm with them.  I know, a bit too friendly on a subway, but that's Geoff and I.

Sunday for valentine's day, we were supposed to treck our way back home between the 401 and Hwy 7, but we saw a sign for 'Body World's' at the Ontario Science Museum, so our plans changed quickly and so did Mr. GPS.  The Body World's exhibit was fascinating and recommend it to anyone that has a chance to see it.  If you a near Toronto, go!  It's only there for a bit longer, and worth the time.

After the museum, we headed home.  Although the weekend away was awesome, it still feels so good to be home.  Home is where the heart is.

This morning, I weighed myself, and I'm now down 72 lbs!  It's incredible!  Almost in Onederland!

Hope everyone had a lovely weekend.  I know Geoff and I sure did.

Cheers :D

Shopping Spree!

Today I hit the big 70!  Happy to say that it's not my age, but the pounds that are gone forever!  I went through my closet on Saturday and when Geoff came home, I told him that I had been sitting most of the day in a shirt, bra and underwear since I didn't have any pants that fit anymore.  So Geoff said, 'Looks like we're going shopping tomorrow!'  We headed off for Kingston and I got a couple pairs of pants and tops at Value Village.  But my big 'WOW' moment was being able to shop in regular size clothing stores.  I ended up getting quite a bit of clothes for little $$.  It felt so good!

Anybody want to swap clothes?

Cheers,
Deliska :D

Out with the Old, In with the New!

I bought myself a new dress last week and took my picture. Just wanted to share. Most of you have already seen it on facebook as my profile picture, but I thought I would document it here too.

I'm liking what's happening to me :D

Side by Side

I thought of not posting this picture because I was afraid of what people would say, and then I thought, 'What the hell!'.  I just realized that I'm only 1lb away from being half way to my goal!  I can't beleive it.  This morning when I weighed myself, it showed that 64 lbs were gone....half way is 65lbs!  Holy Molly!  So here is a side by side picture of me on October 26th, 2009 (day before my surgery) and January 26th, 2010.  I really didn't notice the difference myself until these two pictures got put together.  The tranformation is amazing.  Geoff suggests that I let go of the old clothes and start putting on clothes that are slimming, because he says that the red baggy sweater and baggy black pants are just not cutting it anymore or justifying how I really look.  I agree! 

So far I've lost 64 lbs from heighest weight (280) and 57 lbs from day before surgery (273)

Things are looking good for 2010

This will be short and sweet, but I couldn't help but take the time to share that I've lost over 60 lbs now.  Not only that, I'm now under 220 lbs, which is a first for me in probably 20 years!  More than 60 lbs in 2 months, 2 weeks and 5 days????  Wow!!  Oh...and by the way, the 7 day cleansing to give my pouch a break from strain is turning out very well, I'm feeling much better today.

I worked out at the gym last night in my NEW workout pants, and I'm going again on Saturday.  Then I'm having a visit from the sweetest friend in the world, Micheline.  Things are looking really good for 2010!

Cheers!

Dee :D

Measuring Vs Feeling

Alrighty then...I've been on the strict 'green sheet - 24 hour diet' for 2 days now and moving into the 3rd week for another 24 hours.  I'm reporting into Dr Fitzer's office daily to discuss my progress with nurse Michelle.  Today we've finally pinpointed what is happening with me.  First of all, I'm feeling hunger which Michelle agrees with, but second of all, I'm not yet feeling satisfaction or fullness from eating.  This is causing the nausea as I'm eating too much, even though they recommend 1/2 cup per meal. 

I'm still learning alot about my new lifestyle and sometimes it becomes frustrating to know exactly how much you're supposed to eat.  They kept telling me, 'When you feel the satisfaction, you'll know you've had enough'.  After eating my meals, and waiting, and eating, and waiting, and eating and waiting to feel the satisfaction, obviously I've eaten too much and feel nauseated since the food just has no more room.

At least now I have some kind of understanding on what is going on.  So far, I'm still not able to eat much.  About 5 tablespoons of loose mashed potatoes was what I ate for lunch and felt nauseated for 15 mintues after eating.  So now I know, no more than 4 tablespoons for me!

What a journey I tell ya.  And to top all of that, I lost 4 lbs just yesterday on the clear liquids.  Gosh!

Cheers,
Dee :D

Back to Square One

About mid December (probably after returning to work), I noticed having problems with some foods that I was eating.  Experiencing alot of pain, or just simply feeling nauseated.  After some time, you start dreading having to eat your meals.  I spoke to Michelle, a nurse from Dr Fitzer's office, and she has recommended that I do a Pouch Draining session.  She was a bit abrupt when she first started talking with me, however after putting me into tears, she realized how upset and concerned I was.  I told her that I felt like a failure since I had been trying so hard to do things the right way.  It's VERY hard to wrap your head around the fact that you may not be able to eat more than 1/4 cup every meal.

So now, I must go back to square one again.  I am returning to the 'Green Sheet' meal plan that I was provided for after surgery.  Every 'Green Sheet Week' only lasting 24 hours, I am starting at week 1, clear fluids only.  It seems that the reduction of food from 1/2 cup to 1/4 cup may still be too much for my little pouch.   They feel that I have strained my pouch and it needs a break. 

I feel extremely tired since lunch and can't wait to go home.  I don't only feel exhausted, I look it too.  I have been told to report into Dr Fitzer's office everyday to speak with the nurse to let her know how I'm doing.  Hopefully, this will get resolved by taking these steps.  On a good note, they are very pleased with my food choices.

Short but Sweet

After a long ass day at work, I finally got home.  I went to sign up for my year membership at the gym and worked out for 45 minutes.  It felt wonderful!  When I got back home, I had a shower and waited for Geoff to arrive from work.

When he got home, he place a dozen red roses in my arms, kissed me and wished me happy birthday.  As I was putting them in a vase, he presented me with another gift, a little angel holding a heart (I love Angel figurines).  Then to my absolute delight, he handed me what I had been craving all day, a chicken schwarma!  Yummmmm-O!

It turned out to be a nice birthday after all.

Bonne Fête

Today is my 39th birthday.  I was hoping to have lost 50 lbs by my birthday and lo and behold I've lost 53.5 lbs!  I'm very proud of my accomplishments.

I woke up this morning feeling down and really not at all in a good mood.  Geoff wished me happy birthday when he kissed me good bye.  It's been very frustrating at work with noise levels and language critisism.  It feels like everything just came at me all at once this week and I'm drained from it.  My son was in the shower for 30 minutes this morning and I was trying to get him out so that we could leave earlier since it was snowing this morning.  He's a typical 15 year old teenager with a wicked attitude attached to him.  I love him no matter what, but at times, he gets the best of me.

I had asked my manager if I could take half of a day off, and right away she called me to find out what was wrong.  First, wanting to know if I was ok physically, then sounding more like a friend than a manager, she talked me through my frustrations.  I feel blessed to have such a wonderful manager this time around.  Not only does she care and takes the time needed for her employees, but man does she ever know her job!  It's reassuring when you can talk to a manager about your frustrations and know that they will be addressed.

On a good note, my sis Hélène sent me a wonderful email this morning to wish me happy birthday, then I received a phone call from my friend Pierre from work and an e-card from him as well (Pierre always somehow manages to put a smile on my face...God Bless him).  This is my last year in the 30's.  I kind of feel old, maybe it's sinking in that next year I will be the big 4-0.  But they say, by that time you're over the hill, so my guess is that going downhill is alot easier on the knees LOL. 

With all that said, after my conversation with my manager, I decided to hang in there for the day.  My head is up high, I will keep smiling to keep them guessing. 

Cheers
Dee :D