Claire Checking in

[Guest guest]

Hi All,

Boy it feels like I've been away for a lifetime! I know it's only been since

the 26th, but I feel so out of touch!

I'VE MISSED YOU!!!

We brought hubby's laptop, but had problems finding local access numbers so

I'm afraid I went though MGB egroup withdrawals!

Our vacation to Utah, Arizona and Alaska was WONDERFUL!!! I now know

firsthand why some people go to Alaska and decide to stay! How beautiful!

This trip really was an awesome experience! We saw the canyons in Arizona

and Utah and I'm happy to report that I had no problems (or pain) walking the

paths to the viewing areas! I got a little out of breath at the Grand

Canyon, but nothing like I used to! It felt so good to have all that energy!

In Alaska, the cool, dry air invigorated me! I wanted to keep walking when

we went to see one of the Glaciers! For some reason hubby didn't want me

crossing the rope between me and one of the glaciers tee hee hee. I wanted

to walk right up and touch it, but I settled for putting my hand in the cold

stream nearby. < >

Food was less of a challenge than I expected. I ate regular meals and they

agreed with me (for the most part). I had a few episodes of dumping over too

much sugar or sugar and fat combined. I've learned that I still can't drink

much orange juice, but Gatorade and I have finally become friends.

The dry (low-humidity) air threw me for the first few days. I was so

dry-mouthed! I finally started taking a cup of ice in the car with me and

ordering a glass of ice with my meals. I can't tell you how much ice I

chewed, but I stayed hydrated. I did get some funny looks from waiters when

I asked for ice only, no water. lol

Upon returning to FL, we found our air conditioner had broken. Our house was

about 85 degrees when we got home. Yuck! The air conditioner repair guy

came today so I am a much happier camper. I must admit though that I managed

better than I expected with no air. I'm sure my weight loss was a

significant factor.

Speaking of weight loss...I'm happy to report that I lost four more pounds

during the trip. I still can't get over the fact that I'm eating well and

still the weight just falls off. I am officially down a size in my tops and

getting there in my bottoms. I actually tucked my blouses in on vacation and

was happy to be in front of the camera! You'd think I was Twiggy or

something lol!

To all who have crossed over to Post-op and to those who have gotten your

insurance approval...CONGRATULATIONS! To those who are awaiting approval and

those who have recently been denied...you remain in my prayers. I really did

miss you! My one bit of contact with you all during our trip was talking to

a very drugged Trish (do you even remember?), and talking briefly to her

Angel Janet.

It's good to be home and back online again!

Oh! I almost forgot...saw my Dr. for my post-pneumonia visit on Monday. He

said my lungs are clear and I looked and sounded great! I could have told

him that lol. But, it's nice to have the word officially. It seems another

of his patients just returned from Alaska with pneumonia...glad I got it over

with BEFORE the trip!

{{HUGS}}

Claire

MGB 4/10/00

300/264

15.25 inches lost forever!!

Dr. Rutledge (http:/clos.net)

" He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it until the

day of Christ Jesus. " - Phil. 1:6