Re: Shoulda,Coulda, & Woulda

March 14, 2006

I know how well you've done and how hard it is now and that you really want the rest of the weight off. So hang in there you are back on track and doing so well. I am very thankful for having to lose the 10% and learn the binder and that I started to support meetings as soon as my PCP put in for me to have the surgery. I learned so much from so many people and I listened with open ears, when I keep hearing the best weight lose was the first 6 months I had my mind set I would get to goal in that time. It wasn't easy but I did it. I know your mind is back into it and I do believe you can do it. You are really doing good and doing a great exercise program also. So be proud of your self and do it girl. and me email on our emails private, we realized that her husband and me had gone to high school together. Just thought I'd add that for everyone, it is great. So do this. Take care.

Donna Turnage wrote: Hello Everyone;I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I went to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I need to vent a little I hope it is okay. When I had surgery 3 years ago I didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my weight as a matter of fact I weighed more when I had surgery than I did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was pretty smug in the fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was because I never really fully understood the reality of all the true life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was just put through. So I have no answers to that question. Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears and mind

when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your other foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of weight you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one year you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight off.Exercise and strength training is very important for body fat to burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight that I want to be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his staff. By the way They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm at their goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and that is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3 bites and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for the past 3 weeks

any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and no more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for this.Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs 02/21/2003 today 240lbs 100lbs to go.Donna JordonDSJordon@...

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March 15, 2006

WOW I coulda written this post myself!!! Exactly what Im going

thru///except that I have regained between 10-15 pounds. Im

struggling to get it off!!

>

> Hello Everyone;

>

> I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I

went

> to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I

need

> to vent a little I hope it is okay. When I had surgery 3 years ago

I

> didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my

> weight as a matter of fact I weighed more when I had surgery than

I

> did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was pretty smug in the

> fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was

> because I never really fully understood the reality of all the

true

> life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was

> just put through. So I have no answers to that question.

>

> Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears

and

> mind when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your

other

> foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of

weight

> you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you

> will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one year

> you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight

> off.Exercise and strength training is very important for body fat

to

> burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my

> protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight that I want

to

> be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his staff. By

> the way They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs

> because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm at their

> goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and

that

> is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3

bites

> and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for

> the past 3 weeks any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and

no

> more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight

> back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for this.

>

> Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs

02/21/2003

> today 240lbs 100lbs to go.

>

March 15, 2006

You and keep in touch, you're going through the same thing and get the rest of your weight off. Get that exercising going again. is doing really good now, along with eating right and all. You both can do this, my 2 friends. Take care. Donna J. Diane Duenas wrote: WOW I coulda written this post myself!!! Exactly what Im going thru///except that I have regained between 10-15 pounds. Im struggling to get it off!!>> Hello Everyone;> > I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I went > to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I need >

to vent a little I hope it is okay. When I had surgery 3 years ago I > didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my > weight as a matter of fact I weighed more when I had surgery than I > did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was pretty smug in the > fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was > because I never really fully understood the reality of all the true > life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was > just put through. So I have no answers to that question. > > Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears and > mind when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your other > foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of weight > you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you > will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one

year > you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight > off.Exercise and strength training is very important for body fat to > burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my > protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight that I want to > be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his staff. By > the way They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs > because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm at their > goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and that > is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3 bites > and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for > the past 3 weeks any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and no > more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight > back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for

this.> > Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs 02/21/2003 > today 240lbs 100lbs to go.>Donna JordonDSJordon@...

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March 15, 2006

Hi ; You know I attribute my weight stoppage to the mocha's because I used them as food. I would buy one every morning and drink it over 3 or 4 hours I was always full never hungry and felt satisfied. About three weeks ago my daughter ask me to go on the south beach diet with her and I looked at it and told her I would mine is modified of course. I have dropped 13 lbs. over this time mostly because I'm getting my protein in and NO SUGARS I also joined a gym with her and my husband I do strength training 3 times a week (as Per Trainer) and 1 hour of cardio 7 days a week. I bought a pedometer and I do between 25,000 and 30,000 steps per day ( I take it off when exercising) you would be amazed how many steps you can get in just by normal walking. I went to Albertsons the other day needed 5 items off the same isle so I purposely made 5 trips back to that isle the girl stocking on the isle asked me if I needed help finding things

and I smiled and said no I'm doing this on purpose at home I don't take every thing to one room at a time I make several trips. This may sound crazy but it has really jump started my weight loss again. What sf syrup do you use and does it sort of help with the mocha cravings. I have tried to figure out a way to make sugar free mocha's with little fat. Maybe now that I'm past the sugar cravings I should just leave it alone. I'm trying to eat more food and not use liquids but food just doesn't do well with me so I drink ISO Pure zero carb at least once a day but I'm always thirsty and need to be drinking all the time maybe that's why I have a hard time with actual food my stomach might always be full of liquids, never thought of that till just now. you take care and keep it you will start loosing again just keep the faith and stay away from the sugars. Heres to you having a great day. T Diane Duenas wrote: WOW I coulda written this post myself!!! Exactly what Im going thru///except that I have regained between 10-15 pounds. Im struggling to get it off!!>> Hello Everyone;> > I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I went > to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I need > to vent a little I hope it is okay. When I had surgery 3 years ago I > didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my > weight as a matter of fact I weighed more when I had surgery than I > did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was pretty smug

in the > fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was > because I never really fully understood the reality of all the true > life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was > just put through. So I have no answers to that question. > > Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears and > mind when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your other > foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of weight > you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you > will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one year > you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight > off.Exercise and strength training is very important for body fat to > burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my > protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight

that I want to > be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his staff. By > the way They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs > because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm at their > goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and that > is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3 bites > and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for > the past 3 weeks any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and no > more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight > back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for this.> > Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs 02/21/2003 > today 240lbs 100lbs to go.>

March 15, 2006

I go to vitalady.com, I get my protein and my sugar free syrups from

her. Right now she isnt shipping the syrups because of freezing

temps, but you can also get them at Smart and Final. Smart and Final

has the sf syrups and sauces. They also carry a sugar free mocha

latte mix. Thats how I satisfy the coffee/latte/frap thing. I make

my protein shakes with chocolate whey, add ice, and a shot of a sf

syrup like white chocolate or peppermint. Then for hot, I put a shot

of sf syrup in my coffee with half and half or I use coffee pot hot

coffee add a scoop of chocolate protein and a shot of sf syrup.

So I have all the " tools " to stay away from starbucks, I think its

just the habit, social and sugar thing that draws me. I think once I

detox from them(lots of carbs and sugar) then I will have it under

control. I find Im one of those people that cant just have a taste

and be satisfied....it leads to binges.

This headache from the detoxing from carbs and sugar is worse than

the one from caffeine! I hope it stops soon.

> >

> > Hello Everyone;

> >

> > I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I

> went

> > to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I

> need

> > to vent a little I hope it is okay. When I had surgery 3 years

ago

> I

> > didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my

> > weight as a matter of fact I weighed more when I had surgery than

> I

> > did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was pretty smug in the

> > fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was

> > because I never really fully understood the reality of all the

> true

> > life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was

> > just put through. So I have no answers to that question.

> >

> > Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears

> and

> > mind when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your

> other

> > foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of

> weight

> > you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you

> > will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one

year

> > you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight

> > off.Exercise and strength training is very important for body fat

> to

> > burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my

> > protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight that I want

> to

> > be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his staff. By

> > the way They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs

> > because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm at their

> > goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and

> that

> > is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3

> bites

> > and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for

> > the past 3 weeks any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and

> no

> > more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight

> > back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for this.

> >

> > Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs

> 02/21/2003

> > today 240lbs 100lbs to go.

> >

>

March 15, 2006

Hi ,

I am not to sure that the way you are eating is all that good for you considering all that you are doing. You know , School, work and taking care of the home fires also.

I know that you are feeling bad because your weight has gone up a tad but it isn't something so that you should go to such extremes. You do need some carbs to keep you brain functioning correctly. I think that if you are feeling hunger pains it is because you are probably really hungry. When you drink protein shakes you do get your protein in but it doesn't stay in your tummy very long so you don't have that sensation of feeling like you have eaten anything. Remember when you have surgery your tummy is now like a sink without a plug so liquid goes in and leaves fairly quickly. If you want to make sure you are getting in protein with out a lot of calories get something like jerky or things like that . You need to chew so that your body can get that full feeling that will last for a while and then you can supplement it with shakes

As for Starbucks I was hooked on Starbucks for a while also but i still go there but just for the socialization now. Many times I have a sugar free drink in the car and I take that in with me or I order tea. I never got to the point where I was ordering the fancy drinks but every once in a while I give myself a treat to a nonfat late but not too often.

Ramona

March 15, 2006

You know, I'm kind of in an odd place, and I was wondering if anyone else shared that space and had any advice for me. I started out at 261.5, at 5'6". Now I vacillate between 162 and 165...usually at around 163. I am a pretty muscular person, and I distribute my weight evenly. I wear a size 8 or 10, depending upon the brand. And, generally, I look ok. I do Pilates twice a week...but I haven't done as much cardiovascular training or weight training since the operation. When I became so anemic, I was just too tired, and so I got out of the habit that was pretty enmeshed in me for years and years. I just haven't exercised much. has a foot problem right now, so we haven't even been doing my normal active weekend things (hiking, walking, sailing)...and frankly, the weather has contributed to that failure,

as well. I lost down to 236.5 before the surgery, so my post surgery weight loss is about 75 lbs. Here's the thing: I look good, but when I'm naked, I still have some weight I could lose. I have some back fat. My upper arms still need help (not sure if it's skin or fat), I could probably lose a bit more off of my tummy area. My eating habits are fairly good, but not 100%. I try to live like a normal person in some respects, so I occasionally have a treat...and I"m not hypervigilent about every bite I take. On the other hand, I weigh myself every day, and if my weight creeps up closer to the high end of my weight range (165), I really get on the stick and drop the weight. I've thought about plastic surgery, to have the arms, tummy and thighs done. Or maybe a little lipo here or there. But, ideally, I'd like to lose another 10 or 20 lbs. (not sure, because even though I've weighed as little as 138 in my life, my body composition has changed a lot. At 138 I wore a 10. Now at 163 I wear an 8. So, it seems that if I got down to 143 or 138, I'd be down in a size 4, given my current state at this weight.) I'd worked out consistently for a long time, even while my weight was going up. So, I think that's why, now that I've shed weight, alot of what is less is muscle. And Pilates has changed my shape. But...here's the thing: I worry about this so-called "rebound" weight I've heard about. I mean, if I stay at this weight, I think I'll be happy and just fine. I'd probably prefer to lose a bit more...but largely, that is to insure that if this 10 lb. rebound happens (which I often hear about), I won't be going above where I am currently. Today, I made a new commitment to start upping my water, and to do cardiovascular training five days a week, no matter what. I'll keep up with the Pilates, and probably add some weight training back in. Hopefully, I'll keep that up. And then, I'll see what happens to my body. I may not need plastics after all. This is kind of a dumb thing to say...and I am not sure exactly what I'm seeking by way of response. I guess, I'm a little worried, because I haven't been hypervigilent about what I eat...about never ever eating between meals...about never ever drinking alcohol or eating sugar. I mean, I stray (willfully) from time to time. I won't be at a year until June 8th...so I think I'm putting some steam in my engine for the last three months of my initial year...to see if that weight comes off...to see where my body ends up. ANd also, because I'm a little nervous that if I

continue to be too lackadaisical, the weight could come back on. I guess I don't want to regret that I didn't go all the way, you know? Yet, as I said, I'm happy where I am in many respects, I look attractive, I wear a pretty normal, even small, size... So, how do you figure out when/where to stop? How do you gage how much "extra" you should get off, just in case you gain? How (other than weighing yourself and keeping yourself to a VERY SMALL window of weight gain before you get on the stick) do you know when the "honeymoon period" is over? I haven't really lost any weight since late December. What does the honeymoon period really mean? I mean, when it's over do you start gaining easily? When it's over, and you realize you are up 2 lbs. does it take longer (and more effort) to get those two lbs off than it currently does (usually a few

days). Does it mean that you are able to eat more? What are the signs that it is ending...what do I need to look out for...and should i be looking to get down a little more in case of rebound of five to ten lbs. or whatever as a result of the end of the honeymoon? Advice, please... Robynn Donna Jordon wrote: I know how well you've done and how hard it is now and that you really want the rest of the weight off. So hang in there you are back on track and doing so well. I am very thankful for having to lose the 10% and learn the binder and that I started to support meetings as soon as my PCP put in for me to have the surgery. I learned so much from so many

people and I listened with open ears, when I keep hearing the best weight lose was the first 6 months I had my mind set I would get to goal in that time. It wasn't easy but I did it. I know your mind is back into it and I do believe you can do it. You are really doing good and doing a great exercise program also. So be proud of your self and do it girl. and me email on our emails private, we realized that her husband and me had gone to high school together. Just thought I'd add that for everyone, it is great. So do this. Take care. Donna Turnage wrote: Hello Everyone;I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I went to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I need to vent a little I hope it is okay.

When I had surgery 3 years ago I didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my weight as a matter of fact I weighed more when I had surgery than I did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was pretty smug in the fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was because I never really fully understood the reality of all the true life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was just put through. So I have no answers to that question. Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears and mind when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your other foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of weight you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one year you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight off.Exercise and strength training is very

important for body fat to burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight that I want to be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his staff. By the way They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm at their goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and that is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3 bites and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for the past 3 weeks any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and no more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for this.Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs 02/21/2003 today 240lbs 100lbs to go.Donna JordonDSJordon@... Yahoo! MailBring photos to life! New PhotoMail makes sharing a breeze.

March 15, 2006

I worry about the same thing. I am rebounded up 10 pounds and then

bounce between 5 more. I dropped to 150, rebounded to 160 and now I

flucuate between 163-165. I KNOW the reason.....starbucks and

grazing. Thats why right now Im on a protein fast until my stomach

shrinks a little and I get the carbs and sugars detoxed.

I think the best thing is to stay as close to the program as you can.

I was WAY better off not knowing I could eat some things and not die

or be in extreme agony.

My regimine right now is:

700: protein shake

8-10: sip on coffee w/ sf syrup and half and half

1030: protein shake

1230: protein shake

130-230: water or coffee(if I have some left from the morning)

230: protein shake

230-630: water and if Im really hungry or got the munchies another

shake

630: lite dinner: 2-3 oz protein, maybe a bite of veggies

800: protein shake(usually hot)

Im going to keep doing this until I stop craving the sugar and carbs.

Its still about 1100 to 1200 calories, so Im not starving myself. Im

getting in 95% protein and trying to shrink down my stomach. I think

its working because except for head hunger...wanting to chew

something Im not really hungry hungry and then when I do eat, more

than a couple of bites hurts.

> Hello Everyone;

>

> I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I went

> to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I need

> to vent a little I hope it is okay. When I had surgery 3 years ago

I

> didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my

> weight as a matter of fact I weighed more when I had surgery than I

> did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was pretty smug in the

> fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was

> because I never really fully understood the reality of all the true

> life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was

> just put through. So I have no answers to that question.

>

> Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears

and

> mind when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your

other

> foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of weight

> you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you

> will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one year

> you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight

> off.Exercise and strength training is very important for body fat

to

> burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my

> protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight that I want

to

> be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his staff. By

> the way They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs

> because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm at their

> goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and

that

> is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3 bites

> and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for

> the past 3 weeks any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and

no

> more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight

> back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for this.

>

> Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs

02/21/2003

> today 240lbs 100lbs to go.

>

> Donna Jordon

>

> DSJordon@...

> ---------------------------------

> Yahoo! Mail

> Bring photos to life! New PhotoMail makes sharing a breeze.

>

March 15, 2006

Cappucinos are only 80 calories, and espressos are 0!sweetgemlady656@... wrote: Hi , I am not to sure that the way you are eating is all that good for you considering all that you are doing. You know , School, work and taking care of the home fires also. I know that you are feeling bad because your weight has gone up a tad but it isn't something so that you should go to such extremes. You do need some carbs to keep you brain functioning correctly. I think that if you are feeling hunger pains it is because you are probably really hungry. When you drink protein shakes you do get your protein in but it doesn't stay in your tummy very long so you don't have that sensation of

feeling like you have eaten anything. Remember when you have surgery your tummy is now like a sink without a plug so liquid goes in and leaves fairly quickly. If you want to make sure you are getting in protein with out a lot of calories get something like jerky or things like that . You need to chew so that your body can get that full feeling that will last for a while and then you can supplement it with shakes As for Starbucks I was hooked on Starbucks for a while also but i still go there but just for the socialization now. Many times I have a sugar free drink in the car and I take that in with me or I order tea. I never got to the point where I was ordering the fancy drinks but every once in a while I give myself a treat to a nonfat late but not too often. Ramona

March 15, 2006

Hi Robynn, Of course I don't have an answer for you

since I'm a little less out than you are, but I'm glad

you asked these questions and look forward to reading

the responses you get.

Thanks,

Laurie

__________________________________________________

March 15, 2006

Robynn You ask so many questions and I bet you could answer them all yourself. You are very wise and can help so many, so now it's time to help yourself. First off acting normal and eating what you want just small amounts might be fine if you are where you want to maintain your weight. You said when the weight gets to 165 you get on the stick, well up to 6 months the weight melts pretty fast, 6 months to a year slower but still comes off, then pretty much after that it's a lot more effort. That's why I never really have done carbs or sugar and was able to get all my weight off in the 5 months after surgery. I was 270 at orientation, 228 at surgery April 11th, 2005 and by Sept 2005 I was 150. I am now 137 to 142 depending the time of month. I don't want to be below 135 that is my bottom, I would like to stay there so if you have the up 5 to 10 rebound you have time to stay on top of things. I believe the honeymoon is

over at a year. I'm not saying people can't lose after a year but it's really harder, you're body has adjusted to you eating smaller, your metabolism now has changed with the way you do things and the weight lose slows. Everyone should take advantage of the first 6 months and really stick with the protein, stop straying, exercise, get in your water and take the vitamins. Time will come down the road then you'll start to try new things, not exercise as much, not drink all the water or forget the vitamins and things just get harder. Robynn you still have time to start kick this again to the losing side, but you need not let yourself have anything you want unless you want to stay at this weight and that is your choice. You need to drink more and get back into the exercise mode like you say you are. Sorry but don't make excuses because of s foot, your exercise is up to you not whether is up to it or not (not trying to be to hard on you) but

we must all take control of our own journey and it is not always easy. Sure it's easier if someone says lets go for a walk or workout, but we have to want this. This is like the WANT to make a marriage right for you, or WANT to end a relationship that isn't right, this has to be the WANT to get to goal, then you can act normal and eat small amounts to maintain, you're just maintaining. To get down more you need to stick to the meal plan, exercise, water and vitamins and WANT to do it. As far as the clothes you weight more and wear a smaller size because you don't exercise as much as you use to. You have not the same amount of muscle so your body may seem smaller and you wear smaller, but with the muscle and exercising you may feel heavy but you weigh less and your size of clothes may be up a size because of the muscle, but in reality you are a much healthier person. Also with the exercise and muscle tone you have a glow

and probably won't be complaining about the back fat. I do have to say no matter how much some of us work out, plastic is a must, it all depends on what weight you came from to what weight you go to, how much exercise you do, how you eat, drink, and vitamins and age is a big one also. I definitely want some plastic. So only you can address this, but I want to make sure when I do that I've been down to a good low weight so I know I'm ready for it and I know it's the right time. I know you know this and you just needed the advise to get you back on track. You can do this and if you know about the 10 rebound, then do you want to be 173 after it. Probably not, so go to where you have a little room to work when your weight bounces some, to be able to maintain say between 140 and 150 (or whatever you choice). I choice 135 - 140. Since Jan 2006 I've held 137 - 142, I do all I am suppose to. I do have SF

popsicles, SF jello and suck on SF hard candies when I need something sweet. I have not and do not want to have sugar, after being off them since Nov. 2004 my orientation I do not crave them any longer, same for carbs. I bet I would if I ever started back on them, so for as long as I can I'm not. I will be 1 year post op as of April 11th, 2006. I enjoy exercising and being so much more healthy and active and never want to go back where I was. I WANT to be right to me. You have to WANT this. Take care. Donna J.Robynn VanPatten wrote: You know, I'm kind of in an odd place, and I was wondering if anyone else shared that space and had any advice for me. I started out at 261.5, at 5'6". Now I vacillate between 162 and 165...usually

at around 163. I am a pretty muscular person, and I distribute my weight evenly. I wear a size 8 or 10, depending upon the brand. And, generally, I look ok. I do Pilates twice a week...but I haven't done as much cardiovascular training or weight training since the operation. When I became so anemic, I was just too tired, and so I got out of the habit that was pretty enmeshed in me for years and years. I just haven't exercised much. has a foot problem right now, so we haven't even been doing my normal active weekend things (hiking, walking, sailing)...and frankly, the weather has contributed to that failure, as well. I lost down to 236.5 before the surgery, so my post surgery weight loss is about 75 lbs. Here's the thing: I look good, but when I'm naked, I still have some

weight I could lose. I have some back fat. My upper arms still need help (not sure if it's skin or fat), I could probably lose a bit more off of my tummy area. My eating habits are fairly good, but not 100%. I try to live like a normal person in some respects, so I occasionally have a treat...and I"m not hypervigilent about every bite I take. On the other hand, I weigh myself every day, and if my weight creeps up closer to the high end of my weight range (165), I really get on the stick and drop the weight. I've thought about plastic surgery, to have the arms, tummy and thighs done. Or maybe a little lipo here or there. But, ideally, I'd like to lose another 10 or 20 lbs. (not sure, because even though I've weighed as little as 138 in my life, my body composition has changed a lot. At 138 I wore a 10. Now at 163 I wear an 8. So, it

seems that if I got down to 143 or 138, I'd be down in a size 4, given my current state at this weight.) I'd worked out consistently for a long time, even while my weight was going up. So, I think that's why, now that I've shed weight, alot of what is less is muscle. And Pilates has changed my shape. But...here's the thing: I worry about this so-called "rebound" weight I've heard about. I mean, if I stay at this weight, I think I'll be happy and just fine. I'd probably prefer to lose a bit more...but largely, that is to insure that if this 10 lb. rebound happens (which I often hear about), I won't be going above where I am currently. Today, I made a new commitment to start upping my water, and to do cardiovascular training five days a week, no matter what. I'll keep up with the Pilates, and probably add some weight training back in. Hopefully,

I'll keep that up. And then, I'll see what happens to my body. I may not need plastics after all. This is kind of a dumb thing to say...and I am not sure exactly what I'm seeking by way of response. I guess, I'm a little worried, because I haven't been hypervigilent about what I eat...about never ever eating between meals...about never ever drinking alcohol or eating sugar. I mean, I stray (willfully) from time to time. I won't be at a year until June 8th...so I think I'm putting some steam in my engine for the last three months of my initial year...to see if that weight comes off...to see where my body ends up. ANd also, because I'm a little nervous that if I continue to be too lackadaisical, the weight could come back on. I guess I don't want to regret that I didn't go all the way, you know? Yet, as I said, I'm happy where I am in many respects, I look attractive, I

wear a pretty normal, even small, size... So, how do you figure out when/where to stop? How do you gage how much "extra" you should get off, just in case you gain? How (other than weighing yourself and keeping yourself to a VERY SMALL window of weight gain before you get on the stick) do you know when the "honeymoon period" is over? I haven't really lost any weight since late December. What does the honeymoon period really mean? I mean, when it's over do you start gaining easily? When it's over, and you realize you are up 2 lbs. does it take longer (and more effort) to get those two lbs off than it currently does (usually a few days). Does it mean that you are able to eat more? What are the signs that it is ending...what do I need to look out for...and should i be looking to get down a little more in case

of rebound of five to ten lbs. or whatever as a result of the end of the honeymoon? Advice, please... Robynn Donna Jordon wrote: I know how well you've done and how hard it is now and that you really want the rest of the weight off. So hang in there you are back on track and doing so well. I am very thankful for having to lose the 10% and learn the binder and that I started to support meetings as soon as my PCP put in for me to have the surgery. I learned so much from so many people and I listened with open ears, when I keep hearing the best weight lose was the first 6 months I had my mind set I would get to goal in that time. It wasn't easy but I did it. I know your mind is back into it and I do believe you

can do it. You are really doing good and doing a great exercise program also. So be proud of your self and do it girl. and me email on our emails private, we realized that her husband and me had gone to high school together. Just thought I'd add that for everyone, it is great. So do this. Take care. Donna Turnage wrote: Hello Everyone;I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I went to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I need to vent a little I hope it is okay. When I had surgery 3 years ago I didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my weight as a matter of fact I weighed more when I had surgery than I did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was pretty smug in the

fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was because I never really fully understood the reality of all the true life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was just put through. So I have no answers to that question. Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears and mind when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your other foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of weight you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one year you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight off.Exercise and strength training is very important for body fat to burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight that I want to be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his staff. By the way

They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm at their goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and that is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3 bites and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for the past 3 weeks any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and no more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for this.Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs 02/21/2003 today 240lbs 100lbs to go.Donna JordonDSJordon@... Yahoo! MailBring photos to life! New PhotoMail makes sharing a breeze.

March 16, 2006

Thanks, Donna. You are completely right about not using 's situation as an excuse. I came to that conclusion myself, and decided that his ailment is not my permission to be a couch potato. ly, I don't like being a couch potato. It's not comfortable for me. So, I've started getting on my treadclimber in the a.m. When the weather is nicer, I'll walk outside. I called my trainer today, and I'm starting back no Monday with my gym sessions...and as I've said, I've been doing Pilates consistently for months twice a week. I don't want to mislead people when I say I eat whatever I want. I think about nutrition...it's not like I'm eating a bunch of garbage all of the time. And I listen to my pouch. Sometimes it fills easily, and sometimes not...and it doesn't always matter what I'm eating to get to that full feeling. But, I have noticed that dense protein (like chicken or fish or

beef) gets me to that place more quickly than anything else (except bread, pasta or rice, which I don't eat very often because I don't get enough nutritional bang for the buck...and I feel icky after I eat it.) I've always been a pretty healthy eater...preferring vegetables and fruit to grease and deep fried stuff. And I'm a good cook...so mostly I eat well and healthy. But, like I mentioned, I am being a lollygagger, and you are right...I just have to figure out what I want. And I've decided now. I want to lose more, and I will. I've already begun. SO...I think I'm gonig to aim for 138 as my ultimate goal, and I'll keep my weight between 135 and 139. Thanks for the kick!! Robynn Robynn You ask so many questions and I bet you could answer them all yourself. You are very wise and can help so many, so now it's time to help yourself. First off acting normal and eating what you want just small amounts might be fine if you are where you want to maintain your weight. You said when the weight gets to 165 you get on the stick, well up to 6 months the weight melts pretty fast, 6 months to a year slower but still comes off, then pretty much after that it's a lot more effort. That's why I never really have done carbs or sugar and was able to get all my weight off in the 5 months after surgery. I was 270 at orientation, 228 at surgery April 11th, 2005 and by Sept 2005 I was 150. I am now 137 to 142 depending the time of month. I don't want to be below 135 that is my bottom, I would like to stay there so if you have the up 5 to 10 rebound you have time to stay on top of things. I believe the

honeymoon is over at a year. I'm not saying people can't lose after a year but it's really harder, you're body has adjusted to you eating smaller, your metabolism now has changed with the way you do things and the weight lose slows. Everyone should take advantage of the first 6 months and really stick with the protein, stop straying, exercise, get in your water and take the vitamins. Time will come down the road then you'll start to try new things, not exercise as much, not drink all the water or forget the vitamins and things just get harder. Robynn you still have time to start kick this again to the losing side, but you need not let yourself have anything you want unless you want to stay at this weight and that is your choice. You need to drink more and get back into the exercise mode like you say you are. Sorry but don't make excuses because of s foot, your exercise is up to you not whether is up to it or not (not trying to be to hard

on you) but we must all take control of our own journey and it is not always easy. Sure it's easier if someone says lets go for a walk or workout, but we have to want this. This is like the WANT to make a marriage right for you, or WANT to end a relationship that isn't right, this has to be the WANT to get to goal, then you can act normal and eat small amounts to maintain, you're just maintaining. To get down more you need to stick to the meal plan, exercise, water and vitamins and WANT to do it. As far as the clothes you weight more and wear a smaller size because you don't exercise as much as you use to. You have not the same amount of muscle so your body may seem smaller and you wear smaller, but with the muscle and exercising you may feel heavy but you weigh less and your size of clothes may be up a size because of the muscle, but in reality you are a much healthier person. Also with the exercise and muscle tone you

have a glow and probably won't be complaining about the back fat. I do have to say no matter how much some of us work out, plastic is a must, it all depends on what weight you came from to what weight you go to, how much exercise you do, how you eat, drink, and vitamins and age is a big one also. I definitely want some plastic. So only you can address this, but I want to make sure when I do that I've been down to a good low weight so I know I'm ready for it and I know it's the right time. I know you know this and you just needed the advise to get you back on track. You can do this and if you know about the 10 rebound, then do you want to be 173 after it. Probably not, so go to where you have a little room to work when your weight bounces some, to be able to maintain say between 140 and 150 (or whatever you choice). I choice 135 - 140. Since Jan 2006 I've held 137 - 142, I do all I am suppose to. I do have

SF popsicles, SF jello and suck on SF hard candies when I need something sweet. I have not and do not want to have sugar, after being off them since Nov. 2004 my orientation I do not crave them any longer, same for carbs. I bet I would if I ever started back on them, so for as long as I can I'm not. I will be 1 year post op as of April 11th, 2006. I enjoy exercising and being so much more healthy and active and never want to go back where I was. I WANT to be right to me. You have to WANT this. Take care. Donna J.Robynn VanPatten wrote: You know, I'm kind of in an odd place, and I was wondering if anyone else shared that space and had any advice for me. I started out at 261.5, at 5'6". Now I vacillate between 162 and

165...usually at around 163. I am a pretty muscular person, and I distribute my weight evenly. I wear a size 8 or 10, depending upon the brand. And, generally, I look ok. I do Pilates twice a week...but I haven't done as much cardiovascular training or weight training since the operation. When I became so anemic, I was just too tired, and so I got out of the habit that was pretty enmeshed in me for years and years. I just haven't exercised much. has a foot problem right now, so we haven't even been doing my normal active weekend things (hiking, walking, sailing)...and frankly, the weather has contributed to that failure, as well. I lost down to 236.5 before the surgery, so my post surgery weight loss is about 75 lbs. Here's the thing: I look good, but when I'm naked, I still

have some weight I could lose. I have some back fat. My upper arms still need help (not sure if it's skin or fat), I could probably lose a bit more off of my tummy area. My eating habits are fairly good, but not 100%. I try to live like a normal person in some respects, so I occasionally have a treat...and I"m not hypervigilent about every bite I take. On the other hand, I weigh myself every day, and if my weight creeps up closer to the high end of my weight range (165), I really get on the stick and drop the weight. I've thought about plastic surgery, to have the arms, tummy and thighs done. Or maybe a little lipo here or there. But, ideally, I'd like to lose another 10 or 20 lbs. (not sure, because even though I've weighed as little as 138 in my life, my body composition has changed a lot. At 138 I wore a 10. Now at 163 I wear an 8.

So, it seems that if I got down to 143 or 138, I'd be down in a size 4, given my current state at this weight.) I'd worked out consistently for a long time, even while my weight was going up. So, I think that's why, now that I've shed weight, alot of what is less is muscle. And Pilates has changed my shape. But...here's the thing: I worry about this so-called "rebound" weight I've heard about. I mean, if I stay at this weight, I think I'll be happy and just fine. I'd probably prefer to lose a bit more...but largely, that is to insure that if this 10 lb. rebound happens (which I often hear about), I won't be going above where I am currently. Today, I made a new commitment to start upping my water, and to do cardiovascular training five days a week, no matter what. I'll keep up with the Pilates, and probably add some weight training back in.

Hopefully, I'll keep that up. And then, I'll see what happens to my body. I may not need plastics after all. This is kind of a dumb thing to say...and I am not sure exactly what I'm seeking by way of response. I guess, I'm a little worried, because I haven't been hypervigilent about what I eat...about never ever eating between meals...about never ever drinking alcohol or eating sugar. I mean, I stray (willfully) from time to time. I won't be at a year until June 8th...so I think I'm putting some steam in my engine for the last three months of my initial year...to see if that weight comes off...to see where my body ends up. ANd also, because I'm a little nervous that if I continue to be too lackadaisical, the weight could come back on. I guess I don't want to regret that I didn't go all the way, you know? Yet, as I said, I'm happy where I am in many respects, I look

attractive, I wear a pretty normal, even small, size... So, how do you figure out when/where to stop? How do you gage how much "extra" you should get off, just in case you gain? How (other than weighing yourself and keeping yourself to a VERY SMALL window of weight gain before you get on the stick) do you know when the "honeymoon period" is over? I haven't really lost any weight since late December. What does the honeymoon period really mean? I mean, when it's over do you start gaining easily? When it's over, and you realize you are up 2 lbs. does it take longer (and more effort) to get those two lbs off than it currently does (usually a few days). Does it mean that you are able to eat more? What are the signs that it is ending...what do I need to look out for...and should i be looking to get down a

little more in case of rebound of five to ten lbs. or whatever as a result of the end of the honeymoon? Advice, please... Robynn Donna Jordon wrote: I know how well you've done and how hard it is now and that you really want the rest of the weight off. So hang in there you are back on track and doing so well. I am very thankful for having to lose the 10% and learn the binder and that I started to support meetings as soon as my PCP put in for me to have the surgery. I learned so much from so many people and I listened with open ears, when I keep hearing the best weight lose was the first 6 months I had my mind set I would get to goal in that time. It wasn't easy but I did it. I know your mind is back into it

and I do believe you can do it. You are really doing good and doing a great exercise program also. So be proud of your self and do it girl. and me email on our emails private, we realized that her husband and me had gone to high school together. Just thought I'd add that for everyone, it is great. So do this. Take care. Donna Turnage wrote: Hello Everyone;I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I went to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I need to vent a little I hope it is okay. When I had surgery 3 years ago I didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my weight as a matter of fact I weighed more when I had surgery than I did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was

pretty smug in the fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was because I never really fully understood the reality of all the true life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was just put through. So I have no answers to that question. Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears and mind when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your other foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of weight you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one year you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight off.Exercise and strength training is very important for body fat to burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight that I want to be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his

staff. By the way They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm at their goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and that is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3 bites and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for the past 3 weeks any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and no more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for this.Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs 02/21/2003 today 240lbs 100lbs to go.Donna JordonDSJordon@... Yahoo! MailBring photos to life! New PhotoMail makes sharing a breeze.

March 16, 2006

Robynn I know once you get going you can do it. Once the weather gets nice it makes it even easier for joyful walks, where as in winter it takes more of a push to keep our exercise up. I believe this is true for everyone. Your machine sounds get, I have a treadmill and now a new elliptic machine. I still have bad knees so I rotate machines and use small wieghts and do crunches. I am going to start a water exercise class, and can't wait for the nice weather to come. I really know you can do this and hope I didn't kick to hard. You are one a lot of people look up to and we don't want you to fall down. LOL DonnaRobynn VanPatten wrote: Thanks, Donna. You are completely right about not using 's situation as an excuse. I came to that conclusion

myself, and decided that his ailment is not my permission to be a couch potato. ly, I don't like being a couch potato. It's not comfortable for me. So, I've started getting on my treadclimber in the a.m. When the weather is nicer, I'll walk outside. I called my trainer today, and I'm starting back no Monday with my gym sessions...and as I've said, I've been doing Pilates consistently for months twice a week. I don't want to mislead people when I say I eat whatever I want. I think about nutrition...it's not like I'm eating a bunch of garbage all of the time. And I listen to my pouch. Sometimes it fills easily, and sometimes not...and it doesn't always matter what I'm eating to get to that full feeling. But, I have noticed that dense protein (like chicken or fish or beef) gets me to that place more quickly than anything else (except bread, pasta or rice, which I don't eat very often because I

don't get enough nutritional bang for the buck...and I feel icky after I eat it.) I've always been a pretty healthy eater...preferring vegetables and fruit to grease and deep fried stuff. And I'm a good cook...so mostly I eat well and healthy. But, like I mentioned, I am being a lollygagger, and you are right...I just have to figure out what I want. And I've decided now. I want to lose more, and I will. I've already begun. SO...I think I'm gonig to aim for 138 as my ultimate goal, and I'll keep my weight between 135 and 139. Thanks for the kick!! Robynn Robynn You ask so many questions and I bet you could answer them all yourself. You are very wise and

can help so many, so now it's time to help yourself. First off acting normal and eating what you want just small amounts might be fine if you are where you want to maintain your weight. You said when the weight gets to 165 you get on the stick, well up to 6 months the weight melts pretty fast, 6 months to a year slower but still comes off, then pretty much after that it's a lot more effort. That's why I never really have done carbs or sugar and was able to get all my weight off in the 5 months after surgery. I was 270 at orientation, 228 at surgery April 11th, 2005 and by Sept 2005 I was 150. I am now 137 to 142 depending the time of month. I don't want to be below 135 that is my bottom, I would like to stay there so if you have the up 5 to 10 rebound you have time to stay on top of things. I believe the honeymoon is over at a year. I'm not saying people can't lose after a year but it's really harder, you're body has adjusted to you

eating smaller, your metabolism now has changed with the way you do things and the weight lose slows. Everyone should take advantage of the first 6 months and really stick with the protein, stop straying, exercise, get in your water and take the vitamins. Time will come down the road then you'll start to try new things, not exercise as much, not drink all the water or forget the vitamins and things just get harder. Robynn you still have time to start kick this again to the losing side, but you need not let yourself have anything you want unless you want to stay at this weight and that is your choice. You need to drink more and get back into the exercise mode like you say you are. Sorry but don't make excuses because of s foot, your exercise is up to you not whether is up to it or not (not trying to be to hard on you) but we must all take control of our own journey and it is not always easy. Sure it's easier if someone says lets go for a

walk or workout, but we have to want this. This is like the WANT to make a marriage right for you, or WANT to end a relationship that isn't right, this has to be the WANT to get to goal, then you can act normal and eat small amounts to maintain, you're just maintaining. To get down more you need to stick to the meal plan, exercise, water and vitamins and WANT to do it. As far as the clothes you weight more and wear a smaller size because you don't exercise as much as you use to. You have not the same amount of muscle so your body may seem smaller and you wear smaller, but with the muscle and exercising you may feel heavy but you weigh less and your size of clothes may be up a size because of the muscle, but in reality you are a much healthier person. Also with the exercise and muscle tone you have a glow and probably won't be complaining about the back fat. I do have to say no matter how much some of us work out, plastic

is a must, it all depends on what weight you came from to what weight you go to, how much exercise you do, how you eat, drink, and vitamins and age is a big one also. I definitely want some plastic. So only you can address this, but I want to make sure when I do that I've been down to a good low weight so I know I'm ready for it and I know it's the right time. I know you know this and you just needed the advise to get you back on track. You can do this and if you know about the 10 rebound, then do you want to be 173 after it. Probably not, so go to where you have a little room to work when your weight bounces some, to be able to maintain say between 140 and 150 (or whatever you choice). I choice 135 - 140. Since Jan 2006 I've held 137 - 142, I do all I am suppose to. I do have SF popsicles, SF jello and suck on SF hard candies when I need something sweet. I have not and do not want to have sugar, after

being off them since Nov. 2004 my orientation I do not crave them any longer, same for carbs. I bet I would if I ever started back on them, so for as long as I can I'm not. I will be 1 year post op as of April 11th, 2006. I enjoy exercising and being so much more healthy and active and never want to go back where I was. I WANT to be right to me. You have to WANT this. Take care. Donna J.Robynn VanPatten wrote: You know, I'm kind of in an odd place, and I was wondering if anyone else shared that space and had any advice for me. I started out at 261.5, at 5'6". Now I vacillate between 162 and 165...usually at around 163. I am a pretty muscular person, and I distribute my weight evenly. I wear a size

8 or 10, depending upon the brand. And, generally, I look ok. I do Pilates twice a week...but I haven't done as much cardiovascular training or weight training since the operation. When I became so anemic, I was just too tired, and so I got out of the habit that was pretty enmeshed in me for years and years. I just haven't exercised much. has a foot problem right now, so we haven't even been doing my normal active weekend things (hiking, walking, sailing)...and frankly, the weather has contributed to that failure, as well. I lost down to 236.5 before the surgery, so my post surgery weight loss is about 75 lbs. Here's the thing: I look good, but when I'm naked, I still have some weight I could lose. I have some back fat. My upper arms still need help (not sure if it's skin or fat), I could probably

lose a bit more off of my tummy area. My eating habits are fairly good, but not 100%. I try to live like a normal person in some respects, so I occasionally have a treat...and I"m not hypervigilent about every bite I take. On the other hand, I weigh myself every day, and if my weight creeps up closer to the high end of my weight range (165), I really get on the stick and drop the weight. I've thought about plastic surgery, to have the arms, tummy and thighs done. Or maybe a little lipo here or there. But, ideally, I'd like to lose another 10 or 20 lbs. (not sure, because even though I've weighed as little as 138 in my life, my body composition has changed a lot. At 138 I wore a 10. Now at 163 I wear an 8. So, it seems that if I got down to 143 or 138, I'd be down in a size 4, given my current state at this weight.) I'd worked out consistently for a long time, even while my weight was going up. So, I think that's why, now that I've shed weight, alot of what is less is muscle. And Pilates has changed my shape. But...here's the thing: I worry about this so-called "rebound" weight I've heard about. I mean, if I stay at this weight, I think I'll be happy and just fine. I'd probably prefer to lose a bit more...but largely, that is to insure that if this 10 lb. rebound happens (which I often hear about), I won't be going above where I am currently. Today, I made a new commitment to start upping my water, and to do cardiovascular training five days a week, no matter what. I'll keep up with the Pilates, and probably add some weight training back in. Hopefully, I'll keep that up. And then, I'll see what happens to my body. I may not need plastics after all. This is kind of a dumb thing to say...and I am not sure exactly what I'm seeking by way of response. I guess, I'm a little worried, because I haven't been hypervigilent about what I eat...about never ever eating between meals...about never ever drinking alcohol or eating sugar. I mean, I stray (willfully) from time to time. I won't be at a year until June 8th...so I think I'm putting some steam in my engine for the last three months of my initial year...to see if that weight comes off...to see where my body ends up. ANd also, because I'm a little nervous that if I continue to be too lackadaisical, the weight could come back on. I guess I don't want to regret that I didn't go all the way, you know? Yet, as I said, I'm happy where I am in many respects, I look attractive, I wear a pretty normal, even small, size... So, how do you figure out when/where to

stop? How do you gage how much "extra" you should get off, just in case you gain? How (other than weighing yourself and keeping yourself to a VERY SMALL window of weight gain before you get on the stick) do you know when the "honeymoon period" is over? I haven't really lost any weight since late December. What does the honeymoon period really mean? I mean, when it's over do you start gaining easily? When it's over, and you realize you are up 2 lbs. does it take longer (and more effort) to get those two lbs off than it currently does (usually a few days). Does it mean that you are able to eat more? What are the signs that it is ending...what do I need to look out for...and should i be looking to get down a little more in case of rebound of five to ten lbs. or whatever as a result of the end of the honeymoon? Advice, please... Robynn Donna Jordon wrote: I know how well you've done and how hard it is now and that you really want the rest of the weight off. So hang in there you are back on track and doing so well. I am very thankful for having to lose the 10% and learn the binder and that I started to support meetings as soon as my PCP put in for me to have the surgery. I learned so much from so many people and I listened with open ears, when I keep hearing the best weight lose was the first 6 months I had my mind set I would get to goal in that time. It wasn't easy but I did it. I know your mind is back into it and I do believe you can do it. You are really doing good and doing a great exercise program also. So be proud of your

self and do it girl. and me email on our emails private, we realized that her husband and me had gone to high school together. Just thought I'd add that for everyone, it is great. So do this. Take care. Donna Turnage wrote: Hello Everyone;I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I went to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I need to vent a little I hope it is okay. When I had surgery 3 years ago I didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my weight as a matter of fact I weighed more when I had surgery than I did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was pretty smug in the fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was because I never really fully understood

the reality of all the true life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was just put through. So I have no answers to that question. Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears and mind when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your other foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of weight you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one year you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight off.Exercise and strength training is very important for body fat to burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight that I want to be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his staff. By the way They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm

at their goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and that is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3 bites and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for the past 3 weeks any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and no more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for this.Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs 02/21/2003 today 240lbs 100lbs to go.Donna JordonDSJordon@... Yahoo! MailBring photos to life! New PhotoMail makes sharing a breeze.

March 16, 2006

Nope, you didn't kick too hard. I feel responsible to myself and to others on this journey. That's why I'm being vigilent about keeping the weight off, not deluding myself into thinking anything more than a lb. is "water weight" or "period weight". That used to be code for "Be lazy and don't try to change anything" and I wound up gaining a gazillion lbs. In all fairness to those of you on the pre-op side, many women gain a lot of water weight, and so your weight can vacillate up to five lbs. over night. Because of that, it was always hard for me to know when to "push the panic button". Ever since I had the operation, I've noticed that the vacillation is far less significant nowadays. I wobble up a lb or so during my period. But the fluctations are far less profound. This makes it easier to be tough and vigilent when the scale varies. I don't chalk it up to some magic wand problem anymore.

Instead, it is a signal to me to modify my behaviour. So, I'm learning as I go...and I'm taking along with me those lessons I learned in my pre-op life: like how my thin friends manage their weight, what things trigger my eating (emotional, or not giving myself enough "me" time, or not sleeping enough), and what foods too readily become a crutch for me. Nothing owns me anymore. No food. Nothing like that. I do feel more free. I know that maintenance (and further weightloss) will require some vigilence and self-discipline. But, it's easier to keep myself in check when I'm trying to avoid a five lb. gain so that I can stay in size 8, vs. trying to avoid a thirty lb. gain that will mean the difference between a size 18 and a 20. The motivation is more powerful. So, kick away when I need it, no worries. RobynnDonna Jordon wrote: Robynn I know once you get going you can do it. Once the weather gets nice it makes it even easier for joyful walks, where as in winter it takes more of a push to keep our exercise up. I believe this is true for everyone. Your machine sounds get, I have a treadmill and now a new elliptic machine. I still have bad knees so I rotate machines and use small wieghts and do crunches. I am going to start a water exercise class, and can't wait for the nice weather to come. I really know you can do this and hope I didn't kick to hard. You are one a lot of people look up to and we don't want you to fall down. LOL DonnaRobynn VanPatten wrote: Thanks, Donna. You are completely right about not using 's situation as an excuse. I came to that conclusion myself, and decided that his ailment is not my permission to be a couch potato. ly, I don't like being a couch potato. It's not comfortable for me. So, I've started getting on my treadclimber in the a.m. When the weather is nicer, I'll walk outside. I called my trainer today, and I'm starting back no Monday with my gym sessions...and as I've said, I've been doing Pilates consistently for months twice a week. I don't want to mislead people when I say I eat whatever I want. I think about nutrition...it's not like I'm eating a bunch of garbage all of the time. And I listen to my pouch. Sometimes it fills easily, and sometimes not...and it doesn't always matter what I'm eating to get to that full

feeling. But, I have noticed that dense protein (like chicken or fish or beef) gets me to that place more quickly than anything else (except bread, pasta or rice, which I don't eat very often because I don't get enough nutritional bang for the buck...and I feel icky after I eat it.) I've always been a pretty healthy eater...preferring vegetables and fruit to grease and deep fried stuff. And I'm a good cook...so mostly I eat well and healthy. But, like I mentioned, I am being a lollygagger, and you are right...I just have to figure out what I want. And I've decided now. I want to lose more, and I will. I've already begun. SO...I think I'm gonig to aim for 138 as my ultimate goal, and I'll keep my weight between 135 and 139. Thanks for the kick!! Robynn Robynn You ask so many questions and I bet you could answer them all yourself. You are very wise and can help so many, so now it's time to help yourself. First off acting normal and eating what you want just small amounts might be fine if you are where you want to maintain your weight. You said when the weight gets to 165 you get on the stick, well up to 6 months the weight melts pretty fast, 6 months to a year slower but still comes off, then pretty much after that it's a lot more effort. That's why I never really have done carbs or sugar and was able to get all my weight off in the 5 months after surgery. I was 270 at orientation, 228 at surgery April 11th, 2005 and by Sept 2005 I was 150. I am now 137 to 142 depending the time of month. I don't want to be below 135 that is my bottom, I would like to stay there so if you have the up

5 to 10 rebound you have time to stay on top of things. I believe the honeymoon is over at a year. I'm not saying people can't lose after a year but it's really harder, you're body has adjusted to you eating smaller, your metabolism now has changed with the way you do things and the weight lose slows. Everyone should take advantage of the first 6 months and really stick with the protein, stop straying, exercise, get in your water and take the vitamins. Time will come down the road then you'll start to try new things, not exercise as much, not drink all the water or forget the vitamins and things just get harder. Robynn you still have time to start kick this again to the losing side, but you need not let yourself have anything you want unless you want to stay at this weight and that is your choice. You need to drink more and get back into the exercise mode like you say you are. Sorry but don't make excuses because of s foot, your exercise

is up to you not whether is up to it or not (not trying to be to hard on you) but we must all take control of our own journey and it is not always easy. Sure it's easier if someone says lets go for a walk or workout, but we have to want this. This is like the WANT to make a marriage right for you, or WANT to end a relationship that isn't right, this has to be the WANT to get to goal, then you can act normal and eat small amounts to maintain, you're just maintaining. To get down more you need to stick to the meal plan, exercise, water and vitamins and WANT to do it. As far as the clothes you weight more and wear a smaller size because you don't exercise as much as you use to. You have not the same amount of muscle so your body may seem smaller and you wear smaller, but with the muscle and exercising you may feel heavy but you weigh less and your size of clothes may be up a size because of the muscle, but in reality you are a

much healthier person. Also with the exercise and muscle tone you have a glow and probably won't be complaining about the back fat. I do have to say no matter how much some of us work out, plastic is a must, it all depends on what weight you came from to what weight you go to, how much exercise you do, how you eat, drink, and vitamins and age is a big one also. I definitely want some plastic. So only you can address this, but I want to make sure when I do that I've been down to a good low weight so I know I'm ready for it and I know it's the right time. I know you know this and you just needed the advise to get you back on track. You can do this and if you know about the 10 rebound, then do you want to be 173 after it. Probably not, so go to where you have a little room to work when your weight bounces some, to be able to maintain say between 140 and 150 (or whatever you choice). I choice 135 - 140. Since

Jan 2006 I've held 137 - 142, I do all I am suppose to. I do have SF popsicles, SF jello and suck on SF hard candies when I need something sweet. I have not and do not want to have sugar, after being off them since Nov. 2004 my orientation I do not crave them any longer, same for carbs. I bet I would if I ever started back on them, so for as long as I can I'm not. I will be 1 year post op as of April 11th, 2006. I enjoy exercising and being so much more healthy and active and never want to go back where I was. I WANT to be right to me. You have to WANT this. Take care. Donna J.Robynn VanPatten wrote: You know, I'm kind of in an odd place, and I was wondering if anyone else shared that space and had any advice for me. I started

out at 261.5, at 5'6". Now I vacillate between 162 and 165...usually at around 163. I am a pretty muscular person, and I distribute my weight evenly. I wear a size 8 or 10, depending upon the brand. And, generally, I look ok. I do Pilates twice a week...but I haven't done as much cardiovascular training or weight training since the operation. When I became so anemic, I was just too tired, and so I got out of the habit that was pretty enmeshed in me for years and years. I just haven't exercised much. has a foot problem right now, so we haven't even been doing my normal active weekend things (hiking, walking, sailing)...and frankly, the weather has contributed to that failure, as well. I lost down to 236.5 before the surgery, so my post surgery weight loss is about 75 lbs. Here's the thing: I look good, but when I'm naked, I still have some weight I could lose. I have some back fat. My upper arms still need help (not sure if it's skin or fat), I could probably lose a bit more off of my tummy area. My eating habits are fairly good, but not 100%. I try to live like a normal person in some respects, so I occasionally have a treat...and I"m not hypervigilent about every bite I take. On the other hand, I weigh myself every day, and if my weight creeps up closer to the high end of my weight range (165), I really get on the stick and drop the weight. I've thought about plastic surgery, to have the arms, tummy and thighs done. Or maybe a little lipo here or there. But, ideally, I'd like to lose another 10 or 20 lbs. (not sure, because even though I've weighed as little as 138 in my life, my body composition has

changed a lot. At 138 I wore a 10. Now at 163 I wear an 8. So, it seems that if I got down to 143 or 138, I'd be down in a size 4, given my current state at this weight.) I'd worked out consistently for a long time, even while my weight was going up. So, I think that's why, now that I've shed weight, alot of what is less is muscle. And Pilates has changed my shape. But...here's the thing: I worry about this so-called "rebound" weight I've heard about. I mean, if I stay at this weight, I think I'll be happy and just fine. I'd probably prefer to lose a bit more...but largely, that is to insure that if this 10 lb. rebound happens (which I often hear about), I won't be going above where I am currently. Today, I made a new commitment to start upping my water, and to do cardiovascular training five days a week, no matter what. I'll keep up

with the Pilates, and probably add some weight training back in. Hopefully, I'll keep that up. And then, I'll see what happens to my body. I may not need plastics after all. This is kind of a dumb thing to say...and I am not sure exactly what I'm seeking by way of response. I guess, I'm a little worried, because I haven't been hypervigilent about what I eat...about never ever eating between meals...about never ever drinking alcohol or eating sugar. I mean, I stray (willfully) from time to time. I won't be at a year until June 8th...so I think I'm putting some steam in my engine for the last three months of my initial year...to see if that weight comes off...to see where my body ends up. ANd also, because I'm a little nervous that if I continue to be too lackadaisical, the weight could come back on. I guess I don't want to regret that I didn't go all the way, you

know? Yet, as I said, I'm happy where I am in many respects, I look attractive, I wear a pretty normal, even small, size... So, how do you figure out when/where to stop? How do you gage how much "extra" you should get off, just in case you gain? How (other than weighing yourself and keeping yourself to a VERY SMALL window of weight gain before you get on the stick) do you know when the "honeymoon period" is over? I haven't really lost any weight since late December. What does the honeymoon period really mean? I mean, when it's over do you start gaining easily? When it's over, and you realize you are up 2 lbs. does it take longer (and more effort) to get those two lbs off than it currently does (usually a few days). Does it mean that you are able to eat more? What are the signs that it is

ending...what do I need to look out for...and should i be looking to get down a little more in case of rebound of five to ten lbs. or whatever as a result of the end of the honeymoon? Advice, please... Robynn Donna Jordon wrote: I know how well you've done and how hard it is now and that you really want the rest of the weight off. So hang in there you are back on track and doing so well. I am very thankful for having to lose the 10% and learn the binder and that I started to support meetings as soon as my PCP put in for me to have the surgery. I learned so much from so many people and I listened with open ears, when I keep hearing the best weight lose was the first 6 months I had my mind set I would get to goal in that

time. It wasn't easy but I did it. I know your mind is back into it and I do believe you can do it. You are really doing good and doing a great exercise program also. So be proud of your self and do it girl. and me email on our emails private, we realized that her husband and me had gone to high school together. Just thought I'd add that for everyone, it is great. So do this. Take care. Donna Turnage wrote: Hello Everyone;I have been beating my self up really bad lately and tonight I went to the Kaiser meeting at Deer Valley and it was cancelled so I need to vent a little I hope it is okay. When I had surgery 3 years ago I didn't have to through the nutrition classes or loose 10% of my weight as a matter of fact I weighed more

when I had surgery than I did when I saw Dr. Zorn in Nov. of 2002. I was pretty smug in the fact I didn't have to go through all the steps how wrong that was because I never really fully understood the reality of all the true life changes I would be making. I do not have any clue why I was just put through. So I have no answers to that question. Now for the SHOULDA I should have really listened with open ears and mind when they said no sugars eat your protein first then your other foods. Most important that you will loose half the amount of weight you need to loose in the first 6 months and the next 6 months you will loose only 1/3 to 1/2 of what is left to loose after one year you work as hard as you did before surgery to get the weight off.Exercise and strength training is very important for body fat to burn itself off how true now that I'm exercising and eating my protein I'm loosing again!! I COULDA been at a weight

that I want to be at if I WOULDA really listened to the doctor and his staff. By the way They said in San Diego that my goal weight was 240 lbs because that is all the weight my body would loose. I'm at their goal right now but I believe I can loose this other 100 lbs and that is my mission right now. I have a hard time with food about 3 bites and I'm done with food so I really do mostly drinks now, well for the past 3 weeks any how. There will be no more Mochas for me and no more sugars of any kind.In 3 years I have never gained any weight back not even a pound so I feel very fortunate for this.Thanks everyone for letting me vent surgery weight 428lbs 02/21/2003 today 240lbs 100lbs to go.Donna JordonDSJordon@... Yahoo! MailBring photos to life! New

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