Winter blahs!!!

Feb 28, 2007

This  is me! with my winter weight gain @ 175 lbs.
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Still happy, but not lovin' it.

***February 28, 2007***
I was just re-reading my profile, and it actually made me feel better! I have been sooo struggling. With winter, and for some reason low energy, finances have been a struggle, and I think I am mildly depressed GRR I don't like typing that, but I come on here to totally come clean so I can reflect on my life and why I am who I am, and why am where I am!!! Alot is going on right now in my world. I have been feeling FAT, I have gained about 15 pounds in the past 14 months, 8 of that over the winter! and it totally bums me. I am praying for spring, or atleast warmer temps so I can get out and walk again, that is my main source of exercise. My 10/12's are too tight, and I am wearing 14's and I hate it!!! I am hoping I can get a grip on this!!! My daughter (Amber, who is on my friends list) goes for her surgery on March 5th...I am both happy and scared for her. I hope that she realizes not all stories go as smooth as mine has. She has had a lot of health issues with having endo since she was 15 years old, and has gone through many surgeries, and done fine, I am hoping and praying this will go great for her! She is also having a hernia repaired, and they say she will be more aware of that pain, and will take longer to heal from that then from her actual bypass surgery. When I went for surgery, I was just at peace with my decision, and I hope she is too!
We were one of the lucky families who was without power when that major storm swept through last weekend (2.24.07), we lost cable around 6 pm, and power about 8:30...thank goodness we still have waterbeds, as they were nice and warm through out the time we didn't have electricity. We kept warm by using our fireplaces which normally we only use for atmosphere. We had wood stock piled out back from a couple trees we had taken down two summers ago to accomodate our pool, we made a huge dent in it, as a matter of fact, if the power outage would have lasted one more day, we would have had to cut more wood! My in-laws were a godsend...we were able to go there (just a couple miles away) for water, warmth and showers, we did make coffee there the first two mornings, then realized we could heat water and make it ourselves. Anyway it was COLD, and we survived!! Until next time which I am hoping I can report a weight loss!!! HUGZ

New Hairdo!!

Jan 31, 2007


My Daughter, Amber did my hair today!!! And I love it!!!! I wanted something different, so I got brave and let her foil in 3 colors (2 shades of brown, & blonde) and shadow the bottom. She is a natural, went to school for 3 months, and had to take a leave because of her endometriosis. 
I am struggling right now with winter and the extreme cold we have been experiencing. Not getting in my exercise like I should be. Hopefully I will get my butt in gear before summer hits!

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And here is the back of it( you can actually see the colors alot better in this picture!!!
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Dr. Appt. Today.........26 months out from surgery!!!

Jan 10, 2007

***January  11, 2007 ***

Dr. apt. today! 26 months out from surgery!!! 

OK! WOW!!! It has been a very long time since I have been on here. I had my 2 year check-up with Dr. Christophersen today.  I had an apt. scheduled for December 5th, 2006, but I didn't get labs done so I had to reschedule, and with the Christmas hustle & bustle, I opted to wait until after the holidays!! I am the habitual procrastinator after all....right Linda!? I was also dreading, because I knew I have been being a bad girl, and I had stopped walking...Margy must not like to walk in cold weather, and she hadn't been calling me, so I used that as an excuse to just not do it!! We have only walked once on our normal 3 mile treck in the past 2 months, and my shins were sooo sore! Just to pat my back a little, I was the one who promted that walk.  Anyway, I was right I have gained 13 pounds since I was there november 17, 2005 I weighed 162! Today I weighed in at 175! The lowest weight I saw, was 158!...there are those who thought I was too thin at that weight...I think I only saw 158 for about 2.2 seconds, anyway I would like to lose 10 of that 13 pounds I have gained! And so I am going to start the protein shakes again, and get back to basics!!! Wish me luck!! And get back to exercising!! I'm going to have to bug Margy and use her Treadmill...I hate them, but I hate the weight more...so I have got to do this.

I love that I had this surgery, and I would do it again in a heartbeat like I have heard so many others say!  My daughter who if you have followed my journey you will remember that she has fought endometriosis since she was 15, and because of all the surgeries, and clinical menopauses to try to trick the body, has gained alot of weight and has been looking into having this surgery. She has followed along with me and sat here with me many a night and looked through profiles. She has completed her6 month supervised weight monitor, and has been approved for her sugery, and also has a surgery date for March 5th, 2007!!! I am happy and scared for her. But I understand why she wants it. It is a wonderful tool. 
Me and My Husband out doing some Karaoke! I'm about 165 lbs.
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Me and my husband (170 lbs.)
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20 months out!

Jul 31, 2006

July 4th 2006...Me and My Husband John!!
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***August 01. 2006***
It's been a long time since I have been on here...other than adding pictures. I didn't feel I had anything new to reflect, and still really don't just wanted to update for those of you who are out there trying to follow along on this awsome journey. I am 20 months out, and I wouldn't change a thing, I am very happy that I have had the surgery and been able to change my life as much as I have. I power walk nearly every morning, with mostly my good friend and neighbor Margy...she is an inspiration, having just recently gone through and conquering breast cancer!! My daughter who has dealt with endometriosis and the pain that goes with it, for nearly half her life (she is 25 and has suffered with it since she was 15) is contemplating and in the 6 month weight loss monitoring stage of the journey. All though I am naturally very nervous for her, I know as I did with myself, that she can not continue to live with the added weight she is carrying on her tiny 5' 3" frame. I know she is in good hands, as she is with my wonderful surgeon Dr. Christophersen!!! Spread your wings and fly honey... I LOVE YOU!
Hugs for now,
Debi




down 119 lbs. since the beginning of my journey!!

Dec 03, 2005


***December 4, 2005***
I have had my one year apt with my surgeon. They are VERY happy with my successfull journey. My surgeon and his office people are wonderful. I have lost 119 pounds since starting this journey. I weigh 160 lbs. and feel wonderful. I am healthier than I have been in years. I am no longer on any blood pressure meds, I no longer sleep with a c-pap machine!! I love buying myself new clothes, from the regular department. I wanted to come on here and reflect in memorable words and nothing comes to mind I am having writers block LOL I will come back when I can reflect....


One Year!!!!!!!!!

Nov 28, 2005

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***November 29, 2005***
WOW!!!! What a year it has been!!


Weight loss slowing down..........

Oct 18, 2005

***October 19,2005
Hello! Well, the weight loss is reallly sllooowing down, but still going in the right direction. I don't go back to the Dr. until next month, but I weighed on my husbands digital scale, that would weigh an empty pop can, so I think its pretty accurate. It put me at 162.2!! For some reason, I thought I was down to 159...not so "oh well". For some reason, the 5 lbs. that I use to have to add to the Dr's. scale no longer works? That makes 98lbs since surgery, and 117 total!!! I find myself wanting to snack more...starting to feel cocky I guess, so my husband and I made a large batch of beef jerky so that I can get that snacking sensation taken care of without damaging what I've worked hard to achieve!!!
I went to see a vascular specialist, since losing weight, I have discovered that I have quite a few varicose veins, especially in my right leg. They did an ultrasound on my legs. Went to see Dr. Sadler yesterday to discuss the results and findings. I had to take my grandson into town at 9 a.m. for pre-school, and my apt. wasn't until 1:10. so what else is there to do but shop!? So I did LOL!! I was looking for some exercise outfits to walk in, and I need to find a dress or pant suit for my nephews wedding in PA. in November...traveling with in-laws and my son, John can't get the time off work. Looking forward to seeing family I haven't seen since losing 117lbs. but not looking forward to the looooong ride. Need to find a good book to read...maybe two LOL I will also incourage my son to take along books and word finds, and game boy. Back to what I found out about my veins...I have varicosit desease...isn't life threatening, just accounts for the fatigue or heaviness I feel in my legs while doing my power walking. He wants to see me in a month, gives him a chance to write letters to my PCP-Dr. syfert, and my WLS surgeon-Dr. Christophersen to make sure that I am OK to go through more prcedures. He said the one large vein that runs down the inside of my leg is not functioning properly...needs to be taken out. small incision at top and bottom and get rid of it, then can work on the other veins. I think I would really like a second opinion, as I thought I could possibly do this with ultraviolet? Need to do more research as I am now confused. He asked me if I was done or wanted to lose more weight, I said at the most I would maybe want to lose 10 more pounds? I really don't know, I'm happy where I am at, if I could have a TT-which as I'm checking into it, might like to have a beltlectomy, and definately need a bracioplasty!! Looking into possibly going to University of Iowa...only about 45 mins from my home!!! Came across another Ia. Gal who went there and is VERY happy with her results.
I saw our friend JT who had his surgery the end of July, getting ready to go for his 3 month check-up with "our" surgeon...he is excited to know what he weighs, since he is too large for a regular scale. Shouldn't be too much longer before he will beable to use a regular scale, until then, I need to find out if John's digital scales would work for him...gonna check into that!
Well, gotta go and get something done....Here's to lighter and brighter days ahead!!!
Hugs, Debi

Deck Crew hired for our pool!!!

Sep 16, 2005

***September 17, 2005***
Hello! I felt compelled to come in and make note of whats happening in my neck of the woods, so here goes...
We finally hired a deck crew to build the deck around our pool, It has been a slooooooow process. You never know who your hiring no matter how hard you try to screen them. The very first day they were to show up and start, they didn't show, didn't call, so at 5 o'clock p.m. I was tired of wondering...what the heck, so I called "Mike"...he actually was not smart enough to lie to me and tell me his truck broke down, he had another job that took longer than expected...anything but..."I had too good of a weekend and I slept the day away"?? OMG I do have to give him credit for honesty..but thats all he gets from me!!! He never shows up before 10:30 11:00 in the a.m. and last night I was shocked when my dad told me they didn't leave until 6:30!!! a record breaker, usually 5 sharp they are gone, no matter that they didn't get started until the day was half over!! anyway, it is starting to take shape and we are not able to use the pool anyway because its too darn chilly.
My husband is on "shutdown" at work, which means he has to work everyday, 12 hour days, no weekends off until the plant is up and running again. which he says will be about the 23rd. and he has already been doing this a week and a half. It's very hard on him. So I do not say anything about the fact that we still do not have our heater for the pool installed! It'll happen sooner or later!
I have been doing very good with my exercise, and I'm very proud of myself. I walk with several different neighbors, and it is great! My neighbor Beth who walks with me in the evening, is 4 weeks out from her hystorectomy, and still having to take it easy. But when I walk with my other neighbors, Margy or Darc, in the morning right after getting the kids on the school bus, we walk 3 miles at a fast pace and it's a great workout. Once Beth gets back on her feet she will be a good one to push me, because she is tall and has a long stride. And when that happens, I will get to walk twice a day!! I still can't believe I actually look forward to doing this now. It's true once you start exercising, it becomes an addiction.
My weight loss seems to have slowed down, but the inches still keep falling off. I don't have an official weight, but I'm wearing more 10's than 12's and M and L's in tops and dresses!!! And it feels great! I actually need to go pants shopping before the weather gets much colder. I hate that transition from shorts and capris to pants. I remember hating it even when I was heavy. Pants are just not as comfortable.
I am a stay at home mom and since losing weight, I find myself wanting to venture out into the world again. I have a lot of responsibility at home, as you know if you have been following my story. But I guess I am wanting more!! Time will tell...
My husband and I have been invited to go on a trip with friends of ours, in February, to kaui Hawaii!!!!! Now, I have wanted to go to Hawaii since I can't tell you when. And the fact that he didn't just immediately say NO made me have some extensive HOPE that we may do this. keep your fingers crossed that we can swing this in our finances!!
on that note I'm going to sign off. I hope this finds you Happy and Healthy. Heres to lighter and brighter days ahead!!
HUGZ, Debi

9 month check-up

Aug 30, 2005

***August 31, 2005***
Hello! I went to my 9 month check-up yesterday. When I got there Terry said that Dr. had to leave, they tried to catch me, but I left from home early to go to Sam's Club, to purchase chairs and loungers for the pool area...She wanted me to go to lunch and come back for my apt. with Denise the nutritionist, I told her I would rather re-schedule both. she whisked me through because Andrea Denger was running a little late, worked out well for everyone. I got my 9 month picture taken, and my official weight...168lbs.!!!! I have lost 93lbs. since surgery, add the 19 I lost before, and it comes to a grand total of 112lbs lost.!!! It was nice seeing Andrea also!! I have missed the last few support meetings, summer is too hectic at my house. They gave me a print out of my pictures they have taken, one right before surgery, 3 months, 6 months, and now 9 months!!! I have changed so much...it is amazing. Well, I am watching my 3 yr. old grandson and he is needing my attention. Need to take something for this headache I've got. Here's to lighter and brighter days ahead!!! TTFN, Debi
Oh yeah by the way in case your wondering...I did NOT win that Harley...I think I would have looked pretty good on it too ROFL (1472)
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Aug. 12th, 2005

Aug 12, 2005

***August 12, 2005***
Well, I'm at 172lbs. I'm finding it is coming off slower, but still creeping off which is fine by me. I am getting the funny looks when I tell people I want to lose at least 20 more lbs. It is now a matter of what "number" I want to be at, I feel and look great in my clothes now, if I never lost another pound I would be tickled pink. I am in a solid 12, had to give the 14's away!!! I actually even have a couple of capri's that are size 10, but they fit me like my 12's LOL I purchased my first pair of pants that are not narrow leged at the bottom and are low waisted...my daughter was so proud of me! I haven't worn them yet, so I left the tags on if I need to return them for a 10!!! I love my capri's, not wearing jeans at all. even when we go out.
Our very good friend JT had his 2 week check-up and he is ecstatic with a 24lb. weight loss "WAY TO GO JODY"!!!!! He started out over 350 so he is doing grand.
We got out pool installed last friday! I was a little bumbed...we weren't able to put it where we wanted to because of our septic and runoffs, but I am over it and we will enjoy it just the same, there hasn't been a day go by that we haven't swam in it. Great exercise!
We are going to the annual LeClaire/Port Byron tugfest tonight and tomorrow night. They have the best fire works display I have ever seen!! Tomorrow night we will check out our friend's Cindy and Henry on the LeClaire side for thier Karaoke show, and then later on they will join us with mutual friends who do karaoke on the Port Byron side, we are all karaoke nuts...it is a lot of fun!!! Gonna find out if we won a Harley Davidson motorcyle which my husband and I bought 3 chances at for $20.00...Wish me LUCK!


About Me
Blue Grass, IA
Location
RNY
Surgery
11/29/2004
Surgery Date
Jan 21, 2004
Member Since

Friends 8

Latest Blog 42
Winter blahs!!!
New Hairdo!!
Dr. Appt. Today.........26 months out from surgery!!!
20 months out!
down 119 lbs. since the beginning of my journey!!
One Year!!!!!!!!!
Weight loss slowing down..........
Deck Crew hired for our pool!!!
9 month check-up
Aug. 12th, 2005

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