Six months later

I had my six month post-op visit over the weekend, and while I am happy to announce that most of my co- morbidities have been cured and I have lost a total of 105 lbs., I am also not where my surgeon would like me to be.  I must admit that I have become lax on the strictness of my high protein – low carbohydrate diet.  While as a lifestyle change, I am much more focused on protein, I had begun to add in carbohydrates at an alarming rate and also add in liquid calories (Starbucks – eek!)

Over the last month I have really started to notice the change in my thinking when it comes to food as being a fuel and no longer a comfort/joy.  I have started to get annoyed with people who fill their bodies with nothing but processed foods or high sugar drinks, and then proceed to complain about the way they feel.  Again I find it strange being the biggest girl in the room, but being the healthiest.

These past few months have been emotionally reeling, and where I would normally turn to food as a comfort or a solace.  I find myself abandoning it!  Where I would once eat an entire package of Oreos after a fight with a friend, I now skip meals at a time finding it hard to enjoy it at all.

For those of you who have followed my blog since the beginning, I am in my first wedding next month – as Maid Of Honor, and must say am pretty excited about the way the dress fits!! I also tried on my first pair of high heeled shoes.  I am one step closer to accomplishing some of my goals.  I am far from thin, but I am also far from where I have started.  As the lab tech so eloquently put it on Friday, “Hell, you have lost a Titans cheerleader!!”

I also came in contact with a lady at my work not to long ago that was a complete stranger.  She went out of her way to comment on how I had lost a lot of weight and asked how I had done it.  I explained to her about the surgery and my lifestyle changes, and she said "Well you look great," instead of stopping with that compliment, my co-worker went on to say, "I am also trying to lose weight, but I am doing it the hard way!"  For those of you who think that this way (surgery) was an easy way - I recommend that you think again.  While my successes have been more immediate, this was and is not easy! I still have to diet and excercise with the rest of them.  My smaller stomach is just a tool.

The plan is to hit the diet hard again for 30 days and go back to my surgeon.  I am feeling great and looking even better than that ;)

Celebrations & Mournings

This week marks two huge events in my young adult life.  I have reached 100 lbs loss since my surgery, and I have also experienced my first loss of a friend. 

Saturday morning of last week I was at work when I received the call that my dear friend, Michael Willinger, had been killed in a car accident.  I couldn't believe it - refused to believe it - until I spoke to my mom moments later who was already in tears.  Within the next two hours I felt every emotion one could feel - regret, joy, sorrow, confusion, anger, anxiety, love, but most of all I felt empty.  Other than the loss of my paternal grandparents I have experienced NO loss in my life.  I have been very fortunate.  This news rocked my world.  Immediately I began to rack my brain about the last time I saw Michael.  The week before he had come to my neighbor's house to help putting up a pool.  I instantly regretted not giving Michael a hug.  He, like his twin brother Marcus, had the best hugs ever.  He was hot and sweaty and I was in a bad mood - so I didn't.  Please if you are reading this ALWAYS hug those you love - ALWAYS.  The week to follow was hard.  The arrangements were made for Friday, due to Fourth of July holiday, and the fact that Michael was one of twelve siblings that had to travel to Kentucky from all over the country.  At the funeral, the pastor gave an opportunity for loved ones to speak out in memory of Michael.  There were so many things I should have said, if only I could.  There was no way at that point in the service I would have been able to mutter coherent sentences.  So I decided to blog what I would like to say so that I have the chance to say it.

I met Michael in elementary school.  He was much younger than I, but his brothers were great friends of mine.  When Michael was in middle school he became good friends with my brother, Max.  Michael, his twin Marcus, their friend Jamison, and Max were always together - getting into something.  For the next 8 years, off and on, I saw Michael on occasion and he always brought such joy into my life.  He had a laugh, a smile, and hug incomparable to any other.  During Michael's service his mom and dad were both able to speak of the fact that the joy they felt while parenting Michael held no comparison to the sorrow that they are feeling at this moment.  They said that they would live with this much pain for the rest of their lives to do it all again.  I feel the same way about being his friend.  He brought me so much more joy in his life than he has sorrow in his death.  I am sure that I will see Michael smiling on the other side one day, and I am getting that hug - even if he is hot and sweaty.  Michael has left behind 11 siblings, 6 of whom I am very close to - I intend to hug every one of them everytime I see them as well. 

So in conclusion, while I have met one of my 100 lbs goals - there are far greater things weighing on my heart and mind.  As I continue to heal my spirit, my body will continue to get to where it needs to be.  Thank you all for your continued support, and I apologize for these longs lapse of entries.  Keep my mind, body and spirit in your prayers.

Getting Busy

It has been a month since my last post.  I know that many of you are curious as to what I am feeling, how I am doing, if I am still trucking, etc.  Life has definitely changed for me.  In many ways, I am grasping for ways to keep things somewhat normal.  Of course, this attempt is futile.  Everything about me has changed.  I have spent this last month, trying to spend as much time as possible with my family and closest friends - "getting busy living" - because my new life motto is "If you aren't busy living - you are busy dying!"

I have an exciting summer planned - full of vacations, dinner parties, and celebrations!  As far as my diet goes - I am eating normal foods (just very little bits).  The only foods that I am to steer clear of are raw fruits and vegetables and sweets.  I am on a low calorie, low carb diet - but that is a lot easier now that my stomach holds approximately 1/2 cup of food.

I am having trouble getting my liquids in, but the protein has not been a problem as of yet.  It seems that the foods I want to eat are mostly protein-heavy foods.  As of the last time I weighed, I was down 70 lbs.  I have gone from 412 - 342.  I have an appointment next week, and we are coming  up on the 3 month visit.  People are really starting to notice my weight loss, and as my family said this weekend, the "life" is back in my eyes. 

I am still looking forward to doing many of the things I have been unable to do thus far in my life.  As far as my personality goes, I am not sure if it has changed.  I am a little more subdued and cautious then I have been.  I am probably not as much fun, but I can still love recklessly and am hopeful that the future is full of joy and laughter.  I guess you would have to ask my friends, about whether or not I have changed. 

So - there it is, in five paragraphs or less - my progress!

6 weeks post-op

Friday I went for my 6 week post-op appointment, and while my weight loss has slowed, I am still on schedule  with my recovery.  The last week I have been experiencing a significant amount of fluid retention causing my legs and ankles to swell significantly! I was nervous about this (since I decided to google the causes of this) but was encouraged when my surgeon explained that my body was in "survival mode" and this would pass. 

So since the beginning, I have lost 60 lbs. nothing the last two or three weeks, but since I lost so much in the beginning - this also is considered normal.  I am on soft solids and can eat  most meats, cheeses, eggs, and cooked vegetables. 

One thing I learned at my appointment on Friday is that we, as humans, are supposed to have half of our body weight in ounces in water daily.  So, my 350 pound self should be drinking about 175 ounces of water daily (it is no wonder my body thinks I am starving it). 

The last two weeks have been MUCH better for me physically, I have been able to do more excercising and just all around feeling better.  I was worried Post Op weeks 3&4 that I wouldn't make it - but I did and life is going on.  I am so ready to get this Spring/Summer activities well under way!

Strength

I want to start by apologizing for the gap in blog posts, I know many have you have been concerned or even just curious about how my journey is going up to this point.  Not only have I not felt like blogging, but I have a real issue with being negative.  I don’t want to come across as someone who is unhappy, so I have tried to put this off as long as I could.

My mom has been on my case for weeks to write, so here it is ma – the best I got.

Today is my 35^th day sans solid food.  I have been mad, sad, sick, tired, lonely, and confused for the past month.  Every emotion has hit me besides the one that I was welcoming – pride & joy.  So many people have made the comment that I am one of the strongest people they know, or that my strength is encouraging.  While I appreciate those sentiments, I cannot help but want to scream NO I AM NOT – I AM HUNGRY, I SHOULDN’T HAVE DONE THIS!!! I haven’t yet been depressed, because even in the midst of all these negative emotions I do see the light at the end of this journey.  As of March 10^th, I had lost 50 lbs.  I have not weighed since then (I plan on doing that on Monday).  But my friends are able to tell, and I am starting to be able to notice a significant change in different body parts (hands, feet, face, butt). 

Along with the nausea the worst thing I have encountered is the “ketonic” breath I have developed.  Which, I am told, means my body is metabolizing my fat – but it tastes horrible (and I can only imagine what it smells like).

On a positive note, my birthday was Monday – and I was able to experience my first birthday sans cake, ice cream, dinner, and drinks.  Some friends and I bowled Saturday, played Bunco Sunday, and my parents cleaned my house/yard on my actual BDAY – not to mention my roommate filled our living room with balloons.  So … who needs cake & ice cream!?! J I may even consider skipping it next year if the same rules apply.

So for now, it is still water, Crystal Light, & Sugar Free Popsicles.  Next week I will be able to start soft/mushy foods, and I have never been so excited about tuna fish in my entire life.  My stomach only holds 4oz at a time, so while I will have to eat like a bird – the taste and texture is what I miss the most.

A big thanks to everyone that has loved and supported me through this.  I WILL beat this! I WILL NOT lose myself.  The best is yet to come.  But let me just say – there is NO WAY I would have been able to do this without my parents.  They are, after all, my biggest fans!

“Man does not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God … He gives strength to the weary and strengthens the powerless.  Youths may faint and grow weary, and young men stumble and fall, but those who trust in the Lord will renew their strength; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint.” ß Isaiah (Thanks Lynn)

Good with the Bad

My one week post-op appointment was today with my surgeon.  I have been struggling to reach my minimum 64oz of fluids each day, and not even came close to my goal of 60g proteins each day - so I was dreading this follow up visit.  I hit the scales and was 46 pounds down, 7 points lower on my BMI, and my excercise physiologist said that I was way ahead of schedule. 

The bad news for me is that I have three more weeks on this FREAKING (for lack of a better word) liquid diet. The emotional/mental ailments associated with this procedure, are lurking (I can feel them).  Also I have developed a transfer addiction (sorry folks, not as exciting as you'd hope) Vampire Diaries. 

While I love spending time at home with my mom, I am excited to go back to work, see my friends again, and love on the sweet babies in my life.  Thanks everybody for your kindness and support.  Hold tight ... the ride has not yet begun to get good.

Back at it!

Today is Post-Op Day #4. I am experiencing minimal pain (almost like someone kicked me in the gut). I am experiencing a little buyer's remorse (I really want a normal meal). I am also experiencing strange gurgling from my new stomach. Other than those things this process has been tolerable. I've received some gorgeous flowers and sweet cards from friends and family. One more week at my parent's and I'll be back among the living.

Twas the Night Before

It's here!!! The night before my surgery, and it's strange - although I feel like my nerves should be making me sick, I have an overwhelming sense of calm.  I am exhausted - mentally, emotionally, physically, but I am so ready to get this show on the road.  I had an Upper GI this morning - yuck! - a pre-op class this afternoon, and some blood work drawn.  I am home safe with my parents, and have to be back in Nashville around 5:30am.

Dear Lord: Please protect me from harm.  Please guide my surgeon, Dr. Olsen's, hands tomorrow during this surgery.  I pray there is no unexpected complications, though I know if there is - it is Your will.  Please be with my family and friends during this time, and grant them peace.  I pray that this recovery is speedy and You will supply me the strength I need to get up and get on with life.  I thank you for all you have given me, and for all that you are going to give me.  Forgive me as I continue to fall short.  Amen. 

Kickin' Butt & Buckets

As promised, tonight I want to talk about my Bucket List.  The list I have made, of  25 things I want to do before I "kick the bucket."  But first ... let me tell you a little bit about my day.  I had some Pineapple Greek Yogurt for breakfast, a Chocolate protein shake for lunch, & some Chicken Broth for dinner.  I felt rough today.  I don't know if it was the weather, a mix of recently developed health concerns, or just that the hunger is finally getting to me, but it hit me hard.  On my lunch break I had an interview with the Messenger Inquirer, thanks to the anonymous tip - the Health section of MI wanted to do a story about my blog.  Then after my lunch I sent an email out to my department at work letting them know about my surgery & blog, and got so many kind responses.  Hopefully some of my co-workers are reading tonight -(I told them about my possible transfer addictions, and I think they think this read is going to be more exciting than it is).  When I got home, I had every intention of packing up and heading on to Russellville, but I was drained.  So, finally Day #6 the hunger is kicking my butt.

Okay so before I die I want to...
1 - Get a tattoo (a walrus - with sunglasses and a cigar)
2- Go fishing (and actually catch a fish)
3- Learn to drive a stick a shift
4- Drive a golf ball
5- Watch the sun rise over water
6- Eat caviar
7- Take a photo in all 50 states
8- See Phil Collins perform
9- Make snow angels
10- Sing karaoke
11- Grow something beautiful
12- Get a full-body massage
13- See Kenny G perform
14- Attend an opera
15- Get fake eyelashes
16- See NYC at Christmastime
17- Watch fireworks over the ocean
18- Perfect a recipe for meatloaf (I am so close!)
19- Swim with the dolphins
20- Get a full-body wax
21- Wear stilettos
22- Ride a motorcycle
23- Own a boat
24- Visit the Eiffel Tower
25- Drive Route 69

So there it is, 25 reasons why I am not done living - better yet - I have only just begun!!!!

Packing List

Today I have been spacy feeling, in all honesty, I am probably not getting near the amount of water that I should.  I had a yogurt for breakfast, a strawberry protein shake for lunch, and have had a fudgesicle so far for dinner.  I may have a bowl of chicken broth before bed.  I have had a dull headache since 2pm, and am not entirely sure why (unless it’s the prior-mentioned water problem).  I had plans to go to my Shore-Watch Party, which for those of you who don’t know is some friends and I get together every Thursday and watch Jersey Shore, but I cancelled due to my headache and the fact that I have SO much to do before I go in to work tomorrow. 

Tonight I am packing a surgery bag.  This is what I plan to take:

-My IPOD (which I am filling as we speak)

-Hair ties and a brush

-My own pillow

-My Shaker Cup

-Shampoo & Powder

-Slippers & Robe (which I am hoping my mom will pick up for me tomorrow)

-Some loose clothes to change in to on discharge day

-Chapstick!!

-Feminine Products: all my info says that even if you have just finished your cycle more likely than not the shock of surgery causes you to restart (Oh Joy!)

I take off tomorrow right after work, heading to my parent’s for the weekend and into the hospital Monday for all of my Pre-Op visits.  Tomorrow night I am going to post about my Bucket List.  So stay tuned…  5 days left!

Coronas & Boas

Tonight’s post I would like to dedicate to my family.  I have been struggling with different blog topics, and given today’s events my mom suggested that I talk about my family.  This morning at 4:50am my cousin Rachel gave birth to a beautiful baby girl.  Happy BIRTHday Sadie Jane! 

Today was Day #4 of my Liquid Diet.  My Pre-Cert went through yesterday, and my cravings stayed at bay until night time.  I swear the worst part of all this is not being able to CRUNCH things.  I have considered chewing up a carrot or piece of celery and spitting it out just to get the crunch out of the way.  Today I had Cottage Cheese for Breakfast, a Strawberry Protein Shake for lunch, and am planning on having a bowl of broth and some yogurt for dinner.  Sounds great, huh?  I still feel fine, last night and today I was nauseous – but it wasn’t unbearable, and I still am not hungry.  I also have not felt one minute of fatigue, which I assumed I would. 

So back to my family, the Howard’s – It all started with my Memac and Granddaddy.  My Memac was a cook, an amazing cook.  She cooked for a church during the day and for her family on the weekends.  Some of the things I remember best were her milk gravy (man, she could make that look easy), her fudge (which is hard to duplicate), and her macaroni & cheese.  It would be impossible for me to put in words how great of a cook she was, so I am not even gonna try.  My Memac loved with a vengeance.  Her family was her pride & joy.  My Granddad was a Master Plumber when he was younger, but in the years after  he retired, he mostly just hung out.  He was a very kind & handy man.  I can remember many times when I was growing up, coming home to him helping my dad build a deck or fixing our toilet.  My grandparents lived in Utica for most of my childhood and my Granddad would go hang out across the street at the JR’s Market – a small family run convenient store that sold groceries, had a deli etc.  I can remember as a child crossing the street to tell him it was time to come home, and getting a YooHoo from the big cooler and saying “Put it on my Granddad’s tab” (I thought I was a big deal back then!)  My grandparents had three boys and a girl (who passed at a young age) – my dad, my Uncle Johnn, my Aunt Salley and my Uncle Ben. 

My Uncle Johnny is the oldest; one of my favorite of him was him always playing air guitar on my leg to some Van Halen or Jimi Hendrix.  He also used to drink Coronas (which I thought made him cool) and he would sing “Muh Muh Muh My Corona” (to the tune of “My Sharona”).  My Uncle Ben was the youngest, and in our eyes the coolest.  Some of my favorite memories with my Uncle Ben was singing Black Sabbath’s “War Pigs” at the top of our lungs as we sped down Cemetery Hill and “got some air” with my cousins.  One time when I was around 10 years old, my cousins and I went to stay the night with him in Bowling Green.  My Uncle Ben had a Boa Constrictor (I was not a fan of by the way) that my brother, Clay, would love to play with.  As we were heading out to go fly kites my uncle suggested that I get a sweater out of my bag to wear “in case it got cold.”  So here I am digging through my bag for a sweater, thinking to myself “I don’t think mom put a sweater in here”, as he assured me it was there (Oh I should have known!)  Low and behold there’s that freaking snake IN MY BAG!   I had a good scream, they had a good laugh and we spent the rest of the afternoon flying kites.  Karma is one though, because if I remember correctly, we went roller skating that night and he had quite the fall. 

Enough about my uncles, six more days till surgery! It is good to be a Howard.  Night y’all see ya tomorrow!

Manic Monday

So Monday has come and gone, and I am still not hungry.  The only thing that has changed is my sleep and bowel (TMI - I know) habits.  I feel great, have energy, and seriously besides the occasional desire to "crunch" something - this is going really well. 

Before this whole process, I never understood why people said you are eating because you are bored or you are eating out of habit.  It is SO true.  Because when you stop eating, you can literally feel yourself trying to bring your thoughts to food.  If I had cash I would want to go out to eat or buy snack food.  Whenever I got with my parents, we would cat around for a few hours and then it would be "time to eat."  When I sat down to watch my nightly tv I needed popcorn or ice cream.  I recommend this "Liquid Diet" to anyone who has struggled with weight loss (that's as if you have no other underlying health issues that might make that harmful to you).  But it also shows me how much of the "habit eater" and "bored eater" I really was.   This part so far has been the best learning experience for me - learning about my body & habits. 

Today was filled with more emails, texts and phone calls from loved ones, strangers and acquaintances.  My support system is continuing to grow! 7 days to go.  Now Playing: "Come Rain Or Come Shine" - Ray Charles.

Sunday Funday

Today was fabulous! Sunday Funday has a new meaning 'round here.  I spent the day with my parents, and my youngest brother, Max.  My dad made me a new bed, I am so thankful that he is so handy!! My bed looks great and now, my room does as well.  So we cleaned (and I mean CLEANED) my room.  Window sills, floors, closets, drawers - my room is spotless.  As far as my liquids go - I am really doing better than I expected.  I had some Greek yogurt this morning with some Max Protein - Strawberry and a teaspoon of SF Raspberry syrup.  It was fairly good, but it got my protein in.  Around lunch I made some Beef Broth and a cup of my new favorite Lavendar Earl Grey tea.  For dinner I had a fudgesicle and cottage chees and a Max Protein - Cookies & Cream shake with Silk - Chocolate (<-- Best protein shake I have had up to this point). 

Tonight after I got my room in order I made my "fish bowl" of things to do rather than snack.  I came up with way more than fifty, so I am excited to start out tomorrow. 

I am so thankful that God has given me strength for this.  I really thought this was going to be a lot harder than it has been.  Besides a breif but intense moment of lust I experienced with a hot dog earlier - I have seriously done incredibly well.  Here it is, 9:53 on Day #2 and I am not hungry at all.  I am actually having to force down my water!! I would have NEVER thought it would be this easy on me.  So ... I have a week full of work and I am heading out of town for possibly the biggest event of my life. 

Shake that

Ten days until surgery, so I finally started my liquid diet.  Technically, I am on some form of liquid diet for the next 6 weeks.  Geesh, it seems so far away.  Right now, I am not hungry AT ALL, but I am preoccupied with food.  I never noticed how many commercials involved foods or how many scenes in movies and television shows involve eating. 

I have been fairly nervous about this whole process, but it is something that I knew I had to do so I haven't really been mentally preparing myself.  I just kept saying to myself that when it got here we would tackle it. 

So this morning when I woke up with a really empty stomach feeling I just about freaked - how in the world am I going to get through the next ten days if this is how i feel this morning?  But I got up and fixed a protein shake (Max Protein -Cookies & Cream) and a large glass of ice water.  After I drank it, I preoccupied myself with some TLC Pandora and dirty dishes.  By the time I was finished with our dishes, my stomach no longer felt empty.  So I cleaned out our refridgerator.  And then our cabinets.  And then I started some laundry.  Before I knew it was 2 o'clock.  I headed to an old friend's baby shower, I have to admit I was nervous about this because who can pass up food at an event like that - after all that is the whole reason some people even come.  But, I was able to steer clear of the food table and get in some good face time with the mother of the baby.  Then I headed to another friend's house to watch the UK game and spend time with her daughter.  I mixed another protein drink (Max Protein - Strawberry) and continued to sip on my ice water.  After the game we spent hours just talking about life and enjoying their soon-to-be two year old daughter.  When dinner time  rolled around I had packed a Tomato/Chicken Bouillon cube, so I had a bowl of broth with yet another protein shake (Max Protein - Strawberry) only this time I added a little milk to it.  The protein shakes were really not as bad as I thought they might be, and I can really tell they helped.  Like I said here it is 11:30 at night, and I am still not hungry. 

For excercise tonight, I dominated in some Just Dance 2 - had a blast and definitely worked myself into a sweat.

So, the trick is to stay busy, stay hydrated, and PROTEIN.  Or at least the trick to my first day was.  We will see how the next nine go.  Here we go guys ... Bumpy ride and all.

Day 1: Harry and Loyd

So I have taken a two day hiatus from the blog posting world.  I have been trying to enjoy my last two days of normal living, and also been trying to organize my thoughts before venturing towards another emotional post.  Yesterday was Valentine’s Day and I had a very nice dinner date with my favorite take out foods and a few of my favorite friends.  I received chocolates from my mom, very cute flowers from my dad, and Lady & the Tramp on DVD from my roommate.  All in all it was a very successful day. 

My FB timeline was inundated with two extremes, people either hating Valentine’s Day or people beaming over their gifts, flowers, loves or even engagement rings.  I have been a single girl for the past 27 Valentine’s Day, and I still think it is a wonderful holiday.  I agree with most of the “V-Day Haters” that people should show their loved ones affection on more than just 1 day of 365, but the hard reality is that most don’t.  Some men simply forget to be romantic and/or affectionate, and Valentine’s Day is just a reminder.  Coming from a lifelong relationship with two brothers and a best friend that would literally forget their heads each day if they were not attached – I quickly learned that that was no indication of how often they thought of me or even how much they cared about me. 

I had a little hiccup in the plan, in that I received news on Monday that my surgery precertification with my insurance was denied.  I have a great bunch of girls in Nashville working towards getting this rectified, but when I called their office yesterday to check that all was in motion- the nurse said that I should go ahead and start my liquids on Saturday.  SATURDAY!! A whole four extra days to prep for liquids and my new life, this was great news … except that we had eaten ALL the food in our house preparing for liquids. Tonight we spent the night at the grocery buying every imaginable calorie free drink, every flavor broth, Greek Yogurt and to our disappointment Wal-Mart was COMPLETELY out of Sugar Free popsicles.  We did, however purchase two gorgeous orchids (half off V Day gifts) and named them Harry and Loyd – so let’s see how long we can keep them alive.

I started my nightly exercising tonight, as recommended by my MD.  His recommendation is simply that I move more, his literature recommends 10 minutes a day - I feel that is most likely for individuals who cannot get around.  I am fairly active.  So I have set my goals on 30 minutes a day, and today I definitely accomplished that.  So although I ate solids foods, Day #1 has been a success.  And tomorrow I am looking forward to Jersey Shore night and some Just Dance 3 competitions with my Shore Crew.  Stay Tuned…

My dad & Whitney

Tonight I am mourning the death of Whitney Houston, while I obviously did not know this singer, the news of her death hurts my "musical soul."  She had one of the best voices in the history of music.  I will be listening to Whitney jams this week and hopefully watching "Bodyguard."

This weekend in Russellville with my parents, we watched "50/50" and "Courageous".  50/50 was a great movie about a young man who is diagnosed with cancer.  It was such a great story.  Courageous on the other hand had a really good message to fathers, but it seemed a bit "preachy" and it was incredibly emotional.  I cried and cried.  *Spoiler Alert*  In the movie, one of the scenes is of a daughter asking her dad to dance.  Later in the movie, after the daughter is no longer living, the dad has an emotional moment of yelling "I should have danced! Why didn't I dance?"  In case I never get a chance to say it, in my life, my dad always dances!!

When I was in the fifth grade, my dad chaperoned a trip to Huntsville, Alabama - Space Camp with 20 other eighth graders.  There was a ride called a gyroscope who the attendant swore would not make you sick because as many circles as it rolled you in your stomach stayed in the same spot.  He declined the offer to be the chaperone to try, so I preceded to beg him "Please dad! It won't make you sick - he said so! Please!"  So of course, I saw the defeat in his eyes - and he reluctantly started toward the ride.  Now as a good daughter, this should have been enough (that he was willing to) but it wasn't and he went on about 8 rounds of circles - side to side, head over heel, twisting and turning into all imaginable positions.  When it was all over with, he was sick for hours!! So this is an example of something that my dad absolutely did for me, that he did not want to do.  My dad is a hardworking man, and because of that - I will never have to want for anything.  He has made absolute sure that my brothers, my mom and I will always have everything that we need.  I can only pray that one day, I can meet a man, that is half the father and husband that he is. 

So with Whitney Houston on my mind, and my dad in my heart - I am settled in watching the Grammy's.  Two more days of regular foods.  Two days till lift off!   Stay tuned...

Weekend Warrior.

I am spending this weekend at my parent's.  Twice a month I work at a rural medical clinic in Auburn, Ky.  It was the job I held before I moved back to Owensboro.  While I finished my Bachelor's at Western, I was able to work 20-30 hours a week at this clinic during it's first six months of operation.  It is such a great place to work.  Great people, busy environment - if I had a more reliable car I would work every weekend.  It gives me an extra $120 a month, and I enjoy it.  Unlike my Monday thru Friday job, where 90 % of my interaction is with an insurance company, when I work at the clinic 80 % of my interaction is with patients.  It allows me a nice break in my day to day.  I am also able to visit with the 'rents - so I can kill two (or three) birds with one stone!

I got an additional job offer today (more details later) but it looks like shortly I will be working 3 jobs and possibly making some moves with this blog! Hustla, Hustla (with my Katt Williams dance)

After work today my parent's and I have big plans to shop for Liquid Diet/Pre-Op/Hospital/Post-Op supplies.  I have a feeling we will be shopping at a lot of places that we have never even been in before - what an indictment on us.  There really is something to this treat your body well and it will return the favor thing (I hope).  A few years ago I read Skinny Bitch , in addition to meeting one of my favorite people of all times, this book opened my eyes to some of the ways our foods were processed and the possibilities of a vegan/vegetarian lifestyle.  Although I will never, and I repeat NEVER give up my chicken & red meat, it was still a really neat concept. 

So, I am within an arm's reach of my life changes and I instead of feeling nervous and anxious, today I am totally at peace and eager even.  In order to fail, I have to at least try - I got this! I am prepared to prove people wrong and to make others proud.

Sorry I missed the post last night - my day was spent working, traveling and enjoying my parents! Have a great rest of the weekend!!

Weirdos

Today was a weird day for me! I was running late for work this morning, and from the time I got to work until the time I left for home at 5pm I never really felt like I accomplished much.  I know I did because of the stack of outgoing mail I when I left, I just never really felt any release of pressure.  I got my medical leave approval today! This is particularly exciting for me because my experience  with HR was not a good one.  Coming from an HR major (and HR-lover) my situation was handled all wrong.  But not everyone can be as friendly and as smart (ha!) as me. 

Throughout these last two weeks, where I have really started to make my decision known - the majority of the people I come in contact with are fantastic and supportive.  But sheesh there are some that are just downright "Negative Nancys."  I honestly would like to know how they think they are helping.  I understand that some people live there lives looking for ways to "critique" or demean others - but that is NOT how I choose to live my life.  So ... since it is Jersday in my world - I will quote the infamous Deena "GET OFFA ME"  I subject myself to people like that all the time - and I never know I am doing it until it is over and I am questioning myself or my intentions.  Sorry this is so short, but it's late and I have had enough of today! Sweet Dreams.

My Favorite Things

A while back a friend and I were having one of those weeks where nothing seems to go your way ( or as I like to say "everything we touched caught on fire" ) We decided that it would be a good idea to make a list of things that made us smile.  I started typing.  Item after item of things that made me happy, I made a point to list 365 things.  Once the list was complete, I was appalled that over 100 of those things were either food items, drinks, or involved eating.  No wonder I am the size of a small cow. 

When I started on this journey one of the first things I set out to do was take my list; remove all the food items; and fill it with things I loved to do that did not involve eating or drinking.  This is going to be hard for me, but I think that as I start to do other things in my life I will develop new loves.  Who knows, maybe I will start to enjoy camping again?  Or sweating? My list is at 254 we will see how long it takes me to develop new favorite things.

I had another great day, full of reassurance and love.  For those of you who don't know, I am a Billing Specialist for the hospital here in Owensboro.  My daily life consists of researching unpaid claims and competing in a sort of "tug of war" with insurance companies who are not wanting to pay claims.  Over the last six months there are a few insurance companies that I have found I have to call ALL the time.  One of the cool things about having to call so often is, if it is a smaller insurance company - you really get to know the other people on the end of the line.  I have gotten to know one rep really well, her name is Bobbi - and whenever I would call this particular insurance company I would hope it was her everytime.  Well when I found out about my surgery I was able to share that information with her.  Since I have found out I haven't talked to her at all due to some changes in the system, but today I was able to call her about a claim and we were able to do a "quick catch up" and I was able to give her the information about this blog!  I also received the sweetest email from a fellow "big girl" that was very touching.  (I am changing lives y'all)  I had a wonderful dinner with an old friend who had nothing but love and support for my life changes.  And to top off a wonderful day it looks like this blog is fixing to go from just an outlet for my emotions to possibly a business venture!

So I sit here tonight listening to my ipod and adding to my list of "Favorite Things," I cannot help but to think YET AGAIN of what a blessing my family, friends, co-workers, roommates, and blog-readers are to me! God is sure smiling on me again today!

"My life got flipped, turned upside down!" says the Fresh Prince of Bel Air - ain't that it?!?!

Blessings

I had decided not to blog tonight, but when I got on to check out my dashboard I saw that somewhere during the course of today I hit 870 views.  It's pretty cool for those of you who have never blogged, you are able to see the time of day that people access your blog.  Of course you don't know who they are just that they are watching.  I am growing more and more excited each day, watching how excited all of you are to see how I do with this.  On my spreadsheet tonight it was very obvious that you all checked in around bedtime to see if I had written anything! Pretty cool, so sorry it is late - I need some new blog topics though.  Although I have only been blogging a week or so, I am running out of things I feel like are interesting or relevant.  So if you guys can think of things you would like me to blog about by all means feel free. 

One of the things that my roommate and I are doing is compiling a list of things that we are gonna be able to do instead of eat.  Next week starts our two weeks of liquid - so there is going to be a lot of spare time on our hands.  I know you don't think we spend a lot of time eating, but we normally get home from work around 5 and spend about an hour cooking dinner and then we eat and spend an additional thirty minutes cleaning the kitchen and putting up left overs.  On nights that we have friends over (which most nights we do) we spend much more time than that.  So that is an additional two hours a night (or 10 a week) which we are going to need to have something else to do!!! So we started to compile this list last week and then we are going to put all of our ideas in a fish bowl and when we are just about ready to go crazy or gnaw each other's arms off we can pull out an idea. (Also open to suggestions on this!)

Today I had an influx of random encouragements - more than one person at work went out of their way to tell me how excited they were for me or how much they enjoyed my blog.  I started my job in July, and since then haven't had a ton of luck "fitting in" socially at my job, but over the last few weeks I have found myself being drawn to certain individuals in my department and I am really loving that.  When I started I only knew two people in my department, one of which was my cubie mate for my first 90 days.  Her and I developed a  pretty steady friendship through this, and today she made a point to tell me how excited she was.  We started a brief conversation about what parts I am most looking forward to about this whole process, and I have to honestly say I am excited to be able to MOVE! I have never in my life been able to run.  I have never thought it sounded like fun, but hell I can guarantee if I am able to run- I will probably running everywhere!!

I also had some sweet comments from my roomie's family that brought tears to my eyes.  I really cannot express how relieved I am that God sent me this situation at this particular time in my life.  So if you add my wonderful work blessings, great home settings, add in lunch with my parents and some very kind text messages.  It overall makes for a great day.  7 days till transformation begins.  Stay tuned ...

Getting Real

Sorry for the absent post yesterday, I was busy watching my men get beat, yet again after making it back to the Super Bowl.  This weekend marked my last one out and about with my friends for awhile.  It couldn't have gone any better.  I had just the right amount of friends to make it feel like a celebration, and just enough drama to make me not want to do it again for awhile.

The last few weeks I have started "making rounds" with my friends, while I am confident this surgery will have no complications, I just want to get as much face time as possible with the people I love.  Today it felt like things were finally getting "real."  My surgery is three weeks away and I am really starting to get nervous. I know in my heart I am making the right decision, I am just having so many doubts.  Throughout this whole thing I haven't really been afraid, but today I felt it.

Halfway through the day I got a text from my roommate that said, "From this day on - write your fears down, in no particular order just on a scrap of paper, and then write down the positives when you get home we will talk about it." Great idea, right?  But today I don't really know what I am afraid of.  Change?  The Unknown? Being alone?

It's just a Monday and I am sure this feeling will pass, or get worse.  God is in control of my future! If He is with me, how could I possibly be afraid?

Great Expectations

When I was younger, I used to really enjoy singing.  Everyone I came in contact with loved my voice.  I was in All State Chorus my 5th and 6th grade year.  I attributed my love of music and my tone to the fact that my mom was a concert pianist, and music was a very big part of me growing up.  For so many years when people would gush about me being a good singer I just thanked them and went on my way.  I thought everyone was just being nice.  I mean I appreciated that they enjoyed my voice, but I never thought anything about it.  It wasn't until later in life when I a friend of mine asked me to sing "At Last" at her mom's wedding, that I really realized I had a gift.  The response was unreal, most of these people didn't know me and they went out of their way to tell me how much they enjoyed my voice. 

Since I sang at the wedding a couple of years ago, I have been very timid to do any type of singing at all.  It was almost as if, once I realized I was really good.  I didn't want to.  Once people realized I could sing, they expected more from me.   They expected me to be good, what if I messed up. 

Upon starting this blog, I knew I could  write sentences, I also knew that I had a way with words.  I could not, however, have ever predicted that this would be such a hit.  So many people enjoy my words, whether it is the honesty or the way it flows I am not sure.  But I do know, that last night's post was hard for me to post.  A lot like before in my life when I stopped singing, once people recognized my talent I felt that their expectations had changed - that was not something I felt prepared to handle.

When I was doing all my pre-decision research I came accross an article about why some people are actualloy afraid of losing weight.  I was very interested, because I had just been involved in a pretty serious conversation with my best friend (who happens to be a psychology major) and we were just discussing what reasons I could possibly have for being afraid.  The article here talked about how overweight people are held to a different standard and a lot of times less is expected of them.  In a way, this makes us feel safe. So I prefer when less or nothing is expected of me, and I don't know why. 

But ... I am determined to exceed expectations.  I want you all to expect me to sing, dance, lose this weight and write as often as possible.  Hold me to that, because it is disrespectful to my Creator, if He has chosen to bless me with these talents, and I choose not to use them, or to cover them up because I am afraid of the reaction of others.

Confessions of a Fat A**

Okay so this post is me being pretty vulnerable.  This part of the journey is hard for me – admitting how much different from the regular population I am sucks, but here we go.  Some of the things that suck about being a fat person are evident (not getting as much attention from the opposite sex or getting the under-their-breath jokes from the teenage punks as you walk by), yet others are not so much. 

The blogger I like to follow – www.theworldaccordingtoeggface.com – says that on her refrigerator she has a before and after picture from weight loss and then has a list of things that she hated about being fat.  I think that’s a great idea.  I think I will print today’s blog entry and leave it up there.

I bet that some of you never knew that when I walk into a restaurant I secretly say a prayer that the hostess won’t try to sit us in a booth.  I bet that some of you never knew that some airplanes require that you buy two seats on a plane if you are so many inches wide.  I bet that some of you never thought about the fact that I sit like a man most of the time because it is impossible for me to cross my legs and look like a lady.

I hate not being able to paint my toenails or shave my legs without getting into some weird body contortion.  I hate not being able to buy matching underwear and bras.  I hate not four-wheeling or boating in case there is a weight limit.  I hate amusement parks, ball parks, concerts, and even movie seats.  I hate shopping.  I hate that on a night out I have to take out a small loan to have a good time.  I hate not being able to buckle my seatbelt – DING DING DING.  I hate that when I go to a concert or participate in some sort of charity/work I can't fit into the event t-shirts.  I hate having my picture taken, because normally they stick me on the end or hanging off to the side where my size is so apparent.  I hate that best friends of mine have gotten married and not even been able to consider me as a bridesmaid.  I hate school desks, I got lucky as I was finishing my degree at Western as they had detached chairs in most of the classrooms, but those damn connected chairs were horribly embarrassing.  Once you squeezed yourself in, it was extremely uncomfortable and then getting out was even worse.  I hate that I am in the processing of buying a new house, with an incredibly cool attic (apparently) and I haven’t been able to see it.  Those ladders that are attached by some screws are no match for my ass.  Erin 0 Ladder 1. 

I am paranoid in crowds, I call it my “Social Anxiety” but if you know me, you know that doesn’t really explain it well.  I would talk to anything, and I am really good at making other’s comfortable.  But in this world, a lot of people judge first, get to know later.  One of the reasons for my self-confidence is because the people who know me love me.  But when I enter into a crowded bar, arena, or concert – those people don’t know me.  The only thing they know about me is that I am big.  If you take that knowledge and add in a crowd and most of the time alcohol – the results are unkind words and looks that could kill. I always tell my friend’s that a crowded bar is a fat person’s worst nightmare – let’s face it I don’t squish well.  It is hard trying to maneuver.  Whenever I find myself out at a place like that I really like to just post up and let the people who want to see me make their way to me. 

So now you know a little bit more of why it SUCKS to be fat.

Our Game Plan

So a lot of you guys are curious about the date of my surgery and if there is anything I have to do to prepare myself for this surgery.  On February 15^th I begin the Pre-Op Liquid Portion of my diet.  This reduces the size of my liver significantly making the actual surgery safer.  I can have full liquids during these two weeks prior to my surgery.  My roommate and dear friend, Leslie, is going to try and undertake this two week venture with me.  Bless her heart if we both survive. 

Two days prior to surgery I have to switch to clear liquids.  At that point I will most likely be at my parents’ house prepping for the big day.  Monday February 27^th I have all of my Pre-Op appointments in Nashville.  I will have an Upper GI, an EKG, and whatever else the anesthesia team sees necessary.  Tuesday February 28^th is the big day.  My surgery is scheduled for 7:30 in the morning (I will detail the actual surgery in a later blog) I will be in the hospital (Centennial in Nashville, TN) for 2-3 days.  At that time, I plan to return to my parent’s house and begin my Two Week Post-Op Clear Liquid Diet.  I am most excited about this stage, because the surgery will be over, and I will be recovering with my mom close by!! We will get to watch trashy TV and be lazy for two whole weeks. 

When I go for my 10 day checkup I expect to be released to go back to work and start my two week full liquid portion of the diet.  At this time, my wonderful friends are going to each volunteer for a day or two to suffer through the liquid diet portion of this process with me.  At this point I will be 6 weeks in on a liquid diet, and I feel I will probably be burnt out.  I think that this idea of having some of my friends stand up and support is amazing.  So kudos to those of you who have decided to do that – and if you are interested in participating, contact my roommate Leslie Bickett for the schedule.  My 27^th birthday falls right smack dab in the middle of this 2 week step – blah.  Maybe we will be able to find a birthday cake flavored protein shake recipe.  After the two weeks of the full liquids I can start having some sort of blended foods.  Where I can puree foods or eat bland, flaky fish.  I am pretty sure I will be excited to have some sort of substance.  At Easter, I am able to add most solid foods back in to my diet.  As far as raw vegetables I can add them in at the first of June.  And can begin drinking alcohol again around Labor Day. 

So that is the plan. J

It's Raining Men

As I mentioned in my first blog I have some pretty amazing men in my life.  I have already gushed about my dad, brothers, and uncles.  Both of my Grandfathers were army veterans, very kind men who worked hard their entire life.  My Granddad Howard was a Master Plumber and my Granddad Johnson a dairy farmer.  I was/am still currently never without love from the men in my family. 

But the men in my everyday life are no different.  There are a variety of them  – some factory linemen, some lawn care specialist, some military men, and some students.  The one thing they do have in common is they love them some Erin.  While I would never trade my girlfriends and the relationships I have with them.  It is so great to be able to have these guys in my life. 

My guy friend’s would do anything in the world for me.  I have a far better relationship with them in the “friend zone” than most girls that get to date them, mainly because our relationship – for the most part- lasts longer. 

Out of all the topics I have blogged about so far this is by far the most emotional for me.  I think I get so emotional because I realize that, in the end, I expect each one of these men to have a loving and faithful wife.  But right now, I am the main woman in most of these guy’s lives.  It is hard for me to express to these men the kind of lasting impression they have made in my life.  And the fear that one day a wife will take my place. I know that having this many people to love, and to be loved by is a blessing.  I also feel like if it is meant to be that I find a husband one day, he is going to have to adore me.  Because I now know what that feels like, and I refuse to be with any man who doesn’t see me like these men see me.  These men love me unconditionally and have allowed me to develop comfortably in my own skin.  I think that it is because of their relationships, I am able to feel an absolute contentment with my life. 

Some individuals are never able to feel such love in an entire lifetime, and I get to experience daily.  When I think of people who spend their whole adolescence/adulthood only getting to know one or two men the way I have gotten to know eight or nine,I am so thankful.  Some of the men in my life are there because they dated/are dating a friend of mine, some are they because their brother/sister is a friend of mine, and still some are there simply because they have been for such a long time.  Each of them holds a special place in my heart and no doubt I in theirs. 

The Future is Bright

I am a “List” person.  My whole life I have been.  I make to do list, have done list, would like to do list, you get the point.  I currently have lists of my closest friends, lists of my family members and their spouses, lists of potential kid’s names, Bucket lists, grocery lists, wish lists, honey-do lists.  You name it, and I probably have a list somewhere for it. 

One of the bloggers I follow recommends that you make a list of things that you are excited about once you reach your weight loss goals.  So I am going to post my list.

I am excited to borrow my friend’s clothes.  For years I have “gotten ready” with the girls before a night out and watch them try on each other’s clothes for hours.  Although I am envious to be able to share shirts with my girlfriend’s I am not entirely sure that all of that will be good.  I have also been involved in instances where spills or tears or cigarette burns have happened – and the situation can get ugly pretty fast.  So while I don’t want to make it a habit.  I am very excited to get in on this routine.

I am excited to be able to go shopping with my girls or my mom and not continue to buy only jewelry or purses.  There is a total of 3 stores in our area that carry big women clothing, and eventually that all gets a little monotonous. 

I am excited to wear stilettos.  Even though they look like the most painful thing on earth, they are also incredibly sexy with the right outfit.  It will be a nice change from sneakers and flip flops.

I am excited to ride a motorcycle, I probably could have before (But can we say bear on a bike? Tell me you didn’t get that image in your head, ha!)

I am excited to be able to cut a rug! Most of you know I love to dance, and am fairly good at it.  I just hate to do it in public because I feel like the line in Steel Magnolias about two pigs fighting underneath a table cloth.  I mean let’s face it, even if I was the best dancer – there aren’t a whole lot a people who can appreciate my moves dressed up in a fat person’s body.

I am excited to walk into a room and actually enjoy the stares. 

I am excited to sit in a strange chair, or to lay in a strange bed, and not hold my breath in case it creaks.  I have a funny story about chairs actually – probably more than one – but a good friend of mine used to have lounge plastic chairs on her back patio, that really no one over 150 lbs should ever set in.  But for some reason, I had the idea that if I only sat in them for a short period of time I would be okay.  Boy was I wrong, broke the legs off the chair – ended up on my back flailing and laughing.  About a month later the same friend and I were out to eat and she got a call from her dad who was laughing hysterically and said “I pulled an Erin, I broke the chair!” We got a good laugh and still to this day love to yell that line every once in a while.

These are just a few things on my list, but you get the point.

Unfamiliar Familiarities

Today I have to post about the plethora of people that have reached out to me about this blog. This blog has been "live" for less than 72 hours and the number of acquaintances and even complete strangers that have contacted me has been unreal - people in my everyday life, people I haven't spoken to in 10+ years, and some individuals I have never met. What a blessing all of that is!

A lot of times people associate facebook and other social networking sites with bullying and negativity. You always here those kinds of stories - ruining lives, ruining marriages; but not normally about how it blesses some or allows families to keep up with additions and big life events.

One of the things that all of the specialists have stressed to me is how important it is for me to get in a support group of sort. I have a different opinion about that. While I understand that some people really need that type of group setting. I have such a large and varied support system in my life, I do not think a number of "formerly fat" strangers will help me any more than the love and encouragement I will receive in my every day.

Another thing that has surprised me about the people who have contacted me is the amount of fear or timidity they are using(or maybe it is respect). But in case there is any confusion - my being overweight is NO SECRET!! Everybody knows - therefore do not feel like you are overstepping boundaries or being weird or hurting my feelings. If you would like to contact me, feel free! I am happy to answer any questions that you guys may have! And by all means - send me some love! Encouragement! It is all well-received. (Email emhoward319@yahoo.com)

Fear & Loathing

Okay let's talk about the things that I am scared of. One of the questions I get asked most often is, "Are you nervous?" Well hell yeah I am nervous. My life, as I know it, is over. I am starting completely fresh with a lot of the old tools that I had. I cannot and will not be able to continue how I am living now and expect any different results. That in and of itself is scary.

I am afraid of failing - not that I won't lose enough weight, but that I will allow my self to take up where it left off. All the experts I have came in contact tell me that is a like an addiction, but unlike a drug addiction or an alcohol addiction, I am not able to just completely cut myself off of foods. So I have to adapt better choices. Food choices that are higher in protein, lower in carbohydrates. As with any addiction the first step is to admit there is a problem, and the second admitting that I have no control over it. So here I am ... My name is Erin, I am addicted to carbohydrates and I have no control over them in my diet/life. Sounds ridiculous huh? Yeah I thought so. Of course I am in control of these carbs. Doughnuts, Pasta, Bread, Cookies - you know where you can all go!!! A couple of years ago, I tried hypnosis as a form of aide for weight loss, it worked really well for about 90 days. Everytime I thought about eating carbs I got this depressed or sometimes even angry feeling. It really made me shy away from them. But just like everything else I was putting a bandaid on a much bigger wound.

I am afraid of losing my hair - as a big girl I have to find little things that I love about myself (my eyes, my hair, my lips) and focus on those things. My hair being one of my favorite things -(for those of you who don't know what I look like I have long, naturally curly, brown hair. It has the most gorgeous natural curl to it. It is thick and just makes a damn good head of hair. Not to toot my own horn, but kind of.) I wear my hair up in a pony tail the majority of the week. While I will admit the main reason for that is because I enjoy sleeping in in the morning , another reason for this is because I love the positive comments I get on my hair whenever I wear it down (narcissstic, I know) But honestly if I fixed it everyday, people would only notice when I wore it up (man, Erin is really looking rough this morning) who wants that?! So when my surgeon told me I would really have to watch my protein intake or I would start losing my hair. I had a mini-panic attack.

I am afraid of dying, but not how most would think. I would miss out on seeing my brother's meet and fall in love with wonderful women and have beautiful children. I would miss seeing my friend's kiddos grow up and develop great personalities and become amazing people. I am not finished living yet. I am content with my life, and I know God has a plan for me after death. So dying -in and of itself - doesn't scare me, but leaving my loved ones behind to fight these battles without me does. I am kind of a big deal (in my best Will Ferrell voice) people would have a hard time losing me (there I go, narcisstic much?)

I am afraid of having a catheter - probably no big deal I have just never done that before.

I am afraid of not drinking alcohol for 6 months, not eating raw vegetables for 3 months, not eating solids for 8 weeks, never eating simple carbohydrates again. I wish I was a bear and I could hibernate.

I am also afraid that my weight loss will change how people approach me. Not just strangers, but my family and friends. One of the things that my Psych evaluation taught me was that a lot of individuals going through this process chose other thinks to transfer their addiction to (ie drugs, drinking, gambling, shopping, being promiscuous - I mean if we get a choice right?) haha Addictions are the fastest way to lose people you love, I just got lucky being addicted to food - other people can totally relate to that!

Enough about fears ...

The Countdown Begins ...

One month from today I am scheduled to go under the knife. I made the decision about two months ago to finally set the ball in motion on Bariatric Surgery. At age 27, I am a ticking time bomb -healthwise. I suffer from Hypertension, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, and Scoliosis. These conditions, while not optimal, are far better than some of the other overweight population. Diabetes, Congestive Heart Failure, GERD, Sleep Apnea are all in my future if my circumstances do not change.

So, I signed up for the mandatory free seminars at Centinnial in Nashville, TN, and the rest is history. I fell in love with the surgeon giving the seminar and all of the pieces began to fall in place. Now, if some of you are concerned that maybe I made this decision on the spur of the moment ( I mean let's face it going from curious to done in 90 days is pretty fast) this is my third round with the free seminars and "meet and greet" your surgeon. While this round went really quickly, I am informed and I also am finally ready.

I began reading a blog (thanks to my wonderful friend, Amy) about life during and after WLS www.theworldaccordingtoeggface.com and from that I became increasingly excited about the new possibilities for life.

Before I really go into my emotional part of this, because trust me it's overwhelming, let me start by saying-- I am very content with my life. Most people don't understand it, I mean who could look like me and be content right? My friends who are married fear that I will never fall in love. My friends who are parents fear that I will never have children. My friends who are obsessed with looks fear that I am giving up when I wear my hair up on a night out.

I have an amazing family, I mean a family that people write about in books. My brothers and I are best friends, of course we get on eachother's nerves but that's the fun of it. My parents are still happily married after almost 30 years. We had a tumultuous relationship during my teen years (God I was HORRIBLE), but now they are two of my best friends in life. I grew up with Paternal Grandparents who I saw weekly. My Memac was a FANTASTIC cook who was all about love, good food, entertaining, family, and holidays. I am so much like her it is eerie. My Memac died at a younger age than she should have due to complications from diabetes. She was non-compliant for the majority of my life. My Granddaddy loved me dearly, I was always his favorite (sorry to my other cousins who were under the impression that they were). My Maternal Grandparents are still living. Great people who farmed their entire life, quite possibly never broke the law and I know for a fact never said a cuss word there entire 90 years of life. I have three aunts (Linda, Barbie, & Tara) all completely different personalities. I have two uncles (Johnny & Ben) both of whom were main men of mine growing up. My Uncle Johnny is my MD so I put my life in his hands repeatedly. And my Uncle Ben was probably my first hero growing up. He was younger than my dad and Johnny so to us kids, he was the coolest uncle in the world. I have 7 cousins on my dad's side. So I got the best of both worlds. I grew up in a big, close family and a reserved family where I didn't have to compete with anyone for attention.

I have some amazing friends. I always tease my mom that when I get married I am gonna have to have a "Bridal Team" so that I can include all my girl friends. There are 13 of them that I consider best friends of mine. So you can imagine sending a mass text or trying to send out an invite for a dinner party. It is always a to-do. My girlfriends are the craziest, moodiest, rowdiest, meanest group of girls you will ever meet. And all those descriptions fit me too, which is why we get along so well. But I wouldn't trade them for anything in this world. And although it is incredibly hard to keep up with all of them, when we get together we take up where we left off.

The men in my life are a completely different story. I am so taken care of by a core group of men, who I believe would give anything for me. I take care of them and they definitely take care of me.

My job, My education, My home - everything is just how I want it. My love life is perfect for my life right now. I am entirely too selfish about my time and my space to be sharing it with someone on a daily basis. So I say all this to say ... that I am completely content. In love in fact with the way my life is. Which is really one of the scariest parts of this whole thing. What if this changes my personality or worse my world? Of course it will change my life, but what if I am not happy with the way things turn out? So if anyone was curious on my reasons for having surgery is it solely because I WANT A FUTURE SANS DIABETES & IMMOBILITY. I WANT TO LIVE PAST THE AGE OF 40. I do not feel like I am dying, I don't even feel sad about my life. I just want to live longer.