I feel like bragging

Please pardon my gloating as I pat myself on the back for a great week. I’ll start with today and work my way back.

Today my husband was giving me a big hug, squeezed me a little and said, “You seriously feel skinnier.”

On Thursday my company had its annual mid-year retreat. Usually this time is spent brainstorming ideas to improve our company and the jobs we do. This time we were surprised by the partners with an envelope of money and four hours to spend it. After the initial shock, everyone made their way around Nashville to do good for either themselves, loved ones or the community. I still have my money (we were allowed to put it in the bank), but plan to give some away to some friends in need and put the rest towards new clothes. I actually bought a belt this weekend as a desperate attempt to keep my pants a little while longer. They are already a few sizes too big, but I can’t afford to buy new clothes at every size.

I had my first adjustment on Wednesday. It didn’t hurt at all, which is great because I’m a huge baby when it comes to matters of needles and doctors. I’m not a fan of being told to sit up while having a huge needle sticking out of my abdomen, but I couldn’t feel it at all. The worst part about having my band tightened is that I had to be on a liquid diet for 48 hours. It was pretty miserable, but I survived.

I met with with my dietician and surgeon and they were both so proud of the work I’ve been doing. I’m eating the right food, getting exercise and keeping a very detailed food journal. My surgeons exact words were, “You’re doing everything perfectly.” I’m happy to report I’ve lost 30 pounds!

The band didn’t have any saline in it before (due to the stomach swelling during surgery), so I didn’t have a lot of restriction when it came to the amount I could fit in my stomach. The doctor warned me this would be the case and encouraged me to still try and stick to the correct portions. So, I was eating the recommended portion size this whole time, but I was getting hungry between meals. The goal is to be adjusted just right, so you are eating the correct portion size and not getting hungry between meals.

The best part is that I feel good about the decisions I’m making. It’s not always easy to eat right. In fact, I had a run-in with a cake on Monday that was pretty difficult to walk away from. Once it was gone and not in my face, I didn’t miss it. I try to remember that it’s probably going to make me feel worse after than it would to give in and have a little. So far, I’ve been right. It is truly one day, one decision and one meal at a time. I think and plan and even strategize to make sure I meet my goals.

Going into this next week, I’m back to my normal routine and feeling great. Picture update coming soon!