(based on: http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/wellness_articles.asp?id=695 )

So, this is not my first time changing my lifestyle.  I lost a bit more than 50 pounds the first part of 2007 (coming home from China with pneumonia got things kick-started!).  Then, in mid-2009, I did our local hospital-sponsored HMR Program and lost more than 100 pounds in about 6 months.  I loved that program - 3 of their protein shakes, 2 of their packaged entrees, and 5 cups of fruit / veggies a day.  Their slogan is "more is better" - essentially giving you permission to eat more of any of the 3 options you have, if you find yourself hungry or craving.  It went really well, but found that the transition back into real-life is what caused my issues.  I managed OK for another 6 months, but then started steadily putting the weight back on.  I didn't put back on all of what I lost, but within a year, I found myself within 40 pounds of where I had started.  I knew that it couldn't continue, and that behavior modification alone wasn't going to work for me.  I started investigating surgical options, as much as I felt like that was "giving in".  I chose VSG as it kept my anatomy basically intact, just made my tummy a lot smaller.  I was sleeved on 8 November 2011, and am working on getting my mind around this new life!

As part of this, I've been reading a lot more about the weight-loss journey...these sorts of articles have never been lacking, but find with easy access to SparkPeople, I am browsing more.  One of my morning articles today had to do with creating my own "Vision Statement"...getting my MBA, you learn that the Fortune 500 does it - so figured it would be a good thing for me to do as well - sometimes creating something that will remind you of ALL your goals, not just the ones related to weight, helps with focus, and, for me, not obsessing over the scale constantly!

Not sure this will be perfect to start, but that's the beauty of the edit button! :)
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Karen MacKenzie is an energetic, self-starter, focused on *showing* her love for her amazing husband, moving - spending energy at the gym - as it is a great start to the day (even if it means getting up a little early) and having that energy carry over to her career.  She gives love and complements and works to accept them.  Being healthy and well allows her to live life to its fullest!