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You learn about life by looking backwards in time, but you live your life by moving forward for the future. Taz 
Plastics Consult on November 18, 2008 12:35 pm
Well, I finally had my plastics consult and things went very well. He says I don't need the full tummy tuck due to the extensive amount of working out that I have done over the course of my lifetime. The doctor basically says I have some skin hanging that needs to be cut off. He thinks I will have a very good look when done. The only thing I really hate about the whole process is not being able to workout for another 4-6 weeks - but that is a small price to pay in the scheme of things. I had to wait six weeks after the RNY surgery so this will be no different. I am very excited indeed. Both of my surgeons ( RNY surgeon and the plastics surgeon ) feel like insurance will cover this procedure. I am keeping my fingers crossed and praying for insurance to cover everything. I am scheduling the surgery for December 23 ( Yes, I know it sucks being the holidays and all, but seeing how I have met my out of pocket maximum this year and everything will be paid for in full, I just couldn't pass this up - what a XMAS present this would be). I am being told that this minor tummy tuck will cost around $6200.00 for everything = anethesia, hospital charge, radiology, lab, nursing, plastic doctors charge, as well as any follow up visits.
Anyway, that is all to report for now. Life is great and rolling along full steam ahead. Will post some new pictures soon.
Be good.
Taz
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Plastic Surgery - Waiting Game on November 5, 2008 1:39 pm
Well it seems like time has flown by and life is still humming along quite well for me. I am maintaining my weight within a 5 pound weight range fluctuation = I am totally okay with that on a personal level. I am now to the point that I feel very comfortable with my daily food intake. I am eating quite normal in my mind. I can and do eating anything that appeals to me, but I just can't consume massive amounts. I still workout like crazy = anywhere from 1.5 - 2 hours each day, except for Sunday. I am feeling great and looking great. I am totally in love with my new found life since having RNY surgery.
Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 220-228
Goal Weight - 210
I am now full steam ahead in getting my plastic surgery done. I have my consult on Nov. 10 and hopefully by the second or third week in December, I will have my tummy tuck procedure done. This is like the last major hurddle in this whole process to becoming the new and improved me. I am totally ready to leave behind any remnants of what I used to be. I will never forget where I came from, but I don't plan on reliving or reminiscing in the past. I have totally scrapped any and all clothes that I used to own. I know some people keep old clothes to remember where they once were, but not me. I am all about looking to the present and only the present.
Anyway, that is all for now and I will post on or around Nov. 10 to tell everyone about my plastics consult and what the doctor thinks.
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Plastic Surgery on Horizon on October 3, 2008 11:59 am
Well it seems I am at a crossroads now with my weightloss. My body seems to have reached a point where I have really slowed down with the weightloss. I am as active as can be and my surgeon has said he thinks I am reaching my ideal point for weightloss - it will really be about maintenance now. With that said, we started discussing having plastic surgery to remove some skin that seems to be hanging on around my lower stomach area. I knew this already, but like my surgeon said, you can fill almost any body part with muscle, but the lower stomach area is one of those spots that you can't do much with. Yes, you can have abs - 6 pack and 8 pack abs, but they won't fix stretched out skin. Every part of my body looks wonderful from head to toe, but my lower stomach is the one part of my body I could do without. I have seen worse, but mine is to the point I am ready to have it cut off. It really bothers me when I work out as hard as I do and you see that one part of your body you can do absolutely nothing about. I don't know, call me vain, but I am ready to complete the "full package" look - I want to see myself naked and not be reminded of the old me. I will never ever forget where I came from to where I am now - in terms of my body composition. My lower stomach area just represents what I used to be = overweight and out of shape, I am ready to cut those ties to my past = kind of ironic ain't it = cut my skin off and cut my past away. I have spoken with a plastic surgeon and he said it will cost about $5,800 on an outpatient basis and anywhere from $8,500-$10,000 on an inpatient basis = this is everything = anesthesia, labs, radiology, hospital fee, surgeon fee. It all boils down to what insurance will pay for. I am fortunate in that my insurance will probably pay for this - so in that repsect, I am lucky.
Another plus to having plastic surgery is that my surgeon seemed to think that I would lose another 6-10 pounds with the help of the scapel = no exercise needed. 
Anyway, be good and I will keep up my blog with info. about my plastics journey.
Taz
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What's Up World on September 23, 2008 12:41 pm
Golly jee willickers. Where have I been? I really have to make myself stay focused on coming back to the web site to update my profile.
Well, life is still utterly fantastic. I can't begin to express how happy I am now - I've gone from being known as the big "fat" guy to being labeled as one of the "hottest" guys in the neighborhood and at work. It is very flattering to say the least and it boosts my ego more and more each day. I am taking it all in stride and trying not to get a big head about it.
My weight is now fluctuating between 220-230. It seems like a big swing, but really it all boils down to water loading. I am quite happy with where I am weight wise, even if I don't lose another single pound. I had become quite the scale whore for the last 4 months and I have now gotten off of that kick and usually weigh once a week now instead of each and every single day. I look and feel great now - it shows on the outside now - I smile more each day and I am now quite the social butterfly. I feel like I am oozing confidence in every aspect of my life.
Foods are no trouble at all. No eating problems to speak of - knock on wood. Things are going well and I feel like I am living and eating just like a normal person - I'm just eating large quantities like in my previous lifestyle.
Well, that is enough catching up for now. Speak to you soon.
Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 220-230
Goal Weight - 200
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Time Flies By on August 26, 2008 3:47 pm
It is hard to believe that almost a month has gone by and I have not done a blog of some kind. Time just seems to fly by now. I have so much going on and life is just busy, but it is great being busy. I am enjoying life to the fullest in every sense of the word. I feel great physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. What else can one say !!!!!!
I had a 6 month check up today and my surgeon and his staff were amazed at my transformation thus far. I have been asked to be a part of the surgical groups web site promoting the surgery and the obvious benefits. I was thrilled at this opportunity and told my surgeon I would be willing to help out any way that I could. I really feel like this is an honor to be asked to showcase their services. I have worked very hard to get where I am and I am proud to display the "finished product" - or should I say "a work in progress" - as I am not done losing weight.
I am now at a weightloss of about 145 pounds. I teeter between 222-225. I will stick with the lower number as it makes me feel better mentally. All kidding aside though, my weightloss has slowed down tremendously due to all of the weightlifting - I new this would happen eventually, my surgeon confirmed my very thoughts today and he said don't worry about the weight numbers anymore. I am losing inches in my waist and that is enough to make me happy. I honestly might make it into a size 36 waist in the next month or so. I never ever ever thought I would ever wear something that small. It is completely amazing how the surgery has transformed my life overall. I just can't reinterate that point enough.
Enough for now. Take care and enjoy the new pictures.
Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 222
Goal Weight - 200
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Another Fine Day on July 30, 2008 7:35 pm
Anytime you lose weight it is a great day. Even though I have only lost one more pound since my last post, it is a small victory nonetheless and one I must blog about. I want to be able to look back on my journey and see the progress I have made - both large and small weightloss amounts. It is going to be interesting to look back on this blog and see how I felt, what I was thinking, and what was going on in my life at that particular time in my weightloss journey.
Oh well, enough tonight. Until we meet again, be good or be naughty - it doesn't matter as long as you are having fun and not hurting anyone else.
Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 227
Goal Weight - 200
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Life Is Rolling Along on July 26, 2008 1:30 pm
Well time just seems to be easing on by and I am having trouble keeping up on the web site now. I am having so much fun with life in general that things just seem to good to be true. I have to pinch myself to make sure I am not dreaming. The weight is still coming off, but much slower now. I am okay with that at this point in my journey. Points of interest - clothes fit very good (I am now a 38 waist and an XL in shirts), I feel great mentally (I walk the walk and talk the talk as they say), I also want to say, with confidence I might add, that I now look great on the outside to compliment how I feel on the inside - I am not really trying to conceited with myself, but for so long in life I took a back seat with my looks and my self-esteem. Everyday it just blows my mind away how I constantly get complimented on my looks and how well I am doing. It is very flattering and definitely ego boosting. I am not going to be shy about it - I will take every compliment I get with a smile on my face and say thank you very much. It is ironic and only fitting that now I am going to reap everything that I have worked my tail off for. I have said this before, the surgery was a great tool to help me get over the hump, but I have put lots of hard work into the new and improved me. I work out like a fiend - 60 minutes of weightlifting, 20 minutes of eliptical walking, 60 minutes of treadmill walking, and 20 minutes in the steam room x 5 days a week. I have vowed never to return to the "old lazy me" who used to sit around on the couch and watch TV all of the time. I am now lucky if I watch 2 hours of TV per day. I try to stay busy outside doing yard work or cleaning the house - YES for you women out there, I can clean house better than most women - I dust, vacuum, clean windows, wash dishes, make beds, take out the trash, fold clothes, watch/feed/entertain the kids, and occasionally cook supper - I tell my wife all the time she doesn't know how good she has it. I will say that my teaching job as a registered nurse afords me the luxury to off in the summer time, so I am lucky in that respect. The one thing my wife refuses to let me do is wash the clothes - she is afraid I will turn the whites pink or red.
Anyway, that is enough of an update for now on my life. Take care and be good.
Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 228
Goal Weight - 200
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Update on Life on July 14, 2008 5:45 pm
Well things are rolling along great. Enjoying all life has to offer at this point in my life. I just can't say enough how much of a life saver RNY surgery is. I will be the first one to stand up and shout out to the world about how dramatic and life changing this surgery can be. I highly recommend it to anyone who is thinking about it. I am going to post pictures of where I started versus where I am now. It is truly amazing to see the before the after pictures. I look at my before pictures and it almost makes me want to cry that I had let myself get to that point of no return. All I can say is look at what 4.5 months has done with the help of RNY surgery, plus the constant working out that I do everyday.
Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 230
Goal Weight - 200
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Exercise and Working Out on July 2, 2008 9:59 am
Walking/Running/Eliptical machining is one of the best things you can do for your weightloss. I can tell you, my life has changes 360 degrees from 4 months ago. I was completely overweight and out of shape at 367 pounds and 5'7". Now I am completely changed and remodeled - my weight is 231 and I am in the best shape of my life ever. I walk/run/eliptical at least 4-5 miles per day and I lift weights 1 hour everyday. It has totally transformed me. The surgery was the best thing I ever chose to do - it has given me the tool to be successful with my weightloss for the first time in my life. And the best thing about everything, no food is off limits to me now. I can basically have anything I want - in moderation of course - my stomach won't let me have but a little of most things. Life is great.
Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 231
Goal Weight - 200
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Living The Good Life on June 25, 2008 8:05 pm
Well it seems like it has been forever since I posted. And it has been about 16 days to be exact. I guess life has just gotten the best of me. With school being out and not teaching now, I have been going non-stop working out at the gym, entertaining my kids, and just enjoying everything that life has to offer. My weight has basically remained steady, but I am losing inches like crazy all over my body. Clothes now fit very differently - in a good way. I keep having to buy smaller sizes every week. I won't complain about that ever - seeing how I lived in Big/Tall stores and catalogues for the better part of the last 20 years.
As far as food goes, I am eating good and handling everything quite well - whether I am at home or out at a restuarant. I did try some alcoholic beverages for the first time last weekend and I must say I truly liked the experience. Two beers and I was goooood. I feel like such a light weight now compared to my friends, but they all understand that because of surgery and my new plumbing, alcohol now affects me differently than it used to. I definitely don't want to make that a habit very often. I never drank that much before sugery and I don't see that changing now that I am post-op. I will definitely remain level headed about the whole situation.
Anyway, I feel good about catching up on my profile. Life is great and the RNY surgery has been the best life changing event in my life since getting married and having kids. I would not hesitate to do it all over again in a "skinny" minute. My only wish is that I would have done this surgery years ago. Taz
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Eating Good and Losing Steadily on June 9, 2008 10:30 am
I must say that I am eating very well and I am still losing weight steadily. I was really worried that with all of the eating I was doing I would be putting weight on, but lo and behold, I am losing. Now mind you, when I say I am eating a lot - I'm really not, it just feels like it because I get full really fast. I basically can eat anything and everything I want. Nothing is off limits, and I mean nothing. I am just finding that the quantities are very small and then I am left feeling very satisified. I hope this is the way it is forever. Right now I am "happier than a tick on a dog". I have finally hit the 230's as of today - 239 to be exact. I haven't been that weight since college days. It is wonderful to see how good I look and how great I feel on the inside. Life just keeps getting better and better each and every day. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 239
Goal Weight - 200
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Rolling Along on June 2, 2008 4:40 pm
Well here we are about to start summer and I must say that I am ahead of my expectations as far as weightloss goes. I am down now a total of 120 pounds since having surgery on 2/28/08. I am just a couple of days past the three month mark and I feel wonderful about life, my health, and my family. One of the best feelings is waking up everyday and not worrying about what clothes to wear or if something is going to feel too tight. It is nice to know that I now can go into any regular store and purchase clothes right off the rack with out special ordering from some big/tall magazine or web site.
As far as food goes, I am eating everything I desire - just not the big quantities. I can have a little of something and be totally satisfied. One of my big joys recently was going to the movies and eating butter popcorn. I had half of a small bag and was content. That is a wonderful feeling to know that I now have that ability to stop and push away the rest without feeling a need or desire. I also recently had Japanese "hop chop suey" where they cut it up in front of you and that was also a great experience. Japanese food is my all time favorite and I thought that postop, from surgery, I would never have that type of food again. I just have to eat much smaller quantities and I take home a big Doggie bag of food - lasted me 5 days.
Lastly I just want to say that I look forward to exercise each and every day. If I miss a day, I now feel bad. That is a major change from three months ago when I didn't really care about working out each and every day. My family knows that I am allowed an hour and a half to myself each and every day so I can focus on my health - through lifting weights, walking/running, steam room/sauna.
Anyway, that is enough for now. Life is definitely smiling down on me. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 247
Goal Weight - 200
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Playing Catch Up on May 22, 2008 5:20 pm
Well, just wanted to update for a little bit. My computer was on the fritz for a fwe days and made it difficult to update. Well here goes. I am still losing weight, but it has slowed down a little bit. I seem to be losing about 1-2 pounds per week now. I am okay with that. I have lost so much so quick that I new this would eventually happen at some point. I am very happy with where I am at. I am eating pretty much what I want when I want and nothing is off limits if my stomach can handle it. I went to the movies about one week ago and had a handful or two of popcorn and boy was it great. I was completely satisfied with what I had and felt very content. It is a far cry from where I used to eat a medium popcorn all by myself and then a nice size coke and candy to top it all off - well I can no longer do that and that is a great thing. If this is how I have to eat for the rest of my life, I am okay and very happy. I love knowing I can have a little of something and be okay. It sure beats telling myself that I can never have this or that = that is like a death sentence to me. Anyway, that is all for now - I'm off to go eat some fruit - which I absolutely love. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 251
Goal Weight - 200
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BMI Under 40 on May 11, 2008 7:25 pm
Today marks my first day that I am finally under the 40 BMI mark. That is quite a big change from a starting BMI of like 56.5. I have literally added God knows how many years to my life as a result of having surgery. My new BMI is like 39.8 right now. I have hit quite the weight loss spell this weekend. Between Saturday and Sunday I have lost 5 pounds in one weekend. I definitely attribute that weight loss to all of the hard work I did in my yard - for Mother's Day my wife wanted us (me and the kids) to plan on helping her in the yard by planting new shrubs and plants = that meant tons of labor intensive hole digging, pine straw spreading, grass cutting, and just all around general clean up of the house outside. Our yard and house look beautiful as a result of all of our hard work. I am quite pleased with everything. The weightloss was a bonus for me because I knew all the hard work would translate into calorie burning - we spent at least 11 hours doing yardwork. I love yard work because it always equals weightloss. I have said it two or three times on my blog.
On another positive note, the comments just keep on coming left and right. People are just amazed/floored, as am I, at how well I have done. I am now getting the responses of "When are you going to stop losing weight?" I always tell them that my body will decide that for me. I am eating when I want to eat and every type of food is fair game. Nothing is off limits to me (except for sweets and refined sugars/carbs) and my surgeon even agreed with me. My stomach lets me know just how much I can tolerate and I listen to my stomach very well or else I pay the consequences. I am finding that I love colored vegetables now more than ever and I am at the point of detesting anything that is white in color.
Anyway, that is enough for now. Will touch base later in the week. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 254
Goal Weight - 200
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So Much For My Second Stall on May 6, 2008 5:31 pm
I guess I jumped the gun about being stalled. Today I weighed and have lost 3 pounds. I guess I have to attribute that to working out at the gym today. I am a "happy camper" to say the least. I am finally under 260 - 259 to be exact. I have uploaded some new pictures showing my progress. I have to tell ya, I really almost don't even recognize myself anymore. I see myself in the mirror every morning, but man, to see myself in pictures is just blowing my mind when I compare the pictures to my preop state of physical well-being. What a difference 8 weeks can make. I never-never-never would have ever believed I would see the changes I have seen in such a short time. I had my doctors appointment today and he was astounded at how far I have come and how much different I look now. He was very proud of me and he is even going to have me speak at some seminars he will do in the future. I thanked him for giving me my life back and I told him I would do whatever he needed to spread the word and help others. Life is great. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 259
Goal Weight - 200
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My Second Stall on May 5, 2008 6:37 pm
Well, as they say, all good things must eventually come to an end. I seem to have hit my second stall in my weightloss travels. I have been stuck between 262-264 for the last 5-6 days. I am still working out the same and haven't really changed anything as far as my routine goes. So, I will take this with a grain of salt and move forward. I am not going to make my goal of having lost 110 pounds prior to my doctors visit tomorrow at 1:30, but I am okay with 105 pounds lost - I'm sure the doctor will be to.
Anyway, on a more positive note, I started weightlifting again and it felt great to pump some iron. I have to say that I am a shell of my former self. I used to lift all kinds of heavy weights, but now I am struggling with the light weights. Then again, I am not the spring chicken I used to be, nor do I have the mass that I once did - which allowed me to lift the heavy amounts of weights. I no longer really care about the heavy weights - I do miss being able to lift that much and being the envy of people as they watch you lift massive weights, but I can live without all of that attention now - I am now more focused on getting healthy for long term living and not just the here and now like I did back in my late teens and early 20's. One of the things I did tonight was walk on the treadmill, but I have to say, I was not that happy about that. I actually think I feel better walking outside in my neighborhood, like I have been doing for the last 8 weeks. I thought the treadmill might give me a better experience, but I was dead wrong. I am going to give the treadmill a few more tries to see if it grows on me, but if I continue to not like the indoor treadmill experience then I will resort to going back outside once I get home from weightlifting at the gym.
Well, enough for now. Got to get some sleep. Later, Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 262
Goal Weight - 200
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As Time Goes By on April 30, 2008 5:40 pm
Another day, another pound. It seems like I am getting to the point of where I am only losing about a pound per day. I am not complaing now mind you. There was a point in time, not too long ago, that I was losing anywhere from a pound and a half to two pounds a day. Well, I think I am starting to hit a threshold point where the loss will slow down, but I really feel like it will keep melting away. I really just want to see at least a loss of 5 pounds per week. I hope I don't get flammed like hell over this. I know many people are struggling to lose 1-2 pounds per week or even every two weeks. This is just a personal goal of mine and I am busting my hump each and every day by walking/running 3-4 miles. On Monday, May 5 I start lifting weights again to give my body the final touches it needs to feel completely HOT as they say. I can already tell that my shoulders and trapezius muscles (neck muscles) are getting very defined and cut. My legs are starting to show definition and my calfs are basically getting ripped up (looking fantastic) due to the constant running and walking. The compliments are happening everytime I step out the door now. It definitely brings me great joy and pride.
I am looking forward to my doctors appointment next Tuesday, May 6th - I think the surgeon is going to be blown away at where I am so far = 103.5 pounds lost. There are 6 days until I see him so I am going to really bust my hump to lose that 6.5 pounds for a grand total loss of 110 pounds. On May 7th - I have my suport group meeting and I know people are going to be shell shocked at where I am - there will be lots of OOO's and AAA's. I know, I am sounding cocky and over confident, but to be honest with you, it is not a cockiness or over confidence, but just a realization that I am now able to achieve anything I set my mind to. I know I am starting to become the person I used to be and have always wanted to be.
Anyway, that is enough for now. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 263.5
Goal Weight - 200
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Over 100 Pounds Gone Forever on April 27, 2008 5:25 pm
Well today was a great day. I have officially lost over 100 pounds now. 101 to be exact. I had to totally clean out all of my pants now and donate them to Goodwill. I have lost about 8-10 inches off of my waist and because of this I had to break down today and go buy new shorts and new pants. I was absolutely amazed at what I can buy now. I can actually shop in regular stores right off the rack - simply amazing. I can't even remember when I was last able to do that. I had a smile on my face the entire time. I never really used to like shopping, but I have to say, I had a great time today and I look forward to doing some more. I think my enjoyment comes from the fact that I can actually go buy trendy things now - not just basic styles of clothes that are only made for overweight people - the kind you would buy in a Big and Tall magazine - which I would have to pay 2-3 times more money for. Life is awesome today and only getting better. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 266
Goal Weight - 200
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I Swear To God - I Love Yard Work on April 24, 2008 5:07 pm
I tell ya, there is something about doing yardwork that just knocks the pounds off of my butt. I have done like three times in the two weeks and each time it is like "BAM" and two or three pounds are gone. I originally thought it might be water weight lost, but it actually stays off. I have not had regain (knock on some wood). I am definitely going to do tons of this stuff if this keeps happening.
On another positive note, I am finally under 270 for the first time in quite a while. I used to wrestle as a heavy weight in the 275 lbs. category so it is nice to know I could be in that weight class again. Like I said in one of my previous posts, it is the small things (little goals) that give me my inspiration to carry on day in and day out.
One last thing, I am getting hit on at work like crazy now. Everytime I turn around the co-workers of mine are making me blush like a school age boy. I had a lady today tell me it was a good thing I was married because "from behind I was looking fine". That just stopped me in my tracks cold turkey, but it did put a big smile on my face. Day before yesterday I was told by another female co-worker that I am starting to look like a "hottie". Well that just made wonder, what the hell was I before, "chopped liver". Then I realized, it was just seven weeks ago that I was a very overweight man. I will tell you, I now carry on through the day with a very confident swagger about myself. I can't help but do that now because I get compliments every single day and that just boosts my self esteem/ego even more. As they say, I walk tall and appear confident in all that I'm doing every single day. Sometimes this is just down right scary about how I am changing - mind blowing if you want to know the truth. I am going to stay grounded in reality for sure, but my goodness, I can see how one could become very out of touch with reality if you weren't careful. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 269
Goal Weight - 200
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Another Major Moment on April 20, 2008 4:15 pm
The rollercoasters were great yesterday no doubt. Well today I took my son and his friend to the movies to see "The Spiderwick Chronicles" and I was absolutely floored by how much space I had in the movie theater seat. There were no arm rests digging in my side or my legs, I actually had room to spare and then some. It is amazing how the little things are bringing me such joy now. Speaking of little things, I forgot to mention this about being at Carowinds yesterday, but we went to a sit down restaurant with bench style seating (something I used to dread because my stomach would hit the table and make it very uncomfortable to sit and eat) and I slid in the seat like a champ. I fit with plenty of room to spare for me and my wife. I used to have to sit with one of my kids whenever we ate at a table like that because there just would not be enough room for me and wife on the same side - now mind you my wife is a tiny thing at about 120-130 pounds. Like I said, it is the little things that are making me happy. Well that is enough for now. Taz
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Major Moment on April 20, 2008 9:58 am
Well yesterday my family went to Carowinds theme park to celebrate my daughters birthday and much to my excitement I was able to get on some rollercoasters for the first time in about 15 years. This was a major achievement for me personally as I was able to do this with my daughter. It truly was special seeing how it was her birthday and all. The one (of many coasters) that I rode had 2 loops and many inverted turns. What a great feeling it was to ride those coasters. It truly was a great day as I was able to participate and not just stand by and watch everyone else have the fun. Weightloss surgery and my hard work and detemination have allowed me to do something that I thought was only a pipe dream up until about 7 weeks ago. As I have said before, life is getting better and better with each and every passing day. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 275
Goal Weight - 200
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Reflection - Where Am I Now on April 18, 2008 5:08 pm
I am now down 91 pounds for the record and I couldn't be more pleased with myself at this point. I keep hitting record after record for myself and I get more and more focused with each passing day. I love the new "thinner" me. I am starting to feel really great about my self-confidence and my self-esteem. Now I never really had problems with those two concepts before, but I just feel like now I am exhibiting more confidence in everything I do. I feel like I am starting to "walk the walk" and soon I will be "talking the talk", as they say. I am not trying to come across as cocky or over-confident, but my God, losing this weight is transforming me right before my very own eyes. There are times I have to really ponder just what has become of me in such a short time. I keep thinking I am going to wake up and it will have all been a dream. To think that just a mere 6.5 weeks ago I was a totally different person both mentally and physically. Life is Good, No Life is Excellent and it only keeps getting better and better every single day that I wake up. I love my life, I love my wife, and I love my kids now more than ever. I have always loved those things, but I can truly appreciate those things even more now because I can truly be part of every aspect of their lives each and every single day - unlike 6.5 weeks ago when I just kind of stood by and watched. Now I savor every moment like it is my last. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 276
Goal Weight - 200
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More Yardwork and More Pounds Off on April 16, 2008 4:46 pm
Well I must say that if working in the yard (cutting grass and edging the lawn) allows me to lose weight like I am doing then I am in for a treat this summer when I need to cut the grass every five or six days.
I can only hope that the weightloss keeps up like it is. I am very happy with my progress so far. I am eating when I want to eat if my body says it is hungry. I am drinking like a fish in water and having no problems. I haven't really deprived myself of anything that I want so I would have to say things are great. I am now down 87 pounds total and I really would like to lose another 3 pounds between now and Monday the 21st. I have a doctors check up then and it would be just fantastic to hit the 90 pound mark on that day. I hope I don't jinx myself by saying that is a goal of mine. Maybe I need to do some yardwork Sunday afternoon. Anyway, I will keep my fingers crossed.
On a lighter note, people at work are really starting to notice the big changes in my weight. I have lost the round belly I had forever and a day. And even for a few weeks I was looking like I had the barrel chest/belly combination going on. Now though, my belly is smaller than my chest and I am starting to regain a little shape to my figure. I have always had a pretty good looking chest, but it was always over shadowed by my belly. I'm getting some of the V shape look and it is awesome to see the reality of everything starting to come to fruition. It is so hard to believe that just 6 weeks ago I was out of shape both physically and mentally. I have walked well over 120 miles since surgery and that alone blows my mind. I am anticipating great things for the future months ahead. Look out world because the man is starting to get his "groove" back, physically and mentally. My "game" is starting to come on strong  . Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 280
Goal Weight - 200
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Weekend Trip and Losing Weight on April 13, 2008 2:22 pm
Went out of town this weekend for soccer tournament and I was really worried that I might actually gain weight instead of losing weight. We went out to lots of restaurants with our boys soccer team and lets just say the food choices were hard, but manageable. I will take the trip as a weightloss success because I did manage to lose 1 whole pound between Saturday morning and Sunday afternoon. I am also proud of the fact that I also used the hotel fitness room to exercise for 45 minutes (treadmill - 20 minutes and the elliptical machine for 25 minutes). The other fantastic thing about this moment is that in losing that 1 pound, it means I am now over the halfway mark to my weightloss goal of 200 pounds = 84 pounds down and 83 to go. I never thought I would see the day of losing this much weight. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 283
Goal Weight - 200
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Yardwork Does The Body Good on April 9, 2008 5:19 pm
Great day on the scales people. I lost 2 more pounds today for a total loss now of 80 pounds.  I owe it all to spending three hours in my yard cutting grass, bagging the clippings, and then fertilizing every square inch of my beautiful lawn. I always have lost weight when ever I do yard work because I really work hard when I am in the yard. In the past, I always attributed that weight loss to water weight, but now I am attributing it to losing good fat weight. I don't sweat anything like I used to since I have had the surgery. I also made sure to drink plenty of fluids while doing all of that work in the yard. Dam my yard looks good. No, better yet, my yard looks awesome, spectacular, amazing. I am definitely a type A person and I am definitely that anal retentive person who likes to be neat. That same personality carries over into my job and even at home inside the house. I am a total neat freak about cleanliness. I pride myself on being able to clean a house just as good as a woman would do. I can definitely clean windows, wash clothes, fold clothes, vacuum, wash dishes, dust, etc. - and by the way, this does not mean I am feminine in any way shape or form. In fact, I am about as masculine as a man can be. I always kid around with my wife about how well rounded I am - in terms of somoene who will do not only the man stuff (take out trash, wash/clean the cars, all of the yardwork, house maintenance stuff inside and out), but I am no stranger to doing the woman stuff (dishes, laundry, dusting, vacuuming, etc.) either. The women I work with always tell me that if my wife gets tired of me, they will be glad to scoop me up and take me home.
Wow, now that I read all of that, I really did go off on a tangent. I went from talking about losing weight to discussing house cleaning. Losing weight is kind of making me a little scatter brained I guess. 
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 287
Goal Weight - 200
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Day of the Lord on April 6, 2008 4:36 pm
God was definitely on my side today as he allowed me to lose another 2 pounds  . This has given me a total loss now of 77 pounds for being 5 weeks postop. I have my next doctors appointment for a 6 week checkup on 4/21/08. I would really love to have lost 90 pounds by then. That would be great as far as I am concerned. With a little luck  and hard work I will try really hard to make that goal a reality. I will keep my fingers crossed and hope for the best. Anyway, take care. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 290
Goal Weight - 200
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Over the Hump Baby - Hell Ya on April 4, 2008 6:58 pm
Well, I have liftoff or should I lostoff instead. I woke up this morning weighing 295 and when I got home this afternoon - BAM - 3 pounds gone for a new low of 292. Hey, every little bit counts and brings a smile to my face. I am glad to see the scale moving, even though it hasn't moved much in about a week and a half, I have noticed that other things have happened instead - clothes are supper supper loose and practically falling off of me. I definitely have to buck down and bite the bullet by spending some money on new clothes this weekend - I am not going to become a shopping whore this weekend - I am only going to get one or two pairs of pants at this point because it will be pointless to buy lots of outfits as the weight is going to continue coming off, thus altering what I will be able to wear any length of time. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 292
Goal Weight - 200
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Mileage on April 4, 2008 11:57 am
Something I just realized today - I looked at a calendar and started adding up the miles I have walked, since I had surgery, and I was totally blown away. I have walked 72 miles since February 29, 2008. That is 72 miles in 37 days . That is astonishing to me. I would have never walked that much in my life prior to surgery. I had actually just bought some new running shoes prior to surgery because I knew I would need a good pair of sneaks for all the walking and exercising I would be doing, but dang, I never thought I would have walked that much though. Simply amazing.  It just kind of puts things into perspective on just how out of shape I really was prior to having surgery. Anyway, this was just a nice KUDO to myself. I can't wait to start pumping iron next week at the gym. I am looking forward to being reunited with my first love and that is lifting weights. I do plan to still walk everyday, but now I will be incorporating it into my lifting routines - the walking and running will be my cool down phase after lifting. I can't wait to see the results. I am really pushing myself hard to get back to that green tank top look in one of my former photos (oh the glory days). Taz
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Chugging Along on April 1, 2008 4:56 pm
The week so far is going okay. I lost one pound today. Yipee KiYay - well not really that exciting, but hey a pound is a pound and for that I am thankful. I will take what I am given at this point. I wish it was coming off a little faster and who knows, it may pick back up very soon - I have definitely increased my protein intake and cut back a lot on carbs. I am excited to see where I will wind up this weekend with my weightloss for the week.
Life in general is great. Clothes are very loose now - will need new ones very soon (especially for church) - again, thank God for scrubs and me getting to wear them for my work attire. I am getting lots of compliments on my weightloss - this is very encouraging. Exercise is great - gets easier everyday. I am working out with the intent to get to the top of Chimney Rock in Asheville, North Carolina. This peak kicked my butt a few years ago - dam near killed me while I tried getting to the top - I did not succeed in getting to the top like I would have liked. This summer I will conquer that sucker, as well as ride the Top Gun Rollercoaster at Carowinds in Rockhill, South Carolina.
Well that is enough for now. Will update in a few days. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 295
Goal Weight - 200
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Slow Going Still on March 30, 2008 2:29 pm
Well it is still slow going on the weightloss this week. Since 3/21/08 I have only lost 3 pounds and quiet honestly that to me just sucks my big one - literally. I have been busting my hump walking like crazy (2.2-4.4 miles per day) and exercising by playing tennis and boxing on my kids Nintendo Wii System. Now for all of you nay sayers out there who don't think playing tennis or boxing on the Wii isn't a workout, how about try it and then get back to me on it. I go for a good 30-45 minutes alternating between the two and it makes me work up a sweat. It sure beats sitting there and watching TV all day. It is also great when the weather outside is bad and I can't walk like I would like to. Anyway, one of my good friends here on OH (Cheryl C. - cudos) suggested that I up my protein from 60g/day to about 108g/day (based on my weight) and see what happens to the weightloss then. I am going to try this for the week and we will see what happens. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 296
Goal Weight - 200
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The Longest Week on March 27, 2008 4:58 pm
This week has been tough so far. I have only lost 2 pounds since last Sunday and that has been tough seeing how I have lost so much weight in such a short amount of time. I must say that taking 3 days off from exercise (family vacation) is probably a contibuting factor into why I haven't lost more. I also think it has to do with my body reacting to the amount of weight I have lost already. My body is in a state of shock and is making adjustments to the stress of what I have been putting it through (at least this is what I am thinking - based on what I have seen other people write about). I do feel good that I have lost a total of 70 pounds now. I will keep working hard and start back walking everyday again - the vacation is now over. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 297
Goal Weight - 200
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Under 300 on March 21, 2008 6:08 pm
Today represent a huge hurdle in my weightloss journey. I have tipped the scales at the 299 pound mark and I am very happy to say the least. This is a defining moment for me because it represent the weight I was when I got married in 1991. I am hoping for many more hurdles that I can jump, but right now there is just something magical about being under the 300 pound mark. I am going to savor this moment for now and I am very thankful for achieving this milestone. There were many days (prior to surgery) that I often wondered if I would ever get under the 300 pound mark. Honestly, I never really thought I would be able to do it, but God bless my surgeon, Dr. Givens, for giving me the tool to lose this weight and start leading a normal healthy lifestyle without the use of medications. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 299
Goal Weight - 200
Reliving My Youth - Memories on March 20, 2008 1:30 pm
I just had to do it, I posted pictures of me from 20 years ago when I was in my prime and nothing, and I mean nothing, was an obstacle for me. I was loving life and enjoying every single minute. I had a great looking body that allowed me to do many uninhibited things. Hopefully my weightloss journey will help me to recapture some of those feelings. Having lost 64 pounds so far has already helped me get back some of my mojo. Can't wait to get some more mojo. In those pictures from 1988 I weighed 220. I am 83 pounds from looking good again. At least that is what I am going to tell myself. Taz
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Back In the Groove on March 19, 2008 3:26 pm
I am back at work and finally caught up with all of my paperwork for my students. That was the thing I dreaded the most in going back to work. I love my job and working with students in the hospital. I love shaping the minds of kids who will be taking care of me someday. Makes feel like I am making a difference in the world for everyone.
My students and coworkers were all floored in my appearance in such a short time away (2.5 weeks). Many just can't believe how much weight I have lost in such a short amount of time, to be honest - neither can I at times. But in reality, I do realize it because I am busting my ASS everyday to stay on track and not eat junk like cakes/cookies/french fries/etc. - it also helps that I have walked my tail off everyday since I got out of surgery. Over the last week and a half I have pushed myself to speed up my walking (even doing a little running) and distance. I am now doing anywhere between 2.2-4.4 miles per day. I really believe that increasing my distance and time has allowed me to lose more weight that would otherwise be possible at this point.
One last thing, I am slowly closing in on losing the approximate weight of one of my children. My son weighs 73 pounds and that has been kind of a short term goal for me. Weird I know, but in a unique kind of way. Those 73 pounds are symbolic because I see that as the equivalent of literally hauling my son around on my back every single day. Another way to look at it would be like carrying around six 12 pound bowling balls. What a load.
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 306
Goal Weight - 200
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Holy Shit Batman - Stomach Restriction Has Been Found on March 16, 2008 5:30 pm
Well I will say this, you can definitely tell when it is time to stop eating. For the first time since I have had surgery, I felt like what it means to "feel full". The restriction that I have been searching for finally kicked in tonight when I had a scrambled egg with bacon bits cooked in it (6 grams for the egg and 3 for the bacon bits sprinkled on top = 9 grams of protein). Believe it or not, I actually cooked two eggs with bacon bits (18 grams protein) thinking it would be no problem at all. You have to realize that up to this point, oatmeal and mashed potatoes were no problem going down at all - absolutely no restriction what so ever. It is hard to believe that one tiny egg had me down for the count. I ate five bites and the pressure in my chest said "take one more bite and I am going to make you throw up". I did not push the envelope. I finally felt full physically, but mentally that was a whole other story. Mentally, I did not feel like I had a meal at all. Is it my mind playing tricks on me? I can definitely see how I am now going to need to retrain my thought processes. One other thing, it really makes me wonder how in the hell people actually meet their necessary protein intake requirements, without supplementation. I just don't get it. I only ate 9 grams with one egg and active people are supposed to get 70-85 grams per day. I guess as time goes on and the pouch expands, more food will fit, but dam that was one weird feeling in my chest - right below the rib cage. I have often wondered what that full feeling would feel like and now I know. One last note, and please tell me if I am wrong, I feel like no matter what, I will have to drink at least one protein shake everyday for the rest of my life. I drink three everyday now to get 69 grams of protein in. I do envision getting down to one. Taz
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Crazy Sunday on March 16, 2008 3:26 pm
Sunday represents another good day on my weightloss journey hus far. Went to church again, 2 Sundays in a row - I'm on a roll, and again people were mystified with my weightloss so far. I lost 11 pounds this week alone from last Sunday and people can really tell the difference now. I am looking forward to more of that as time goes by. I will enjoy it now because I know there will come a point when it will fade away. I have lost 59 pounds total so far since I started my weightloss journey, 28 pounds since surgery on the 28th of February = 28 pounds in 18 days. I feel pretty good with where I am at right now. I lost a good bit prior to surgery ( lots of water weight ) so I really feel like what I am losing now is good "fat" weight.
Tomorrow I start back to work. Part of me is excited and part of me is nervous. I have gotten into a good routine being at home and being post-op (food, vitamins, eating, exercise, etc.) for the last two weeks. I just hope that I can transition everything back to the real world now. It was easy being at home and just concentrating on taking care of me, but now the real work/challenge begins - incorporating all of this stuff while dealing with family and work. I can't wait to see how this all plays out. Anyways, that is enough for now. I will update as my week goes on. The one good bonus, for this week, is that after these next few days pass by, I will be off from work for another week - due to spring break and the students getting the week off. Life is really good I guess. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 308
Goal Weight - 200
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Two Week Mark on March 12, 2008 9:08 am
Two weeks since my surgery took place and I must say that I am satisfied with where I am at, except for one thing, and that is I still don't feel any feelings of restiction or fullness. I am starting to wonder if I ever will. I might not and that means I will always have to be on my toes in regards to how much I eat. I am afraid it might possibly be a fact of life at this point. One week from now will tell the true colors because that is when I get to eat meats. Hopefully dense proteins will give me the feeling I am seeking, but if not, I have mentally started to prepare myself for what I must do for the rest of my life.
On other fronts, all my wounds are healing well. I feel like I am ready to take on the world physically. I feel like I am ready to start lifting weights again, but I must wait six weeks. I know, from my medical background, that it will take that long for my stomach muscles to heal up properly, even though I had the RNY laparoscopically. Exercise is great. I am walking 2-4 miles everyday and loving it. My joints, feet, hips, and lower back feel absolutely wonderful. I used to quiver at the mention of walking a mile, I could easily do it, but I would detest doing it. Now the miles are much easier to do both physically and mentally. Everything I have done up to this point has allowed me to hit an important weightloss mark and that is the 50# mark. To date I have lost fifty pounds and feel great about it. My next conquering mark will be the 75# pound mark. One only knows how long it will take. I would like to hit that mark before my next doctors appointment in April. Take care, Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 317
Goal Weight - 200
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Out and About on March 10, 2008 8:19 am
Yesterday was my first day of seeing so many other people (Sunday church) out and about. I was practically accosted at my church with all of the people coming up and saying things like "my goodness you have lost a lot of weight" or "you look really good now" (what the hell - was I that bad two weeks ago), "have you lost some weight". I was rather mixed up inside to tell you the truth. I tried to be humble on the inside and outside. I kept telling myself that this was only going to get worse because the weight is falling off (at least it feels like it to me) quickly. I literally have woken up everyday and a pound or two has melted away overnight. I have embraced this fact, because I do realize that this will not last forever. I am going to cherish these first few weeks with open arms. I have been very straigt forward with people when they ask about my losing weight. I don't hide the fact that I had RNY surgery. At this point in my life people can say whatever the hell they want. I don't give a shit how people perceive what I did. It is what I chose to do for ME!!!!! Anyways, I just felt like rambling a little bit. Life is good overall. By the way, I am still waiting on that restrictive feeling in my tummy. Calling Mr. Restricitve Stomach, where the Fu** are you ?????
Be good, Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 319
Goal Weight - 200
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One Week Post-Surgery Doctor's Follow-Up on March 7, 2008 1:49 pm
Well, the doctor was quite pleased with everything.  He thinks I am doing very very well being one week post-op. I really figured he would feel that way. He informed me that my concerns of not feeling full centers around the foods that I am required to eat at this juncture of healing. He really feels once I get to stage III foods = foods that have more substance/volume than what I am eating now. I actually get to start eating meat and eggs at that time. That is two weeks away until stage III, so for now, I will make do on cream soups, mashed potatoes, and oatmeal. One very nice thing for me today was that I had my staples removed, thank god . Those staples were driving me crazy everynight when I would sleep. One last note is that the doctor is very pleased with my weightloss so far (44 lbs. - overall, 13 since day of surgery). Life is good, so as they say, "On I Will Go with my new found lifestyle". Taz
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What is Up - Did I have Surgery? 7 Days Post-Op on March 6, 2008 5:27 pm
I am at a crossroads with my eating and what I can actually tolerate. I just started stage II foods - oatmeal, mashed potatoes, creamed soups. Man do these foods go down easy - no problem in terms of sticking to one quarter cup/half cup of food. Liquids go down with no problem at all. I can easily consume 80 ounces of liquid per day without a problem. These issues (I call them issues at this point - because it is too easy) are perplexing to me right now. I am following the doctors plan accordingly, but it makes me wonder and even causes me some self-doubt as to whether I am doing things right. I almost feel like it should not be this way (easy), almost making me feel guilty. I see the doctor tomorrow and it will be reassuring to hear his take on everything up to this point. I need his reassurance that he did indeed reroute my plumbing on the inside - Did the surgery take place? (This is hypothetical in my mind - I know he did everything - I have the staples to prove it). Anyways, life is otherwise good. Exercise is easy with all the walking, looking forward to lifting weights in another 5 weeks from now. I will update about the appointment tomorrow. Taz
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 323
Goal - 200
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4th Day Postop on March 4, 2008 8:17 am
Just a quick note. Life is still good. I'm still having nothing but Stage I clear liquid foods and protein drinks at this point, but life isn't bad. I will say that if it weren't for my crystal light and my magic bullet - life would suck. I make crystal light slushees every chance I get. It's a wonderful thing how you wake up and the pounds seem to melt off overnight. Just last night, I lost another 3 pounds for a total loss now of 41 pounds.
Highest Weight - 367
Preop Weight - 336
Postop Weight - 334
Current Weight - 326
Goal Weight - 200
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3 Days Post OP on March 2, 2008 7:53 pm
Things are going well today for being 3 days postop. I am continuing to take my pain meds to help me out during day/night. It does make a difference in terms of what and how much you can do. So far I have lost 4 pounds since the day of surgery. Now, this might not seem real significant, but considering many people come out of surgery having gained weight, from the IV fluids, it is a great achievement. The liquid diet has a lot to be desired, but it is okay. I only have 3 more days of putting up with that and life will get better food wise (piece of advice - the "Magic Bullet" blender is awesome - I highly suggest getting one for mixing and creating drinks). Also, I have had no problems taking my pills or medications. I must say that things are going pretty |
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I wonder how long this will keep going on? Part of me wants to take a break and maybe do this every other day, but the other part of me says keep going and see how much I can get off by doing this. I almost feel like it is a catch 22 situation. Anyway, I will have to see how this plays out in the next few days. On Monday I will be going back to work, so that may curtail some of my walking. I do plan to walk at least 2 miles everyday, but I don;t know if I can get the 4.4 miles in or not because right now I do 2.2 miles in the morning and 2.2 miles in the evening. I know that once I start work back, realistically I am just not the type of person to get up at the crack of dawn and do those 2.2 miles before I go to work. Might that change once I become more fit physically? Who knows at this point in time of my weightloss. 
I guess only time will tell. Taz