I'm glad you liked the self-esteem boosters. I thought they were helpful! Thanks for the compliments. I happen to think you're beautiful inside and out as well! You're doing so well on the pouch test. I'm very proud of you! I hope you enjoyed Charlie and am glad the pugs were saved. I can't wait to see what your results are. Hugs, Stephanie

Stephanie, I third what the others have said. You are a wonderful person. You are always upbeat and you cheer us on. Your exercise routine is certainly motivational to me. Thank you for this tips on self esteem. I too suffer from low self esteem. I have tried to come out of my shell a bit and maybe I have. I still don't see myself as a skinnier person. With that said I almost cried when I tried on a shirt the other day that was a medium and it fit perfectly. I have been wearing size medium for several months, but it still just really amazes me. I need to accept me for what I am. On another note, my wife was looking at my avatar the other day and said I don't look anything like that any more. I don't know. In my mind that is still how I look. I had to get a new driver's license photo this month because I was afraid they would'nt let me on an airplane. I don't feel like I look like the person on my new driver's license photo (does anyone). I think I look garri****'s not what I see in my minds eye of me at all. I guess I will have to get used to it. Enough rambling. Have a great day. Rick

I second what Barbara said! you're a wonderful person inside and out Stephanie and no matter if you get to your goal or remain where you are you'll still be that wonderful person! Feel great about your accomplishments and know how many years you've added on to your life by losing the amazing amount of weight you have! you're dedicated to your exercise, more than I could ever be. reading about your spinning or weight training or cardio work outs inspire me! I enjoy working out at times, but my energy level never "came out of the wls closet" like most say it happened to them so I still lack energy most days (maybe thats where the remaining of my energy goes, reading your workouts poop me out lol). Its been great getting to know you and actually getting together a few times (which we really need to do again), remind yourself of your progress and from ear to ear!

thanks for another great laugh!

your gym habits inspire me! for your accomplishments girl!! My goal every week seems to stay the same.. stop making baked goods. they're not unhealthy baked goods (ie. last weeks oatmeal bread made with steel cut oats and a scoop of protein), just too many added carbs in a day.. maybe its compensation for S.A.D. (seasonal affective disorder), maybe its because carbs feel good in the pouch, not sure, but there are better options so I'll keep working at that! What a great list of motivators! I look back at pre-op pictures from time to time just to remember where I was at one point in my life, look through post-op pics and see what this road has been. Its not only motivational to keep going, but it reminds me eat right!