Well, I can make you all feel better because you have lost more weight than me. I had the LapBand in 2002 and lost 42# with a beginning weight of 286. After 3 years and a dilated esophagus, I had the band removed and converted to gastric bypass. I lost another 40 something pounds. I teeter between 195 and 202 since October. Exercise has been a big problem for me but I finally found something I can do and have been vigilant for the past 9 weeks. I tried to do Atkins after 7 weeks when my weight didn't change and all I ended up with was a kidney stone. I have found I have to eat at least 1,000 cal/day and not more than 1,500 to lose at all. If I drop to 800 for a few days, I actually gain weight. I guess my body thinks it is starving. Hang in there, we'll all get there one day and even if we don't, we are way better off than we were pre-op.

My husband is treating me to an afternoon at my favorite day spa. Full body massage and facial package. I can't wait. Being pampered is much better than being fed!

As horrible as it sounds... I probably will "celebrate" with dinner. Probably just my favorite restaurant or something, celebrating 1- now can eat pretty much anything, after a year of suckiness 2-I can eat whatever and not go overboard, and not feel jipped 3- I can eat healthy and actually like it. The rest of the day I'll probably just feel happy, lol.

First, I need help getting in more protein. I'm a bit lactose intolerant, and never liked cheese (I know, I'm weird) so eating cottage cheese and string cheese are out. I try to find alternate sources...like jerky, yogurt, protein bars and the like. Do you have any other ideas? I have problems getting the protein shakes to stay down... Second, is anyone considering plastic surgery? I'd love a tummy tuck and a breast lift. It seems that losing the fat has made my breasts and belly fall about 6 inches!!! I have all this extra skin. It's not for aesthetic reasons. I'm worried about rashes and back problems in the future. Thanks, L*

Going out to dinner is still a priority for me and that's what I'm going to do. I'll probably order some type of seafood like scallops since I don't get them at home since when I cook them they turn out like little rubber balls.