Long timer checking in

It has been ages since I have come to the boards, I am checking in as my six year anniversary is coming up on the 30th.  I can't believe it has been that long, yet there are times it feels like yesterday.  I was thinking back over the last six years and there are many emotions attached to this change in my weight, some not so good but mostly this has been the best decision I have ever made in my life.  I have my health, I like myself, I have met some wonderful people and been able to accomplish things I never would have at 325 pounds.
There are times I actually forget how heavy I was but only for a few minutes.  I carry my before picture with me always, the minute I forget the fear of going back there comes forward and reminds me.  I have gained some of my 145 pounds back, I fight with the same 20 pounds over and over but the difference is I fight those 20 pounds because I know 20 can become 50 can become 100 and I will not allow myself to do that ever again.
I am so glad this forum is alive and well, it saved my life six years ago, the people loved me through my decision and healing.  I was loved through all the emotional issues that reared their ugly heads, I was encouraged and applauded.  What a blessing OH was for me.  Should I be here more often, yes but I don't make promises unless I am sure I can keep them so time will tell.  Sometimes people are put in our lives for a season and that may be what happens to some of us "oldies"  a new season dawns and we are off on new adventures.  But I don't ever want to forget the love that was given me along my journey.
For those considering the surgery, it is an individual choice.  Think about it long and hard, your life will change.  Find a support group and go to it, this forum is wonderful but the face to face interactions are important too.  Listen to those that have gone before you, their stories may help you navigate your way through your changes.
I wish you all health, happiness and lots of laughter.
Would I do it again?  In a heartbeat.
Thanks for being here and best of luck to you where ever you are on your journey.
Mary Margaret

Dear Mary Margaret,

Congratulations on six years!  I also keep my before picture under my computer monitor at work so that I am not tempted to slide back into old bad habits.  I agree with you wholeheartedly that the OH boards and the people here have been wonderful.  I hope that we will see you here again soon.

Thank you for your words of encouragement to us all!

~Naomi

Thanks for the good wishes. Those before pictures are powerful motivation tools.

Thanks Darlene, yours was one journey I watched carefully when I was a newbie, you always had lots of information at your fingertips.

Congrats on your 6  years coming up. It's a hard journey and glad to see your still in there with us....

Thanks Terri, good to see your happy face, hope all is well with you. 

Congratulations on your 6 year anniversary coming up Mary Margaret. It's nice to have "oldies" posting. This surgery has saved many lives. Thanks for sharing your journey with all of us.

Missy MaryMargaret....you are the best and I am so happy that you had this surgery because I would never have met you and you would not have become such an important part of my life!

Many of you do not know this who might read this....but MM came to the hospital when I was going through reconstructive surgery and would just sit there quietly knowing I was not up to being social because I was so drugged...and hurting and she would pray quietly to help me heal and would give Jeff breaks.

MM is a very caring loving person who deserves so much in life! Her health was just for starters!

MM I am proud to call you my friend and I wish you all the kudo's of being a long term successful wls person!!!

Love you a whole bunch!!!! 

I hope you do start coming back around these necks of the woods! 

Hi my friend,
I knew you would be suprised to see my face on the board.  I love that this surgery brought us together and while going through the journey became such dear friends.  We have seen each other through lots of things, good and bad, joys and sorrows..........what a blessing this whole journey has and continues to be.  Thanks for all you do for this community, I know how dear it is to you.
with lots of love,
MM

OMG Mary I was just thinking about you.  Congrats, 6 years!

Shall we celebrate by going to support group Thursday?

Love you bunches

XOXOXO

Sheryl