The Weight of the Decision: Why I'm Choosing the Tool Over the TrendFor a long time, I felt like I was stuck in a cycle of trying, failing, and starting over. But when you're carrying over 400 pounds, the stakes change. You aren't just looking to "fit into old jeans" anymore; you're looking for a way to save your own life.

Lately, the conversation around weight loss has been dominated by two paths: Bariatric Surgery and Medical Weight Loss (like those once-a-week shots everyone is talking about). I've spent a lot of time on the fence, but I've finally realized where I stand.

Why Medication Wasn't the Whole Answer

Don't get me wrong--medical weight loss is a miracle for many. But for me, it felt like a temporary bridge. When you have a significant amount of weight to lose, the idea of being "on the fence" usually comes down to a fear of the unknown. Will the meds work forever? What happens if the insurance stops covering them?

I realized I didn't want to just manage the symptoms of my weight; I wanted to fundamentally change the way my body operates.

Surgery: The Tool, Not the Easy Out

The phrase I keep coming back to is "I need a tool." At 400+ lbs, my biology is working against me. My hunger hormones are loud, and my metabolism feels like it's stuck in concrete. I view bariatric surgery as a physical reset. It's not a "shortcut"--anyone who has seen the recovery and the lifestyle prep knows that--but it is a permanent architectural change to my digestive system.

It's the hammer that helps me build the house. I still have to swing it, but at least now I have the right equipment for the job.

Looking Forward

Choosing surgery is about choosing a definitive "Day One." It's about moving past the indecision and committing to a path that offers the most aggressive intervention for my health. I'm nervous, sure, but for the first time in a long time, I'm also hopeful

Happy Friday Gang!! So not looking forward to the weekend we are supposed to get anywhere from 9inches to 24inches. Irvin and I have several things we need to get done before the weather turns this weekend. I already took a small turkey and leg of lamb out to cook; Irvin is going to get the gas jugs filled and I'm going to grab a bale of straw for the outside animal coops just to make sure they are warm enough.

I'm helping out today at work with Winter weather prep. I have a few errands to do and will go fill up the two plow trucks with gas. Other than that, it's all just going to be a waiting game to see what we really get for snow.

QOTD: Do you take breaks to de-stress from work or looking at screens? At work I do take 10 minutes each hour and walk around just to see what's going on and it keeps me from staring at the computer all day.

B: coffee with collagen and breakfast wrap

L: leftover shrimp lo mein

D: baked stuffed sole

I don't think we are going to the Y tonight just because we have stuff to do to get ready for the weekend. We really don't want to go out tomorrow since it is going to be negative temps with the windchill like -20.

Have a great Friday and weekend. For those who will be affected by the weather stay safe. Remember to get batteries for flashlights. Make sure cell phones are charged, fill your bathtub with water, get cases of water to drink in case you lose power. I know it's a cliche but get your milk and bread.

Hi Carol. I use Wholesome Wellness multi collagen protein it is unflavored and it mixes well with my coffee in the morning.

Life Update: Boxes, Kids, and a Big Journey Ahead hiHi everyone!

I know I've been a bit quiet on here lately, and I wanted to check in and share why. To be honest, "busy" doesn't even begin to cover it! I have been completely buried under moving boxes, trying to get settled into a new space, all while keeping up with my kids as a single mom.

On top of the move, I've been on a mission to find the right surgeon for weight loss surgery. It's a huge step, and I know that at my current weight, I need to take action as soon as possible for my health and for my family.

Even though life feels like a whirlwind right now, I'm not letting my nutrition slide. I've been leaning into some healthy Italian-inspired recipes that are easy to prep even in a kitchen full of boxes!