It's been so long...

Joanne P.
on 1/22/09 2:48 am - Provincetown, MA

...since I've connected with this wonderful family, and I'm sorry if I've caused concern with my disappearing act. Sparing you the unpleasant details, I have been navigating my way through some very scary and difficul****ers and, unfortunately, when I feel overwhelmed and stressed to the max I tend to withdraw and shut down. That and carbo-load until I've successfully reached "serotonin anesthesia!"

Fortunately, this hasn't been an issue, and the scale keeps moving in the right direction. My weight has dropped a total of 65 lbs. -- 20 lbs. lost just prior to surgery, and 45 lbs. since. My debilitating lower-back pain is gone and one of the brightest spots during this dark time was when I realized I could go grocery shopping without using an electric cart! My neighbors can now breathe easy and shop without fear of being mowed down in the cereal aisle. Also, loosing the bra strap extender was a big WOW moment for me. It's the little things...

Dealing with a crisis either brings a couple closer together, or tears them apart. Cynthia and I remain glued at the hip, and we're looking forward to our 20th anniversary on February 27th! In so many ways I am really fortunate, and having an "attitude of gratitude" helps keep things balanced. Sure, occasionally I host my own Pity Party, but only low-fat, high-protein, or sugar-free refreshments are served...

I've missed everyone here, and it looks like I have a ton of catching-up to do! I'm also looking forward to getting to know all of the new members of this wonderful group.

(deactivated member)
on 1/22/09 2:55 am - Hagerstown, MD

RNY on 05/08/08

OH JOANNE!!!!!!!! HUG HUG HUG HUG HUG!!!! I'm so glad to see you back :)

Kathy W.
on 1/22/09 3:18 am, edited 1/22/09 3:18 am - Enfield, CT

RNY on 01/15/08 with

Sorry you have had problems but glad to see you are still alive. I've missed you.

I shall now be know as Hagatha: Queen of the queens.

Baby 7-09

Xavier Elliott born 10-5-10

Just Brooke
on 1/22/09 3:32 am

Sorry to hear you are going through all that but I think I said WOW out loud when I read 20 years you two have been together!!! Be proud of that!! I hope things get better for you.

trundy
on 1/22/09 8:20 am - Newmarket, NH

RNY on 07/07/08

Nice to see ya "out and about" again........don't stay away so long next time!!

jmacon1966
on 1/22/09 8:24 am - Greensboro, NC

RNY on 10/21/08

Welcome back Joanne! Its good too see you posting again, you add so much to our family! Congratulations on your weight lose and your upcoming 20Th anniversary, that's great. Can't wait to hear more about your weight loss journey.

Hugs Jeff