Thanks, I will have a look for them. I've been okay making my own stuff, but as I also cook for 2 teenage boys - its not always something I too can eat.

Sunny

We both ran away from home and came back for dinner. Both of our parents didn't notice. So traumatic when you take a stand and no one notices.

That is not good about the RH episode. What kind of sweetener were you using in the pudding, I forgot? If I have something higher on the glycemic index like fruit, I will have it with a fat (like whipped or clotted cream) to blunt the sugar high, followed by the sugar low. You would think the avocado would have done that. I was going to try your pudding, and now I'm thinking maybe not. It might be a good idea to write down the cir****tances of your RH episode to show your doc next time you see him. What can I say, I worry.

No not at all! It shows you are committed to the process and it should be in your favor

ok, so the fact that i am already seeing someone for help will not disqualify me?

In the past, I had a significant weight loss through diet (eating habits, no starvation) and regular workouts. I got a LOT of reaction from a lot of different people. Sadly, those closest to me judged and thought I was starving myself. Others, were negative saying it was temporary because that kind of loss "just can't be healthy". And my ex, would bring me chocolate bars or eat my lunches that I prepared for myself religiously. People that snobbed me before due to my size, suddenly acted like my new best friends.

I hated it and I was miserable. No one tells you what to expect when you lose a lot of weight. Sure, there are positives. But there are also things that are a bit less positive and they must be managed.

Going into this now, I am so much more aware and I'm ready. I think I know what will happen, but this will be different. Loss will be more significant, and permanent (I'll do what I can to ensure that).

I would say knowing why you are doing what you're doing, being confident in your decision and your choice will help. If you know, in your heart of hearts, why you have chosen this route, it won't matter what others will say. And they will have a lot to say. Let them have their opinions, they are entitled to them.

Also, remember those persons or groups are not as aware and knowledgeable about weight loss, surgery, expectations, and what is involved as you are or will be. It doesn't mean you have to teach them all or explain, that's on them if they want to understand or not. But, remember that once upon a time, we too thought the same as they think. Remember that those were the "excuses" that we gave ourselves also. Now, you are evolving into an even better you. Enjoy it and don't let the old "demons" drag you down.