Carrie's Gastric Bypass Journey

Have you lost more weight?

2011-08-31T11:00:00.001-04:00

School is back in session.
Over the summer I got rid of all the big clothes I had.
Everything that looked boyish and big.
My friends helped me to realize that I don't wear size 14.
I'm actually a size 10.
It has taken some time to actually accept this fact.
But now when I put something on that is a little big
I don't want to wear it.
I'm actually ok with form fitting clothes now.

At school people keep stopping me in the hall
And saying, "Did you lose more weight?"
I'm not kidding...since Aug. 17 I think about 12 people have stopped me.
Yes.
Over the summer I had no appetite!
I just didn't eat very much
Which I know is not healthy.
I wasn'ttrying to lose more weight on purpose.
One day over the summer someone commented on my weight
And I thought...hmm...have I lost weight?
So I stepped on the scale, which I hadn't done since March.
I lost about 20 lbs. over the summer.

I am now at my lowest weight post-surgery.
148 lbs.
My doctor said I would be able to get to 150.
I passed that.
If I lose 5 more pounds
I will be half the person I was on March 20, 2006.

5 Years Already?

2011-03-30T09:35:00.005-04:00

I can't believe I totally forgot about my surgery anniversary! 5 years. Wow. I usually eat a steak on March 20th, but I forgot! I have to say that having the gastric bypass surgery Was the best decision ever. I can't imagine running around with Tristyn At almost 300 lbs. I have so much energy to play now. I can fit in small places. Tristyn and I can fit into the bathtub together. I'm excited to buy a bathing suit this year So that we can play outside in the sun! One thing I still haven't done since my surgery Is replace my complete wardrobe. I just haven't had enough money. I still have some big clothes here and there that I really need to dump. My friends Sarah and Myra dragged me into Banan Rupublic to try on dresses. They got mad at me because I would pick out size 14 clothes. They kept yelling at me to go smaller. It turns out that I actually wear a size 10. Yikes! So, my goal for this year is to go shopping. Get some new clothes. Actually look my size. And to keep my weight around 160.

4 Years

2010-03-19T14:27:00.002-04:00

It's really hard to believe that I had the surgery
Four years ago tomorrow.
My weight has been pretty consistant.
In the 150s during stressful times.
In the 160s during normal times.
Never above 170.
I feel good about myself.
I lost the one who fell in love with me pre-surgery.
But I have found a new.
I have been raising a toddler
Who runs and jumps and is full of energy.
I can't imagine chasing her at 286.7.

3 Year Anniversary

2009-03-20T10:38:00.002-04:00

I can't believe that it's been 3 years since I had the surgery.
Tammy thought it was 2.
I said, "Umm...no, it's 3. Last year I had a baby...remember?"

I haven't weighed myself in a long time.
I'm not as obsessive like that anymore.
I'm 170 today.
Not bad.
I'm ok with 170.
It's not really about the number though.
It's how you feel about yourself.
I decided that I do want to lose about 10 pounds.
I'm a little squishy on the sides
And need to stop eating some certain things.

I'm glad that I have been able to keep the weight off.
And I can't believe I had a baby and still kept the weight off.
I could not imagine being 286.7 and running around with an infant.
I would be sooo tired!
And while we're on the subject of baby...
Tristyn is only 15 pounds 12 oz. at 9 months.
I just figured that because I was a chubby kid,
Tristyn would be a chubby kid.
Nope.
She's still a little nugget.
I'm not complaining.
I could be lugging around a sack of potatoes.

So...happy fat be gone anniversary to me!

Now I still have to deal with my hernia and some skin removal.
I'll keep you posted on when I tackle all of that.

Holy Crap I Had A Baby!

2008-06-16T22:18:00.004-04:00

37 Weeks...Right before delivery.

This is during a contraction because she is pushing her butt up.

Me and Tristyn.

So beautiful. My little nugget.

Exploring the world.

Yes...I did it!
I had a baby girl!

Tristyn Grace was born on June 10, 2008 at 10:08 p.m.
She was 6 lbs. 1 oz. and 19 inches long.
She is AWESOME.
I love her sooooo much!

Now...relating this entire experience to gastric bypass.
I have to say that I don't think I could have ever done this at 286.7 lbs.
Never.
I am so glad that I lost the weight first and then accomplished this amazing adventure.
Keeping a close eye on my diet and vitamins was easy.
Eating was up and down throughout the pregnancy, but I worked it out.
Vitamins...piece of cake.
And...I think those vitamins helped me stay healthy in the winter.

My weight.
During the first two months of pregnancy I lost 10 lbs. right off the bat.
So, I started at 170 at conception and then dropped to 160.
I didn't get to weigh myself on the day I had her.
I know...duh!!!
But I did go to the doctor the day before and I was 188.
Not too bad eh?
Yesterday I weighed myself after having Tristyn.
I am 167.4.
Today in the shower...I could see my toes again.
I know...I am a totally lucky woman
And I'm sure I will get tons of comments on this weight thing.

Pushing.
I have to say Tristyn came very fast.
I checked into the hospital at 7:30 and she was out at 10:08 p.m.
I went from 5cm to 9cm in like a half hour.
There wasn't time to get an epidural.
All I wanted to do wash push.
When the doctor said go ahead...I gave it a whirl.
Wow...was I doing it WRONG that first try.
I could feel my little hernia on the left side and I stopped immediatly.
Then my friend Sarah's advice rang through my head...
"Just push like you're taking the biggest crap of your life!"
So that's what I did!
Three contractions later and she was in my arms!

All in all my pregnancy seemed very short.
For the most part it was very smooth.
No complications at all.
Exercise and never stopping helped me in the end.
I would love to have another...we'll see.
That's another chapter waiting to be written.

9 Months Pregnant

2008-05-31T21:25:00.003-04:00

Well...the little Nugget is almost here!
Only 20 something more days...give or take a few.
I have to take some more pictures again.
Sorry about the slacking.
It's been a busy couple of months.

I have finally gained some weight.
I am now 183.0.
The doctor says this is a good thing and I'm doing ok.
The baby is head down and is average to a little under weight.
Not a problem.

I am eating like a good girl.
I still get full fast, but I can tell that I'm eating more than normal.
I am taking TONS of vitamins too.
Calcium, Super B Complex, Prenatal junk, Red raspberry tea leaves and some other oil vitamin.

I can't see my feet again.
It's ok though...I know they'll come back.
It's weird to be puffy again, but it's different.
I'm only puffy in the stomach and not anywhere else really.
And..it's not like my stomach skin is all stretched to the max
Like some pregnant women.
Everything has just re-inflated.
My scar looks fine and my belly button is still in tact.

My new cravings are slushies from Speedway, Oreos and North Star Ice Cream cones.
If you click on my flickr photos on the right
You can see photos of her room and the baby shower!

29 Weeks Pregnant

2008-04-13T21:00:00.001-04:00

I finally have a stomach again!
Weighed in this morning at 170.6!

I finally gained .6 pounds.

Go me!

Next Dr. appointment is tomorrow.

New craving...red grapes from Pay-Low.

OMG they are sooo good!

I am eating all the time.

Trying to be healthy.

Hopefully she is getting everything she needs.

26 Weeks Pregnant

2008-03-24T12:53:00.002-04:00

Ok so these aren't the same shorts.
I couldn't find them.
Don't you love my three rolls?
Ugh.
Top roll: boobs.
Middle roll: guts.
Bottom roll: baby.
Weight this Sunday: 168.2.
This morning I played a poking game with her.
I poked various parts of my belly
And she poked me back wherever I poked.
It was kinda cute!
Next appointment: April 1.

2 Year Anniversary

2008-03-20T19:53:00.004-04:00

I can't believe it's been two years since my surgery.
Time flies when you're having fun!
Today I weighed 168.6.
Not too bad for 6 months pregnant.

I couldn't imagine going through pregnancy at 286.7.
I'm so glad that I lost the weight
And have the opportunity to bear a child.
I feel so lucky.

Body wise...I'm a little pudgier around the edges.
I still have my equator and I'm waiting for it to fill in.
My boobs are great!
Today my lower back is KILLING me.
I think she is sitting on my nerve down there.
My right leg has been hurting today too.
And I've found one varicos vein. Blah.
Other than that I'm feeling good.

It's A Girl!

2008-02-26T20:14:00.000-05:00

By the way!...
It's a girl!

Sometimes I forget what I post on which blog!

Response to Myri

2008-02-25T18:20:00.000-05:00

Thanks for the congrats!
And congrats on your success too!
Keep it up!

As of right now I'm not experiencing any complications.
The doctor says the baby is doing just fine.
The weight is normal and size is good.
I think I should be growing a little bit faster
But again...the doctor says I'm fine.
Today I weighed in at 167.4!

I am eating like a COW lately!
Sarah is making me eat something every class period.
I eat a regular lunch, but it takes me forever.
So...I feel like I'm eating all day long.

I am taking a lot of vitamins
And I think that is the reason I'm so healthy this winter.
I take calcium, B Complex and a prenatal vitamin.
I take them all before I go to bed
Because when I took them in the morning...they made me sick.

I go back to the doctor next Monday so I will keep everyone posted.

19 weeks

2008-02-03T20:53:00.000-05:00

19 weeks...can you believe it?

Almost half way through and I don't even look pregnant.

I'm still wearing regular clothes for pete's sake!

Today I weighed 164.8.

Before I got pregnant I was 170.

Eating is still hard and I try to eat little bits all day long.

Vitamins are good.

They have kept me well all winter.

Knock on wood.

Daring New Shirt

2008-01-01T19:31:00.000-05:00

Here's my daring top for New Years Eve.

I actually felt comfortable wearing this in public!

I even felt comfortable about my arms.

And it hides my stomach nicely.

Yesterday I was 160.2...today I was 161.0.

Must have been all that drinking I did last night!

Ha!...Just kidding...pregnant...I know!

12 weeks

2007-12-16T00:37:00.000-05:00

I am 12 weeks pregnant today.
This morning I weighed 163.0.
I thought I would take these photos against the green.
Instead of the white.
Something different.

I don't feel like I'm showing yet.
By the looks of the pictures...I think that's just my extra skin.
Not the kid yet.

It's still really hard to eat.
I'm still tired...a lot.
I need to take more naps.
Except my life doesn't allow for naps!

Ho Ho Craving

2007-12-09T18:29:00.000-05:00

I was at the grocery store this afternoon
And I was getting a little hungry.
I really wanted something sweet.
I decided on a Ho Ho.
I haven't had one in a long time.
The chocolate and white filling was totally calling me.

Now this story can be longer
Because I accidently STOLE the Ho Ho.
I feel totally bad about it.
It was hidden under my shopping list
And I didn't notice it until I was bagging my stuff.

I got to the truck and ripped it open.
Why are there 3 Ho Hos in a package?
Who really needs 3 Ho Hos at once?
One was gone before I even left the parking lot.
Tammy ate half a one when I got home.
I ate the other half.
And the last one is still on the counter.

See...now before surgery...all 3 would have been gone
Before I left the parking lot.
Now...I couldn't even look at the other two.

At least my craving was satisfied.

Weight

2007-12-04T23:38:00.000-05:00

At my lowest weight yet...163.8.
Aren't you supposed to get fatter when you're pregnant?

Top 2 Hates

2007-11-30T20:27:00.000-05:00

Here are my top two hates about gastric bypass...

#1...Maybe it's because I'm pregnant, but right now
I HATE EATING!
HATE IT!

#2...I miss my fluff.
I am always COLD!!!!
I wear layers to work
And I still have to wear my winter coat in class.
I'm going to start wearing my long underwear next week.
I can't stand it anymore.

7 Weeks Pregnant

2007-11-12T16:06:00.000-05:00

Here's the first picture of the little nugget!

I had my second doctor's appointment today.

This time with a BETTER doctor.

I am definitly 7 weeks pregnant.

Due date is July 1.

The doctor says I should only gain 15-20 lbs.

We'll see how that goes.

I am meeting with a dietician to talk about Protein.

I need to make sure I get the right nutrients to the kiddo.

I am having a little trouble with moring sickness.

I have thrown up a couple of times.

My stomach is a tad queezy in the mornings.

Food is not looking good to me right now.

I'm not sure if that is the pregnancy

Or if I have a little flu bug.

That's all I know for now!

News Flash!

2007-10-30T22:05:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 167.4 lbs.
Total Lost: Hell if I know...I lost track!

It doesn't matter anyway.....why?
Because I am going to be gaining weight again!

I'm Pregnant!!

Due at the end of June.
I'll keep you all posted.

Roofing Workout

2007-09-23T09:43:00.000-04:00

They say I need to exercise more.
So...does ripping off your own roof
And putting a new one back on
Count as exercise?

My body hurts.
I weighed myself on Thursday
And I gained about 4 pounds.
Nothing to freak out over.
But I am hoping it's muscle.
My arms and thighs feel tighter.
I wish my stomach was tighter.

I know that if I was heavier
I would have never been on that roof.
I would have fallen through the roof!
I never would have been up there every single day
For a week straight.
I would have been too tired!

Back on Schedule

2007-08-28T18:29:00.000-04:00

School has started and it's rolling.
That picture on the right needs to be fixed.

Everyone at school keeps telling me how great I look.
Today I wore Tammy's black pants.
Size 10.
Honestly, I never thought I would ever fit a 10.
Never in my wildest dreams.
But I have to say...they did make my butt look good!
Just ask my mom!
She saw it!

But whatever...

I'm not weighing myself every single day anymore.
It's just too much for me.
So, I'm weighing every Monday
And on the 20th of every month.
This morning I was 165.0.
I would like to lose 10 more pounds by Christmas.

I'm on my "school" eating schedule.
Which means eating like 5-6 times a day.
I have something little for breakfast...
Usually on my way to school
With coffee, of course.
I eat a snack during 2nd hour all the time.
Then I eat a small lunch.
I eat the rest of my lunch on my way home.
I eat dinner with the family
And then maybe a little snack before bed.
That just depends on what time we eat dinner.
Small portions all the time.
That's my eating schedule these days.

As for the exercising...
Yeah...I'll get to that one of these days.

The mental roller coaster of this journey is a blog for another day.
But it needs to be said.

Bike Ride

2007-07-23T17:09:00.000-04:00

So, today I decided to take a bike ride.

Finally...getting off my butt and actually exercising.

I thought it would be fun.

It is a beautiful day out...not too hot.

I thought to myself...hey...I have to get some postage.

Let's ride to the post office in town.

It's really not that far.

Or is it?

I started off thinking I was in a car.

Like I had to speed.

I quickly realized that I wasn't racing anyone

And if I wanted to make it home

Then I needed to pace myself.

I mean...come on...I haven't rode a bike like this since I was 11.

I decided to follow the bike trail near my house.

I've never been on it in the 4 years I've lived here.

I always wanted to know where it went.

Today I found out.

The trail ended at a main road up town.

I was so confused as to where I was though.

It was weird.

In a car it's as if you drive the same path every single day

And the car eventually drives itself.

On a bike..I had to think!

I made it to the post office in 40 minutes.

In a car it would take me about 7.

I should have checked before I left to see how many miles it was.

No...dingle head me checks when she gets home.

It was about 5 miles one way.

Who goes 10 miles on their first bike ride?

Dingle head me.

It cracks me up that last week we drove 11 hours

And made it to Virginia.

Today I rode a bike for 1 hour and 20 minutes

And I made it to town and back.

So, wait...are there any experts out there?

5 miles in 40 minutes is bad right?

I should pick up the pace a bit next time eh?

I wonder if I lost any weight?

P.S. Why does this thing put everything in one paragraph?

I always have paragraphs and it keeps lumping everything together.

I apologize for the smooshiness.

It's About Time

2007-07-14T23:58:00.000-04:00

Look who FINALLY reached the 120 lbs. down mark!

Oh yes...me.

I am now down 121.5 lbs. total.

I currently weigh 165.2 lbs.

I am 15 lbs. away from my goal weight.

Left: March 19, 2006-286.7 lbs. Right: December 8, 2006 - 185.4 lbs.

July 14, 2007 - 165.2 lbs.

Left: March 19, 2006 - 286.7 lbs. Right: December 8, 2006 - 185.4 lbs.

July 14, 2007 - 165.2 lbs.

Check out my flickr for more photos.
I can't believe it took me 7 months to hit that 120 lb. mark.
I feel like I have been stuck in the 17o's forever.
How did I do it?
I went on a road trip, didn't eat much and walked around Busch Gardens.
I would really, really, really like to tone up my arms.
Really.
Because I think my tattoo would look much hotter!

New Woman

2007-06-18T20:15:00.000-04:00

I feel like a new woman.
I have done some things lately that I never would have dreamed.
For example...
Six Flags Great America.
I have always HATED roller coasters.
HATED them!
I was so scared of heights.
And so scared that I wouldn't fit in the seat.

Yesterday I went on a roller coaster
That shoots you straight up into a curl
At 65 miles per hour
In about 5 seconds.
Then you go backwards and straight up again.

I went on the Superman ride
Where you hang down like you're flying.
I had my hands out the whole time
And sang the Superman theme song
While soaring down the hill and up through a loop.
Ashlee kept yelling at me to shut up.
It was so much fun.

I wore a tank top to the park.
With my bathing suit top underneath.

Two years ago the kids and I wanted to go on the swings.
I wanted to relive my youth of the carnival days.
Ashlee had to squish me into the swing
And it hurt because I was squeezed into it.
When the ride was over
I tried to get out and my butt got stuck in the swing.
It was so embarrassing.

Yesterday we all went on them again
And I had plenty of room to spare.
It was so much more fun this time.

While waiting in line for Superman
There was a group of boys behind us.
A larger lady was getting strapped into the ride
And the workers had to do it twice to make sure it was secure.
The boys started making fun of her
And how she couldn't fit like a glove into the seat.
I felt so bad for her.

I remember how that felt.
The embarrassment of getting kicked off because I was too big.
I gave the boys the evil eye.
I should have said something
But I restrained myself.
They were boys, about 12 and don't know any better.
I just hope they all get beer bellies one day.

Free Time!

2007-06-08T15:22:00.000-04:00

Yesterday was the last day of school.
Finally!

At the start of the school year I was down about 65 lbs.
Today I am down 110 lbs. total.
I was actually 176.6 this morning.
Eh...not bad.

My new goal this summer is to be down to 155 by the start of school.
I think I can do it if I just got my butt moving.
Now that summer is here...I SWEAR...
I am going to start exercising.

SWEAR!

Stuck

2007-06-03T16:00:00.000-04:00

Wow, it's been a while since I've written.
Nothing is new here in the weight department.
I'm actually a little stuck.
I've been stuck for about 3 months now.
At least I'm not gaining!
I'm at 175 and holding.
I'm happy.

I have a tremendous amount of energy.
The other day I did all of this AFTER I came home from school:
Cut ALL of the grass.
Scrubbed the back deck, table, chairs and junk.
Roller bladed 2 miles.

Yesterday we went to Great America in Illinois.
I fit on everything I went on!
Even the wooden roller coaster.
I better fit on that coaster in Kentucky this year.
I even went on the Superman ride.
That's the biggest roller coaster I've ever been on.
Fear of heights or fear of not fitting on the ride?
What really was my excuse for not going on them in the past?

I Own A Two Piece Bathing Suit!

2007-04-12T21:12:00.000-04:00

So, I haven't exercised in forever.
I feel like a big slug.
The only thing I've done is danced my pants off every now and then.

I haven't lost a new pound in forever.
I've been eating like crap.

Why?
Stress?
Boredom?
The Weather?

I don't know.
I need to get back on track though.

I just bought a new bathing suit last weekend.
I bought a one piece that I'm taking back...it's too tight.
I bought a TWO PIECE that I am keeping!!!!
It has a tank top and the bottom is like a skirt.
I like it because the skirt hides the gross parts.
BUT...I am probably going to wear the top tank part with my boy swim shorts.
It looks hotter.
And it's more comfortable.
But I am wearing a two piece this year!
Go me!

I have been bruising more lately.
I'm not sure why.
And it's not ALL because I'm a stumbling drunk on the weekends!
Last weekend I counted like 27 black and blue marks on my body.
It's so weird.
There must be some vitamin that I'm lacking.

Tomorrow I am taking my photo classes out to take action pictures.
Remember when I blogged about running a lap around the track?
How many pounds ago was that?
I'll have to look it up.
Ok...I looked it up...it was about 17 pounds ago.
And that was in November.
Well...I'm going to see if running the lap tomorrow is any easier.
Wish me luck.

Hike From Hell

2007-04-05T19:51:00.000-04:00

BJ and Me on a trail in the Dunes. by Leslee Milby

Current Weight: 174.0 lbs.
Total Lost: 112.7 lbs.

On Saturday morning I woke up at 8 a.m.
I picked up BJ and Leslee at their dad's
And drove to the Indiana Dunes.

BJ had a hike trip with his boy scout pack.
It was cold and raining.
We walked on the beach
And up a dune.
I was ready to be done.

The hike lasted 3 1/2 hours!
About 6 miles!
It went on FOREVER!!!
But it was fun.

How often do you really get in touch with nature?
I was tired afterwards
But I think it was mainly from the cold and rain.

Doesn't my butt look cute in this picture?

Soccer Practice

2007-03-29T22:28:00.001-04:00

Current Weight: 171.8 lbs.
Total Lost: 114.9 lbs.

On Sunday Tammy and I were informed that we were soccer coaches!
I was soooo excited.
I played soccer from first grade up until senior year of high school.
I was actually on the first high school girl's soccer team at our school.
I was a goalie and defender.
No wonder...I took up half the goal!

Our first practice was tonight.
Just an hour long.
We have 11 players...boys and girls mixed.
It was so much fun!!!!
I was running around with the kids.
I ran a lap to the tree and back and BEAT some of the kids.
Granted they are 6, 7, and 8...but come on...they should beat a 30 year old!

I taught them the proper way to pass the ball.
The proper way to do a throw in
And how to head the ball.
All in the first practice.

It felt so great to run around and be a coach and teacher.
I didn't have to worry about getting tired
Or what I looked like while running after the kids.
I wasn't even tired after the practice.

It was a great weight loss realization moment.

Happy Anniversary!

2007-03-20T21:11:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 175.0 lbs.
Total Lost: 111.4 lbs.

Happy Anniversary to me!!!
It's been one year since the surgery!
And what a crazy year it's been.
I've lost about 114 lbs. altogether
Give or take a a few pounds.

Things that are easier to do at 175 than 286.7...
1) Running...who knew I could do it?
2) Walking in between desks in my classroom...
I don't knock things off the desks now!
3) I actually FIT in the little high school desks now!
4) Cutting my toe nails...I can bend over and reach them.
5) Dancing...I love it.
6) Fitting in the bathtub with room to spare.
7) Laundry...my clothes are smaller so I can fit more in the washer!
8) Climbing stairs without losing my breath.
9) Saying no to food...it just doesn't fit.
10) Let's just say...the love life is kicking.

I am so happy that I made the decision to have the surgery.
What I look like now is what I THOUGHT I looked like back then.
It was like a reverse eating disorder.
Now, my mind matches my body.

I have changed my way of eating.
Not only do I eat less
I actually think about what's going in before I open my mouth.
I never used to do that.

What could be next?
Tummy tuck surgery?
Hernia surgery?
Having a baby?
Actually beginning to exercise on a regular basis?
How much more will I lose?

Stay tuned.

Doctor Appointment

2007-03-14T19:11:00.000-04:00

Ok...so I've been having issues with Blogger.
I wrote this whole blog about my Doctor appointment
And it deleted it!

Let's give it another whirl...

I went to see Dr. Vitello on Friday morning.
I made it downtown around 9:30 a.m.
He was surprised to see me and said I looked great!
I am a part of the 100 pound club.
Meaning...I've lost over 100 pounds.

He checked my scar and said that I have a small hernia.
Who knew?
I can't really feel it at all.
He also said that I could get skin cut off at any time.
And...he said that I am cleared to try and get pregnant.
Exciting!

I have decided to try and get pregnant.
In my case this could take some time.
But I would like to try to lose some more weight
Get pregnant
And then have skin cut off later in life.

I went to talk with Andrea, the dietician and she also thought I looked great.
She told me to monitor my protein intake.
Also, to separate my calcium supplement from my multivitamin.
She also gave me a walk to run program.
I told her about my running adventures
This should help me build up to running a mile!

Overall...great appointment.
Next appointment...September.

Happy Belated Birthday To Me!

2007-03-12T20:23:00.000-04:00

Oh my goodness!

Have I had a heck of a time logging on lately!

So sorry for the delay.

My 30th birthday was on March 4th.

Here is a picture from my birthday last year in 2006 and then the right one is from 2007. Big difference eh?

And yes...it was a Dairy Queen cake.

I ate one piece and it knocked me out.

We still have leftovers in the freezer.

I had a great birthday!

My mom got me a grill pan and money to buy new summer clothes!

I also got my first tattoo!

You'll have to check my other blog to see what it looks like.

Pounds Lost Per Month

2007-02-22T09:40:00.000-05:00

This is a bar chart showing how many pounds I've lost per month. Talk about ups and downs!

Monthly Progress

2007-02-22T09:35:00.000-05:00

This is my Excel chart of my monthly weight loss.

Evil Vending Machine

2007-02-21T12:27:00.000-05:00

It's been 11 months since my surgery.
I'm down 112 lbs.
I have one month to go to the year mark.
Do you think I can make it down to 120 lbs down by March 20?
That would be like losing 10 lbs a month.
But not really because I only lost 3 lbs. last month.
But you get my drift.

I dug the ab roller out of my mom's basement the other day.
I did 100 crunches last night with no problems.
I also lifted weights for my flabby arms.
I need to start walking/running again!
Stupid snow!

I was very proud of myself at lunch today.
I had some slices of salami...
I know...Ash Wednesday...I totally forgot. :(
I also had some grapes for a snack at 9 a.m. and an orange.
I barely even touched my Diet Dr. Pepper.
It's on my desk getting warm and flat now.

I was eyeing the vending machine.
The Ding Dongs and Cherry Pie were calling my name.
I had a nice, crisp dollar bill from Sarah for teaching her class for her yesterday.
I kept looking over there like they were going away or something.

I was a good girl.
I put the dollar under the paper clip in my calendar.
I said, "Screw you vending machine!"
And I walked out of the teacher's lounge.

Carrie - 1 Vending Machine - 0

Thank Yor For Reading

2007-02-18T19:35:00.000-05:00

I would just like to say
That I'm amazed at how many people read this blog.
I want to thank everyone for their support and comments.
They really mean a lot to me
And they encourage me to write more.

I started this blog as a way to document my changes.
To journal my adventure through gastric bypass surgery.
I didn't know that so many people would be reading to get the truth.

I've always wanted to be a writer.
Hell...I majored in journalism for Pete's sake.
But I'm not a journalistic writer.
I had to report last summer during my internship.
It was hell.

I like to write how I speak.
Whatever comes to my mind...let it out.
I like hitting enter a lot.
Big paragraphs are hard to read.

I will continue to tell the truth
About everything.
Eating, losing, clothes, mental issues...everything.

Please continue to read
And continue to comment.
I love all of my new bloggie friends!

Say No To Jalepeno Bites at 3 a.m.

2007-02-17T10:26:00.000-05:00

If you've been tracking my stats to the right
You'll notice that I gained like 3 pounds.
Tip: Don't eat jalapeno bites from Arby's at 3:30 a.m.
Probably NOT the greatest dieting habit.

But come on...
You go out and have a good time.
You need something at 3 a.m. to refuel!
You would think jalapeno bites would ruin me..but they didn't.
I survived and they were good.
I just know that I have to shovel more snow today to work it off.

We went out to the bar last night again.
I wore a white tank top with a long sleeve white shirt over it.
I had a cute hat on too.
It is so much more fun going to the bar now.
I actually had a girl drag ME out on the dance floor with her.
The jell-o shot guy actually gave ME a free one.
I even felt so confident as to take off my long sleeve shirt for a bit.
I even sang kareoke for the first time in my life and loved it.

Towards the end of the night I saw two girls off to the side.
One girl had to have easily been about 400 lbs.
Her girlfriend was probably around my starting weight.
I felt bad for the bigger one because she was sort of dancing
But she was all hot and looked tired.
I wanted to go dance with them, but I didn't want to get my butt kicked.

I just related.
I remembered what that felt like.
To be in the back corner on a stool..not dancing and not having fun.
No one ever looked at me or ever asked me to dance.
I hated dancing because I thought people were laughing at me
And I felt like I was bumping into people.
Even Tammy didn't like dancing with me back then because I made her too hot.

Next time I see those girls I'm going to dance with them.
I'm such a shy person...I just can't jump in and dance with a random person.
I ran out of time last night to dance with them
Because we closed down the bar once again!

New Look

2007-02-11T11:47:00.000-05:00

I thought I would give this page a new look.
What do you guys and girls think?
Is it too busy?
Is it hard to read?
Do you like the colors?
Any other suggestions for sidebar information?

Give me your comments!

Good-bye To Buffets

2007-02-03T00:55:00.000-05:00

Current Weight: Same as Below...but probably more now because I ate a lot for dinner and had 2 glasses of wine and Funions because it's a good combination damn it!
Total Lost: 110.5 lbs.

So that last post was a short one.
I had to gripe about the account thing.
I was just annoyed.

Tonight we went to Ponderosa for dinner.
Cheap steak and shrimp buffet place.
There was a coupon sticker on the local paper today.
I stole all of them.
Like I'm going to eat that many buffet dinners!
Who am I kidding?

Tammy and I split a steak.
It was good for the cheap place.
My first trip to the buffet consisted of:
1) 1 skinny slice of cheese pizza (didn't eat it all)
2) 6 friend shrimp (gone!)
3) 6 cold shrimp with shells (ick! gave up after one)
4) About 2 Tbs of shrimp scampi noodle crap (gone!)

My second trip to the buffet consisted of:
1) About 1/4 plate of salad with all the good stuff (only ate about half)
2) One small scoop of vanilla pudding with vanilla wafer cookies. (gone!)

And I had one glass of Dr. Pepper.
Not good to have really.
By the end of the salad, which I always eat last cuz I'm weird...
I was so full I needed a nap.
I ran to the car and hopped in the passenger seat.

I am done with buffets.
Seriously...why go there?
I can't eat jack and I'll never eat my moneys worth ever again!

So, this is my tribute to all buffet meals.
The good old Warsaw Inn.
Shakeys Pizza Parlor Buffet
The Buffet (pronounced like Jimmy Buffet) at Ball State
Ponderosa
All Chinese Buffets
Done.

Forever.

I just can't handle them anymore.
Waste of my money and time.
AND!
It plays on my emotions too much.
I see all that food and get waaaaaaay too excited.
I eat like I'm normal and then I pay later.
Not good.
So...

Good-bye Buffets...Adios.

Where's the celery?

Why?

2007-02-02T13:20:00.000-05:00

Current Weight: 176.2 lbs.
Total Lost: 110.5 lbs

This isn't about weight today.
It's about the fact that I have to have a Google account to log into this blog.
Why do I have to have 70 different accounts to publish stuff?
Flickr...Yahoo.
Blogspot...Google.
Come on!!!
I can't remember all of these usernames and passwords people!
I'm going to be 30 in a month!
I'm getting old!
I can't remember everything anymore!

Hobart Semi-Formal

2007-01-23T12:47:00.000-05:00

My Outfit
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

This is a picture of me at Hobart's semi-formal dance last Friday night. I didn't have anything nice to wear because everything nice that I own is too big for me! So, I went out to JC Penny and bought this pants suit. It's a size 14. I also had to buy new shoes because I grew out of all of those too! These shoes are a size 7. Not a 7 wide...just a plain 7. It's weird how the body shrinks in different areas.

Hey Amber!

2007-01-18T12:39:00.000-05:00

This message is to Amber.

Thanks for all of your comments!
Can you email me sometime?
I want to hear more about your story.
I try to click on your screen name to read your blog and it won't let me.

I hope to hear from you soon!

Running

2007-01-11T11:50:00.000-05:00

Current Weight: 179.4 lbs.
Total Lost: 107.3 lbs.

The alarm clock didn't even go off this morning.
I rolled over and the green numbers glowed 5:01.
I decided this was the day I was going to start running.
No special reason.
I just want to run.
Maybe it could be a future goal.
Maybe I could run a marathon one day.
Who knows?

I stretched.
I dressed.
I inserted my ear buds and pressed play.
I ran.

It was dark outside so no one could see me.
No one could make fun of me for stopping.
No one to laugh at my fat flying around.

It took me four songs.
It took about 13 minutes.
I ran one mile.
Ok....ran/walk.
But I did it.

I felt so good afterwards.
I was so impressed with how long I could actually run without stopping.
Now I only need the determination to keep going and do it again.

Bathing Beauty

2007-01-03T09:15:00.000-05:00

Current Weight: Don't know...on vacation.
Total Lost: Somewhere around 105 lbs.

Right now I'm supposed to be at school.
The day back from break...yuck.
I should be in first hour right now yelling at people to get their projects done.
But where am I instead?
Wisconsin Dells...The Glacier Canyon Lodge
It's part of the Wilderness Resort.
Huge place with 3 indoor water parks.

Now...why is this entry in my bypass blog?
I just had to share how proud of myself I am.
Last year...same time...getting up to those water slides was a chore.
I ran out of breath.
I had to take a break half way up the stairs.
My heart raced.
Getting into and out of a tube was embarrassing.

This year....
I flew up those stairs.
No breaks.
Tons of breath left.
And I ran back up there three times in a row.
It felt good.

My bathing suit hangs off of me, but where do you buy a new suit in January?
I'm wearing shorts to hide my thighs and the shorts are too big!
I have so much more confidence in myself.
I'm not embarrassed to walk around in my suit this year.
I just feel so good about myself these days.

If this was as low as I got...I'd be happy.

Jeans, Virgina and Pizza

2006-12-31T11:48:00.000-05:00

Curent Weight: 178.6 lbs.
Total Lost: 108.1 lbs.

I can't even remember the last time I was in the 170s.
Too weird to comprehend.
I just went to Old Navy the other day.
I was forced into buying a Size 12 pair of jeans.
Tammy refused to let my by bigger.
Smaller is scary.
What if I never get there?

Tammy and I took a trip to Virginia this week.
She had a school residency program to accomplish.
I was there for fun.
Almost every meal Tammy and I shared.
It really cut our food cost down.

Yesterday at the airport I got a slice of pizza.
And it was a brand new pizza out of the oven.
The lady picked the BIGGEST slice to give me.
I almost told her...no...could you give me a smaller piece?
But I didn't.
Why?
It's the fatty in me coming out.
Why would I pay $3 a slice for a small slice?
If I'm paying that much...I want a lot.
Not that I'm going to eat it all...I just want it.

So, I have this huge slice hanging out of the box cuz it's so big.
I sit down and tackle it.
Cheese is my weakness.
I ate the whole thing except the 7 inch long crust part.
It was so good.
And that was the last thing I ate for the night.

Almost half way to 120 lbs down.
Two and a half months until my year anniversary.
What weight do you think I'll be on March 20, 2007?
Let's take some wagers and have a contest!

Take a Leg!

2006-12-08T15:04:00.000-05:00

Take a Leg!
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Poor Leslee. I made her get our of bed to take this picture with me. Doesn't she look thrilled to be alive? It's just fun to think that I lost more than what she weighs.

I Can Fit In One Leg!

2006-12-08T15:01:00.000-05:00

I Can Fit In One Leg!
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

I can't believe that I can fit into one leg of these shorts. It's like a little mini skirt.

Me On Me

2006-12-08T14:57:00.000-05:00

Me On Me
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

We decided to play with Photoshop here.
We put the new me on top of the old me.
Crazy huh?

Before and After 101.3 lbs

2006-12-08T14:53:00.000-05:00

Before After 101.3 lbs Down Front View
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Here's a front view before and after.
I had to censor because the short were falling down!
You could see my undies!

101.3 lbs Down!

2006-12-08T14:49:00.000-05:00

101.3 lbs Down Side View
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Current Weight: 185.4 lbs.
Total Lost: 101.3 lbs.

Yes...I have reached the 100 lbs mark again!
I'm down to 101.3!
It sounds like a radio station.

I took pictures this morning and this is the side view.
I have a new outfit on because the other one just falls off.
I think I might use different shorts next time.
The purple ones are too long.

I really can't believe the difference.
I just don't even remember being that big!
I look at the picture on the left and I get tired.
I think...how in the heck did I even move?

I'm going to post more pictures right now.
I know you'll all enjoy them.

Fake Crystal Light

2006-12-05T16:37:00.000-05:00

Current Weight: 188.0 lbs.
Total Lost: 98.7 lbs.

I finally got the tests done on my leg.
They all came back negative.
It doesn't hurt anymore so that's good.

I'm so close to 100 pounds down.
That means new pictures!
I haven't exercised in about 3 weeks.
I know...that's bad.
I have just been really busy with other things.
I gained 3 pounds of Thanksgiving.
I lost it in about 3 days.
I was stuck at 190 for about a week and a half.
Today I dropped two pounds.

Funny eating story...
I made a breakfast quiche for dinner the other night.
And some yummy cinnamon rolls.
The quiche was great.
I allowed myself a half a cinnamon roll...too much sugar for me.
I was drinking my Crystal Light and it tasted good!
Tammy was like...that's not Crystal Light.
It was Kool-Aid!!!
I just went right then and there to lay down.
Sure enough...two minutes later my heart was racing.
Stupid fake Crystal Light!!!

My hands are getting smaller
My feet are getting smaller
And my top stomach roll is almost non-existant.
I am one happy camper in the weight department.

My Turkey Day Plate

2006-11-26T15:15:00.000-05:00

My Finished Plate
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Here's a shot of my finished Thanksgiving Day plate.
I ate a little bit of everything.
I just took a spoonfull of everything and ate a tiny bit.
Everything was delicious.
I ate slow and watched the sugars.
I was happy that I didn't get sick and was still able to eat.

Bruise From Nowhere

2006-11-26T15:12:00.000-05:00

Bruise From ???
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Current Weight: Don't know...Thanksgiving...Break From Weighing.
Total Lost: About 97 lbs. still

Last Monday I noticed this bruise on the back of my leg.
It hurt pretty good.
See that white spot in the middle?
That's where it hurts to the gentle touch.
I don't know how I got this.

I went to the doctor on Tuesday because I got worried.
I thought it could be a blood clot.
They checked my blood and said eveything looked ok.
She said to watch it and see if it changes and grows.

See the red line around it?
I drew that on Tuesday.
It has grown a little and gotten darker.

Ever since Tuesday I have noticed my right knee hurting.
It has gotten progressively worse.
Today it is a little swollen and crunches when I bend it.
Not good.
And I swear I haven't done anything to hurt my leg or knee!
I wonder if the two things are related.
I think I just might have to go back to the doctor tomorrow.
What do you think?

Running A Lap

2006-11-15T15:16:00.000-05:00

Current Weight: 189.6 lbs.
Total Lost: 97.1 lbs.

So, today in photo class we went outside.
We were practicing taking action pictures.
I was looking at the track and thought to myself,
"I wonder if I could run a whole lap without stopping?"

So, one of my junior students Christina and I took off running.
I made it 3/4 of the way around and then pooped out.

Eighth hour I decided to try it again.
This time I ran the opposite way thinking it would be shorter.
It wasn't shorter.
AND...I made it this time!!!
I was so excited!

One day I hope I can run a little longer...maybe a marathon or something.
Hey..everyone needs goals.

Size 18 Jeans!

2006-11-15T07:14:00.000-05:00

Size 18 Jeans!
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Current Weight: 189.6 lbs.
Total Lost: 97.1 lbs.

So I haven't done my laundry yet from my trip to Nashville.
I couldn't find any pants to wear this morning.
I looked at the size 18 jeans I bought a Goodwill a while ago.
I read that Rosie O'Donnell weighed 212 and wore a size 18.
I thought...hell, I'm less than that!
So, I put them on and look how they fit!
I was shocked and excited!
Tammy made me wear a shirt that I could tuck in.
I was a little self conscious about it at first.
I didn't want my roll to show.
I looked in the mirror and it looked ok!
Tammy just wanted to see my cute butt!
I totally need to go shopping again and get smaller clothes.

On another note...eating is the devil.
I hate food.
Maybe I'm just doing a bad job of eating.
I think I eat too fast because I get excited.
Then two seconds later the food looks gross and I get sick.
I am also doing bad on my sugar intake.
I need to watch this.
Every time I eat now I have to say to myself, "You hate eating."
Just to remind myself that I'm going to get sick if I don't eat right.

Nashville Here I Come

2006-11-07T13:10:00.000-05:00

Current Weight: 191.2 lbs.
Total Lost: 95.5 lbs.

Well Cardio class is over.
It was a good run and I really enjoyed it.
I would like to keep going, but I think I'm going to continue at home.
I found a fitness channel on On Demand that has cardio workouts.
I also found 4 Tae-bo tapes in my basement.

Tomorrow I head to Nashville for the national journalism convention.
It should be fun...I'm not really into going this year for some reason.
Hopefully we'll do some walking down there on Thursday.
And maybe even a little bit of line dancing.

Halloween Blast

2006-10-29T20:23:00.000-05:00

Current Weight: 197.2 lbs.
Total Lost: 89.5 lbs.

Well the Halloween party was a blast.
For the 45 people who I invited and didn't show up...you missed out!
And thank you to the 5 people who did show...I hope you had a great time.

I danced, I drank goodies, I didn't eat much.
Didn't eat much today either.

Went for a walk around the neighborhood this morning.
Went for a hike on the beach this afternoon.
Great weather, great friends, great times.

FINALLY!!...199!!!

2006-10-25T07:19:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 199.0 lbs.
Total Lost: 87.7 lbs.

I held my breath and stepped on the scale.
The third square in front of the microwave.
And yes!!!
It finally said 199!!!!

THE 1's!!!!

I haven't seen the 1's since....6th or 7th grade??
I swear.
I can't even remember.

I feel great!
My body finally let go of the 2's.
Now I just have to keep it that way.

Ok...another goal accomplished.
Lose 80 lbs for wedding....check.
Get down to 199....check.
Next goal...be able to say I have lost 100 lbs.
It's not that far off people.
I'm at 87.7 down.
And then new pictures again!

What a great day!
I am at 199.
I felt like I got a ton of sleep last night.
I'm wearing a size LARGE pants today.
It's the day before Fall Break!
Woo hoo!

A Belt!?

2006-10-23T10:26:00.001-04:00

A Belt!?
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Look at me! I'm wearing a BELT!!! I haven't worn a belt since like 1985. Seriously. This whole outfit is new from my favorite store...Goodwill. Size 18 top and size 20 pants. And yes...I am wearing makeup in this photo. I thought I would give it a whirl.

199 Lb Party

2006-10-15T10:31:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 202.4 lbs.
Total Lost: 84.3 lbs.

Tammy threw me a 199 lbs. party on Friday night!
Even though I'm not there yet...
But everyone says they have faith in me.
It was a good little party.
We had chili, broccoli cheese casserole, apple pie, veggies and dip etc.
My sister and her husband drove all the way down after work!
That was so sweet of them.

Auntie Adie...you would be proud of me!
I drank almost a whole bottle of wine myself!!

So, after a week and a half hiatus with cardio, Tammy and I went back on Wednesday.
It felt good to work out again.
I pulled my thigh muscle at Julie's wedding and didn't go to cardio for a week.
Then Angie, our massage therapist, worked it out and it was amazing!

Today I think I am going to work outside.
I haven't cut the grass in a month.
There are leaves everywhere.
This might be one of the last nice weekends to get this stuff done.

My incision finally healed up!
It's a little crusty around the edges.
BUT...I don't have to wear a panty liner on my tummy any more!!

New goal...get to 199 by the end of the week.
Or the end of the month.
But I'll probably make it somewhere in between that.

Mission Accomplished

2006-10-01T13:25:00.000-04:00

80 lbs Down
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

I made my goal of fitting into a bridesmaid dress. Next goal...199 lbs.

Before and 80 lbs Down

2006-10-01T13:24:00.000-04:00

Before and 80 lbs Down
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

I am so proud of myself.

Before and 80 lbs Down

2006-10-01T13:23:00.001-04:00

Before and 80 lbs Down
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

It feels good to have lost a small child.

Big Shorts

2006-10-01T13:23:00.000-04:00

Big Shorts
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

The shorts need to go.

The Wedding

2006-10-01T11:02:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 205.8 lbs.
Total Lost: 80.9 lbs.

Yes...I have lost 80 lbs!!!!!
I lost 2 whole pounds dancing my butt off at Julie's wedding.
The wedding was awesome.
My dress fit like a glove.
Julie looked beautiful.
Kevin looked handsome.
Mom looked stunning.

I am so happy that I started that cardio class before the wedding.
There is no way I could have squatted to fix the dress or dance like I did if I didn't prepare.
The DJ was awesome and I think he only played one song that I didn't know.
Hence...I danced all night like a mad fool and lost 2 pounds.

Today, my thighs are KILLING ME!
My feet ache even though I had gym shoes on during the entire reception.
Even my arms ache.

Well....I did it.
Julie has been bugging me for as long as I can remember about losing weight.
She always said to me, "You're gonna have to fit in a dress for my wedding."
Well...it was still a big dress, but I fit into it.
It needed to be taken in.
And even though I'm still a little puffy...I looked better than I would have at 286.7 lbs.

Julie...thank you for giving me a goal.
Thank you for helping me reach it with all of your support.
Even though I have a big head...you still were more beautiful than me.
You were georgous and radient...I was girlified and cute.
I have never seen you more happy.
Brian...you are one lucky guy...you are getting a great girl.

Congratulations Brian and Julie! Have fun in Hawaii!

Bachelorette Parties Should Be Every Night

2006-09-24T10:25:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 209.0 lbs.
Total Lost: 77.7 lbs.

I need to go to a bachelorette party every night.
Just look at my weight!
Oh did we have a good time.
Good food, good drinks and good fun.

The wedding is next Saturday.
One problem...
I have lost 3.6 lbs. since my final fitting on my dress last Tuesday.
I hope I lost it in my butt or my big toe
That way when I put the dress on it won't fall off or something.
I doubt that.

Wouldn't it be awesome if my 80 lbs down picture was in my bridesmaid dress?
I can't even begin to tell you what that dress looked like the first time I tried it on.
It wouldn't zip and you could see my stomach everywhere.
Ick.
Now...all she had to take IN was the bust area on the dress and you can't see my stomach.
I can't wait to wear it.

Julie and all the girls that were out last night celebrating Julie's last night of freedom...
I had a great time with you all.
Thanks for coming and making Julie's night special!
We had a blast!!

Realizing I'm Cute

2006-09-16T12:24:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 212.2 lbs.
Total Lost: 74.5 lbs.

Someone asked me if my inside is matching my outside.
Well....
Tammy has always told me how beautiful I am.
I always replied with, "whatever!"
She said that after surgery...one day I would just totally see a change in myself.
That day occurred on Thursday.

I was drying my hair and I came from up-side-down and looked in the mirror.
I realized I was a total hottie!
My face has changed so much!
So for the past couple of days...I have been really vain.
I have been in such a great mood lately.
I'm just excited that I'm finally looking different and feeling great.
So, yes...my self confidence is getting higher and I'm very happy!

Cardio Kicking My Butt

2006-09-14T07:14:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 211.8 lbs.
Total Lost: 74.9 lbs.

Cardio class kicked my butt last night!
I am aching this morning in places I never knew I had!
Those old ladies in that class can really move!
I keep up pretty well with them
But some of the moves on the floor I couldn't do.
Some of them required stomach muscles that I don't think were ready yet.
Or they are just still pretty weak.
So I took it at my own pace.
I did learn how to do a proper sit up.
I need to do more of those.
This cardio lady makes Joel, my chiropractor workout guy, look like a nice guy.
I do feel great after the class is over though.
I love the cool down part...it's my favorite because I know it's almost over!
If it would stop raining outside I would start walking again.
I would like to jet over to the pool after cardio too, but Tammy says cardio is enough.
Too bad...I'm going swimming too.
When did I get on this exercising kick?

The Dress Fits

2006-09-12T21:31:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 212.2 lbs.
Total Lost: 74.5 lbs.

Sooo...I went to try on the bridesmaid dress again.
It fits.
And I can breathe!
I go for the final fitting on Tuesday.
It needs to be taken in around the chest area.
I'm going to look so good!

Awww Cuties!

2006-09-12T21:23:00.000-04:00

Awww Cuties!
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Ok Ok...so some of you have been bugging me for a picture. Here's one of me and my cousin's son, Aidan. It was his first birthday this weekend. In this picture I am down 74 lbs. As soon as I hit 80 down I will take the side by side pictures again.

I can't believe how thin I look in my face. I don't think I have ever looked like this...ever. When I saw the picture I seriously didn't recognize myself.

Doctor And The Road To 199

2006-09-09T11:29:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 212.8 lbs.
Total Lost: 73.9 lbs.

I went to see Dr. Vitello yesterday.
It took me 2 hours to get there.
I hate traffic.

He said I look good.
I don't have to see him for 6 months.
March 9th...that's almost my year mark.
I wonder what I'll weigh then?

He cleaned up my incision again.
Gave me some sulfuric acid stuff to put on once a week.
It burns a little, but he said it will help it heal.
Yeah right...we'll see about that.

Tammy and I start that cardio class on Monday.
I'm not sure if we will survive or die.
I'll keep you all posted.

I'm dropping pretty steadily right now.
I think the consistant exercise is helping a lot.
The high school pool opens again for open swim at night.
Three times a week.
Tammy found out that we get in free because she is faculty.
How sweet is that?
Hopefully with swimming, cardio and walking the dog...
I'll be on a big downslide here in a couple of weeks.

Only 12.9 lbs. to go until my 199 party.
You are all invited.
I don't know what I'm going to do when I see a "1" on the scale as the first number.
I may pass out.
I did step on the scale yesterday with my friend Reina and I am FINALLY less than her.
She is now mad at me.
Hee hee hee.
Now she has to chase me!

Walking and Walking and Walking

2006-09-05T21:34:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 214.2 lbs.
Total Lost: 72.5 lbs.

Leslee's old basketball coach didn't recognize me today.
That was pretty fun!

The pants I just bought are getting bigger on me.

I've been walking a mile every single day with the dog.
He loves it.
I would like to get my butt out of bed earlier and do it in the morning too.

I need to try on my bridesmaid dress again.
Maybe this time I will be able to breathe in it!

Mike...be patient..new pictures coming soon...I'm almost at 80 down.

Purging, Drinking and School...Nice Combination!

2006-08-27T09:48:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 216.2 lbs.
Total Lost: 70.5 lbs.

Yesterday I finally went through my clothes.
I just didn't want all the big stuff in my closet anymore.
It would be too tempting to wear them just because.
Then I would look dorky.
Now I have about 20 pairs of pants to get rid of
And a ton of shirts.
Out with the old and in with the new.
God bless the GoodWill store right now.

Last night Tammy and I went out to the bar.
I haven't been out there since March.
Before I just couldn't drink and wasn't up to it.
Yesterday was great!
I did drink and got drunk way faster than normal.
I just watched myself and was careful of my pacing.
I also noticed that my "buzz" wore off quicker than normal.
We ended up at about 4 different bars when we should have stayed at the first one.
Strolled into Steak n Shake at 3:30 a.m. and shared a turkey club with Tammy.
Slid into bed at 5 a.m. and yes...I am up at 8:30 a.m. for church.

The first week of school has been good.
Other teachers that I don't even talk to have noticed my weight loss.
Everyone says I look fantastic.
I have also started walking around the outside of my school during my lunch.
It takes me about 15 minutes to get around the whole thing.
Hey...at least I'm doing a consistant exercise.
But the compliments are very helpful and boost my self esteem.
I even fit into the lecture hall desk on the first teacher day.
I was totally excited.
I have been really good with eating too.
I make sure to always pack my lunch and grab something for breakfast.

All in all...I'm doing well.

Cardio Class, Beauty and My Hip Bone

2006-08-18T20:16:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 217.6 lbs.
Total Lost: 69.1 lbs.

Well...I wanted to lose 70 lbs. before school started.
I think I just might make it.
I've been doing a lot of yard work.
We have a ton of weeds and stupid grape vines.

Tammy and I signed up for a cardio class today.
It's two times a week starting Sept. 11.
We will drop the kids off at cheer and then head to Merrillville H.S.
We will probably die of heart attacks.
I'll keep you posted on this adventure.

I was at school the other day during registration.
One of my student's mother kept telling me how beautiful I was.
It was kind of weird because I don't hear that too often from strangers.
Tammy keeps telling me that I'm getting more beautiful every day.
Isn't she sweet?
She's worried that I'm going to get hot and leave her for someone cuter than her.
She's nuts.

Oh...I found my hip bone the other day!
Who knew I had one??
I've never seen it!

New Pants and Water Slides

2006-08-09T14:59:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 221.4 lbs.
Total Lost: 65.3 lbs.

I went to TJ Max today just to browse for clothes.
I found a couple of pairs of black pants and decided to try them on.
They were a size 24.
The were TOO BIG!!!!
I was so excited!!
I found a size 22 pair that fit great and I bought them!!
And the best part....they were only $13.
Happy day all around!

Yesterday we went up to Six Flags Great America.
I had a blast!
I went on the Demon, the Whizzer, Scrambler, Log Ride.
The bar on the Scrambler even fit down this time!
Totally exciting.
BJ and I went down three waterslides and had so much fun.
I climbed up all the stairs to get to the slides and I wasn't out of breath!!

School starts again on the 22nd.
I want to get down 70 lbs before then.
75 lbs. down would be quite awesome.
We'll see.

Incision...stilllllllllll leaking!

60 Pounds Down!

2006-08-03T09:42:00.000-04:00

60 Pounds Down!
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Here's my front view after the 60 lb drop. I think I'm going to wear a different outfit during the next set of pictures. Those shorts fall off with just a little wiggle. I can't wear them out in public anymore! Check out my arms and ankles. You can even tell I have boobs!

60 Pounds Down!

2006-08-03T09:41:00.000-04:00

60 Pounds Down!
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Here's my side view after losing 60 lbs. Sorry it took so long to get these pictures up. I'm starting to look sexy!

Heat, Doctor and Food

2006-08-03T09:14:00.000-04:00

Curret Weight: 223.0 lbs.
Total Lost: 63.7 lbs.

I can't believe the summer is almost over!
Where did it go?

Yesterday I decided that there wasn't much time left.
SO...I got outside and trimmed my bushes.
Ok...so...it was 97 degrees out, which felt like 110.
Pretty stupid thing to do in that heat.
I like the heat.
I moved slow and drank lots of water.
I even cut my front lawn.
It was worth it!
I lost 2 lbs!

Went to my regular doctor on Tuesday for a physical.
Everything looks good.
Having some blood work done just to make sure.
He's pretty impressed with my progress and says I look good.

I still have no appetite.
I very rarely get hungry...ever.
I never crave anything anymore.
It's really weird because right now I'm hooked on the Food Network.
I find cool stuff to try and make, but then my craving just passes.
I'm queen of the grill here and every time I grill something it looks great!
I sit down to eat it with the family and I get sick to my stomach without taking a bite!
I hope this passes.

Roller Coaster Blues

2006-07-23T17:03:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: Don't know...didn't weigh this morning.
Total Lost: Hopefully still around 60 lbs.

We went to Kentucky Kingdom this weekend.
Fun place...4 hours away...nice little weekend.

Here's a back story.
Went to Kentucky Kingdom two years ago.
I hate roller coasters.
The only one I wanted to go on was wooden and didn't go up-side-down.
I got in and didn't fit.
I sqeezed, but no.
I got booted off because I was too fat.
I cried.
BJ cried.
It was sad and embarrassing.

So, I went to conquer that damn roller coaster again.
I mean...hey....I've lost 60 lbs. for pete's sake!
I should be able to fit!
Nope.
I did fit in the seat this time.
Slid in real nice.
The damn seat belt was so freaking short!
I couldn't get it fastened.
This time I wasn't the only one booted off.
There were two other big girls that couldn't ride too.
At least I didn't cry this time.
I was happy that I fit in the seat.
That ride must be small or something.
Whatever...I still look hot.

My incision hole is the size of a pinhole now.
Still leaking though!
I have been wearing a panty liner on my belly for 4 months now.
4 months!!!
Just imagine how sexy that is.

Almost down 60 lbs!

2006-07-18T16:24:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 227.6 lbs.
Total Lost: 59.1 lbs.

I'm almost at 60 lbs down!
Time for new pictures.
I just can't seem to find that green shirt though.
Let me tell you...those shorts...they are ready to fall off!
Stay tuned for new pictures within the next couple of days!

New Measurements

2006-07-11T19:51:00.000-04:00

Ok, ok...so I decided to measure myself today.
I was feeling gutsy.
The first number is the number I posted on March 19, 2006.
That was the day before my surgery.
The second number is what it said today.
Almost four months later.
Check this out...

Weight - 285 lbs./230.8 lbs.
Total Lost - 0 lbs./55.9 lbs.
Bust - 52 in/47 in
Waist - 53 in/46 in
Hips - non-existant/56 in (ok...sit ups here we come)
Right Arm Around - 16 in/14 in
Head - 22 in/Still 22 in
Shirt Size - 26 or 28 or 3X/22 or 24 or 1X
Pant Size - 28/22 or 24

Wow is all I have to say!
I'm pretty proud of myself.

So, if you read my other blog you know that I spent the weekend with P!nk.
Yes...jumping, screaming, sweating in the sun and crammed up against a stage.
All that screaming and jumping...I found a pain in my left side.
I hope it's not a hernia coming on.
I can kind of feel something in there.
I need to take it easy.
Hernia = free tummy tuck BUT...
I'm not ready for that just yet. Hee hee.

I went swimming again last night and lost 2 more pounds!
Woo hoo me!
Stomach still has a tiny hole that is still leaking steadily.
What a pain.

Alert...if anyone has any extra money that they don't know what to do with...
Toss it this way so I can buy some clothes that fit!
You should see the shorts I usually wear in my 20 lbs photos...
The are HUGE on me!
A couple more pounds to go and you'll see them again.
I can't wait!

Bikini Here I Come

2006-07-06T09:25:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 233.2 lbs
Total Lost: 53.5 lbs.

I've finally lost some weight!
Yesterday evening we went to family swim at the high school.
I did some laps and played around with the kids.
I guess it paid off!

I actually bought a bathing suit last year that was a size 22.
I couldn't squeeze into it last year.
This year...fits like a charm.
Kind of exciting.
Pretty soon I'll be in a bikini...HA HA HA!!

Happy 4th of July!

2006-07-04T09:45:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 236.0 lbs.
Total Lost: 50.7 lbs.

Happy 4th of July everyone!
Not much new here.
I haven't lost much in the past couple of weeks.
It's kind of sad.
I haven't really been exercising like I should.
I am hoping that my hole will completely close up this week.
It's much better and I really want to swim.

I am going to walk in the 4th of July parade this morning.
That will be some exercise.
The route is like 4 miles around a lake.

I have been busy working for our local newspaper.
I have been taking photos and writing stories.
That's all for now!

Bored!

2006-06-20T23:16:00.000-04:00

I was bored...
I changed to green...
No apparant reason.
Just bored.

No weight loss or gain info in this one.
Just a jumbled up mess of hellos!
I did have a little Mt. Dew tonight.
I thought my heart was going to jump out of my chest!

Here's a shout out to my sistA...Julie.
I WILL LOOK HOT FOR YOUR WEDDING!!
I SWEAR!!!

And to the other "wedding ladies" who I just recently found out read this blog...
Hi ladies!!!

And to my cousin Coreen...my addicted reader.
Thanks for all the support!!

Ok...good night!

Three Months Down...50 lbs. Gone!

2006-06-20T08:40:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 236.8 lbs.
Total Lost: 49.9 lbs.

It's been three months since my surgery.
My scar is STILL not healed.
But I have lost 50 lbs.

I'm feeling great and looking great.
I don't have any pants that fit me.
My XL shirts that I just bought are getting bigger.
Eating is still a hit or miss thing.
But I am doing great!

XL Shirt

2006-06-13T16:56:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 239.8 lbs.
Total Lost: Same As Yesterday

FYI...
I fit into an XL shirt today.
XL!!!!
I haven't fit into an XL since like 4th grade!
That's exaggerating a bit, but you get the point.

I've Almost Lost A BJ

2006-06-12T09:35:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 239.8 lbs.
Total Lost: 46.9 lbs.

I can't believe I've almost lost 50 lbs already.
That is just crazy to me.
I've almost lost an entire BJ.

My stomach hole is now the size of a quarter.
I hope it heals soon.
I want to go swimming!
Patience I guess.

Sorry this was a short one.
I just wanted to post a little something to hold Coreen over!
Hi Coreen, my loyal reader!

Doctor Appointment Update

2006-06-09T15:39:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 241.6 lbs.
Total Lost: 45.1 lbs.

Drove up to the doctor today.
Took me about 2 hours to get there.
Stupid traffic.

I hate his scale.
It always says about 3 lbs. heavier than my scale.
Grrr.

He looked at my scar and said it looked normal.
He cut off the alien head looking thing.
Then put some stuff on it to burn the bad stuff away.

Did I mention that I found some thread yesterday?
Yes...a long piece of thread that came out one hole and attached to another.
I thought it was a piece of hair so I pulled it.
Then I realized it was a stitch!!
He cut that off too.
Bandaged me up and sent me on my way.
Said I was doing great.

I go back to see him on Sept. 8.
He said I could be down about 80-100 lbs. by then.
Imagine that.

Tried On The Bridesmaid Dress

2006-06-06T22:03:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 242.2 lbs.
Total Lost: 44.5 lbs.

Hello everyone!
I haven't written in a long time.
Nothing is too new around here.
I'm still losing slowly, but surely.
I've been whipping out clothes from the underground.
AND they FIT!!!!
That's really exciting.

I'm heading to the doctor on Friday morning.
My scar is looking a little better.
Still gross, but better.
Eating is going well.

I lost some good poundage this weekend.
One day I was out cutting grass and working in the yard so that was good.
On Saturday we danced all night at a retirement party...again...good exercise.

The last day of school was today!
Thank the goddess!
I am cleaning out my little corner and I am out of there.
I am hoping to get on a regular walking or bike riding schedule.

OH! I went in and tried on my bridesmaid dress the other day.
She was able to clip the top of it but it didn't zip yet.
That's ok though...I wasn't disappointed.
I have a couple of months and a bunch of pounds to go.

Ok...until next time...

Finally Past the 40 lb Mark!

2006-05-28T13:08:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 244.6
Total Lost: 42.1 lbs.

Yesterday we a rough day.
I got sick about three times.
That was every time I ate!
Blah...I have to get back to eating good things.

It's rough because everyone around can eat what they want.
I can now eat anything I want too...consistency wise.
The thing is...some foods just don't agree.
Or sometimes I just get too excited about eating
And then I eat too fast.
Not smart.

The two things I haven't had are bread and pop.
I have had a couple of sips of pop...but not a whole can or anything like that.
Pita bread and tortillas are ok with me.
Buns, rolls and regular bread gets stuck.

I think we are getting the bikes out of the shed today.

Before and After Front View

2006-05-26T22:57:00.000-04:00

Before and After Front View
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Current Weight: 246.8 lbs.
Total Lost: 39.9 lbs.

I look like a butterball on the left!!! I have now found dimples on my face that I never knew I had. All of my pants/shorts and bras are sagging! It was really cool to Photoshop these two pictures together. It really shows a difference! Looking at them gives me encouragment to keep going.

Bad note...my nurse friend says my scar is infected. I better get that checked out.

Good note...I can eat a lot of different stuff now. Bread is still a no no because it gets stuck. Sugar is also evil.

Before and After Side View

2006-05-26T22:53:00.000-04:00

Before and After Side View
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Here it is everyone! Ok ok...so I'm only 39.9 pounds lighter...but close enough to 40!! Here is a before and after picture. The one of me on the left is from March, before my surgery. I took the picture on the right tonight!

Almost Down 40 lbs!

2006-05-22T07:17:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 247.2 lbs.
Total Lost: 39.5 lbs.

I'm almost at 40 lbs!
20 lbs a month isn't so bad.
I'm beginning to notice a difference in my face.
I can actually see some dimples that I never saw before.
And my clothes are all getting big for me...
Including my shoes!
Keep in mind I haven't even started exercising yet.
Soon I will take my 20 lb picture in the green shirt!

Prom 2006

2006-05-15T17:43:00.000-04:00

Tammy and Me
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Here is a picture of Tammy and Me at Lake Central's prom this past Friday. Ok...Tammy looks awesome. Now on to me....yes...the dress is a size 22...totally not what I normally wear. My arms look huge in this picture so I have to work on those. Other than that...I look pretty good.

Prom and Mother's Day

2006-05-15T10:20:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 249.8 lbs.
Total Lost: 36.9 lbs.

I'm almost at 40 lbs down!!
Almost time for new picture to compare!

Well, this Friday was Prom.
I squeezed into a size 22 dress that Tammy picked up for me.
I will have pictures of it as soon as my camera battery charges.
I was pretty excited to actually get that thing zipped!
My bridesmaid dress for my sister's wedding is actually a size 22.
So, hopefully by wedding time we'll be taking IN the dress!

We had a good time at Prom.
BJ and Leslee came with and they enjoyed seeing everyone dressed up.
BJ also had a good time cutting a rug on the dance floor.

We went to Olive Garden on Saturday with my mom for Mother's Day.
We had to wait an hour for a table but it went by fast.
I had some salad and two bites of a breadstick.
I shared my mom's chicken and basil and tomato dinner with her.
It was really tasty, but I didn't eat a lot of it.

If I lose 3 more pounds by Saturday that means I have lost 20 lbs a month.

The "Lost My Mind" Dinner

2006-05-11T21:54:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 252.0 lbs.
Total Lost: 34.5 lbs.

Things are going pretty good.
I've switched to a regular women's vitamin instead of the Flinstones.
My scar is now bubbling up AGAIN at the bottom.
Annoying as all heck.
Wearing a pad on your stomach does nothing for your self esteem.
I am not paying any more co-pays to have them drain it.
I'll just do it myself. *gag!*

Take a guess at what I ate for dinner last night?
Yes...I think I might have lost my mind last night.
I had a slice of pepperoni stuffed crust pizza from Pizza Hut.
I tore off most of the pepperoni and didn't eat half of it.
I had 1/3 of a breadstick and then it started sticking.
I had one little cinnamin stick WITH frosting.
And a half a glass of Pepsi.
WHAT IN THE HELL WAS I THINKING????
I prepared myself to barf 30 minutes after that feast of grease.
Surprisingly I didn't get sick!
But...I realized afterwards that...
A) It really didn't taste that great.
B) Pop burns as it goes down now.
C) Grease is gross.
D) Bread is sticky in my throat.
AND
E) How in the heck did I used to eat so much before the surgery???

So, I don't think I will be eating like that again any time soon.

P.S. I think I'm having a bad spelling day. Sorry!

Someone Didn't Recognize Me!

2006-05-04T19:44:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 255.0
Total Lost: 32.6 lbs.

I'm going to see Dr. Vitello again tomorrow.
Just a check up.
Hopefully he'll have good things to say.

Yesterday we had our Journalism Banquet.
Nice buffet dinner.
Hell for me.
But I ate a little of a lot of things so it was good.
I didn't go overboard because I couldn't get sick because I was the emcee!

The owner of the hall where we have it didn't recognize me.
It was so great!
He was like...you're not Wady!
He said...you have lost a significant amount of weight then!
I was so excited!
Hopefully by the next banquet I will look totally hot.

I've been eating pretty good lately.
A lot of food just doesn't appeal to me anymore.
I will eat whatever Tammy makes but sometimes it is just gross going down.
I hate eating these days.
All my tastes are changing.

The only things that I still crave and love....pop and pizza.
Well...I crave think crust cheese pizza.
I can only eat like one little square of it but that's good enough for me.
Pop...I have only taken a couple of sips of Tammy's pop very seldomly.
Today it burned going down...too fizzy.
So...I think it's just the look of it that I crave and the coldness.
I have a weird obsession with water with A LOT of ice now.
No ice...can't drink it.
It has to be COLD.

Well....that's about all that's new with me.
My clothes are getting bigger on me!
And we bought shoes today for prom and my feet got smaller!
Weird.

Almost Down 30 Pounds!

2006-04-25T06:58:00.000-04:00

Current Weight: 257.2 lbs.
Total Lost: 29.5 lbs.

I'm almost at 30 lbs!
And it's only been a little over a month!
My scar is looking a little better so I didn't go to the doctor yesterday.
It's still leaking, but the bubble isn't as bad.
Yesterday I felt queezy all day.
Not sure why.
I had Slim Fast for breakfast and a burned Lean Cuisine for lunch.
Lemon Rice soup for dinner.
I think I am going to try Rice Crispies for breakfast today.
We'll see how that goes.

10.5 more pounds and I'm in the green shirt again to compare!

I Made It!

2006-04-23T22:55:00.000-04:00

Me at the Top
Originally uploaded by WadyPhoto.

Here I am at the top of Lombard Street. Actually, I climbed up the curvy part too. I started waaaay down there at the bottom. I am a champion!! Look how good I look in that shirt! I rock!

The San Francisco Workout

2006-04-23T22:34:00.000-04:00

Well, I just got back from my little trip to San Francisco.
I had a great time there!
What a fun city!
Way too many hills though.

I have no idea what I weigh because I haven't stepped on a scale yet.
Not until tomorrow morning.

But let me tell you...
We walked soooo much this weekend.
On Friday we walked all over Pier 39 and Fisherman's Warf.
Then we walked all the way through China Town.
THEN we walked from China Town to Lombard Street.
Now Lombard Street is the crookedest street in the world.
And it's at the top of a freaking hill the size of Mt. Everest!!
So, Sarah (my co-worker, buddy pal, snuggler, and side dish) made me go up it!
I thought I was going to die!!!
But I really wanted to see the crooked street!!!
So I huffed and I puffed and I made it up there.
A nice young man even offered to hold my hand while I struggled up the hill.
How nice.

Thank god there was a trolly at the top of the hill to take us back home.
Eating out there....man...there were so many cute eating places!
Do you know how hard that was???
But I kept my cool and did well.
So I think that should pay off on the scale tomorrow.
The picture below is of an outfit that never buttoned!
The picture above is a shirt and little jacket that I haven't worn since the summer of 2004.
And it was tight back then!

On a downer note....
My bubble on my scar is getting worse.
I am going to the doctor tomorrow afternoon to see if he can drain it.
I can't do that myself or I may puke.
Wish me luck on that.