And the hunger begins...

It's been two and a half weeks since I had surgery, and my hunger is starting to slowly come back.  I guess this is what I've seen called "Bandster Hell" in blogland.  I wouldn't quite call it hell...yet, but I can tell that with each day of healing, it's coming.  I'm trying to stay within the 1 cup guideline for each meal, but it's getting harder and harder! I'm thankful that my bariatric guide also says "or until satisfied"!  So I'll continue on and try my best until my first fill appointment on July 13th.

YAY for FISH!

Today was the magical day that I started soft foods, and it was delicious!  Here's a run-down of what I had:

• Scrambled egg and 1/2 banana
• Small skim latte
• 1/2c cottage cheese and 1/4c peaches
• 8oz skim milk
• 2.5oz fish, 1/4c cauliflower and a couple pieces of watermelon

I'm glad to be on soft foods, but I must admit I do have some anxiety about eating out or with people that don't know about my band. I'm guessing this is normal?!?!

I have a shower/bachelorette next Saturday, and I'm worried what I will have for dinner when we are all out.  Two of the ladies know about my band, but the others don't.  It's probably nothing to worry about...but it's in the back of my mind.  AND of course I can't have any alcoholic beverages..not that I really care, just have a feeling that there will be a bit of pressure from the others during the celebration.  Oh well...I WILL survive!

Anyway, I am taking it one day at a time.  The best news is that I am down about 22 lbs and feeling great!  YIPEE!

Post Op Happiness

So I had my post-op exam on Monday and all went well! Actually it went better than well...I lost 16 pounds in 16 days...UNFREAKEN believable!  I'm just hoping and praying they are never to be found again :o)  I also got sign-off to move from clear liquids to full liquids which was the greatest thing EVER.  Ya never know how much you miss chewing until it's taken away for over two weeks!

This week really has been about full liquids and pureed foods which feels like heaven compared to where I just was.  Overall, everything is going really well, and I couldn't be happier with my progress so far.  I haven't been super hungry and I'm starting to exercise (light walking for now).  I guess the biggest surprise is how well I feel at this point so soon after surgery..I feel like a million bucks!

In just a couple more days I will be moving to soft foods...YAY!  So excited to continue on in this journey!

Starting a new adventure!

It's been six days since my surgery, and I feel GREAT!  I never in my wildest bandster dreams thought that I could feel this good so soon, but I am so THANKFUL!  Today I have my post-op exam and am looking forward to getting the a-ok to move from clear liquids to full liquids.  I haven't been all that hungry after surgery, but I know it's coming soon so moving on through the phases is welcome.  I still can't believe I am banded!

I. Am. Banded.

Well it's official, I'm banded!

I went in for surgery on Monday morning and all went well with the procedure.  I stayed overnight one night because my insurance required it, and to be honest I didn't mind.  I'm now at home resting and drinking clear liquids until my post-op exam early next week.  Overall, things are going very well with the exception of a few aches around the incision areas and I'm super tired.  So far, I haven't encountered anything unexpected - I'm super thankful for that!

I'm so excited for this next chapter in my life!

It's almost here!

After eight days on the liquid diet, I think I'm really getting the hang of this.  My surgeon's office requires ten days, so I'm almost there!  Each day has become a little bit easier for me with the key to stay on top of the hunger and staying BUSY!  Last night I had a wedding and today I'm visiting a friend and her newborn - what better way to stay busy than to snuggle a beautiful baby!

Other than focusing on the diet, I've been trying to prepare for my actual surgery by following the wonderful advice of fellow bandsters.  I think I've stocked up on the necessities (clear liquids, gas*x, comfy body pillow, etc) and am almost ready.  I'm still nervous and excited all at once - just trying to stay focused on the end goal!

I'm ready!

Day 3 and counting...

Today was my third day on the liquid diet and my first day at work after officially starting.  I have to say..I was terrified to be on full liquids and going to work.  What if my stomach began growling or gurgling in a meeting?  What if I needed to use the bathroom?  What if anyone...NOTICED?  Well, all my fears were put to rest because guess what..it wasn't that bad!  Let's not go so far to say it was easy...but I realized if I stay on top of my hunger and prepare..I could do it!

So..what kind of liquids you ask?  Car*nation Essentials, coffee, tea, broth, sugar free pop*cicles, sugar free jello, gat*orade and Cry*stal Light.  Not a lot, but I guess enough.

Bring on DAY 4!

Here Goes Nothin!

Well, it's official.  I will be banded on June 12th..just ten days from now!  After months of doctor visits, tests and lots of paperwork...it's really going to happen and now it seems to be coming so quickly.  I'm ready for this new adventure.. I think :o)

So..a little about me...like so many in the land of blogs and bands, I've struggled with my weight for as long as I can remember.  I've tried countless diets and exercise programs throughout the years and have gone up and down.  Now..I'm ready for a change..bandland here I come!

Today I started my ten day liquid diet and it went ok.  I tried to stay busy which I think is the trick to getting through it.  At least I have the weekend to test it out.  We will see what tomorrow brings..wish me luck!