i've read these very thoughtful responses several times throughout the day, and wondered what i could or would say. so please forgive me as a ramble and probably make no sense whatsoever.

one of the main reasons i decided on the surgery was so that i would lose the weight AND HAVE THE BEST CHANCE of not regaining it. as we all know so well, losing it is only the first part of the battle. war.

and after having lost and gained probably a total of more than 1000 pounds in my lifetime, i just couldn't face another cycle.

many people have not yo-yo'd. i know of several people who were overweight for just about all of their lives. they have tried diets, but didn't get very far. and those people who are just going through the motions waiting for the surgery are almost guaranteed to have less than good results, and will have a very hard time adjusting to the limitations.

most of this is about attitude. just like everything else in life, we can choose to make it work or we can choose to fight it. i chose to make it work, and the hard part is just beginning!!! but i'm here with all of you... and i'm so very very grateful for that.

thank you all.

I like your attitude!!!!!! Nothing in life worth it is easy! Hmmm, maybe I should take my own advice ;)

I love you Jiff! :)

Miss Chris

I was going to ask how your sister is doing, Julie. Thank you for posting that.

WE're glad you're here too, Jiff. *hug*

Jiff, you have got the best attitude! :cheer: You inspire people so much, and I always love reading your posts, your thoughts. You may never know how many people you touch through all of the love and support you show!!! *hugs* & blessings to you!

Thanks for the inspiration!!
 

I just wanted to say that I found this thread very impactful, particularly Jiff's generously shared thoughts and words. Jiff, your experience is so inspiring and motivating, and I'm so proud of your efforts and success! :bravo: I'm at the beginning of my journey back to healthy weight, and so your perspective and wisdom is so valuable. That can be said for everyone here, actually, and I'm very glad to have found this group. :grouphug:

apologies to you all... i haven't been checking this thread regularly.. and i've been feeling the love.

thank you thank you thank you thank you...