and I did not need a seatbelt extender!
I now understand what people (after they've lost weight) mean when they say it takes longer for the mind to catch up with the body. For example, the last time I flew before today, I weighed close to 300 pounds and wore roughly size 26 pants, and was used to using a seatbelt extender (I used to ask the flight attendant for it as I boarded the plane). The past few weeks I would think about this upcoming flight and I could not wrap my head around the fact that I wouldn't need one this time. I told everyone I would probably ask for an extender as I boarded, because instinct would kick in. It would probably feel automatic, even now that I'm under 200 pounds and wear size 13 pants. Well, I resisted that impulse and was pleased to find it was easier to get down the aisle of the small plane (a 37-seat commuter), and I was happy to find that the seatbelt not only fit, but I had to pull the belt to cinch it and there was about 5" left! And when it came time for snack service, I was able to open up the tray, I could never get it open all the way because my stomach was in the way, I had to hold onto whatever I was eating. And this time there was a gap between the tray and my stomach!
I was so happy I just had to share! I know from experience what an ordeal plane travel could be when you're overweight. It was like a new experience for me, not feeling squished in and taking up more than my space and feeling uncomfortable.


- I know EXACTLY how you feel. What a wonderful victory for you! Keep doing what you are doing - it is working 
