Life-changer!

Two years ago yesterday marks the day I took control of my eating and my life and had Lap-band weight loss surgery.  It feels like a life-time ago.  I feel like a different person.  I know I look different on the outside, which is what I originally thought mattered the most, but what I have come to appreciate is how this surgery changed me on the inside. 

Surgery does a pretty good job with the physical part of obesity.  The mental stuff is much harder.  Surgery cannot make us make good food choices or force us to exercise or slap the third cookie out of our hand.  In all the years that I struggled with food, I wanted to be thin, but I didn't want to give up binging and overeating.  I wanted my cake and to eat it too.  Literally.

Proverbial Cake

 

And then I had weight loss surgery and I realized that what I really wanted was to be healthy.  I quit beating myself up and trying to shame myself into making good choices.  Shame, as it turns out, isn't a great motivator unless you're trying to create resentment and hostility.  I also realized that I could still eat the foods I loved.  Getting and being healthy is not about deprivation.

I have learned so much in the last two years and you guys have been a huge part of my success.  You've given me a sounding board.  You've listened and supported and encouraged.  I know I wouldn't have been so successful without you and I am eternally grateful!