Happy Bandiversary to Me!!

Wow. It's hard to believe it, but it's already been exactly one year since I was banded. My life has changed quite a lot for the better during that time. I can't believe how quickly this year has flown by.

I hope that this will make sense. . . This one-year period was always going to be over today, but by being banded at the start of it, I was able to use the time to do a lot of things to make my life better. I'm going to make a list of all the changes that immediately come to mind as a result. Here goes:

1. I can run (no compartmental syndrome) -- woo hoo!

2. I am in the best shape of my life.

3. I feel good about my weight, my body, and about what I am doing for my overall physical fitness.

4. I enjoy shopping again.

5. Cute boys are taking notice. . .

6. My feet feel fine when I wear heels all day

7. I want to see old friends and reconnect with people, rather than hide because I don't want them to see how much weight I've gained.

8. I feel empowered by all I've been able to accomplish.

9. I am only 12 pounds from goal (the possibility of this was almost unimaginable to me a year ago, but it is true nonetheless!!)

10. Through this blog and lapbandtalk.com, I've found an incredible network of support and friendship that I never expected to find.

11. My hosiery no longer makes that "whistle" noise when I walk down the hall. . .

12. I am excited about going to big events. . weddings, galas, etc. -- because I'm excited about getting dressed up and looking nice!

I have a few other observations to share that are kind of weird to me. . .
* Sometimes I find myself thinking that 60 lbs is not that much weight, and wondering why I didn't just take it off on my own. . . even though I know FULLY (!) that this is crazy and that I never would have done this without the band.

* Because I was at or near my current size for my 20s and very early 30s, I find myself forgetting just how big I'd let myself get during the last several years. (Thank God I kept some clothes to keep that in perspective.)

* I feel my port more lately, which I don't love (but it's no biggie). I may have banged into it in Boot Camp and bruised the muscle underneath -- so I'm more aware of it lately, whereas before I used to forget about it (no worries. . will ask my doctor about it in my upcoming visit).

So, those are my thoughts today. I want to thank everyone who has been a part of this so far, and those who will join in later on! Without your support and encouragement, I would not have done so well or enjoyed this so much. Am sending lots of love and best wishes to you all.

Catherine
(1 Year Band Veteran!)