02/26/2009 Update

Weight: 204.2
BMI: 35.1
Upper Arm: 12"
Breast: 43 1/4"
Chest: 39 1/2"
Hips: 53 1/2"
Thigh: 22.5"

Ok - so this update is a little late... I had my last check-up back on Jan 27th. Dr. D said that I am doing very well. I asked if there was any way to 'guesstimate' about where I'd be come June. He said it would be hard to tell... then I told him I asked because we are getting married at the end of June. He got all excited and figured me up an amout. I'm not going to post it - because then you all would know if I missed it and by how much.. lol

Since my last update I went on that cruise I mentioned. I was kinda worried about what I would be able to eat onboard. But I quickly remembered that with the selection at the buffet several times a day - I should always be able to find something to eat. Sometimes it was kinda boring and I only got to eat a lil slice of whatever type of meat they were carving.. but other times I got some variety.

I have gone on this same cruise (which is a chartered cruise with a music festival on-board) every year since 2002.... and I have to say that this was the most I have ever been in the cabin! I did get out and watched a bunch of shows, but I also slept more than usual and took many naps.

From then until a few weeks ago my energy had been relatively low. I asked Dr D about it and he said that it was normal and to just give it some time. Well I am starting to get my energy back. Sometimes thanks to Crystal Light w/caffine >:o) I've found that I can only drink about 1/4 to a 1/3 of the bottle - otherwise I start to get the jitters. Considering I used to drink 3 or 4 Red Bulls at a sitting... it's strange to have such a small amount effect me.

Other things I've noticed....

+ I'm sleeping MUCH better. I only have to use my sleeping pills on rare occasions.

+ My allergies weren't bothering me until this past week. I'm hoping it means there will be a change in the weather (we NEED rain here!)

- I'm loosing some muscle mass - especially in my thighs. I need to exercise more... I say that and I hope that I do.. but that has been my biggest flaw so far.

+ I'm craving fruit and salads... which is weird. I used to never eat fruit, and now I swing by the grocery 1-2 times a week and grab one of the big party trays with all the different kinds of fruits already cut up for me. I've also been craving pickles.. lol Since there is no chance of the main reason one gets that craving... It must be a salt craving?

+/- If eating softer foods (like egg salad).. I tend to eat much more. I was getting worried that I might be stretching my pouch more than is normal at this stage.. but then I sit down with a steak or grilled chicken and realize that I can still only eat 6-8 bite of the meat. So I guess I'm OK...

Well I guess that's all the updates for now. I have another appointment soon and we'll see what Dr D thinks of my progress at that point.