Thanksgiving and Giving Thanks

We had our family Thanksgiving dinner tonight. I sampled everything because I do not believe that my VSG is a tool to be used as a "punishment." Having grown up in the South (Tennessee, y'all!), family get-togethers always center around everyone bringing their prized di**** is offensive to not try a bit of everything. Post op life is going to be no different for me. I will not be "that person" who hurts someone's feelings because I appear to snub someone's loving, hard work at family gatherings. I know that "living in moderation" is not a popular camp in these parts, but it works for me. I have lost 78 pounds from my HW of 298 to today's weigh in of 220. The scale didn't punish me after a dear friend's wedding festivities this past weekend where I made her wedding cake and her groom's cake and had tiny pieces of each at the reception to boot. The scale actually went down 2 pounds while I was partying with these loved ones. This works for me. When it doesn't any more (I'm sure that'll happen eventually), then I'll do things differently. 99.9 percent of the time I track, I get my protein, I keep an eye on my carbs, I get my water. On the days when I don't, I don't beat myself up. I instead watch for triggers. I watch for carb cravings and eat protein instead. I make sure to flush with extra water. I take precautions and move on.

I am so thankful for my sleeve. I am thankful that I am no longer allowed to abuse myself with binge eating when life gets tough. I am thankful that I no longer feel the need to finish everything on my plate (in record time). I am so thankful for this tool that has allowed me to change my life and regain the confidence that I have not felt in almost 10 years. I am thankful for my supporting friends and family, my wonderful surgeon and his team, and for this site that I have used as both a resource and an outlet.

So, here's to you, OH. Enjoy your Thanksgiving festivities in whatever way you choose - whether protein only or (GASP!) mac-n-cheese and all!

My family is big on Thanksgiving also. I still have cakes anda dish to make regardless of my having surgery. No biggie to me. I wish I could have some bites of Thanksgiving dinner But I Think I might be to soon out from surgery. I plan on zip locking some turkey and veggies though for the weeks to come when I can eat. Have a happy thanksgiving to you.