I am not a morning person and I wasn't a breakfast person, but this has been just another instance of "Old Jem" vs. "New Jem". Old Jem would stay up as late as possible the night before watching tv or surfing the 'net until 2,3,4 am. Then wake up (tired) as late as possible and still be able to roll into work by 10-10:30am. I took less time to get ready in the morning, because I was already fat and ugly, so why bother, right?

A few weeks before surgery, I cut off my cable and internet at home. Now, I go home, eat dinner, read a book, do crafts, or talk to friends and then get to bed by 11 or 12pm. So I wake up at 8-8:30 RESTED and ready to go. I've taken a lot more care with my clothes--making sure they are pressed and clean and coordinated. I always wear jewelry now. I take time to blow dry my hair and style it, and sometimes even put on makeup (although I'm still not a makeuppy person). I also take time everyone to sit down, take my vitamins, eat breakfast, and write in my journal.

I guess my philosophy with WLS was (and is) if I am going to take this big of a step, I'm going to take NOTHING of my "old" personality for granted. I questioned everything I did during the day, asking myself if it was helping my health, making me happy, or improving my life. As a result, a lot has changed, but I am SO MUCH HAPPIER!! (And lighter, too, for that matter!)

That's what works for me, but your mileage may vary.

I can't believe I'm down 55+ pounds! My goal was to be at 265 by my three month, and I think I'm going to get there early! Ultimately, I want to be in Onederland by New Years, and I think that I am well on my way! The exercise really helps--I go to Curves 4 times a week and bike to work at least 4 times a week. This morning, I pulled on a pair of skorts I haven't worn since WW of '02! At this rate, it's going to be all new clothes for the fall!