Compare and Contrast: Pictures!

My nonprofit's annual event was a few weeks ago.  It was officially my "coming out" party.

Although I'm not really shy about the fact that I've had gastric bypass surgery (come on, I've dropped 4 sizes in 6 months... something's up!), most of my work acquaintances, supporters and donors only see me a few times a year.

And the differences between this year and last year are just... amazing...

First, there are the pictures:

2011 Event - with the First Lady of Philadelphia, Lisa Nutter.  Yes, I am trying to hide behind her size 8 dress.  Not doing a good job, am I?

With my amazing co-chairs Veronica and Paige.  I'm still a hippo in comparison to the adorable ladies... but I'm wearing a dress (no, those aren't the heels) with a WAIST!

And then the "NSV" (non-surgical victories, as the folks on my weight loss boards call them):

1. Running around all day setting things up and not getting overheated and sweating ONCE!
2. Wearing HEELS for the first time in 5-6 years (yes, my feet hurt but a normal hurt, not a "god I can't move" hurt)
3. Feeling nearly giddy with the amount of energy I had all night
4. Seeing a camera and not feeling my heart sink
5. Being proud of not only what I've accomplished professionally, but personally, too.

On a daily basis I feel so much better. I notice I have more energy, I don't have the dreaded sweating issues anymore and just feel healthier and more confident. Then I catch a glance of myself in the mirror and I still see the fat girl.  It takes looking at "before" and "after" pictures to really see the difference.  And even I am amazed by the transformation.

"Before" - notice the horrible kitchen floor!

73 pounds lost - size 18/XL (notice new kitchen floor!)

73 pounds lost - before our weekly personal 5K walk!

Me in the original sweater used for my "before" pictures - a little big, huh? - it will be the last thing I ever get rid of from my closet.  I may keep it forever!  

Amazing thing... I'm not done.  

I've hit some stalls which can be frustrating.  In month 5, I lost less than 5 pounds.  But I know I've let some eating habits creep back into my life.  The stress of work means we are eating out more... and although I can't eat much, processed foods are still not good for me!  And when I'm watching TV at night, I feel like snacking.

I'm 6 months out, have lost 73 pounds.  My doc will tell me that's 47% of "excess weight" and at 6 months, typical RNY patients have lost 50% of excess weight... yeah, I'm a slacker!  Through surgery, I should be able to lose anywhere from 70-80% of excess weight - the rest is "on my own."  So my challenge now is to step up exercise.

And I have to do a shout out of CB - friend of ours to just had the same surgery last week.  You are in my thoughts and I can't wait to share your journey, too!