Today is not quite my 4th month surgiversary, but it will have to do. I was in Poughkeepsie on that date and no access to scales to mark the event.

As of today, I have lost 93 lbs. NOW I am starting to feel the difference.

For me, it has definitely taken that long. I am exercising and can actually do most of it. Some of the workouts I do are still pretty tough, but I modify the exercise (not the pace) and continue on. I am feeling stronger. I couldn't keep up with my sister-in-law (love you, Denise!) but I am pretty pleased with my progress.

Do I ever see myself being a workout fanatic? Where I am right now from where I was 4 months ago, I guess in a certain respect, I am; however, what I mean is that I never see myself wanting to strive for some athletic prowess... no marathons, no decathalons (ha ha). I just want to move enough to be strong and keep my body functioning as it should.

The eating isn't really so much better. I guess, if I looked at it, though, maybe it's just a very small and gradual thing and it is a bit better. I was able to eat meat for dinner 3x last week, which felt absolutely awesome. But then a few days later, that "puke feeling" came back and well... so there you are.

My hair is shedding. I have to add more protein to my diet. 60-80 grams per day and I make it to about 40. So today, I've gotten to 57 and haven't had dinner yet, so it's progress.

Five sizes down. I am thrilled. TEN inches lost in my hips already. I couldn't even get the measuring tape around me.

I don't carry my seatbelt extender on the plane anymore. I don't need it!

It feels good to be able to trudge from one end of the airport to another at a very brisk pace and not feel like I'm going to have a stroke when I get to my destination.

All in all, huge progress. Here is my latest picture with the "before" for comparison....