This is my first blog so please bear with me. I have decided to blog about the journey I have been on since the first of January. I thought about what I wanted to change about myself in 2010. Like alot of people it was my weight. I decided I would have to put myself first, which I have never done. I have tried every diet known to man and have had very little success. About 3 years ago I was diagnosed with Lupus, Osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis which at times has brought me to my knees. I used this as a crutch regarding exercise and food. After long discussions with my fabulous husband, family, doctors and some friends I decided I wanted to go with a gastric sleeve. I was referred to UC Davis and their Bariatic program. I researched this and have a friend who went through the procedure, she has been a role model for me. What she didn't tell me was the massive and I mean massive amount of tests I would have to go through prior to surgery. I went to my orientation meeting and met the doctor who would be doing the surgery, he is highly recommended. Dr. Ali was wonderful to talk with and we decided that the sleeve would be my best option. My next appointment was a real eye opener, it was a 3 hour nutrition class. This class was held in a very small room. There were about 20 people in the room. Another lady and I were the smallest in the room, I am 200+. I was being looked at like what the hell are you doing here. The other people in the class were very large. All I wanted to do was get out of that class, I felt so uncomfortable and that maybe I didn't belong there. No I did belong there. I though I knew a little bit about nutrition NOT when I left OMG my head was screaming. I was also told I would have to lose 26 pounds prior to surgery. I thought what the hell if I could lose 26 pounds I wouldn't be here duh!!! So I went home frustrated that I had to make a real decision regarding the 26 pounds. We were give a "blue" book which has been my second bible since January it has provided a guide for me. Since I was seriously changing my diet, Ben had to decide what he wanted to do. The love of my life decided to go on the diet journey with me. I have to say the first week was miserable not that I wasn't getting enough food but all the toxins leaving my body was rough on the joints. Week 2 was getting better. I have had some major challenges along the way with traveling and work. I have to admit that I have had some slips but it was my decision. I dusted myself off and started back again. I have lost 14 pounds and have only 12 more to go. I also only have one test to complete. Since I am over the age of 50 I have to have a PET Scan to make sure the old ticker has no problems. If that test comes out well, I will be set for surgery more than likely at the end of March or the first part of April. Since I got this fancy new I-Touch I have started the treadmill going very slow. I know that there are so many women out there in the same spot and there is hope but you gotta put in the time and give it all you have.