Food really does have some sort of strange power over us (if we let it). I know there are times where I just want to stop trying and eat everything, and I mean everything haha. The thing that I have had to learn how to do is to recognize when one of these moods is going to come upon me and either head it off (with healthy snacking or some kind of distraction) or put myself it a situation where I will not be able to acquiesce to the demands of my stomach. For me that has meant opening up to those around me about my struggles and asking for help. I have warned my roommates that there might be times when I am feeling one of these moods coming on and they are to help keep me away from stuff haha. It is also helpful when there aren't any munchables in the house. With four bachelors in the house that is rarely the case, but it is helpful. Over time I have noticed that these cravings are coming with less frequency. That is a happy sign for me.

I know that at times this is super difficult, but that is what this group is here for. We are here for support. We are here to listen and motivate. If someone needs to talk, we are here. We are all working on major health changes and there are setbacks, but success is not out of reach for any of us. If any of you need a buddy with whom you can actually speak during these rough moments, I am willing to be that person. I may not be the most knowledgeable about a lot of things, but I am available. From what I have gathered from our interactions on here is that you are all good people and that you all have the capability to make difficult changes. *steps off soapbox*

I have not been doing super well with some of my challenge goals and the main one to suffer is my dog haha. I was going to walk him every day, but so far it has only happened once this week. I will get on top of it the rest of this week (at least for Oscar's sake). The musical is going well. I am burning a bunch of calories just from the dancing that is involved. Maybe one of these days I will even become a passable dancer.

I most definitely know the feeling. I had RNY (gastric bypass) and what I find is working for me is eating 6 small meals a day. I am one month out tomorrow. I follow my doc's instructions as best I can. I did move into soft foods quicker then what he said, but have had no problems to date. (knock on wood)......He moved me into pureed after only 7 days on liquids... so I did 3 weeks of pureed instead of the 4. Just started soft foods last night. I've had no problems getting in all of my protein or fluids. I'm not sure if I dump on sugar or not..... don't want to find out either.

What I also find has worked for me, as I am a prior grazer, and definitely a sug-a holic.....I watch my carbs daily. I also have found new foods to try. I like buffalo chicken wings from Applebee's. Now I just make my own with a tiny bit of wing sauce on cut up chicken thighs. It's all about making good choices.

As far as why food makes any of us SOOOO crazy, it's the additives in them. They make food addicting and makes us crave it. I also plan out when and what time I am going to eat. I eat every 2-2.5 hours from the time I get up till about 730pm. Normally don't eat after 730, but that's because I am not hungry. I found that now I eat real food, very little if anything processed. Almost everything from the perimeter of the store.

I hope something from the above rant helps...

Cari

I am Samuel, the Pirate King's lieutenant. I thought it would be a good role to break back into theater haha. It has a few solos and lines, but I don't have to carry the show. If you listen to the song "With Cat-like Tread", I am the guy who sings about handing out all of the gear. It also happens to be one of my favorite songs because of how ridiculous it is.

I always like a good challenge. I will do my best to get some of that bling haha.

Cari, good job on following the doctor's recommendations and good luck as you move forward.