I knew that as I lost weight my appearance would change. The most dramatic change so far has been in my face. Much of my weight gain, and inability to lose weight, stemmed from the medications I used to take - specifically steroids. Now that I am off 80% of my meds I've lost the puffy roundness look and GAINED WRINKLES. Not exactly something I anticipated happening so soon. I was thinking if I moisturized morning and night I could stay ahead of the game. Still not looking my age (thank God) but Clinique counter here I come! Wrinkles are unacceptable! So is gray hair but that's a whole other story.
My daughter took a picture of me when we were at the Pacific Northwest Ballet "Nutcracker" last week. When I looked at it I saw my mother's face looking back at me; I have her nose. I had been told I look like her before but could never see it until now. I also have cheekbones again but still hanging on to a double-chin (acquired at age 14, think I may be stuck with it).
Couple other revelations:
My necklaces are getting too long
My shoes are too wide and slip off
My wedding rings no longer make my finger turn purple when I wear them
When I look at myself in the mirror I don't see much change
Clothes that haven't fit in 15 years fit again (and I prefer classic styles so they still look good)
Clearing clothes that are too big now out of my closet made me sad, I'll miss some favs
Finding clothes in the office closet that fit again made me happy
Eating sweets has the same effect on weight loss as drinking alcohol
The mask on my CPAP machine is too loose - new one on order
Milk of Magnesia is my new friend
If I put fresh raspberries in my morning protein shake I need to strain out the seeds
I sleep better and wake up easier
Still working on getting in more water and hitting the exercise bike a little more. Lost 2.5 pounds this week so still on track in spite of a few Christmas goodies. The topic for next weeks support group meeting is surviving the holidays - perfect timing!
Thanks so much for all your encouragement each week. Means a lot to me!
I think about you daily, Karla. I have been quite sick for two weeks so haven't been able to comment but you continue to inspire me. You have opened my eyes to the struggles of others. I had no idea how difficult and life altering this procedure was. You are one tough woman & I admire that toughness. Keep up the awesome work. I need to track down the Nutcracker photo & see you looking like your mother!
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ReplyDeleteThank you Lynda. So far this whole process has been harder than I had anticipated, but I once I put my mind to something I stay committed. (That darn stubborn streak). I couldn't get through this without my wonderful support squad!
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