Weight loss

I would like someone who has had the surgery "open" as opposed to
Laproscopic to give me some details about it. Pain, hospital stay
time, off work time, etc. Thanks a lot--Tamika

Hi gang! Saturday's meeting was fantastic! I think Dr. Miles is
great and the program was really informative!
I want to thank Chan, Rona, Melissa, Wes and Lisa and everyone else
for the encouragement they gave me as I face coming out of my cocoon
on Tuesday! I CAN'T WAIT TO BE A LOSER! I also want to thank ya'll
for the goodie bag! How did ya'll know I was a MEXICAN FOOD FIEND!
My hubby and I laughed at the "mini" taco shells...He is excited
that I'll probably just eat one (when okayed by Dr. C) and he can
have the rest! LOL
Pray for me on Tuesday, I will be at UAB with Dr. Clements, I have
to be there around 7 AM so I guess my surgery will be 11 or so!
Hugs to all!
Nancy Hosmer
aka Dumbunnie
PS Anyone heard from Renee Brown? She hasn't posted in a while!

Hello everyone! I got my approval letter from BCBS in Wednesday's
mail! I AM SO EXCITED!! I go see Dr. Thomas for my physical today. I
am then going to Dr. Miles office to find out what next!!! I am so
excited!
Okay- Just had to share that with everyone. Look forward to seeing
you at the meeting on Saturday.
Amanda
Now waiting on a DATE!! :)

Tony,
CONGRATULATIONS on your approval!!!!!!!
Kristy

A friend of mine's dad set this to me and I thought I would share it
with the group. I hope all is well with everyone. See you all Sat. at
the meeting.
"The ChanMan"

To those of you who let me know about your 'Shoe' status. :)
I know that the weight loss is more important than my favorite shoes-
and now I can look forward to maybe needing to replace those too.
Anyway- I look forward to seeing all of you at the meeting on
Saturday. This is my first Saturday meeting. Is it anything like the
last meeting that was on December 30? Just curious about what to look
forward to.
Have a great day!
Amanda
(STILL awaiting approval)

Subject: Fwd: a message from a patient
Please post this to the e-group
From: DebbieCaten@a...
Date: Wed, 15 Jan 2003 21:23:53 EST
Subject: a message from a patien
I am sending this message for Jennifer Mitchell, whose has been attending our
support group meetings.
She had surgery today at UAB. Her surgery was laperoscopic. She did have a leak,
which was repaired. She is doing good. Tomorrow morning, she will be checked for
any more leaks, etc. Please continue to keep her in your prayers. She asked me
to email everyone. Thank you, Debbie Caten@... (a post-op patient at MCE)

I know that for Joy and I our "love" for food will never go away, and to
satisfy our culinary cravings, we watch The Food Network, HSN and all
the other late night infomercials and have been tempted more than once
to purchase a product. So, if any of you have been punching phone
numbers and talking to strangers in a low voice in the middle of the
night and have ordered this item from HSN or another source, you might
want to contact the company, or at least send in the product
registration card so they'll send you a "Non-Exploding" version.
Tim.
Oddly Enough - Reuters
'Exploding' Frying Pans Recalled
Wed Jan 15,11:24 AM ET
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - About 8,700 frying pans sold through the Home
Shopping Network are being recalled because they can "explode" while in
use, U.S. safety regulators and Innova Inc. say.
Two consumers have been burned from hot oil and there have also been
eight reports of property damage involving the frying pans, the
Davenport, Iowa-based Innova reported to the U.S. Consumer Product
Safety Commission (news - web sites).
"The pans can explode or separate when preheated, used on high heat or
used for frying," the safety commission said Tuesday in a statement.
The commission said consumers do not need to return the recalled Ultrex
Thermal/Double Wall pans as customers who bought the products will
receive a free replacement in the mail.
USA Interactive's Home Shopping Network sold the pans from October 2001
through September 2002 individually and as part of a set.
For more information on the recall contact Innova at (800) 845-7447 or
visit the Home Shopping Network's web site at www.hsn.com.

Hi all! Millie needs a ride FROM the Saturday meeting back to her
apartment on Southside (Niazuma & Highland). I will be laying under The
Mighty Mighty GeoVan putting a transmission in her, so I probably won't
be able to make it to the meeting myself. This will be the first one
I've missed in a l o n g time. If anyone can help her out please
call her at 930-9950, Millie Slaughter. She REALLY loves coming to the
meetings, so much in fact, that she rides a bus to get to us, and has to
sit and wait for the meetings to start sometimes as long as 4/5 hours
before the rest of us get there. She wins my "Trooper" award. And BTW,
if you don't know, Millie is blind, but PLEASE don't let that stop you
from walking up and introducing yourself to her. She's a great
conversationalist and really enjoy meeting all of us. Thanks!
Tim.

Forwarded message from Granmaw Peg
=============================================
This Fall, when you see geese heading south for the winter
flying along in "V" formation, you might consider what science
has discovered as to why they fly that way.
FACT: As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an "uplift" for
the bird immediately following. By flying in a "V" formation,
the whole flock has at least 71% greater flying range than if
each bird flew on it's own.
LESSON: People who share a common direction and sense of
community can get where they are going more quickly and easily
because they are traveling on the thrust of one another.
FACT: When a goose flies out of formation, it suddenly feels
the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone. It quickly
gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting
power of the bird in front of it.
LESSON: If we have as much common sense as a goose, we stay in
formation with those headed where we want to go. We are
willing to accept their help and give our help to others. It
is harder to do something alone than together.
FACT: When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into the
formation, and another goose flies to the point position.
LESSON: It is sensible to take turns doing the hard and
demanding tasks and sharing leadership. As with geese, people
are interdependent of each others skills, capabilities, and
unique arrangements of gifts, talents, or resources.
FACT: The geese flying in formation honk from behind to
encourage those up front to keep up their speed.
LESSON: We need to make sure our honking is encouraging. In
groups where there is encouragement, the production is much
greater. The power of encouragement (to stand by one's heart
or core values and encourage the heart and core of others) is
the quality of honking we seek. We need to make sure our
honking is encouraging and not discouraging.
FACT: When a goose gets sick, wounded, or shot down, two other
geese will drop out of formation with that goose and follow it
down to lend help and protection. They stay with the fallen
goose until it dies or is able to fly again. Then, they launch
out on their own, or with another formation to catch up with
their flock.
LESSON: If we have the sense of a goose, we will stand by our
colleagues and each other in difficult times as well as in
good!
~ Written by Angeles Arrien ~

Hello everyone!
New member here...we'll I've lurked for a few days. Is this group
made up of people from one certain doctor or just anyone and everyone?
I'm from Wetumpka Alabama. Had Lap RNY in B-ham with Dr. Dewitt on
March 1, 2002. I've lost 112lbs and am under goal by 7lbs and
continue to lose (much slower now but still losing nonetheless). I'm
concerned with being on the opposite end now and not sure what to do.
I am going to see Dewitt in two weeks to talk to him about my
concerns but wanted to see if I could find some others dealing with
this same problem.
Thanks for your time
Tina McDowell
Lap RNY 3/1/02
Online Picture Journal: http://www.geocities.com/bumperstickerwoman

Hello everyone. It has been a while since I posted but I have been reading everyones post and it seems like all are doing well. Congrats to all who have theri dates and up coming surgery's,& revisions etc. Hope the kids are well Tim. Hello Jenn. your date is fast approaching, my prayers are with you. As well as everyone who's date is soon. Congrats to all who have crossed over. My journey has been GREAT!!!! Well as for me I'm doing well. Had a great vacation, and looking forward to the next. Ha! Ha!. As all of you know I had my surgery on 11-26-02. I'm down 42lbs since surgery [INLINE] for a total of 67lbs GONE!!!!!!!YES!YES!YES!YES!!!!!!!!. Looking forward to the meeting on Sat. 18th. Hoping to see all of you there. Love Denise Williams..............

well everyone the big day is fast approching and i'm scared now!!!!!
we moved this weekend and i fell out the front door and dislocated my
tail bone along with messing my neck up so i'm in some pain and my
surgery is wednesday.... please everyone keep me in your prayers.
i'll be at uab.
love yall,
jennifer mitchell

Note From Moderator: Sorry Tim, this one slipped through the cracks.. Found it
in the closet.... Everyone Just Pretend it is the 1st. today
of 2002! Gotcha! Had ya going didn't I? Somebody has to keep the pot
stirred, and it might as well be me.
We had a good meeting last night, even for a Monday the room was packed.
Caitlin and I stood the entire time so other's that needed the chairs
more than us could sit and enjoy the meeting. Lot's of new folks, lot's
of new smiles too. Looks like 2003 is going to be a super year for us.
Reflecting back on 2002:
Met lot's of great new friends.
Lost a few too. But just until we see each other again.
Joy and I did a lot of things this year together as a result of WLS that
we never have been able to do before, like stomping through the still
burning woods of the Cheeha National Forest while GeoCaching, staying a
week in the 1875 era "Belcher House" at Tannehill and walking our butts
off all over the trails out there, trying our best to visit every
covered bridge in Alabama and getting the GPS coordinates on each of
them, cutting the grass together, going fishing with Wes, Lisa, Chan and
Felicia and sinking the pontoon boat, going fishing together and
watching the smile on her face as she caught a monster crappie, going to
the gym together, playing tennis together, watching her change as her
self confidence grew, watching her have the self confidence to
aggressively go after the job of her dreams and get it too. It has been
a wild year for the Suggs, but a very memorable one, loaded with lots of
laughs, smiles and tears.
We had the first ever WLS Fashion show, and what a hoot it was!
We had our first outdoor fling, and that was so cool. It won't be the
last. I'm putting together the 2003 WLS activity calendar so we have
something to do every month for those that want to come along.
Joy and I have watched many of you over the last year as you have
crawled out of the cocoon of obesity and unfolded the wings of beauty
and grace that WLS enabled you to unfurl. God gave you those wings, and
he intends for you to fly. Just watch out for the power lines <grin
Hope to see all of you there, flapping your wings!
Tim.

In a message dated 1/10/2003 7:51:01 AM Central Standard Time, Netr59 writes:

dear faces,
i talked with avis aka pop-tart tonight she wanted me to pass along
that she's got her computer fixed now her phone lines messed up so
she's working on being back online she misses everyone so much and
she's still not feeling well, so please keep her in your prayers. i
go in the morning to see dr. gleysteen at kirkland clinic for my pre-
op visit and all my pre-op testing i'm scared...... my surgery is
this coming wednesday the 15th at 5:30am at UAB so all that can come
see me *kidding* i know ya'll all have busy lives just keep me in
your prayers. i'll post later.
love ya'll,
jennifer mitchell scared LOL

Hello Gang:
I finally got my surgery date. It's Jan 28 at 8 AM. I'm having a
revision by Dr. Sidney Appel at Dekalb Medical Center in Decatur, GA.
It's been a long struggle but it looks like it is finally here!!
Best regards,
George

I have had the absolute WORST case of stomach virus known to man.
Without being too gross, let me just say Dr. Clements could have
done surgery on me today because my gut was EMPTY.
This got me thinking, what happens to you if this happens post op? I
nearly dehydrated and I'm preop! Will this retching rip your new
tiny stomach open? What can you take for nausea and diarrhea after
the surgery?
Twila, thanks for the encouraging words. Tim, I hope all your kids
recuperate fast!
Chan, your weight loss is amazing. You are an inspiration!
Nancy, aka dumbunnie

Okay- I have a serious question. (Well for me it is since I am a shoe
FREAK!)
Does your shoe size change after the surgery and you have lost a lot
of weight? I mean the width of it? Like now I wear a 10W (I know -
Big Foot) but I really hope that my shoe size does not change very
much because I have too many favorite shoes to get rid of.
This is just one of the things I was pondering about once I become
a 'LOSER'! LOL
Amanda
(awaiting BCBS approval)

I am having a problem with my boss trying to block my surgery at
every turn. I was wondering if anyone can help me with this problem:
She (evil boss) has known I have intended to have surgery since last
May. I had my first appointment with Dr. Clements in August. I have
the second one next Monday. She is aware of what these appointments
are for. When I first told her I was planning on having the surgery,
she said she didn't want to hear anything else about it. She has
refused to discuss it with me, but has been talking to my co-workers
about me and my surgery plans. In October, one of my co-workers found
out from another that E.B. (evil boss) was planning on denying me
leave time based on the fact that this is elective surgery. If I have
to reschedule because she feels like screwing with me, it could take
months to get another appointment. If my insurance company, my
endocrinologist, and Dr. Clements deem this surgery necessary, does
it cease to be elective? I need to know what the law is in Alabama,
and if I will be put at the mercy of this evil woman.
Help please!!!!
Brenda Jones

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Saturday, January 18, 2003
Time: 3:00PM - 6:00PM CST (GMT-06:00)
This is our regular monthly meeting. We will be having a guest
speaker. Please contact facesofwls@... for information on
the speaker for this month.

Great news! Some of the old favorite singers and bands have re-released
their great hits with new titles and lyrics to accommodate their aging
audience.
Some examples:
Herman's Hermits: "Mrs. Brown You've Got a Lovely Walker"
The Rolling Stones: "You Can't Always Pee When You Want"
Credence Clearwater Revival: "Bad Prune Rising"
Marvin Gaye: "I Heard It Through the Grape Nuts"
The Who: "Talkin' 'Bout My Medication"
The Troggs: "Bald Thing"
Carly Simon: "You're So Varicose Vein"
The Bee Gees: "How Can You Mend a Broken Hip"
Roberta Flack: "The First Time Ever I Forgot Your Face"
Johnny Nash: "I Can't See Clearly Now"
The Temptations: "Papa Got a Kidney Stone"
ABBA: "Denture Queen"
Leo Sayer: "You Make Me Feel Like Napping"
Commodores: "Once, Twice, Three Trips to the Bathroom"
Procol Harem: "A Whiter Shade of Hair"
The Beatles: "I Get By With a Little Help From Depends"

OH DEAR FACES FRIENDS THIS HAS BEEN THE WORST WEEKEND EVER!!!!!!! WE
STARTED MOVING INTO THE APARTMENT I'D FOUND AND WE SAYED THERE LAST
NIGHT I TOOK A BATH AND THE BATHROOM WAS UPSTAIRS AND ALL THE BATH
WATER FLOOEDED THE KITCHEN DOWNSTAIRS THE BATHTUB WAS ABOUT TO FALL
THROUGH THE FLOOR WITH ME IN IT THANK GOD I GOT OUT SO I WAS UP UNTIL
AT LEAST 3 OR 4 THIS MORNING WORRYING TO DEATH IF THE LANDLADY WOULD
GIVE US OUR DEPOSIT AND RENT BACK SINCE THIS WAS THE FIRST NIGHT WE'D
STAYED THERE BECAUSE BY THIS TIME DONNIE MY HUSBAND WAS FUMMING MAD.
NOT TO MENTION TO NOISE THERE WAS SO MUCH ATTIVATIY OUT SIDE YOU
COULDN'T SLEEP ALL NIGHT LONG THE APARTMENT SMELLED LIKE DRUGS IT WAS
SO BAD IT MADE ME AND DONNIE BOTH SICK NOT TO MENTION BEING SCARED WE
WERE GOING TO BE BROKEN IN ON WHHILE WE WAS THERE. SO FIRST THING
THIS MORNING WE WENT TO THE LANDLADY'S HOUSE TOLD HER WE WANTED OUR
MONEY BACK SHE LIED TO US LIKE SHE DIDN'T KNOW ANYTHING WAS WRONG
THIS RIGHT BEFORE WE LEFT SHE SAID WELL I THOUGHT WE HAD THAT FIXED.
SO EARLY THIS MORNING HERE WE GO MOVING BACK TO THE HOUSE WHICH WE
ONLY HAVE A FEW DAYS LEFT IN WITH NO PLACE TO GO SO PLEASE PLEASE
PLEASE PRAY FOR US I DON'T KNOW WHAT WERE GOING TO DO NOT TO MENTION
MY SURGERY IS LESS THEN 2 WEEKS NOW. GOD PLEASE HEAR MY PRAYERS WERE
IN BIG TROUBLE.
LOVE YA,
JENNIFER

Hello again group:
If you did watch today then you'll know what I mean when I say that
the guy in the beige turtle neck sweater is a jerk! Also the
girl who said that fat people literally stink needs to shed a few
pounds herself!!
I feel that the opinion segment should have been left out. It did
not add anything to the show. It actually angered me. I mean come
on, as a morbidly obese person I know what people assume or think of
me. I do not need to hear it on t.v. It made me feel worse!!
Anyway, just wanted to know what you guys think.
Leah K.

Hello group!!
My surgery date is 2-13-2003 and I am trying to stop using sugar.
I'm starting to freak out. I need some help. As of yesterday I
haven't had a pepsi or coke or diet. dr. pepper. I had 2 glasses of
sweet tea today. Besides the sugar and soft drinks, what else should
I stop eating or drinking? How should I go about it?
Another thing I am pondering is what do I do when I have a headache?
I know your not suppossed to take aspirin or ibuprophen. What about
tylenol? I've heard yes and I've heard no on tylenol. Also, what
kind of vitamin do you guys recommend?
I just need some tips that will prepare me for the surgery and for
after the surgery.
Thanks so much!!
Leah K.

I started back on my exercise on Monday, I am doing the Walk away
the pounds tapes still. Just wanted to share tonight was the first
night I have ever done the 3 mile tape, I told myself on about 1 and
a half miles, I will just stop at the 2 mile, then I made it on to
the 2 1/2 mile point, then I knew I could keep on, I finished the
tape. I don't think I will repeat that tape anytime soon again, but
it felt good that I did it and I did it all with them. Think I will
stick with the 2 mile tape for now. Ha Ha
Hope everyone is having a good day!
Lisa

Hello and Happy 2003!
I just wanted to let every-one know that Dr. Eich will be on t.v. tomorrow
morning. Let me give you a little background on this.....
The Wednesday before Thanksgiving, Russ Fine of the Russ & Dee Show on 101.1
F.M. "The Source" and WIAT CBS 42 in Birmingham (Who is also a big shot over at
U.A.B.) used MCE's very own DR. Shelby Eich for the reduction of his "Crow's
Feet" around his eyes and loved his results. They announced that they would have
him on thier show on Thursday 1/9/03.
The Russ and Dee show airs 5 A.M. - 9 A.M. and the television hour airs 6 A.M. -
7 A.M.
Many in this e-group have used DR. Eich or will use him for thier removal of
excess skin after weight loss.
Just wanted to let you know in case some wanted to watch or record this.
Take Care,
"The Chanman"
RNY 9/19/02
-210 total

for a few days at the least. Spent the morning at MCE with Cait and
according to the X-rays she has pneumonia. So I'll be babysitting and
nursing her back to her former thrashing 14 year old giggly little girl
state for a few days at least. Looks like I'm going to be doing high
school level algebra and science and history too, along with many, many
cups of hot chocolate I fear.
Tim Suggs

Hey everyone, Just wanted to see where everyone is at. Everyone
must really be exercising and working off those extra pounds cause
for sure noone is posting anymore. Usually when I get on the
computer my mail box is loaded down with everyone's exciting post and
lately there have been only a few or none. Hope everyone is ok and
just enjoying time with family and friends. Talk to everyone later.
Love you all,
Melissa Bain
Laproscopic RNY
Dr. Miles
Sept. 23, 2002
Lost 83 lbs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

CONGRATULATIONS ON YOUR DATE!!!!
I am so excited for you!
Amanda
(And yes this is the Amanda that you met in the support group meeting
on Dec 30!)
And you have mail!

Hope the holidays were good to everyone. Happy New Year to all!
Joy Suggs
WLS 12/10/02 Dr. Miles
Minus 108 lbs!

I just had to share this with everyone.. I am having surgery on <drum roll

February 13th !!!!!!!!

I am so excited I can hardly stand myself.. ha ha. My mother and I were walking through Target and talking about what kind of clothes I would be buying once I lost all the poundage (ha ha). I told her that I'd probably go for the hootchie look!! (ha ha ha) I hope that doesn't offend anyone.
Please keep me in your prayers. I am nervous but only because this is a very serious decision that I am making and I am so glad that I have this support group to help with me with it. You guys are great!!
Leah K.
11/13/2003 is FAT BE GONE DAY!! ha ha ha ha

Hello All, hope the new year is finding everyone well. As for myself I'am doing well. Went to Mississippi this past week to see my mom and take her an electric scooter. She has a regular wheel chair has been in it for years but when this chair was found and only 200 dollars could not pass it up. She lives alone and needs a new set of wheels. She loved the chair and also seeing me. She said she is so proud of me for my weight loss. I thanked her humbly and told her without the good Lord it would not be possible. Had a good but short visit. Got a ????. Since surgery I have only lost 36lbs.(Nov.26,2002). I'm thinking more, more more. I'm supplementing my protein and walking . My thought is should it be fallling off, seems to be only crawling [INLINE] . What am I doing wrong. I thought not enough protein? I know I'm getting at least 40grams in shakes and eating the rest in meat, etc. Help! Will it get better? Hope someone can lend some advice. I lost 13lbs first week, 8 lbs
second week, 6lbs third week, 6lbs fourth week, 3 pounds fifth week. whats up????? Denise

Hello All!
I attended my first meeting on Monday and let me say 'What an
experience!!' I was slightly nervous about attending since I have not
yet had the GREAT surgury. I had those normal fears we all have (I
hope not just me) about not knowing anyone, being the odd woman out,
blah blah. But instantly I felt like part of the 'Gang'. I felt so
inspired by everyone's stories of success and milestones. I just
can't wait to be able to share those same stories of pounds lost,
etc.
Anyway- I just wanted to let you all know that I if I ever had any
doubts about the surgury- you guys made me put those doubts and fears
away.
Thanks so much for a wonderful experience and I look forward to
getting to know some of you better.
Amanda

GOOD Afternoon! I just wanted to wish all the post ops a HAPPY new year filled
with fit bodies and low cal diets! and all the Pre-ops, support groups, and
just thinking about it - HAPPY NEW YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Good luck! You can
loose 100 or 200 lbs in a year! I've lost 85 lbs in less than 6 months!!!
WAHOOOOOOOOOO! and I got to enjoy turkey dinner, xmas dinner and today's black
eyed peas!!! Wahoo! If your still contemplating this surgery STOP!!!!! Call
your doc tomorrow! Get a date!!! Get a move on! Alabama has so many people that
I just want to run up to and say... look! i've lost weight please for the love
of god - you'll love life a whole lot more if you try it!!! And on that note!
I'm so excited I got a 14-16 Coat For xmas, and didn't think I could wear it!
But holy moly I could!!! Life is good! Cus they don't make fancy pants suede
coats affordable for people my size, er used to be size! anyway! HAPPYYYYYYYY
NEEEEWWWWW YEARRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!! May this year be as incredible as the last
and may everyone's spirits, family, wallets, and friends be filled to the brim
with joy and happiness!!!!
Siotha
WLS 7-16-02
-85 lbs

Has anyone heard of the death of Georgia Isbell of Pell City from WLS
complications? One of my daughters lives there and told me that it
was announced through her church. This was a young woman, 33,
married with two children. She died on Christmas day. Was she one of
our FACES members?
This is just to remind us that WLS is serious business. Please say a
prayer for this lady's family. May God keep them close at this sad
time.
Brenda

i had to write and tell you all what happened to me tonight we had a
youth lock-in for the kids at our church tonight and we had a speaker
who has just become a minister he's in his 30's so near my age and
tonight i was saved by God and i know now what its truly like to be
free from sin and burdens that life brings. my hope for the new year
is that all of my friends and family that dont' know Christ as there
personal savior will come to know that without Christ there is no
life because until you accept him into your heart and ask forgivness
you'll never know what TRUE freedom is. May God bless you and keep
you in the coming year.
i love you all,
jennifer

I won't fib to y'all and say I sat up and watched another ball drop this
year cause we didn't. I was sound asleep when the clock hit midnight
last night, but I'm told that my snoring was trying to keep pace with
all the firecrackers the neighborhood monkeys were shooting off to ring
in the new year.
It just so happened that the last people I saw for 2002 (outside of my
own household), was no other than the infamous ChanMan and his ever so
lovely wife Felicia. Joy and I met them at the Cracker Barrel in
Trussville for dinner and we had a good time talking GeoCaching and
GPS'ing. Chan was telling me that his best friend Mike from down home
was getting interested in GeoCaching too, so maybe we'll be able to add
another to the ranks of "those that wander the woods".
If you ever want to see the miracle of WLS in the flesh, larger than
life, standing straight and towering 6'4 above you, introduce yourself
to Chan. Watching him hop up from a chair and walk out to his car and
slide behind the wheel is one of the neatest things you'll ever see. He
must think it's pretty cool to for when he gets behind the wheel, you
can watch the corners of his mouth turn up into a grin that looks very
similar to that of a opossum munching on a very tasty cow pie.
And a lot of times, the spouse of a WLS patient kinda gets the sideline
while everyone whoops and hollars about the WLS person. Well, that
won't bother Felicia one little bit. She she now has her own personal
chauffeur, lunch fetcher, GPS hunting partner AND metal detector
swinging partner. So, I think she won't mind all the whooping and
hollaring over Chan as he finds new things everyday that they can do
together. She's a really neat lady, with a husband that loves her dearly.
I hope the new year brings joy into your hearts, hope into your minds,
determination into your souls, and a smile on your lips. Remember, the
clock is ticking - MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Tim.

Hey everybody,
Hope all of you have a WONDERFUL NEW YEAR. And maybe everyone can stick to their Resolution this year, I know it will be easier for me to, since I use the same one every year. (I will lose weight) I won't have to say this time, Oh well I tried, cause this year I will have a lot of help.
HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL MY NEW WLS FRIENDS
GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU
ALL
LOVE,
MELISSA BAIN

It is official, my surgery has been postpone until March. My new surgery date is March 10. The up side to this is that no matter what happens now only God or DR Facundus can change this date. I was originally only going to take two weeks off for the surgery but I told my boss that if I have to postpone then I'm going to take three weeks off. She said she didn't blame me. So 69 more days till I'm on the other side :)
God Bless
Di

I just wanted to say that I really enjoyed last night's meeting. It
was my first one and I wasn't expecting it to be so moving. It really
was moving wasn't it? Everyone's so nice and just darn wonderful!!
It was so nice to hear all the stories and how much weight has been
lost. I can't wait until I am able to tell how much I've lost. I
haven't gotten a date set yet, but I've done everything I am
suppossed to do. The waiting is agony.. ha ha.
I am looking forward to the next meeting. I hope to see some of the
same faces next time. God bless you all!!
Leah K.

Everything I need to know about life, I learned from Noah's Ark...
One: Don't miss the boat.
Two: Remember that we are all in the same boat.
Three: Plan ahead. It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark.
Four: Stay fit. When you're 600 years old, someone may ask you to do something
really big.
Five: Don't listen to critics; just get on with the job that needs to be done.
Six: Build your future on high ground.
Seven: For safety's sake, travel in pairs.
Eight: Speed isn't always an advantage. The snails were on board with the
cheetahs.
Nine: When you're stressed, float a while.
Ten: Remember, the Ark was built by amateurs; the Titanic by professionals.
Eleven: No matter the storm, when you are with God, there's always a rainbow
waiting.
NOW, wasn't that nice? Pass it along and make someone else smile, too.

This is really cute! ~Nancy, aka dumbunnie
The wedding day was fast approaching. Everything was ready,
and nothing could dampen Jennifer's excitement, not even her
parents'
nasty divorce.
Her mother Sheila finally found the PERFECT dress to wear
and would be the best dressed mother of the bride EVER!
A week later, Jennifer was horrified to learn her new young
stepmother, Barbie, had purchased the same dress. She asked Barbie to
exchange the dress, but Barbie refused, "Absolutely not! I'm going to
wear this dress; I'll look like a million in it!"
Jennifer told her mother, who graciously replied, "Never
mind dear. I'll get another dress, after all it's YOUR special day,
not
hers."
Two weeks later, another dress was finally found. When they
stopped for lunch, Jennifer asked her mother, "What are you going to
do with the first dress? Maybe you should return it. You don't have
any place to wear it."
Sheila grinned and replied, "Of course, I do, dear! I'm
wearing it to the rehearsal dinner!"
Now, what woman wouldn't like this story?!

What a fabulous meeting tonight!! It was just so moving and
motivating - thanks to everyone who was there and shared so much of
their journey.
Thanks so much,
Steph (Miles/RNY/11-6-02/Down 47 lbs.)

HEY EVERYONE!!!!!
Hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and are gearing up for a
great NEW YEAR!!!! Just wanted to let you all know that my mom and
dad...Terry and Pam Yancy came through surgery GREAT!!!!! They had
surgery Friday(27th) and came home yesterday.....other than my dad
being in some pretty bad pain after surgery they both did extremely
well!!!! Today is my 3week anniversary from surgery and guess
what???? I am down 30 lbs!!!!! That puts me in the 230's and i am
soooooo happy!!!!! i had hoped to lose 30 lbs in a month or so!!!!
talk to you all soon.........HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!! LeyAnn

Well, I was supposed to be putting a clutch in Matt's Jeep today (Sun),
but instead got to drive out to Houston to pick Wes and Tara up after an
early morning call telling me they had been in a bad wreck outside of
Houston and had totaled her car. Other than Wes looking like someone
had beat his butt, and his face black and blue (seat belt and air bag)
and Tara receiving burns on both arms (steering wheel airbag deployment)
and two possible broke thumbs (she had a "death grip" on the steering
wheel when the airbag deployed and it "removed" her hands from the
steering wheel) and some seat belt trauma, they are both fine. Sore as
the dickens, but otherwise fine. Even with a seat belt and air bag, Wes
still got into the windshield. Ripped the seat loose from the floor board!
And that was a heck of a little "impromptu" trip for "The Mighty Mighty
GeoVan", but she took it without missing a single beat. Many, many
miles, and many many hours behind the wheel. I didn't do so bad for an
old goat myself. It's been a while since I did a driving "marathon",
glad to know I still can if need be. I'm going to bed, might sleep for
the next couple of days too.
Tim.

In a message dated 12/25/2002 9:27:28 PM Central Standard Time, Netr59 writes:

TOOK YOUR PLACE!
One day, a man went to visit a church. He got there early, parked his car, and got out. Another car pulled up near and the driver got out and said, "I always park there! You took my place!"
The visitor went inside for Sunday School, found an empty seat and sat down.
A young lady from the church approached him and stated, "That's my seat! You took my place!" The visitor was somewhat distressed by this rude welcome, but said nothing.
After Sunday School, the visitor went into the sanctuary and sat down.
Another member walked up to him and said, "That's where I always sit!
You took my place!" The visitor was even more troubled by this treatment, but still said nothing.
Later as the congregation was praying for Christ to dwell among them, the visitor stood up, and his appearance began to change. Horrible scars became visible on his hands and on his sandaled feet.
Someone from the congregation noticed him and called out, "What happened to you?"
The visitor replied, "I took your place."

The Man Code
The universal compensation for buddies who help you move is beer.
Never hesitate to reach for the last beer or the last slice of
pizza, but not both. That's just plain mean.
Moaning about the brand of free beer in a buddy's refrigerator
is forbidden. You may gripe if the temperature is unsuitable.
Any man who brings a camera to a bachelor party may be legally
killed and eaten by his fellow party goers.
Women who claim they "love to watch sports" must be treated as
spies until they demonstrate knowledge of the game and the
ability to pick a buffalo wing clean.
If a buddy is outnumbered, out manned, or too drunk to fight, you
must jump into the fight. Exception: If within the last 24 hours
his actions have caused you to think, "What this guy needs is a
good butt-whoopin", then you may sit back and enjoy.
Unless he murdered someone in your immediate family, you must
bail a friend out of jail within 12 hours.
The minimum amount of time you have to wait for another guy who's
running late is 5 minutes. For a woman, you are required to wait
10 minutes for every point of hotness she scores on the classic
1-10 scale.
No man is ever required to buy a birthday present for another
man. In fact, even remembering a friend's birthday is strictly
optional.
Agreeing to distract the ugly friend of a hot babe your buddy is
trying to hook up with is your legal duty. Should you get carried
away with your good deed and end up having a good time with the beast,
your pal is forbidden to speak of it, even at your bachelor
party.
Before dating a buddy's ex, you are required to ask his
permission and he, in return is required to grant it.
When stumbling upon other guys watching a sports event, you may
always ask the score of the game in progress, but you may never
ask who's playing.
It is permissible to consume a fruity chick drink only when
you're sunning on a tropical beach... and it's delivered by a
topless super model... and it's free.
Unless you're in prison, never fight naked.
A man in the company of a hot, suggestively dressed woman must
remain sober enough to fight.
If you compliment a guy on his six-pack, you better be referring
to his beer.
Never join your girlfriend/wife in dissing a buddy, except when
she's withholding "goodies" pending your response.
Never talk to a man in the bathroom unless you're on equal
footing: either both "watering" or both waiting in line. In all
other situations, a nod is all the conversation you need.
If a buddy is already singing along to a song in the car, you may
not join him... too cute."
"Thou shall not rent the movie 'Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya
Sisterhood'."
Under no circumstances may two men share an umbrella.
There, now... Everybody got it?
Ok Lets Not waste anymore Time

In a message dated 12/25/2002 9:18:12 PM Central Standard Time, Netr59 writes:

THINKING OF YOU TODAY!!!

Hug certificate for you! [INLINE] ðäÆ!
This poem is very sweet. It will be interesting to see who sends it back. Forward this on and back. I'm counting on you not to let me be the number one type person on the list below, but if you've got better things to do then at least you'll prevent me from being the number six type. Thanks.
If I could catch a rainbow
I would do it just for you
and share with you its beauty
On the days you're feeling blue.
[INLINE] ðäÆ!
If I could build a mountain
You could call your very own
A place to find serenity
A place to be alone
If I could take your troubles
I would toss them in the sea
But all these things I'm finding
are impossible for me.
I cannot build a mountain
Or catch a rainbow fair
But let me be what I know best-
A friend who's always there.
This is a Hug Certificate!! [INLINE] ðäÆ!
Send One to All of Your Friends You Think Deserve A Hug.
Send this to Your Friends Including the Person Who Sent it to You!
What the heck, send it to your enemies as well! It'll really piss'em off! [INLINE] ðäÆ!

Thanks for all the nice things said about my Christmas story. To
make it even better, my daughter found out I had been bragging on
her and got very embarrassed and said "Gosh Mom, do you have to make
such a big deal out of it? It was nothing!" Not only is she
compassionate, she is humble too!
We all had an awesome Christmas, made better by the fact that we are
all alive, relatively healthy and very happy and grateful!
I look forward to next year being a butterfly at Christmas. I am
over my disappointment about not having my sugery in 3 days. I think
all things are on on God's time table and it just wasn't my time!
I pray for a healthy, happy new year for all of my WLS friends and
family! I also pray for Peace on Earth and Good Will towards all
Mankind.
With much love,
Nancy, aka dumbunnie

Forwarded Message.......
This message may not be life changing to any of you because I know most of you (
if not all) already have strong veiws against Drinking and driving!
On the last day before Christmas, I hurried to go to the supermarket to buy the
remaining of the gifts I didn't manage to buy earlier. When I saw all the
people there, I started to complain to myself:
'It is going to take forever here and I still have so many other places to
go...'
'Christmas really is getting more and more annoying every year.
How I wish I could just lie down, go to sleep and only wake up after it...'
Nonetheless, I made my way to the toy section, and there I started to curse the
prices, wondering if afterall kids really play with such expensive toys.
While looking in the toy section, I noticed a small boy of about 5 years old,
pressing a doll against his chest. He kept on touching the hair of the doll and
looked so sad. I wondered who was this doll for. Then the little boy turned to
the old woman next to him: 'Granny, are you sure I don't have enough money?'
The old lady replied:
'You know that you don't have enough money to buy this doll, my dear.' Then she
asked him to stay here for 5 minutes while she went to look around.
She left quickly. The little boy was still holding the doll in his hand.
Finally, I started to walk toward him and I asked him who did he want to give
this doll to.
'It is the doll that my sister loved most and wanted so much for this Christmas.
She was so sure that Santa Claus would bring it to her.'
I replied to him that maybe Santa Claus will bring it to her, afterall, and not
to worry.
But he replied to me sadly. 'No, Santa Claus can not bring it to her where she
is now.
I have to give the doll to my mother so that she can give it to her when she
goes there.'
His eyes were so sad while saying this. My sister has gone to be with God.
Daddy says that Mommy will also go to see God very soon, so I thought that she
could bring the doll with her to give it to my sister.'
My heart nearly stopped. The little boy looked up at me and said: 'I told daddy
to tell mommy not to go yet.
I asked him to wait until I came back from the store.'
Then he showed me a very nice photo of himself, where he was laughing. He then
told me: 'I also want mommy to take this photo with her so that she will not
forget me.'
'I love my mommy and I wish she didn't have to leave me but daddy says that she
has to go to be with my little sister.'
Then he looked again at the doll with sad eyes, very quietly.
I quickly reached for my wallet and took a few notes and said to the boy, 'What
if we checked again, just in case you have enough money?'
'Ok' he said. 'I hope that I have enough.' I added some of my money to his
without him seeing and we started to count it.
There was enough for the doll, and even some spare money.
The little boy said: "Thank you God for giving me enough money.'
Then he looked at me and added:
'I asked yesterday before I slept for God to make sure I have enough money to
buy this doll so that mommy can give it to my sister.
He heard me.' 'I also wanted to have enough money to buy a white rose for my
mommy, but I didn't dare to ask God too much. But He gave me enough to buy the
doll and the white rose.'
'You know, my mommy loves white roses.'
A few minutes later, the old lady came again and I left.
I finished my shopping in a totally different state from when I started.
I couldn't get the little boy out of my mind. Then I remembered a local
newspaper article 2 days ago, which mentioned of a drunk man in a truck who hit
a car where there was one young lady and a little girl.
The little girl died right away and the mother was left in a critical state.
The family had to decide whether to pull the plug on the life-assisting machine,
because the young lady would not be able to come out of the coma that she was
in.
Was this the family of the little boy?
Two days after this encounter with the little boy, I read in the newspaper that
the young lady had passed away.
I couldn't stop myself and went to buy a bunch of white roses and I went to the
mortuary where the body of the young woman was lying in state for people to see
and make a last wish before burial.
She was there, in her coffin, holding a beautiful white rose in her hand with
the photo of the little boy and the doll placed over her chest.
I left the place crying, feeling that my life had been changed forever.
The love that this little boy had for his mother and his sister is still, to
this day, hard to imagine.
And in a fraction of a second, a drunk man had taken all this away from him.
If you send this message on, maybe you will help prevent someone from drinking
and driving.
FRIENDS ARE LIKE ANGELS, WHO HELP US FLY WHEN OUR WINGS HAVE FORGOTTEN HOW
TO FLY.

hey grandma peg i went the the faces of wls Christmas party and
really wanted to meet you. which meeting do you attend so i can make
sure i'm there. you've been so kind and thoughful i would really like
to say hi face to face. let me know when your planning on going i
live so far away i live in russellville which is over a 100 miles
from b'ham so as you can imagine its a long drive but worth every
mile. take care and i pray God blesses you in the coming year.
love ya,
jennifer

Hi
What time is the Monday night meeting???
Kristy

Is anyone going from the Shoals area? I live in Russellville and
would love to go either I could drive or I could ride with someone I
don't like driving at night by myself so anyone from Muscle Shoals
FLorence Tuscumbia Sheffield Moulton Mt. HOpe Russellville area let
me know.
Jennifer
Email me direct at www.jenn28@...

Hi All,
Nancy I was really touched by your daughter's generosity. That really is what
Christmas is all about! I had a pretty amazing experience at Christmas myself.
I don't normally put money in the red kettles outside stores where the
bellringers are but this year I did. I went to K-Mart in Trussville and the
bellringer was this wonderful man who was so happy and energetic. He was
wishing everyone Merry Christmas and telling them "God Bless You" etc. I was so
impressed by his sincerety that I felt compelled to slip a little jingle into
the kettle. I hoped to put the money in without him seeing me but just as I
dropped it in he turned around and saw me. He laughed and thanked me and wished
me a very merry Christmas. I continued into K-Mart to look for an Alabama
jacket for my son, Brandon. Chan and Felicia had visited me earlier in the week
and told me that K-Mart had some, quite a few in fact. That thrilled me because
we'd looked all over town and couldn't find one. I got back to the Men's
clothes and couldn't find one. A sales clerk came over to help me and we ended
up finding one lone jacket. It was a size Medium (Brandon's size) and red and
black (Brandon's two favorite colors) and PERFECT. There was no price tag. The
lady told me it was $89.99. This was more than I wanted to spend but it was
something Brandon really wanted so I was willing to pay. I got to the check out
and you can imagine my surprise when it rang up for $37.40. What a miracle! I
proceeded to radio shack to get Sterling a cell phone. He wanted one of those
micro-mni flip phones. They're so much more expensive than regular phones but
you hate to have to settle for second best at Christmas. So, I spoke with the
salesperson and arranged for the service then I just had to pick out the phone.
He said "Take a look at our free phones over here". I expected to see lots of
last year's models but there in the case was a little teeny flip phone just like
Sterling wanted and it was FREE! I was just bowled over by my good fortune. I
proceeded to the Galleria (picked up Sterling along the way). We stopped first
at the Vestavia Police Department so Sterling could pay a ticket (typical,
huh?). The court clerk asked Sterling what he was going to do that day as he
was counting out his money for the ticket. He told her he was going Christmas
shopping with his mom and that it was his first year to buy presents for his
whole family himself. The lady smiled at him and said, "Tell you what, why
don't you pay the ticket on January 14th. That way you'll have more money for
shopping." Sterling was beaming from ear to ear as he left the police station.
We got to the Galleria and our first mission was to find Brandon some jeans.
Sterling advised me that we had to buy "cool" jeans because Brandon was too
frumpy for a 20 year old. We found some Puff Daddy Sean John jeans
(exceptionally cool or so I'm told) that were regularly $49 but on sale for
$29.99. I also had a 20% off shopping pass. When we rang the jeans up they
rang up for $3.00. The clerk said that price couldn't possibly be right and she
checked with her manager. Sure enough, the jeans were $3.00 because they were
last year's jeans (jeans are jeans in my book - how do you tell last years from
this years?????) Then, they even gave me the 20% discount on top of that so we
got a $49 pair of "cool" jeans for only $2.59 - tax and all. Sterling needed to
get a gift for my boss, DeNene. He chose some really pretty wine charms and
they were exactly what he'd budgeted for - $10.00. When he went to check out
they rang up for only $2.00. He was thrilled. Finally, Wade and I went to get
Sterling some boots that he wanted. They had to be a specific kind (ecko) and a
specific color (baby blue suede) and of course his size (11). We looked and
looked and couldn't find them. When we finally found someone who had some they
only had one pair. As she checked for them we just felt defeated. She said
"All I have is one pair. They're Ecko brand, baby blue suede, size 11." I
wanted to faint. And get this - they were normally $130.00 but they were on
sale for $50.00. Having said all of this............the moral of this story is
this - you can't outgive God. I gave a small donation to a bellringer outside
K-Mart and God blessed me over and over and over. I cannot stress to you enough
that the true spirit of the season is "giving". I have been blessed in so many
ways this year - I am healthy, no breast cancer, no obesity, etc. I am happy
with my wonderful family and fantastic friends. Let us never take for granted
how fortunate we are. Happy Holidays friends!
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

Granma Peg,
thanks!! Hope you had a Merry Christmas!!!!
Love kristy

I got a Garfield 25th Anniversary book that's cool if you're a Garfield
nut like me, a set of beautiful eagle sandstone coasters, a MIB II dvd,
and a Fisher 1236-X2 metal detector (which still hasn't arrived). So I
can now justify new tires for "Monty" so I can get back in the woods to
do some Civil War relic/ruins hunting. Matt got $600 cash for a new
stereo system for his YJ, but after Wes' "close encounter" with the
cretins of the dark, he's thinking maybe a set of gears instead. Wes is
in Houston so he didn't get nutin', yet, but he has a home theater
system under the tree if Dumbdog doesn't eat it before he gets back. We
got the other two Jeepers that Matt lives with new shovels and tow
straps. Caitlin got a bunch of giggly little girl stuff and $300.00
cash, and my wife Joy got a ton of goodies for her Palm M130. Hope all
of you have a Merry Christmas filled with laughter, love and happiness!
Tim Suggs
Birmingham, AL. USA!

Hello FACES of WLS buddies.......
So did everyone have a great Christmas?????? I know I did I got the
best gift I could ever hope for and thats friends.. I've never had
many friends and since I found these support groups I've got so many
so thats the BEST gift I could ever ask for.. I ate way too much but
I knew this would be my last Christmast to pig out so I did.. I have
to share this with everyone My mother in law was aginst me having
this surgery but yesterday at Christmas dinner she was joking around
with me and Donnie about how next year I wouldn't be able to eat that
much again so I knew she'd finally accepted that I was having this
done so that was huge for me... well take care and God bless you all.
love you all,
Jennifer

Hi,
Wes here coming to you live from the Home on Wheels! Lisa's Mom and
Dad have an RV and we are in it now, heading down highway 78 back to
Birmingham..... Lisa, her parents and I came to North MS near
Memphis to my Mom and Dads house to to celebrate Christmas with the
entire family. We all rode up together in the RV Christmas eve.
Current update.... Lisa, sleeping soundly kicked back in a recliner
with a blanket over her, Cyndi (her Mom) is at the Kitchen table
listening to CD's on headset.... Bob (Lisa's Dad) is piloting the
37 ft. rig as his trusty on board GPS nav. system is saying in a kind
ladies voice " please proceed to the highlighted route" She does not
know all the new roads since they added the new sections to the
Corridor X that is technically still U.S. 78.... I see a Mapping
software update in the future!.... Barkley, Megan and Jordan (all
Goldens) Fast asleep on the Sofa and the floor. Then there is Wes
(me) in the passenger seat with laptop in newly discovered lap
(thanks to WLS and to Dr. Eich) with trusty cell phone dialed into my
ISP in Bham and getting a fairly good and reliable connection.
This is pretty neat and I am not really just hating not being the
driver, I usually am never a passenger so this is kinda out of my
element playing the passenger role but its not too bad... Bob has
trained as a truck driver recently and is driving pretty good,
besides it is amazing how Valuim really helps.. LOL Just Kidding the
only drug I have taken is Tylenol.
Some of you know that Lisa's grandmother passed away, we will be
attending the service tomorrow at 2 p.m.
Were rolling into Jasper now, should be home inside of an hour...
GPS just said 54 miles to destination! Technology.. Ain't it
Grand......
We wish you all a very Happy New Year.
Take Care,
Wes and Lisa

The good news is Kristy finding the puppy "Shiloh"...I'm sure that
puppy will be well loved!
The bad news is poor Tim's son's car woes. That really stinks at
Christmas. But don't give up on human kindness...let me share
my "Proud Mom" Christmas story that happened this morning.
We both work in a methadone clinic that is a form of treatment for
opiate addicts. We had a gentleman who has had all kinds of bad luck
come in today for an emergency intake. We worked him in even though
it was a skeletal crew and a short day. His mom is very sick and he
has had to move from TX to AL to take care of her. He only had $30
of the $50 needed for the intake process.
My daughter (who merely answers the phone at the clinic part time
and makes minimum wage...about $30/week) said, "That is no problem!"
The secretary and I looked at each other with more than a little
concern. We have been chewed out by the business manager before for
being "soft" and letting people get by without paying and we didn't
feel like a butt chewing today on Christmas and neither one of us
had even brought a purse in to work today. (My car had a flat and
then the spare had a flat so the devoted hubby drove us in to
work...but that is an entirely different story! LOL)
My 17 year old proceeded to dig in her pocket and pulled out a $20
bill. She handed it to the man and cheerfully said "Merry Christmas
and I hope you feel better soon!" He started crying and said it was
probably the only Christmas present he would get and called her
his "Christmas angel."
I have never been so proud of her in my life!!!!! That is the TRUE
spirit of Christmas...giving with from the heart and with good cheer.
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU!
Love from,
Nancy (A PROUD MOM), aka dumbunnie

Hi !!!
Thanks to everyone who called me and found me a puppie.. We found one thank- heavens!!! Didnt get to get a Minature Dashound.... But we did get a 6 week old Jack Russell Terrier... He is cute . We had to go ahead and give it to my son early... We left him a note from Santa saying that he couldnt keep it on his sleigh for 3 days the puppie wouldnt be safe so Merry Christmas Early... He is so thrilled and hasnt let him out of his sight... So with all the Christmas hustle and bustle this made my Christmas better if we didnt do anything else it has made his Christmas... He named him Shiloh... Thanks again to everyone who helped me out... Merry Christmas to all of you !!!!!!!!!!!! Love Kristy

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Monday, December 30, 2002
Time: 6:00PM CST (GMT-06:00)
This is the regular weeknight meeting at MCE. Doors open at
5:30, meeting starts at 6pm.

WLSsongbird@...
This is my new Email Address. Please make note of it. The other will be obsolete in a few days. Thanks, Renee Brown

Hi all,
I don't post much but I really need prayer. My surgery is set for Jan 13. My boss told me thursday that I will more than likely have to postpone untill March. I work with a young lady who is pregnant and due on the 20th of Janurary. She used to work part-time at night but in there wise judgement they have given her full time and are now trying to hire someone in her place. I was told thursday that if they do not get someone hired by the 24th that I would have to postpone my surgery. I keep telling myself that God is in control, and I know that, and if God wants me to have this surgery in Janurary nothing can stop it. I also know that if he wants me to have this surgery in March then thats the way it will be as well. I am still holding out a small ray of hope that I will be told tuesday to go ahead with my surgery so please pray for me that if I have to cancel that God will give me peace and not bitterness.
Thanks
Di

The roofers came to work on our house so we had to stay home and
miss the Christmas party! I hope all of you had a fantastic time. It
is a relief to finally have a roof 1 1/2 month after the tornado, so
I guess it was worth it. (But what am I gonna do with all this
spinach dip!)
My doctor postponed my surgery. *sniff sniff* I was supposed to have it done
on Dec 31st to start the New Year off great! Now it is Jan 21st!
What really makes me mad is:
A) It messed up my vacation and holiday days off because now I am
working Christmas FOR NO REASON---I was working it to be off New
Year's!
B) Now I have to take vacation time in JANUARY...which makes for a
LONNNNNNG year of working
C) I have to have all the bloodwork redone and talk to the
anesthesiologist again because it will be over 30 days since I had
it done. I don't think it is fair to bill me (or my insurance for
that either! But we all know fair doesn't matter in medicine!)
Oh well...enough whining! MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!
Love, Nancy, aka dumbunnie

WOW what a party I had a BLAST!!!!!! It was so good to see Avis Davis
aka Pop-tart again she looked GREAT as always and Tim didn't look bad
either LOL I just think the world of Tim he's so much fun to be
around. The dirty santa game was a blast even though i felt badly
when I'd take someone's gift they got still feeling guilty about
that. So good to see everyone again. MERRY CHRISTMAS FACES of WLS
group. God bless you all.
LOVE YA,
Jennifer

Hey everyone,
I am so sorry that I missed the Christmas Party. I had planned all month on coming but of course "Mrs. Wait Till the Last Minute" still had some shopping to do and didn't want to be out there Monday. I hope everyone had a wonderful time and I know you did. Maybe I will be able to make it to the Monday meeting. I so wanted to see everyone and meet some of the ones I have been seeing on the web page. I really enjoy the egroup and hope everyone of you have a WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR.
Love Melissa Bain\
Surgery: Sept. 23, 2002
Dr. Miles
Lost to date: 72lbs

Hello!!!
I need some help quick!!! My son wants a Red Female Minature Dashound Puppy.. I've have looked around here for 3 weeks.. My time is running out.. The reason I'm looking so hard is he's 9 yr old and kids at school are telling him there is no Santa... I told him if he didnt believe their wouldnt be anything under the tree for him from Santa.... Ok then he said if there is a Santa then I'll ask him for a Puppy...... If there is not a puppy under the tree there is not a Santa he said!!!!!!!! So if any of you know anybody that has one of these dogs please let me know..... Call me--256*593-8293 or 256-593-9535 or cell 256-302-0824 leave a message.. I know yall can find me a puppy yall are miracle workers.... :)
Merry Christmas to all of you..... I wont be at the Party today I have 2 family parties 1 @ 4 and the other @ 6.. So I tried getting out of these but these are Kevins grannies!!!!!!!! By the way my granny is home from the hospital and doing great with her niew hip!!! SO all you lil elves got to work to find me a puppy..
Thanks , Love to all of you, Kristy

To prevent what happened to our son Wes from happening to us, we
installed a new "Christmas" home security system. See the picture below.
Happy Holidays!
Tim.

We were holding hands at the Olive Garden when around the corner popped
Twila Ray and company. As usual, she was gorgeous and had that million
dollar smile of hers going ear to ear. She said things were going great
for her, but, that she regretted that she will not be able to make it to
our Christmas party. So everybody send her a Christmas eCard instead
and tell her how much she will be missed.
I too was grinning ear to ear today... Started this morning off by
getting huggies from Chan's wife Felicia for breakfast, then got huggies
from Twila for lunch, and got some big time dinner huggies from Rona,
Pam, Kim and a un-named waitress! No Chan, I won't tell about the note
you put on your back about the waitress' butt. Y'all better watch him
at the Christmas party... he's getting wild on us, and doing things he
never would have dreamed about 3 months ago. I think Felicia might need
a saddle or maybe a riding crop for Christmas! Absolutely wild I tell ya!
Speaking of the Christmas Party...
Rona usually winds up trying to get a ride for Millie (Hi!), so I'll
start asking now if anyone can give Millie a ride to our party. Email
Rona for instructions. And while I'm on the subject of rides....
ANYBODY that needs/wants a ride, all you got to do is ask! I found my
new GPS a few days ago, and I'm cleaning out The Mighty Mighty GeoVan
all day tomorrow, so let me know if you need a ride. I don't drink,
haven't had a "reportable" wreck, that involved another vehicle, ever,
haven't had a ticket since `81, only drive on the sidewalks late on
Saturday nights, usually keep all four wheels on the ground (sometimes
even at the same time), AND I promise not to make any "adventure" 4
wheeling side trips. So there, no excuses! And besides if you miss the
party, it'll break my wittle heart. Oops, I forgot.... I'm still
smoking, so if the odor of a smokers "habit" bothers you, I'll be glad
to find a non-smoking ride for you. Hope to see you ALL at the party
Saturday!
And last but not least... PLEASE remember that one of our members, and
friend, is HIGHLY allergic to ANY type of seafood, so PLEASE, no fish,
shrimp, clam dip, smoked salmon, anchovies, sardines, etc. Sorry, but
I'm not bringing my world famous "Sardines and Pralines" either. And
Wes and Chan... Make sure you take the minnows out of your pockets too!
Tim.

Guess who I ran into at Dr. Miles and Dr. Schmitt's office a few minutes ago!
Yep, you guessed it - it was Avis Davis in the flesh! Her computer is, in fact,
down and she's been out of touch but is doing fine. She said she'll be at the
Christmas party on Saturday so if you want to see her in person you better be
there!
Merry Christmas!
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

The following FacesofWLS poll is now closed. Here are the
final results:
POLL QUESTION: WlS pOlL oF tHe wEeK:
WHAT brand OF protein DO you LIKE best?
CHOICES AND RESULTS
- PrO cAL, 1 votes, 100.00%
- dEsIgNeR wHeY, 0 votes, 0.00%
- CaRb SoLuTiOnS, 0 votes, 0.00%
- EAS: EdGe adVaNt , 0 votes, 0.00%
- iSoPuRe, 0 votes, 0.00%
- OtHeR (mine not listed), 0 votes, 0.00%
- nOnE (hAvE nOt FoUnD oNe I lIke YeT), 0 votes, 0.00%
For more information about this group, please visit

Hi Friends,
First of all, a big thanks goes out to Wes for sending out this email for me. What in the world would we do without him? I'd hate to think!
Is everyone ready for Christmas? Believe it or not, Wade and I have all but completed our shopping and even have most of it wrapped. We've got to pick up just a couple of things and we'll be completely finished. I love having the bulk of things finished early because it allows us to sit back and just enjoy the hustle and bustle of the holiday without feeling too stressed.
We have an exciting Christmas party coming up this Saturday. I hope everyone is planning to attend! Check out the details below and then keep reading for other info!
We will be playing Dirty Santa again (only this year we'll be having a "3
Steal Limit" to prevent the flashlight wars!) The gift limit for Dirty Santa
is $15.00 so we know everyone will get a nice gift. You must bring a gift to be able to play. If spouses of significant others want to play then just have them bring a gift and join in the fun. Participation is not mandatory if you'd prefer to simply sit back and watch. Women bring women's gifts and men bring men's gifts. Each gift must be wrapped and the tag should only say MAN or WOMAN. Please keep gift prices as close to $15.00 as possible so everyone will get comparable gifts. THIS IS GOING TO BE SO MUCH FUN!!!! This party is not the best environment for small children therefore we would ask that you find sitters for your little ones. They'll have more fun and you'll enjoy having a day out!
A fun time will be had by all. We're asking each family to bring a dish
(nothing HOT - as in needing to be plugged in to be kept warm - spicy is
o.k.) We just want finger foods and we'll enjoy nibbling. ONE OF OUR GUESTS IS ALLERGIC TO ANY TYPE OF SEAFOOD INCLUDING TUNA, CRAB, ETC. PLEASE DO NOT BRING DISHES INCLUDING THESE INGREDIENTS.
Crystal light, tea and the like will be provided.
2003 is going to be an exciting year for F.A.C.E.S. In January we are having the representatives from Ethicon come and do another mock laparoscopic surgery. You will have the opportunity to see "up close and personal" exactly what happens during weight loss surgery. The surgical instruments will be available and you can hold them and get a feel for things. You won't want to miss this educational opportunity and you may want to bring friends and family so they can be educated as well. February is also going to be an exciting meeting. It's the 2nd Anniversary of F.A.C.E.S. and the guest speaker is none other than -ME- your bari-godmother. We'll be reflecting on some of the events of the last two years and then having a "just visiting" meeting which is so important and information to pre ops and post ops alike.
Be sure to pick up copies of the 2003 meeting schedule at the Christmas party. You'll want to attend as often as possible.
Be safe, remember the reason for the season, participate in a random act of kindness and we'll see you all on Saturday.
Love and Hugs,
Rona

Well the slimy ones of the night stole the stereo/amp/sub in my
oldest son's Jeep last night! This will be the second time in as many
years. They got the CD unit, the amp and the 12" sub. Both doors were
unlocked, and the drivers window is being held up with safety pins, so
what do these numbnuts do? The slice open his passenger window with a
knife. Wes watched them as they roared up and down the driveway to his
hillside apt all night long but he never saw them come anywhere close to
his Jeep in the parking lot. When he went out to go to work this
morning, he discovered his disassembled dash and all the other crap they
had destroyed. He was going to call the police from work and after
plugging a few wires back together he headed down the driveway. About
halfway down the street he sees the same car that had been running up
and down his driveway all night long, and the Police have it pulled
over, so he stops and tells the Police that his car had been broken into
and he had seen this car multiple times in his apartment parking lot.
He describes what he's missing and the cop say's Yep, it's all right
here in the trunk. So BAM! Off to jail for the whole car full of
little punks. He didn't know any of them, had never seen them before,
had never seen the car before either. But he did get all of his stuff
back, and these little punks are off somewhere in jail.
Better be wary! And it seems that the only way to protect your gear is
to remove it and take it in the house with you these days.
Tim Suggs
Birmingham, AL. USA!
98 TJ (Tuneless Jeep)
90 YJ (Yet to be broken into Jeep)
89 Montero (Stereo broke, not worth stealing)

I am going to have a revision of my 9 year old RNY. I seem to
remember a book that told about Preparing for Surgery so that you
heal faster. It had to do with nutrition and other subjects.
Does anyone know what the title of thois book is or where to get it?
Thanks, George

Grandma Peg I also have been worried about Avis her email is no
longer working and not heard from her in months please update if you
have any information.
thanks jennifer

Hi,
Some of you have asked if the Reminder that went out (which is automated) was in addition to or one in the same as the Christmas Party..
In place of the regular Dec. Saturday Meeting we will be having our Christmas Party. It is in the same place and at the same time that we normally have our meetings.
However we will still be having the regular Monday meeting on Dec. 30th at
6 p.m.
Here are the details of the Christmas party:
We will be playing Dirty Santa again (only this year we'll be having a "3 Steal Limit" to prevent the flashlight wars!) The gift limit for Dirty Santa is $15.00 so we know everyone will get a nice gift. You must bring a gift to be able to play. Women bring women's gifts and men bring men's gifts. Each gift must be wrapped and the tag should only say MAN or WOMAN. Please keep gift prices as close to $15.00 as possible so everyone will get comparable gifts. THIS IS GOING TO BE SO MUCH FUN!!!! This party is not the best environment for small children therefore we would ask that you find sitters for your little ones. They'll have more fun and you'll enjoy having a day out!
A fun time will be had by all. We're asking each family to bring a dish (nothing HOT - as in needing to be plugged in to be kept warm - spicy is o.k.) We just want finger foods and we'll enjoy nibbling. ONE OF OUR GUESTS IS ALLERGIC TO ANY TYPE OF SEAFOOD INCLUDING TUNA, CRAB, ETC. PLEASE DO NOT BRING DISHES INCLUDING THESE INGREDIENTS.
Crystal light, tea and the like will be provided.
Please talk to Rona at 838-6589 or Wes at 663-2190 if you have any questions about the Christmas Party.
Hope to see you there..
Wes

Granmaw Peg, I had to laugh at your comment to Jennifer to enjoy her
Christmas eating. My sugery is Dec 31st. Pre op prep of Mag Citrate
and clear liquids is set for Dec 30th. My hubby has laughed and said
that this is the first time in 20 years he has ever seen me PLAN a
menu for every day until then! LOL It consists of things
like "Mexican Feast" "Red Velvet Cake" "Pizza with the works" etc!
Looking forward to the Support Group Meeting, but I, like Renee
would like a reminder on whether this is the same as "The Christmas
Party" etc.
Hugs to all,
Nancy, aka dumbunnie
15 days to BUTTERFLY DAY!

In a message dated 12/14/2002 11:25:00 PM Central Standard Time, rsmith228@... writes:

Subj:
Date: 12/14/2002 11:25:00 PM Central Standard Time
From: rsmith228@...
To: rsmith228@...
Sent from the Internet

I just wanted to tell everyone to have a very Merry Christmas and may
God bless you all during this holiday season. I also wanted to list
what I'm thankful for first and formost I'm thankful for my Lord and
Savior Jesus Christ. I'm thankful for my wonderful supportive husband
Donnie of almsot 9 years I'm thankful I have a family and friends I
consider this group my family too. I'm thankful for the opporunity to
have this surgery in Jan to save my life. I'm just thankful to be
alive. Take care and God bless you all I love you all.
Jennifer
See you all next Sat at the Christmas party.

This is a wonderful story of how God can really work!! I wish all of you
the best and very merry Christmas!!
The brand new pastor and his wife, newly assigned to their first ministry,
to reopen a church in suburban Brooklyn, arrived in early October excited
about their opportunities. When they saw their church, it was very run down
and needed much work.
They set a goal to have everything done in time to have their first service
Christmas Eve. They worked hard, repairing pews, plastering walls,
painting, etc. and on Dec 18 were ahead of schedule and just about
finished. On Dec. 19 a terrible tempest - a driving rainstorm - hit the
area and lasted for two days.
On the 21st, the pastor went over to the church. His heart sank when he
saw that the roof had leaked, causing a large
area of plaster about 20 feet by 8 feet to fall off the front wall of the
sanctuary just behind the pulpit, beginning about head high. The pastor
cleaned up the mess on the floor, and not knowing what else to do but
postpone the Christmas Eve service, headed home.
On the way he noticed that a local business was having a flea market type
sale for charity so he stopped in. One of the items was a beautiful,
handmade, ivory colored, crocheted tablecloth with exquisite work, fine
colors and a Cross embroidered right in the center. It was just the right
size to cover up the hole in the front wall. He bought it and headed back
to the church.
By this time it had started to snow. An older woman running from the
opposite direction was trying to catch the bus. She missed it. The pastor
invited her to wait in the warm church for the next bus 45 minutes later.
She sat in a pew and paid no attention to the pastor while he got a ladder,
hangers, etc., to put up the tablecloth as a wall tapestry. The
pastor could hardly believe how beautiful it looked and it covered up the
entire problem area. Then he noticed the woman walking down the center
aisle.
Her face was like a sheet. "Pastor," she asked, "where did you get that
tablecloth?" The pastor explained. The woman asked him to check the lower
right corner to see if the initials, EBG were crocheted into it there.
They were. These were the initials of the woman, and she had made this
tablecloth 35 years before, in Austria. The woman could hardly
believe it as the pastor told how he had just gotten the Tablecloth.
The woman explained that before the war she and her husband were well-to-do
people in Austria. When the Nazis came, she was forced to leave. Her
husband was going to follow her the next week. She was captured, sent to
prison and never saw her husband or her home again.
The pastor wanted to give her the tablecloth; but she made the pastor keep
it for the church. The pastor insisted on driving her home, that was the
least he could do. She lived on the other side of Staten Island and was
only in Brooklyn for the day for a housecleaning job.
What a wonderful service they had on Christmas Eve. The church was almost
full. The music and the spirit were great. At the end of the service, the
pastor and his wife greeted everyone at the door and many said that they
would return. One older man, whom the pastor recognized from the
neighborhood, continued to sit in one of the pews and stare, and the pastor
wondered why he wasn't leaving. The man asked him where he got the
tablecloth on the front wall because it was identical to one that his wife
had made years ago when they lived in Austria before the war and how could
there be two tablecloths so much alike?
He told the pastor how the Nazis came, how he forced his wife to flee for
her safety, and he was supposed to follow her, but he was arrested and put
in a prison. He never saw his wife or his home again all the 35 years in
between.
The pastor asked him if he would allow him to take him for a little ride.
They drove to Staten Island and to the same house where the pastor had
taken the woman three days earlier. He helped the man climb the three
flights of stairs to the woman's apartment, knocked on the door and he saw
the greatest Christmas reunion he could ever imagine.
True Story - submitted by Pastor Rob Reid.
Who says God does not work in mysterious ways. I asked the Lord to bless
you as I prayed for you today. To guide you and protect you as you go along
your way.... His love is always with you, His promises are true, And when
we give Him all our cares you know He will see us through. So when the road
you're traveling on seems difficult at best, Just remember I'm here
praying, and God will do the rest.
Pass this on to those you want God to bless, and don't forget to send
it back to the one who asked God to bless you first.

We would like to remind you of this upcoming event.
Support Group Meeting
Date: Saturday, December 21, 2002
Time: 3:00PM - 6:00PM CST (GMT-06:00)
This is our regular monthly meeting. We will be having a guest
speaker. Please contact facesofwls@... for information on
the speaker for this month.

Nancy,
Your right, it takes at least two to keep Granma Peg in line & we don't
have enough people to keep Tim in line.
About my weight loss. I have lost 62 lbs since surgery and a total of
180 lbs. I think my post-op weight loss would have been greater had I
not had the clot. I still have at least 30lbs plus on my right leg.
"The ChanManZ"

HELLO EVERYONE,

JUST WANTED TO DROP A NOTE TO LET YOU KNOW I'AM DOING WELL. WANTED TO WISH YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY HOLIDAYS, AND TO THANK ALL OF YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT AND PRAYERS. HOPE EVERYONE HAS A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY, AND REMEMBER THE REASON FOR THE SEASON. LOVE

DENISE WILLIAMS

LAP RNY 11-26-02 DOWN SINCE SURGERY 28LBS +

25 BEFORE SURGERY=53LBS TOTAL.

I am thankful for my dear husband of 19 yrs, I am thankful for my 3 beautiful children, I am thankful that they are all healthy and happy and good :) I am thankful that God has lead me to a job that I really love. I am thankful for the friends I have . I am thankful that I have found not one but two great support groups where I can find people who understand. But most importantly I'm thankful to God for sending his son to die for me so that I might live. To God be the glory!!!
God Bless
Di

I am thankful to believe in a loving, caring God. I'm thankful that
HE provided me with a supportive husband 20 years ago, a caring,
talented, beautiful daughter 16 years ago. I'm thankful that I grew
up with two parents who love me and support me and a younger sister
who drove me NUTS as a kid but is my best friend now.
I'm thankful to live in a country where we can worship who, when and
where we want.
I'm thankful to have never (0bviously HAHAHA) gone hungry, gone to
bed cold and to never have been unloved.
I'm thankful that science has progressed enough to develop this
wonderful tool that is going to help me win a life long battle with
my weight.
I'm thankful for wet puppy dog noses, rough kitty kisses and smiles
of delight that babies give to one and all. I'm thankful for the
wisdom of my elders and the childlike wonder of youngsters of all
ages.
And I am VERY thankful to have discovered this wonderful support
group! Ya'll are the greatest!!!!!
Love, Nancy, aka dumbunnie

Hey everyone!!!!
Just wanted to drop a line and let you all know that I came home
from the hospital on Wednesday and am feeling pretty darn good!!!!
The first few hours after surgery were horrible because of some
trouble with my IV pain meds. But since then its been pretty good!!!
We are at my parents for a week or so and then it will be on home for us!
Tim and Joy thanks so much
for visiting me in the hospital it was soooooooooo sweet of you!!!
And Rona....thanks for not visiting me!!!!HAHA My crew told me you
were a little under the weather so I hope this finds you feeling
fine and dandy!!! BUt Rona I know you were there in spirit girl so
thats all that matters!!! And for the rest of you thanks so much for
all your prayers and thoughts!!!! Now everyone remember to keep
praying for my parents and for me because on DEC27th when they both
undergo their surgeries I will be a basketcase!!!!!! Thanks again!
LeyAnn by the weigh I am minus 13lbs already!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi FacesofWLS,
I just wanted to tell you all that I love to read all your messages, (especially Tims, he's crazy). I don't post very often because I never know what to say but I wanted to let you all know that I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I know my new year will be great because I have my surgery on Jan 13. (my only regret is that I don't live in Birmingham so I could meet all of you.)
God Bless
Di

Hi everyone,
There were several post asking "where were the post"... Lisa and I were out of town over the weekend therefore the post backed up... That will happen from time to time but not too often. Were back and so are the post.
Hope everyone has a Happy Holiday...
Don't forget that Jesus is the reason for Season..
Wes and Lisa

I haven't seen any emails since 12/9. What is happening? Four days
without FACES email is some kind of record.
Jackie

Hi All,
Sorry I haven't been around in a while. I have to tell you that I have been
home sick with the plague. Honestly, I don't know when I've ever been so sick.
It was almost impossible to even get out of bed! Oh and the headache.......wow,
let's don't even talk about it anymore - it makes me want to cry.
Yesterday was my birthday. I'm 42 years young. Wade gave me a beautiful string
of REAL pearls (are you really supposed to rub them on your teeth to see if
they're real? I have dentures - will it still work? ha ha). I asked him if I
reminded him of Barbara Bush when I wore them. They're real pretty.
I know that we get caught up in the holdiay spirit and sometimes forget to be
thankful for all our blessings. Since it's been kinda slow on the e-group
lately I thought it might be kinda fun to share what we're thankful for. I'll
go first and then everyone jump in - ok?
I'm so thankful for my wonderful family. 40 years ago I was adopted by the BEST
mom and dad in the world. 20 years ago I married the BEST man in the world. 19
years ago I had the BEST son in the world. 18 years ago I had the BEST son in
the world for the 2nd time. 2 years ago I had the BEST surgery in the world.
22 months ago I started the BEST support group in the world. 22 months ago I
started making the BEST friends in the world. 14 months ago I got the BEST job
in the world. 6 months ago I had the BEST surgeons in the world who took me
through double mastectomy. Yesterday I had the BEST birthday in the world. Am
I the best? Nope..God is. And I am more thankful every single day for the
incredible blessings He's given me.
Thanks to all of you for being the BEST friends anyone could have. I hope you
have a happy, healthy and prosperous Christmas season and coming New Year.
Now, share with us what you're thankful for and what makes you happy.
Love,
Rona
Your Bari-Godmother

SANTA CLAUS:
There are approximately two billion children (persons under 18) in the
world.
However, since Santa does not visit children of Muslim, Hindu, Jewish or
Buddhist religions, this reduces the workload for Christmas night to 15%
of the total, or 378 million (according to the Population Reference Bureau).
At an average (census) rate of 3.5 children per household, that comes to
108 million homes, presuming that there is at least one good child in each.
Santa has about 31 hours of Christmas to work with, thanks to the
different time zones and the rotation of the earth, assuming he travels
east to west (which seems logical).
This works out to 967.7 visits per second.
This is to say that for each Christian household with a good child,