My bags are almost packed. The friends with whom I shared a room have left. I just finished my morning protein shake and caught up on some email, etc. I feel a little reflective about my first big convention/conference post-surgery. I learned a lot about what I need to do to succeed in this environment and how easy it still is to mess myself up sometimes.
All in all, I think I did really, really well. Like I said before, preparing in certain ways was key and I would not have done so well without the planning. I had milk in the fridge in the room so I could make those protein shakes most mornings. The cheese wedges and peanut butter cups meant that I could get something protein-based into me every few hours. My friends were terrific at understanding if I said, “I need to get something to eat” and were usually happy to go with me if we hit a restaurant.
Gotta give props to the Hyatt Regency-O’Hare. Even with so many people, their food service in the bar and the grill was quick! The fridge in the room also meant that I could bring leftovers back and have them to eat at other times. I did that twice, since no matter what I order, whether entree or appetizer or salad, the portions are more than I can or should put in my stomach. However, we’ve already established that I need to eat every few hours so the leftovers were great additions to my food plan.
I ran into trouble with staying hydrated on Thursday. Very busy day and, foolishly, I did not keep a water bottle with me so I wasn’t sipping throughout the day. I ended up feeling lousy and drained and even needed to rest in the room in the evening. I rallied for the dinner event and drank several glasses of water at the meal after eating some chicken. Lesson learned. I keep a bottle with me at all times on Friday and Saturday and refilled it from pitchers often. No further problems ensued.
I was also reminded that “once a compulsive eater, always a compulsive eater”. I have little restraint against small, individually wrapped chocolates. I didn’t overeat, but if they were around, I’d occasionally grab one just because I love chocolate. Not good to give into the impulse, but I’ll give myself some props for not gorging on them. I was also quite proud of myself for only tasting two small bites of the incredibly rich, yummy chocolate cheesecake dessert at dinner one night. After my second bite, I relocated the plate to the center of the table where I could not easily reach it again. Victory!
I love how much more energy and ease of movement I had this year over years past. Instead of dreading making the hike back to the ballroom or the meeting rooms, my get-up-and-go stayed with me and I trucked around without pain and with very little stiffness in my knee.
Yesterday morning doesn’t count. The evening before I enthusiastically participated in the dancing and might have stomped just a little too emphatically during the Cha-Cha slide. Some Motrin took care of the problem.
When I get home, I’ll figure out how to post some photos and also dig out one from last year for comparison. Right now, I’m going to hang out for a few more hours with what friends are still here before I head for the airport.
It was a great time with lots of terrific affirmation and successes on which to build! I’m dying to see what I weigh. If I held even, I’ll be happy. If I managed to lose more, even with the different meals and foods, I’ll be even happier!
Weighty Matters 
Lots of successes! Yay!
Fabulous, Mary. I’m so glad you had a good time and were able to do a comparison with prior years. Progress baby! It’s all good. : )
It was awesome to meet you, Mary Stella! Have a safe trip home.
Ditto Becky! So glad we met. Can’t wait to listen to us on the SB podcast!
Hurrah for you! and i love me some chacha slide
I am soooo encouraged by your successful trip. I go this week for my initial interview with military bariatric center. This particular blog entry gives me hope and knowledge, that when I travel after surgery, I plan,plan,plan and enjoy! Thank you so much for sharing and I can’t wait to see you in June! By the way, I am so enjoying your second novel! Your characters are great, love the vividness of the surroundings. You are very very clever with your discriptions. Especially with the vodka hangover. Was that from experience? Lol
Anyhow, great job on everything!
I’m excited that you’re going for a consult and to get more info! Do you have questions ready? Good luck!
Thank you for your kind words about my book. As far as the vodka hangover, well, I might have previous experience with such a thing. 🙂
Heck, even if you put on a pound or two due to being out of your circumstances, I’d consider it a win! It sounds like you are doing well and you sound happy, which is such a huge bonus.
I agree with Deborah. It sounds like the trip was a roaring success and so much fun!
It sounds like fun, and a great success. yay you!