One year ago today I had surgery to better my life. It’s been quite the year!

I learned to ski! I learned to kayak! I ran a 5k!

I can walk between aisles and my hips don’t knock things over.
I walk up stairs and not feel like passing out or having to take a break.
I can keep up with my friends as we walk around town.

I shop at more than two stores.
I am no longer needing XXL shirts.
I am officially out of double-digit sized jeans. (!! AMAZING TO ME !!)

I feel better about myself.

There are a lot of memememe statements up there, but this has been the year of me. The Year of Jen. The work isn’t over, I have to continue what I’m doing – but I’ve gotten quite the jump start into my new life.

It’s a wonderful feeling.

I have thought a lot about this post, but in the end I’m just typing as I think of things. I’m sure there are some out there that is tired of hearing about it- and that’s fine. But for those that have cheered me on throughout the year; the encouragement or compliments along the way — thank you.

I thought about posting my weight.. but I think photos are enough. A quick before/after… picture on the left was taken September 27, 2009 – picture on the right was taken September 25, 2010.

And here’s a little progression slideshow.. pics from almost every month in the last year.