Long before I started this blog or even my weight loss journey, I was an unhappy thirty-something (turned forty-something). My fashion sense consisted of elastic waist pants and the same blouse and tank in many colors. Self-esteem was basically non-existent. Unable to find clothes in regular stores, there was only one store I could find clothes in yet they were made for the "older" woman. I had no idea the start of my weight loss journey would begin in a hospital. Read my story here.
If someone told me years ago I would practice yoga and LOVE it, not to mention do it on a paddle board (read about it here), I would say "No way!" Before I would scoff at the idea of doing a marathon but I did. In 2016 with my walking buddy by my side, I did my first half marathon. The glow and empowerment I felt running across the finish line in under 3 hours was unbelievable.
The initial reason I started this blog was to chronicle my weight loss journey....and because a fellow Weight Watcher member suggested I do. To share the struggles, ups and downs, and small victories (okay, and some big ones). I initially lost 202 lbs, reaching lifetime status in 2016 with a weight of 173.6, which was short lived. I became comfortable with food and threw all wise choices out the window. My weight slowly climbed and before too long, 11, 15, 25 lbs. found their way back. Or as I like to call it boyfriend weight. To go from 375.6 to 173.6 is an awesome feat in my book. The 25 lbs. I gained back wasn't even close to all of it.
But I wanted to lose the weight I gained after reaching lifetime. I found it to be a struggle. Things kept happening, igniting my bad emotional/stress induced eating habits. Boredom. I'd lose the same 2-5 lbs. only to gain it back. It wasn't until a storm named Harvey blew into town that I was given a push in the right direction. The weight started to come off. I believe the cravings for sweets has diminished. I am hoping to earn the lifetime key back shortly.
One thing is for sure, since starting this blog, I've learned so much about weight loss, maintenance, what foods I now like, and about a hundred other things. Not to mention having gained so much support on my journey. These are some things I have learned and experienced on my journey.
Sitting Indian-style was foreign to me until now. Now I do it with such ease.
My stomach used to reach my knees when I sat down. No more! I actually see my knees and not my stomach.
I nearly squealed the first time I could paint my toenails. I can bend my leg and reach over to pain them.
I've learned when I am shopping I don't look for the largest size before I decide if I like it. I look for clothing I like first then I look for my size.
I actually love taking selfies and seeing myself in pictures. Before, I dreaded photo ops. Now I really like it and jump at the chance.
My body chemistry has changed. I used to be hot (and uncomfortable) all the time, complaining when people turned the temp up from 72. Now when it is 72 I put a sweater on. I seem to be cold (or chilly) most of the time.
I love to see my shadow when I go on walks. I actually see a slender person.
Before, I'd get winded just taking the stairs to my car. Now I walk 5 miles / 7 days a week (well most days).
I actually have men hit on me since losing the weight. Trying to navigate the dating scene. It never happened before mainly because I hid inside my house.
I no longer wear granny panties. I can actually buy cute undies!
When I now sit in a chair, there is room on either side of me (and that's with arms!) instead of before when I would hardly fit in a chair.
I have always considered myself girly, but now I feel it more than ever. I embrace being girly (but an empowered woman at the same time).
It's important to do everything I can to maintain my weight. Includes measuring everything I eat.
I said good bye to fast food. These lips haven't touched a hamburger in over 3 years.
I gave up soda and strictly drink water with an occasional tea with meals.
I have a commitment of walking 5 miles every morning (yes even on weekends).
I've learned maintenance is HARD.
I can't be too cocky or comfortable with myself a/k/a the cute syndrome. I feel good and get told I look cute but I can't let that go to my head.
Fat girl really hasn't moved out. Some days she is louder. There are days I see my imperfections and feel unworthy of finding love. Fat Girl somehow wants to sabotage me and tell me the weight will come back on.
Skinny girly girl shuts Fat Girl up most days. She loves to shop for small clothes and have fun.
Old habits sometimes make an appearance. But there are those that completely gross me out. I am ashamed and disgusted at what I used to eat.
It's a healthy lifestyle change, not a diet. I don't speak the word diet. I defend this change when other question.
Support is big! Losing weight is a little easier when encouragement comes from those that love me. And want the best for me and cheer me on at every small victory.
There is wonder everywhere. New activities to try. New foods to eat. New experiences.
Negative talk is not good for anyone. When I have those silent negative thoughts, I try to do something to banish them away.
I learn something new every day about myself, about maintaining (and losing) weight, and life. I am somewhat anxious about the next chapter. Learning how to balance, let life in again, and have fun while at the same time keeping those wise/healthy choices at the forefront of my mind. And when I feel down or like nothing is going right, I just think of where I have come from. To think I could have not chosen to not visit the ER that day, there's a chance I would not be here today.
Christina
Leaving glitter everywhere I go!
If someone told me years ago I would practice yoga and LOVE it, not to mention do it on a paddle board (read about it here), I would say "No way!" Before I would scoff at the idea of doing a marathon but I did. In 2016 with my walking buddy by my side, I did my first half marathon. The glow and empowerment I felt running across the finish line in under 3 hours was unbelievable.
The initial reason I started this blog was to chronicle my weight loss journey....and because a fellow Weight Watcher member suggested I do. To share the struggles, ups and downs, and small victories (okay, and some big ones). I initially lost 202 lbs, reaching lifetime status in 2016 with a weight of 173.6, which was short lived. I became comfortable with food and threw all wise choices out the window. My weight slowly climbed and before too long, 11, 15, 25 lbs. found their way back. Or as I like to call it boyfriend weight. To go from 375.6 to 173.6 is an awesome feat in my book. The 25 lbs. I gained back wasn't even close to all of it.
But I wanted to lose the weight I gained after reaching lifetime. I found it to be a struggle. Things kept happening, igniting my bad emotional/stress induced eating habits. Boredom. I'd lose the same 2-5 lbs. only to gain it back. It wasn't until a storm named Harvey blew into town that I was given a push in the right direction. The weight started to come off. I believe the cravings for sweets has diminished. I am hoping to earn the lifetime key back shortly.
One thing is for sure, since starting this blog, I've learned so much about weight loss, maintenance, what foods I now like, and about a hundred other things. Not to mention having gained so much support on my journey. These are some things I have learned and experienced on my journey.
Sitting Indian-style was foreign to me until now. Now I do it with such ease.
My stomach used to reach my knees when I sat down. No more! I actually see my knees and not my stomach.
I nearly squealed the first time I could paint my toenails. I can bend my leg and reach over to pain them.
I've learned when I am shopping I don't look for the largest size before I decide if I like it. I look for clothing I like first then I look for my size.
I actually love taking selfies and seeing myself in pictures. Before, I dreaded photo ops. Now I really like it and jump at the chance.
My body chemistry has changed. I used to be hot (and uncomfortable) all the time, complaining when people turned the temp up from 72. Now when it is 72 I put a sweater on. I seem to be cold (or chilly) most of the time.
I love to see my shadow when I go on walks. I actually see a slender person.
Before, I'd get winded just taking the stairs to my car. Now I walk 5 miles / 7 days a week (well most days).
I actually have men hit on me since losing the weight. Trying to navigate the dating scene. It never happened before mainly because I hid inside my house.
I no longer wear granny panties. I can actually buy cute undies!
When I now sit in a chair, there is room on either side of me (and that's with arms!) instead of before when I would hardly fit in a chair.
I have always considered myself girly, but now I feel it more than ever. I embrace being girly (but an empowered woman at the same time).
It's important to do everything I can to maintain my weight. Includes measuring everything I eat.
I said good bye to fast food. These lips haven't touched a hamburger in over 3 years.
I gave up soda and strictly drink water with an occasional tea with meals.
I have a commitment of walking 5 miles every morning (yes even on weekends).
I've learned maintenance is HARD.
I can't be too cocky or comfortable with myself a/k/a the cute syndrome. I feel good and get told I look cute but I can't let that go to my head.
Fat girl really hasn't moved out. Some days she is louder. There are days I see my imperfections and feel unworthy of finding love. Fat Girl somehow wants to sabotage me and tell me the weight will come back on.
Skinny girly girl shuts Fat Girl up most days. She loves to shop for small clothes and have fun.
Old habits sometimes make an appearance. But there are those that completely gross me out. I am ashamed and disgusted at what I used to eat.
It's a healthy lifestyle change, not a diet. I don't speak the word diet. I defend this change when other question.
Support is big! Losing weight is a little easier when encouragement comes from those that love me. And want the best for me and cheer me on at every small victory.
There is wonder everywhere. New activities to try. New foods to eat. New experiences.
Negative talk is not good for anyone. When I have those silent negative thoughts, I try to do something to banish them away.
I learn something new every day about myself, about maintaining (and losing) weight, and life. I am somewhat anxious about the next chapter. Learning how to balance, let life in again, and have fun while at the same time keeping those wise/healthy choices at the forefront of my mind. And when I feel down or like nothing is going right, I just think of where I have come from. To think I could have not chosen to not visit the ER that day, there's a chance I would not be here today.
Christina
Leaving glitter everywhere I go!
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