100 lb. Club - May NSV'S

Happy May everyone!!!! April was another awesome month - Here's to hoping May brings us all even MORE NSV's. :smug:

For those of you unfamiliar with the term, NSV stands for Non Scale Victory. This is where we share our progress on matters that don't necessarily relate to the number on the scale. Such as making a healthier choice, receiving a compliment (we're big on those), fitting into clothing better, something in the fitness area and so on and so on. It is definitely one of my favorite threads, incredibly inspiring and no, it is NOT the time to be humble!!!! So let's start filling er' up.

Technically this happened yesterday, which was still April, but what the heck.

I started a new job a few days ago, and yesterday they gave me two shirts to wear while I work. She gave me a medium! It was the first time in my life that I've had clothing provided by an employer and NOT had them immediately give me a 1x or 2x. The medium was a bit too snug (I'm big busted), so I had to take a large, but I'm still amazed that someone could even possibly think I would fit into a medium.

Technically, this NSV is for yesterday but whatever: I FINALLY made it to water aerobics! And it rocked!

I made my whole wheat pancakes with SF syrup for breakfast. I had mixed up too much batter and made 3 pancakes. I listened to my tummy and after eating less than 2 of them, I was full and threw the rest out. Now, in past days, I'd have eaten the rest no matter how full I felt.

JasonsLea, WTG on the water aerobics. I used to love doing that.

Katheryne, WTG on the shirt. I used to hate that every single time, my work would automatically give me a 2X shirt.

WOOOT Kat!

GO Lily! I'm trying to learn to listen to my stomach more.

I have two of them:

I found two or three regular exercises that are fun and a social outlet that I can do every week, which makes it easier for me to want to do it.

I have been slow at losing weight, and I found that frustrating, but then I looked back at my weight-loss patterns. Typically, I lose on a macro level, but have small gains along the way as well. I haven't had a gain since the beginning of February!

I didn't have a chance to do my monthly measurements last Friday, so it being the last day of the month yesterday I did them. I lost another 6" of fat off of my body for the month of April. Getting close to 40 inches of me gone!

Wow, great NSVs already, everyone!

Mine is probably technically a scale victory since it relates to the number, but I'm posting it anyway. I realized when I changed my ticker and updated my BMI in my signature today that I'm halfway through the "overweight" category. I'm squarely in the middle of that category now, so I'm really on my way down to a healthy weight! I LOVE that!

My NSV was from friday night, but close enough to May, right?

I went for a dress fitting for the wedding I'm standing in that will be held in June. The dress shop took my measurements and made the dress according to those (back in January). When I put the dress on Friday it was HUGE! It hung on me like a potato sack. The ladies at the shop took new measurements on me and I've lost 4-5 inches from each of the 3 main measurement points!

I hit the clearance racks...that's how I'm supporting my weight loss wardrobe! I buy anything that's CHEAP in a size I'm fairly certain I'll be wearing along the way. Anyway, I bought LOTS of stuff for next winter in M and L. Also bought a pair of 18 cords that I was going to shrink into that FIT, a pair of 16 cords that are too small, a 16 skirt that is too small, some 18 workout pants that FIT, and some size 22 JR plus that are too tight. Isn't it STRANGE the way sizes are? Anyway, I only spent $50 and bought about 13 new items to help me along my path. I LOVE that!!!!

Yay Tricia! I love shopping NSV's. I hit the clearance racks too this weekend, and I was tempted to buy some sizes much smaller, but I wasn't sure what size I would get into by fall. I would hate (or LOVE) the clothes to be too big. LOL. But I did buy some size 20 pants (no elastic!) that actually buttoned. 10 more pounds and they should fit comfortably.

Good for you, Tricia and Tiffany on the shopping NSV's! I love, love, love buying something that's too tight and working my way into it; it gives me a real sense of accomplishment! Keep it up!

Hayeu, that's great! Was it a fitting for a wedding gown or what? Congrats!

Tricia, gotta love those clearance racks! I agree, sizing is weird.. that's so awesome you're in a 16 now!

Lisa, congratulations!! You're doing great! I think it counts as a NSV for sure.

Tiffany, isn't it great when something *almost* fits? It's all the more motivation to stay on track! Go you!

Hmm, I have a NSV finally, on the first day of may no less!

I can finally do http://www.iyiny.org/Class_Schedule/1/zShoulderStand.jpg
and http://www.courtsiderfc.com/Images/plow.jpg, although it of course doesn't look like that when I do it.. but still, when I started taking yoga last august I *never* thought I'd be able to do anything near either of those poses!

Tricia, gotta love those clearance racks! I agree, sizing is weird.. that's so awesome you're in a 16 now!



Oh no, I'm not a 16. I wish! The 16s were too small....and I fit one pair of 18s...but it's a big improvement over 26/28!!!!

Whoops, heh, I guess my brain collapsed! But that's four or five sizes you've dropped? Amazing!

Congrats everyone!! Its so inspiring to read about everyone's successes!!

Speaking of shopping..... I can do it for free in my closet!!! Since I have clothes down at least a few sizes.....

Anyway - I'd like to share. I was at a banquet, and passed up dessert last night. And it looked good!! But I knew it would not be worth it. And this morning when my pants buttoned a little less tight, I was glad I did!!

Ooh, I have a good one! :)

People have been mentioning my weight loss to my husband, of course, and he reports back to me. Yesterday, a parent told him to make sure he told me how good I look. She said she saw me running through town and that I looked so "alive and healthy and energetic." ME! Alive, healthy, and energetic? Do you know how many years I went without being anywhere close to those things? I used to worry that I looked silly running, and I still think that but I just don't really care, so it's nice to hear from someone that I actually looked GOOD running through town! I was thrilled.

This morning I complimented a lady on her pale yellow suit and said I wish I look good in yellow but I look hideous in that color. A male coworker standing nearby said, "Please. As small as you are, how could you look bad in anything?" That one threw me for a loop. :lol: Really, no matter what shape my body is in, with my coloring yellow will always be an atrocity on me.

One more little NSV -- I had :jeno: and wine and still stayed in my point range for the day, even without extra calories for exercise. :)

Ooh, I have a good one! :)

One more little NSV -- I had :jeno: and wine and still stayed in my point range for the day, even without extra calories for exercise. :)

This one does it for me....what a sense of accomplishment you must have! That it is truly a lifestyle now...not one of deprivation but of moderation and portion control. Good for you, CONRATULATIONS!

Great NSV"s everyone!

I signed up for facebook last night (yup, got sucked into it ;)) and I found some friends I hadn't talked to in a while. I posted a pic of myself and I got like 5 compliments on how good I look! One of my oldest friends saw the pic (haven't seen him in a while) and he called me immediately and was gushing over the change. It felt so awesome!

Liz, that must've felt so good!! You're having a great week, hitting Onederland and getting lovely compliments on how great you look! Enjoy it!

Mine's a funny one!:D

I've been working out in the yard all morning. I just came in and looked to see this big strip of mud across my face and a TREE BRANCH sticking up in my hair. We won't even TALK about the mud down the front of my sweatshirt!:dizzy: Anyway, I was in the front yard earlier and waved to one of my son's friends as he drove down the street. He didn't wave, but I thought it was just because he had his music on loud and was listening to it. I went on with my edging.

All of a sudden I see the car stop and BACK UP to our driveway. My son's friend says, "Whoa! Mrs. B.!!! Where's the REST of you? You musta lost 100 pounds!" I laughed and told him, "Just a bit over 80!" He said, "Well you're lookin' SWEET! Thought you was Mrs. K. helpin' out over here!" Mrs. K. is our MUCH-THINNER-THAN-ME neighbor.

It's SO great when compliments come at such unexpected times! I guess teenagers can still see the thinner person underneath all the mud and tree branches!

Cheryl

Dana, congrats on those poses! I always think I won't be able to do that, but I guess one day I will.

Great NSV's everyone.

Last night I rented the large commercial rug doctor to do our carpets with. DH was here to help. Now, before that monster shampooer was too hard for me to empty and shampoo with. But, this time DH and I took turns with it. I felt good. I'm much stronger now than I was before. DH just bragged and bragged about how much help I was this time.

Mine's a funny one!:D

All of a sudden I see the car stop and BACK UP to our driveway. My son's friend says, "Whoa! Mrs. B.!!! Where's the REST of you? You musta lost 100 pounds!" I laughed and told him, "Just a bit over 80!" He said, "Well you're lookin' SWEET! Thought you was Mrs. K. helpin' out over here!" Mrs. K. is our MUCH-THINNER-THAN-ME neighbor.


That's fantastic! You know with teenagers & these things they are just being so honest. Good for you!

Cheryl, that's absolutely PRICELESS! And I'm more than sure you'll remember it for a long time to come!

Mine was just a simple dinner conversation with DH tonight. He was commenting that a he and a co-worker were talking about me and the co-worker told him to be sure to encourage me to continue my WW meetings after reaching my goal to help with maintenance. I told DH that I have no intention of stopping, blah, blah, blah, but that I was anxious to get to goal so that my meetings will be free. He asked how much more I want to lose. There it is, the big question. He's never asked a single question about what I weighed before, how much I've lost, or what I want to weigh when I'm done. I held my breath and then told him "about 25 more pounds". I thought he was going to hit the floor! His response was "Good heavens, Kel, I don't know where you could possibly lose another 25 pounds!!!" It felt so good to read between the lines and hear "you're perfect just the way you are"!

Kelly, you must have been thrilled to hear that from your DH...what a nice NSV.

Mine for the week comes from my mother - who asked me what size I'm wearing these days, and when I told her I'm wearing mostly 12's, she said that I am in a smaller size than her - she's wearing 14's these days. I don't think that I've been smaller than her in my entire adult life - and she certainly doesn't appear overweight to me at all (although she admitedly does wear her clothes looser than I do)

djs06, that's incredible! A friend once tried to push me into the first pose, and it just wasn't happening. ;) Good for you!

My NSV is that I tried on a pair of pants that were a bit tight when I bought them at 205lbs (several months ago, haha), and I can now get them on! I'm still 5lbs heavier than when I bought them, and they're still tight, but 10lbs ago I couldn't even slip into them.

Oh, also, I just thought of another! I weight train at home with dumbbells, and I do it in front of a big mirror. Well, I spent a good five minutes today just flexing and noticing all the muscle I've put on. I find it funny when I flex my biceps and my pects and lats (I think that's what they're called) also flex. Being able to control parts of your body that you couldn't previously control is just so strange!

Oh, I feel like crying (happy tears, of course). I'm wearing a jean skirt that I have not been able to get into for at LEAST 3 years!!!!! :cp:

Congrats on the skirt Ritzy!! I know the clothes NSV's just tickle me soooo much!

Cool Ritzy! I have a jeans skirt that I'm dying to get back in to. I hung it up so I can see it everytime I go into the closet.

Oh, those beautiful jeans skirts! I gave mine away long ago; oh well, just have to replace 'em!

Latest NSV is "being able to eat just one", as in, there are a few leftovers from my DD's B'day party... So, at the end of the day, when I'm very hungry but can afford a tiny indulgence, I've stuck to that tiny treat. One night, it was 1/4 of a dorito chip, my all-time fave. Next night, a small dip of the end of my little finger into tiramisu (less than 1 mL) and then I walked away. The next night, less than my finger-nail of very thin, very dark chocolate, and I called it a night. Normally these are no-nos on my Very Low Calorie diet (yes doctor-supervised), but I've looked at all the wiggle room in this diet, and I am motivated enough to live with these very small treats!

becoming wisdom - that is outstanding! Bravo!

Congrats on the skirt Ritzy!! I know the clothes NSV's just tickle me soooo much! Thanks, Mrs. Q! It seems "old" to come back with the same NSV, but it is SO motivating to me. ;)

Cool Ritzy! I have a jeans skirt that I'm dying to get back in to. I hung it up so I can see it everytime I go into the closet. I have done the same thing with another jean skirt, but I have hung mine on the clip-on fan that is right in front of my treadmill. Every now and then I reach up and look at the width and keep telling myself it is worth keeping OP!! :lol:

Oh, those beautiful jeans skirts! I gave mine away long ago; oh well, just have to replace 'em! I really should have done the same thing, but there are a few pieces that were favorites (and oh so comfy) that I just couldn't stand to part with them. :p However, that will be NO PROBLEM when I go PAST them on my way down! :lol:

Thanks for all the pats on the back! ;) This place is awesome!

My NSV is that one of my campers who have not seen me for a long time said, "Sharon your getting skinny." I'm hardly skinny at 198 lbs. But I'll take the way it made me feel. Fantastic.:carrot:

Hubby was reading over my shoulder yesterday, and told me "that picture doesn't really look like you anymore. Your face is much skinnier now." And, last evening I was changing into my pajamas and he said "You know, your breasts are less droopy!":o Sorry if that is TMI, but I just knew you all would understand.....this was coming from a guy that is pretty much oblivious when I fix my hair or wear makeup and make an effort! I loved that he actually noticed these changes before I did.

This is an odd one. When I weighed myself today (down 50 pounds officially today!) I went and stood in front of the mirror in my birthday suit. I will never have the body of a model, but just looking at myself - I now have a waist - and even with all the fat and droopy parts still there, I know there is hope - I can SEE the person I want to be in there - She is starting to show now. I've lost 35" off my body so far, and 14 alone has been in just my waist. I'm never going to have a perfect body, but it ain't gonna be all that bad either!;)

WTG Mrs. Quadcrew on the 50 lbs. and the starting to see the body that you want. My body will never be perfect either, but it's a far sight better than it was. And for this, I'm proud and thankful.

How cool Rhonda! I'd love to have less droop!! ha!

Mrs Q - How nice for you to be able to look at yourself in a totally different light. I don't think any of us will be perfet, but to be able to admire the results from all the hard work is a great thing!

My NSV for the week: I have a job interview next week! Since I've been losing weight too, I can actually wear some of my nicer clothes and not feel like a stuffed sausage.

The interview is Tuesday, I can't wait.

Dana, congrats on those poses! I always think I won't be able to do that, but I guess one day I will.

you will!! i started taking yoga once a week (sometimes twice, but not very often) last August and the first time I saw those poses I was like "oh **** no." I didn't even try again until about 2 months ago, and thought the same thing... and the other night when I tried it, it almost felt like a fluke because I got right into the position. Of course I couldn't hold plow too long because my boobs are enormous and i would have suffocated myself :lol: but i got there and that's what counts! shoulder stand is a lot easier.


djs06, that's incredible! A friend once tried to push me into the first pose, and it just wasn't happening. ;) Good for you!


hahaha, thank you!! that's what I said the first time I saw it.. just took some practice and patience! :) Congrats on getting buff!! I do the same thing with my muscles.. :lol:

Today is measurement day! To date, I have lost a total of 23 inches! :woohoo: :exercise: :lifter:

Great job, Ritzy! Wow!!

Yesterday at school, some students in the hall said hi to me and then I heard them continue talking as I kept walking. The girl said, "She's getting so tiny," and the guy said, "I know. She looks GOOD." I love overhearing stuff. :)

My other NSV is that I just did an upper body and abs workout and I realized I've become MUCH stronger. It's a workout I designed myself, with dumbbells, and I really push myself with it. I need to get new dumbbells because I only have up to 10 pounds and I have to double up my 10s and 3s for my highest weight set, which is kind of awkward, so I need to make sure I have the next level up. Woohoo! Now if I can just get my foot healed and get back to my running...

After doing my grocery shopping today I decided to lay on the couch and take a nap. I started feeling guilty about feeling so lazy. I got off my lazy butt and went and mowed the yard, then weeded the garden for an hour. I felt much more energetic after the work than before. LOL, it didn't Kill me.

I was shaving my underarms this morning and I realized I have a hollow that wasn't there before. Now I have to be careful about shaving because it isn't a piece of flab covered by hair, it now has curves.

My DD had a teenage friend of hers over on Thurs. evening. Yesterday my DD told me that her friend Candace said "man, your mom is really skinny now, she has lost a lot of weight".

Last night DH told me that 2 of his co-workers that saw me yesterday were discussing "how great I looked" and one said "vic, I thought you said your wife is older than you,, but she definitely looks younger than you do". HaHa, I'm older than him by 4 yrs.

I was shaving my underarms this morning and I realized I have a hollow that wasn't there before. Now I have to be careful about shaving because it isn't a piece of flab covered by hair, it now has curves.

OMG Nelie - me too!!! I noticed this a bunch of weeks ago. I was like, what the heck is going on here? It's so deeply hollowed that I have a difficult time getting in there. So weird.

Also, my daughters 18 year old boyfriend was over the other day. When he left my daughter tells me he said to her he just could not believe how skinny I was. Yes, Lily, your NSV prompted me to remember that. It's great when teens notice. It's pretty cool that people think you look younger then your DH, even though he's the younger one. Pretty cool indeed. :smug:

Great going to the rest of the losing gang.

My NSV is a couple days late, but I wanted to share anyway! I picked DD up from school Friday afternoon for an appointment. This is the same school where DS went, and DD has been there 3 years, so I'm not a new face. They've seen me come and go for years, regularly (both kiddos had braces, and you know how many appointments you have to pull them from school for!). Anyway, I'm standing at the counter in the office waiting for DD to come in and sign out when the secretary looks at me and says "Oh my gosh, Kelly! I've been sitting here looking at you while trying not to look like I was looking at you.....I was trying to figure out if you had an older daughter that I didn't remember that was here to pick up ******! I was sure it wasn't you, it had to be your daughter waiting!" OK, so I could've kissed her! She thought I was my kid!!!!!

Well I had my big dinner last night that I had been anticipating for awhile with DH's side of the family. Of course I had seen his siblings and parents since the weightloss, but not his cousins and aunts and uncles.

Wow. It was an incredible night. I wore a really pretty dress and felt really confident in it. I got some pretty unbelivable responses. A couple of people shrieked, literally shrieked - loudly. At one point I was standing around with my DH, SIL, BIL, MIL and one or two other people. Over walks a distant cousin, we all say hello and she's talking and talking and then about 3 or 4 minutes later she screams "OMG, is that Robin?" She hadn't recognized me at first. She said if my DH hadn't put his arm around me that she never would have recognized me. I got lots of hugs and kisses and congratulations. My husband was beaming with pride, just taking it all in, walking around with me and showing me off. I felt like some sort of debutante, having her "coming out" so to speak. Sooo many of the women were asking me how I did it and all, asking me for "diet" tips and all that.

The only downside was that everybody was "policing" my food intake for the night. Oh you must not eat this, gotta stay away from that. They kept showing me what they were eating. Maybe it wasn't such a bad thing afterall, I was afraid to eat the whole night. And man oh man was there tons and tons of food. It was buffet style. The food just kept on coming all evening. There was chinese food of every sort. BBQ, mexican, middle eastern, carvings, pasta, salads and on and on. They had dessert tables filled with heated desserts. Carmel cakes, chocolate cakes with marshmallows, apple cake - all hot with ice cream and toppings and whipped cream, chocolate cream and fruits and nuts on the side. Then there was the regular desserts. Just incredible. Strawberry short cake, mocha, just every kind of cake imaginable, pecan pies, fruit tarts, mousses, cannolis, napoleans, fancy cookies and sooo much more. There was endless sushi. So I guess another NSV was that I walked away having eaten just a few grilled veggies, some mushroom salad, a couple of slices of turkey breast and 3 bites of dessert. And of course when I put one of the bites in my mouth one of my SIL's says, "OMG, did I just see you cheat?" I layed into her but good. She always pi$$es me and all my other SILs off as well and I had had enough of everyone policing me for the night. So I went on to say "Cheat, no I don't cheat." And blah, blah, blah.

It was a nice evening to say the least. It definitely cemented my feelings that I can do this forever and ever. That every little bit of so called sacrifice is defintely, defintely worth it. :smug: :smug: :smug:

Wow, Robin. Just unbelievable! You are inspiring, and we haven't even seen any pictures yet!! ;)

My NSV is this: I came here 2 or 3 months ago with an NSV that I was able to put on a skirt that used to be tight and it not be tight or uncomfortable. Well, this weekend, I decided that same skirt I am not going to be able to wear anymore - it is falling off and looks tacky now!!! :lol: I also wore a blouse to church last night that I decided the same thing about - and these 2 articles of clothing were definitely not loose when I started this in January! ;)

I had a great weekend. It was really busy but I kept to my sleep/wake schedule & got lots done around the house. A garage sale on Saturday & got rid of a pile of stuff. Raked and broke down a huge pile of tree branches for pick up this week and weeded and mowed. Brought my godson swimming and finished setting up the furniture in the spare room for him.

Yesterday was the first day of my recommittment. 2 months until the family reunion & trip to Banff & Jasper. We are going backpacking in the mountains so I need to get serious about fitness. I have my gym bag packed for after work & have an appointment this afternoon for a massage to get the knot out of my shoulder blade area (I get this from sitting too much --- lol!)

Robin your story is so inspiring. You must of felt on top of the world. You should be very proud of yourself.

My campers are all starting to come back and notice that I have lost weight. It is almost funny some of the comments. Like "Are you trying to lose weight." "Are you sick." I hope I don't look sick. I feel terrific. What if I came back with a smart comment. For example, "I see you've gained alot of weight over the winter are you feeling alright." It is funny the things people ask you, it almost borders on rude.

My husband is going to kill me.... This month is our 6 month anniversary (yay!) but my wedding set is too big now. I've only had them for 9 months or so. The store we bought the rings at gives me a free resizing but I don't want to do it any time soon. Anyway, I am either going to start wearing them on my middle finger or get something to make the rings tighter.

Nelie - apparently there are plastic ring sizers that are meant just for that purpose - ask at your jewellry store. I've never used one but a friend of mine had one & wore for quite a long time before she finally had it made smaller.

Robin, that is so fantastic. WTG. I do hate it when people play food police with me too.

nelie, I recently lost my wedding rings because they were too big for me now. So, please be careful with yours. We went fishing and camping last week and my rings were falling off. So, I put them in my purse. At some point they must have fallen from my purse. They aren't in the boat or the camper or the house, so I'm assuming they're at the bottom of the lake.

Lily, ouch!! Dh told me once if I ever lost my rings, we'd meet them back at the jewelry store but I don't think so. I decided to wear them on my middle finger for now. I think I had a friend who taped hers to fit but I'm not sure how comfortable that would be.

Edit - On the plus side, that must mean I'm a size 8 now!! I used to wear a size 12, my rings are size 9 but I don't think they'd fall off until I lost a full ring size.

Right now I'm wearing one of my DD's big, fake diamond rings on my ring finger. I loved my rings so much and they were very expensive. I don't imagine we'll be able to replace them til next summer for our 10th anniversary. I've been trying not to think about it much, but your post reminded me of mine being lost.

Oh Lily, I'm so sorry. These are good reminders. My ring is getting too big too. Better get on that!

Today was a big NSV day for me. First of all my dh decided he'd had enough of the falling off clothes! I was trying to hold out for my birthday (the 30th) and/or a 50 pound milestone. I'm just 2 pounds away from that 50 and 3 wks from my bday, but I guess dh had enough of the pants falling off! (My sweatpants fell off one day when I was on the treadmill-and I do mean off to my ankles!!!) Anyway, I went to the plus size store that I always go to. Last time I was there I bought a tight size 26 jeans (broke my heart too). Today I bought size 14/16 tops and size 18 bottoms. I could get the 16s on, but just not quite ready for public viewing if you know what I mean! I stood there staring at myself for the longest time. I could really see the weight loss without the baggy clothes on.

From there I went to the Y. I've really wanted to start jogging (couch to 5k) but have really been afraid. I got on the treadmill, walked at 3mph for 5 mins and then started 30 secs of jogging (4.5mph) and 2 mins of walking until I got to 30 mins. My lungs felt like I had inhaled gasoline and I felt like an elephant, but I did it. One more baby step for me!

It's so much easier to stay on plan when we have our little victories, huh?

Great job, Shelly!!! I'm starting the running thing, too (at the end of this month!)!

My NSV for today is HUGE!!!!! On Jan. 16 I started my new lifestyle. I must admit I changed my habits DRASTICALLY. That was the day that I went to the Dr for a full workup and told her I was on the wagon. It's funny...I lied to her and said I'd already lost 6 lbs. Why did I do that???? Was I fooling myself enough to think that she thought that 6 lbs ago I was fat but instead I was just chunky??? What the heck??? Anyway, so now I've confessed the lie...on to the NSV. So she checked my blood and everything...complete workup. Well, last Wednesday I went back for a recheck to see how my diet changes had affected everything and my cholesterol has DROPPED 81 POINTS!!!! 81!!!!!!!!!! My tricycerides are down 50 POINTS!!! And my HDL/LDL ration has IMPROVED DRAMATICALLY!!!!! Honestly, I love how my clothes are fitting and how good I've been feeling but that lab report was my HAPPIEST moment I've had in this journey! I feel INDESTRUCTIBLE!!!

Shelly, good for you with the new wardrobe! How exciting to shop and find things that you like, and you like the way they fit and look. That feeling is just incredible!

Lily, I hadn't realized you lost your rings, how heartbreaking! Hang in there, you'll get new ones!

Nelie, my rings are way too big also. I bought a package of "ring snuggles" at Claire's, and Icing carries them also. They were about $3-$4 for a pack of 6 and they do work well. I wouldn't use them as a permanent solution, but I didn't want to have to pay to have my rings sized multiple times, so they're working for me now. One of the snuggles is even large enough to hold my whole wedding set, so I didn't have to put separate ones on the engagement band and the two wedding bands. They are clear plastic tubing with a little slit in the side. Give them a try!

Robin, I'll bet you had the time of your life at that dinner! I'm sure your husband was so proud of you that he was speechless. And good for you for standing up to the nasty one! We all need to do that occassionally!

SUCH great victories for everyone!! I'm especially thrilled about yours, Tricia -- that is SO amazing! What a wonderful thing you're doing for yourself. :hug:

Ladies - it is amazing to read all your successes!! Congratulations to all!!

Today - success was.... going into the dunkin donuts for a cup of coffee - and coming out with JUST a cup of coffee!!

Hey - I was wondering - does anyone avoid the DD? At a meeting someone said she thought it was best to remove the temptation completely and not go in at all. But I kind of feel like that would be "censoring" the world. And I feel that as a part of life, in general, we have to meet challenges, not avoid them. I'd love to hear anyone elses thoughts.

Wow! So many big NSV's! Great work everyone!!!

I went to the gym last night & stayed perfectly on plan yesterday & so far today. As well, we put our yard waste out for pick up last night & we had 12 of those large paper leaf bags & 3 trees worth of branches piled up. It took up 1/2 our driveway! And I raked all those bags & broke up all those branches. (ok dh helped some)

Beth, I do avoid sometimes and sometimes I don't. It depends on where my head is at! One day I was feeling great and went with the kids to the all you can eat pizza buffet place. All I had was salad. Felt great. Some days, I can't even trust myself to drive by! As far as DD goes, I was in there awhile back to get coffee and the person there told me all the "flavors" (love me some flavored coffee) were sugar-free. I looked it up online and sure enough! That put DD on my good list, at least when the donuts aren't calling me!

My nsv for today was that my dh asked me to run an errand for him. The most gas efficient way to do it was to go before a class at the Y that I really like. I had dropped off my dd at an activity, was going to do the errand, and be at the Y by 10:30. Of course everything took longer than expected and knew that if I did the errand first, I would miss my class. I told myself that my class was important and even if it was not the most efficient way, I deserved to be at my class! And I did! I did my Women on Weights class, a 15 minute abs lab and the cardio tread class (which kicked my butt and felt great). Got the errand done after that (although I wonder what the bank people thought of me all sweaty and gross!). It felt great!

robin, I thought of you last night. My son showed up with a box of cheese bread sticks. My DD and her friend both opened the box and got one. I was closing the box and my DH walked in the room. He thought I was eating them too and said "OMG, you are eating those". I gave him a quick, gentle kick in the butt and told him to lay off trying to be the food police". He cracked up. (I wasn't eating them , just trying to shut the box so I didn't have to see the temptation).

Lifeguard, I know how good it feels to do all that yard work. I have been mowing, weeding, moved 2 ricks of wood, planted hedges and planted an entire food garden. It feels like such a great accomplishment. My DH cut a tree down at the end of our driveway and just left it laying there all cut up. I moved and stacked that whole darn tree by myself.

I had my physical today and the doctor said I'm in absolutely fantastic shape... except for the weight :) Cholesterol was 134 with an HDL of 41. Other good stuff too.

Today my mom complimented me on my thighs looking thinner! I hadn't even really noticed it before, but my jeans are rather baggy in that area now.

Some days, I can't even trust myself to drive by!

Isn't it funny how our brains work?!?! Sometimes I wish I could bottle the good strong feelings & use them when I'm feeling weak!!

And congrats to you for making yourself a priority!!

My pants are falling down today!

My pants are falling down today!

How awesome! Congrats to you and keep on going!

Yesterday I went shopping for a dress to wear to go to the prom as a chaperone. I wanted a very simple black dress -- I had a wrap dress in mind for some reason -- I've always liked those. I figured I could dress it up with jewelry. I don't want to be too dressed up. Well, I looked for AGES and couldn't find anything, but the good news is this: All the dresses I tried on were size 14 in regular departments! The bad news is this -- my torso is too long or something, and I have trouble with that. I never knew that before because I NEVER wore dresses if I could avoid it (I'm all about covering my fat stomach, and a shirt over a skirt always worked better for that).

So I finally found a very simple black dress (size XL) that looks like a wrap dress at the top but isn't. It skims past my hips in quite a nice manner! I have to find something to wear under it to cover my cleavage so I don't scare the children. :lol:

Now I'm on a search for some good shoes to wear with it, but I'll have to find them Saturday afternoon before I go! (Cutting it close...)

Anyway, yay for trying on size 14 dresses!

Awesome job, Lisa!!!!

This my first NSV post. It may seem convoluted, but here goes...

Today, for the first time in years I actually got a little thrill when I thought about exercising! Today is our wedding anniversary, and we had planned a casual dinner out to celebrate. I had pretty much written off exercising for today, but threw my workout stuff in the car anyway (figuring I'd use it tomorrow). All of the planets must have been aligned for me today, because last meeting of the day let out early, which allowed me to pick up my daughter from preschool early. On the way home from school, my husband called and said that he was ducking out of work early and suggested that we meet him at the restaurant. We wound up having a nice, early dinner - with plenty of time to spare before the gym closed. Although I felt a little guilty deserting him on our anniversary, I hopped in the car and drove straight to the gym (with my husband's blessing!), while he brought our little one home and put her to bed! Then (it actually gets better!), after I had finished my workout at Curves, the owner invited me to try out the yoga/Pilates class that they offer after hours. It was a great 60 minute class (thankfully no one seemed to notice how awkward I was!). And, as an anniversary present to myself, I signed up for the next set of classes! What a day!!:carrot:

How awesome that your hubby was so supportive!

Isn't it funny how after a while, the body seems to crave exercise? If I miss more than one day of it, it's like my limbs just won't relax!

I love reading the NSV's - they're fantastic.

Well, I went shopping today and bought size 22 jeans. And they fit me perfectly! And they're jeans which never fit me!

Yeah, I'm kind of excited by this :dance: :dance:

I can no longer wear my old work out pants, draw string and all, because they are too big for me. :D Well, I suppose I could wear them on the elliptical and just keep pulling them up, but for things like yoga and kickboxing, forget about it!

Wow, just WOW!!!! Some great NSV's everyone!!! I just love reading this thread. It is so heartwarming to see how losing the weight affects us in such a positive manner. It's the greatest.

Thank you all for listening to my long story about my dinner the other night and for all your kind words on it. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

Lilybelle, that's so funny that you thought of me. I can't tell you how many times things go on in my life and I find myself thinking about 3FC in some capacity, depending on the circumstance. Now of course every time I am "policed" and you know it's gonna happen again - I will think of you! :)

Nelie, absolutely great numbers!!! You must be thrilled. Sorry, doc, but the weight too!!!! You have really gotten back into this losing thing. Big time! :)

Yesterday I went shopping for a dress to wear to go to the prom as a chaperone.


Hi LisaMarie,

I am so incredibly happy for you! I remember...a while back...you posted that you wanted to look incredible by your incredibly handsome hubby at the prom. And, look at you now! Trying on size 14 dresses! I'm so proud of you.

I went to the gym yesterday - even though I really wanted to go home & crawl into bed - I was exhausted. Then at the gym I signed up for a 2x a week boot camp that is perfectly timed for right when I get there. Then first thing this morning I received confirmation that the dragon boat team I signed up for in the winter is starting this Monday. Everything is falling into place to get me into incredible shape!!!

Ok, totally not weight related at all, but I got an A on my biology exam and in the class! And I'm so not a science-y person. :broc:

KnitALisa, WTG on the A.

Last night my DD walked a mile with me to and from the creek. Then I walked a mile on the treadmill. Then I got in the floor and did my Ab. and leg exercises. I didn't want to do it. I felt sluggish. But, of course I was glad after I did it.

robin, you go girl. Just give em a kick in the butt, like I did. LOL

I feel like I've been away from here for so long eventhought it's only been a week while I finished up my finals. I have so much catching up to do on the NSV front.

But here is mine. I went to where I graduated from undergrad Friday night to surprise some friends that were graduating Saturday. Although I’ve keep in touch with people via the internet they haven’t seen me since I left there last August. Needless to say I look much better now then I did then. So many people had to do double takes when they saw me. I don’t know how many time I was told how amazing I looked. It was kindof entertaining that some people would say wow you’ve lost so much weight while other people would notice it but instead just say things like I love the new hair cut and glasses. I actually was excited to go back to the office I worked in because everyone there is kindof vain and I knew they would all flip out.

One of our salesman for the campground came by today. He has not seen me since last summer. He must of said the same thing 10 times, "Oh my gosh you look fantastic." Then he said I hope I'm not bugging you with repeating myself. I just can't get over how good you look. It certainly didn't bug me. He is such a nice man. He definitely made my day. When my DH came in he said, its like you have a new wife.

Last night I took out chicken to bake for dinner. My son begged for chicken and dumplins. I made him and DH the chicken and dumplins, but still baked chicken and made salad and green beans for me and DD. I love chicken and dumplins (and mine are awesome) but I didn't have not one bite of them. I didn't even feel deprived. I love being thinner better than I like them dumplins. LOL.

I'm on track completely now with food and exercise. After over 10 months of maintenance I'm down again to only 1 lb. over goal. I know I can get this other lb. off too. Last night I wanted to hurry and get my exercise 'over with" so I ran on the treadmill instead of walking.

Not sure if this qualifies for an NSV, but I wanted to share anyway. It's official...I'm making the break. I've been boxing up clothes that I've shrunk out of periodically since August, but I kept putting them in the basement until I got around to having a garage sale. Well, my MIL called the other night and asked if I would help her with her annual sale, she doesn't like to handle the money and try to watch everything going on at the same time, so I usually do most of it for her. I started pulling out boxes this morning and pricing items to sell. I now have the entire queen sized bed in our spare bedroom literally mounded about 3 feet high with stuff that's marked, and it's all my old clothes. They're all going! A thinner, better me, and a cleaned out basement...YAHOO! I've also already made the final decision. Any of those clothes that don't sell are going from MIL's house to charity....they're not coming back into my house ever. This is it, a clean break. No going back!

Forgot to mention this one, but it made me feel good!

In the past 3 days 4 different people who have watched me succeed with WW have told me that they either just joined WW, or are planning to this weekend. This journey was something that I did purely for ME, but knowing that my accomplishments have impacted others that I care about makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside!

This isn't much - but its a small breakthrough.... I passed up on a bagel this morning. I was feeling like my cereal wasn't enough for breakfast - and I was passing by the bagel shop - and kept on going!!

But now I'm wondering..... why do I want the bagel?!?! Maybe cereal everyday is too boring.... any suggestions for something else quick & on the go?

I was walking with my 17 year old daughter yesterday, we banged into one of her friends (a stunning, beautiful one I might add, aren't they all at that age?) and she said hello to my daughter and then to me, "Hey there hot mama". Not exactly sure, but I'm thinking it just may have been a NSV. Hot mama. I can deal with that. :)

After seeing those pics....yep, it is unanimous......One hot mama!!!;)

Robin, HOT MAMA is most definitely an NSV to remember!

This morning I needed to wear a tshirt to school and all of mine are 2X's. In a panic to find something to wear, I decided to raid DD's closet. I found a size medium tshirt in there, one that I clearly remember trying to shrink for her, and thought no way. I had no choice so I went ahead and tried it on...and it fit perfectly! Me, in a medium! YAHOO!!!

gr8smyl, maybe you need some protein with your breakfast to keep you fuller so the bagel doesn't even tempt you. Or maybe you just need a bagel once in a while!

Robin, you are definitely a hot mama!

Rhonda, thanks for your comments about my last NSV. :hug:

Kelly, way to go on the medium shirt -- wow!!

lilybelle, you ran on the treadmill -- that's great!! Are you going to get addicted to running like me? ;)

I've had several compliments lately of the "shrinking woman" and "you're disappearing" variety, but the best thing I've heard lately was this morning. My husband called me "pretty girl." It's not new -- he's called me pretty and other variations of it many times at any weight -- but for some reason, it just felt good. Pretty girl. :)

I continue to be amazed (and motivated) by all these NSVs!! Way to go, ladies!!! :cheer:

I have TWO today!

1. I am wearing a jean skirt I haven't been able to wear in FOUR years!! I guess this will replace the beloved khaki skirt I had to shelve this week because it was falling off and looking tacky! :lol:

2. I had to have a link taken out of my watch! It was so loose and bugging me!! I remember when it was tight and uncomfortable in a not-so-wonderful way. ;)

It is amazing how these things are motivating!! :)

gr8smyl, maybe you need some protein with your breakfast to keep you fuller so the bagel doesn't even tempt you. Or maybe you just need a bagel once in a while!


Thanks, Lisa! I may try some protein - and hit another "post listing" for ideas. Right now the bagel still scares me. Its one of those foods I only eat when I'm out of control. It will be a real success when I can eat it while remaining on program, and not feel guilty about it!!

Last night DH and I went out to dinner. I ordered baked chicken, carrots, cabbage and a (small) baked potato. Had fresh pineapple for dessert. I was so happy that I stuck on plan and didn't go over my calorie limit. It made me feel good to stay in control and the food was yummy.

Way to go, Lily! Remember when eating out used to be code for eating as much as you want of all the wrong things? How wonderful is it to go out and enjoy healthy food, and to feel good about the things you've consumed!

That's great, Lily! It seems like conquering the eating out thing is a big deal for all of us. I guess it's one of the things we have to learn along the way, and you seem to have it down!

Today I had a VERY stressful day -- one of my classes was just HORRIBLE. They're my most challenging class by far, and quite frankly I can't wait for the year to end so I can get rid of them. Obviously, not all of them are a nightmare, but the few who are just make it miserable for everyone. I've managed them for the whole year but right now I'm just TIRED of it and really wondering how people can raise their kids to be such immature little brats at 16. Sorry, I'm ranting...

Anyway, after the stress (and crying in the bathroom, even, which isn't like me), I REALLY wanted some comfort food. I'd already planned to meet a friend for dinner, so I could've gone for a big plate of pasta (and I have an excuse -- carbo loading for my race tomorrow!!) I decided there's no way I'm screwing up my weight loss because of some annoying kids stressing me out, so I found a "comfort food" alternative and went to a place that has great low-fat chicken noodle soup. I had that with a salad and a piece of bread, and it was delicious.

Sorry to ramble so long! But you guys know I always do! :lol:

I do all the cooking right now for my family....I just can't let the kids do it yet! And I most of the cleaning up afterwards. Tonight, I made chicken flavored noodles for the kids. I had a taste, but filled up on veggies. Because I am not eating them anymore, there were leftovers. I love the way they taste, and in the past I would have eaten what was left in the pot. But not anymore! Tonight all the leftovers went into the trash! :carrot: I didn't nibble one bite that wasn't on my plate.

Great NSV's everyone!!!

So last night at work I had 3 different people ask me if I'm losing weight and tell me that I was "looking good." It's nice to have my efforts being noticed. It helps that I wore my new scrubs that actually fit. Size Large!!! Another NSV, that I think I've already said, but it still excites me! I fit into Larges!!! WooHoo!!!

We had casual day yesterday and we were given the extra gift of being allowed to wear jeans (not a common occurrence). We also have company shirts that we can wear. Well, I've been there awhile now, so I have a few shirts to choose from. I decided to wear this one that I just got back in January. It is a little short, so I hadn't worn it before. I normally wear them untucked and this one looks funny untucked. ANYWAY... I tucked them into my jeans and wore that. I think it looked really good tucked in, but I also noticed that my jeans were pretty baggy all day. I've worn my jeans at home, but hadn't worn them to work for awhile. I really noticed at work that they weren't fitting like they used to... a good thing!

There's a guy at work that I've been "competing" with for the past 2 months regarding exercise. If we don't make at least 5 days of exercise per week, with a day of strength training, we lose the bet. So far, we're both pretty competitive, so the money hasn't moved! Anyway, he said that he could tell my arms were looking more fit!! This coming from a guy (which is amazing all by itself), who is 9 years younger than me, and who is only looking to lose 15pounds (so he is already pretty darn fit). Although I know that he already knows that I'm working on it, I don't think he would say that if he didn't mean it. Felt so good!!

*** sorry for the wordy post! ***

I grabbed a pair of 18w jean shorts from their hiding place today and put them on. I last tried them on about 2 weeks ago and I couldn't breathe in them. Today they zipped up fine and I wore them to the store and on our walk. :D

I measured this morning and I've lost 4 inches from my stomach and 2 from my hips since April 1st. My waist is now smaller than my hips! It feels nice to me getting an hourglass shape back! :flow1:

So much positive thinking and great rewards for a job well done....keep it up everyone!

I love this thread, it's so inspirational, definitely one of my favorites to read in the mornings before I go out to exercise.

I live in Newfoundland, and last weekend I had a job interview in Alberta; it was really late notice so the only flight I could get had 5 stops and took 20 hours total. During that day I ate really off plan, with the only food available being the stuff inside the security gates at the various airports; the next day I also had several things I really shouldn't have. BUT, I got right back on plan when I got home, as if it hadn't happened at all. That's a really big thing for me, in the past if I went off plan at all then I would have just given up completely and fallen back into old habits.

(And, I got the job :) )

Great job everyone on the NSV's.

Yesterday was my DD's birthday. She wanted me to make her cupcakes so I did. As soon as they were made, I sent one of the full pans of them next door so my neighbors (with 3 kids) could have them. Before, I would have helped eat all of them. I ate exactly one cupcake and that was enough for me.

DD and I went to the mall shopping for her some new clothes for her B-day. I bought myself 2 prs. of capris that were on sale. It felt so great that I'm still wearing the exact same size that I wore last summer when I first started maintenace. The stores were crazy busy, so I didn't try mine on until we got home. They fit absolutely perfect.

More clothes are out the door for good!!! This time it's pajamas. I've finally let go of the 3x jammies that were positively hanging off of me and I've pulled my 1x jammies out from the VERY BOTTOM of my drawer and am sleeping oh so comfortably! :D I LOVE the clothing NSVs!

Well, here is a funny NSV.....my undies have all gotten tooo big, so I finally decided I needed to get some new ones. I go to Walmart to the "plus size" underwear section. I CANNOT find the size I need, and I am thinking to myself.....JEESH - EVERYONE can't wear that size!! Then I had a "lightbulb" moment.....and went over to the REGULAR size section.......and WAALLAAA - there is MY size!!! I can now (for the first time in my adult life) get my undies in the NORMAL size section of the store!!:D :o ;)

I threw away undies this weekend too. And this morning, I was getting dressed and I tried on 5 shirts in a row that didn't fit me. They were all too big. One of them was a tie wrap shirt and even tied as tight as I could, it was still too big. My VS XL undies are also getting too big on me but I love them. I can't part with them just yet.

Some very exciting NSV's going on here.

I have a biggie, for me anyway. As long as I can remember my thighs have always touched one another while standing up. I was walking today with a skirt on and , hmmm, how to describe this, well, there was lots of air circulating. I couldn't wait to get home and check it out in a mirror. Sure enough, MY THIGHS DON'T TOUCH ONE ANOTHER!!!! I never in my entire life thought that that would happen. I still can't believe it.

I just wanted to share my morning with you all. I got dressed in the dark this morning as DH was still sleeping, but thought I did a pretty good job of it considering! Anyway, I took a look in the mirror in our spare bedroom and had this boost of self confidence and was thinking, dang, I look good! That feeling stayed with me and I guess I had a bit of a "woo hoo look at me" thing going on when I got to school. I was down the hall on the way to my classroom and one of the boys (they're all 15) watched me walk all the way towards them and then just as I was passing "C" says "Dang, Mrs. D, you look hot this mornin!" I smiled, picked my jaw up off the floor, said thanks and continued to my room. The bell rang for the kiddos to come in and up to the second floor and I'm usually in the hallway till the final tardy bell rings. While I was standing there I had 8....EIGHT....yep, 8 complements from students about how great I looked. I was on the verge of speechless! I'm still smiling!

Guess what? I can feel my kneecaps! Haven't been able to in YEARS. Woo hoo! :carrot:

YAY Robin!

Kelly ~ WTG! It's completely shallow or whatnot but getting compliments from younger guys (especially teenagers) just rocks!

LMAO BookLover! How do they feel?

My NSV for the day:

A woman who works in housekeeping said hi to me today and asked if I was losing weight and said I was looking good! I was a little stunned to say the least. It made me ridiculously happy for so many reasons. She's a very stunningly pretty lady, always has her hair and nails done and is just nice. You wouldn't think she works in housekeeping. This morning I noticed that my pants felt loose around my waist. It's just weird. Yesterday they felt too tight!

although i have to climb three long flights of stairs to get to the nurse's office at school, I was not as winded today as I was recently. I exercised all last week; i think it's starting to pay off!

robin, that is a really big thing being able to feel that air between the thighs. Congrat's.

Kelly , WTG on all the great compliments. I do especially love the compliments from the teens.

Jason'sLea, WTG on your nice compliment.

dcapulet, WTG on the exercise and the increased endurance.

I've got a couple. I checked my measurements yesterday and I've lost just over 3" from my waist and about 1 1/2" from my bust and hips.

And someone I work with told me how wonderful my hair looked. My hair is nothing special - brown, just below my shoulders and usually pulled back into a pony tail, but they thought it looked wonderful.

All that healthy eating must be making your hair look fab! :D

My husband and I teach in the same school, so we share the same coworkers, parents, etc. Many of them have made comments to him about my weight loss, and he told me today that he never knows how they expect him to respond. He said it feels like they want him to talk about how glad he is that I'm thinner, but what he's happy about is the fact that I'm healthier and more active. He said, "I loved you with more weight on you, I love you now... It's still you." He seems confused about why he should feel any different about me, which I just think is WONDERFUL. To have such a sweet, gorgeous husband who loves me no matter how fit or unfit I am (even though he is absurdly fit) is a true gift and the biggest NSV I can think of. He did say, however, that he's thrilled about the fact that I love running now because when we go to 5Ks and things I'm actually in them instead of just watching him on the side, so he gets to share something he loves with me. :)

Here's the real question...why on earth did I wait so long?

Here's the real question...why on earth did I wait so long?

Well, if that isn't the million dollar question, I don't know what is. And about hubby, I just wanna say - awwww....

3 of my unrecognizable NSV's:

I was walking in a shopping area in my neighborhood. I see one of my daughters very,very good friends walking towards me. My daughter has been away at college and this friend hasn't been to our home all year. And I'm just so happy to see her and well, she walked right past me. I called out to her and said, "Ummm, hello." She totally didn't recognize me. As soon as I called out to her she then did. She could not believe it. She went on and on and on. We kissed and hugged and she had tears in her eyes. She was very happy for me.

Earlier in the day I banged into an acquaintance of mine. I had seen her last week while shopping (I tend to do that a lot these days :)). I had said hello to her but didn't acknowledge me. I figured she just didn't hear me. Anyway, I see her again today and she comes up to me and apologizes profusely for ingnoring me last week. I told her that's okay. She said she didn't recognize me at all, but when she heard my voice she thought it sounded familiar. She said she couldn't stop thinking about it. She later called her sister, who I know much better. She goes onto tell her sister what happened and Sis confirms that it was me.

And Saturday night I banged into a classmate of my daughters mother. Someone I've known for about 9 years now, but hadn't seen in a while. I go over to her and say hello and strike up a conversation and she looks at me like I'm from Mars or something. I realized she didn't recognize me. I literallly had to introduce myself by name to her. She was absolutely freaking out.


It's funny, I never even thought about this when embarking on my journey. It is the oddest thing to not be recognized by people. I one hand I find it very complimentary and on the other hand, a bit disturbing. It's amazing, simply amazing what all the added weight does to a person.

Robin, I have that same thing happen sometimes, where people that haven't seen me in a while don't recognize me. It is conflicting for me too. WTG on the awesome NSV.

Tonite, I had planned on exercising and I got a really bad tummy ache. So, I lay on my bed watching the CMA awards. The music made me want to move, so I promised myself that I'd just slowly walk 1/2 mile (figuring that beats nothing) but once I got started, I didn't want to quit and just kept on going. By the time I finished, I was jogging.

I wore my capris today that I wore last summer on July 5th, the day I met my goal. They still fit just as great as they did on my goal day. I was so pleased.

The little store where we rent movies has a pizza place in it. We went and got movies and my DD wanted pizza. I let her take 2 slices of pizza home for herself. I grilled my chicken and made me a baked potato just like I had planned. It felt so good to know that I can go there for movies and skip the pizza for myself and even let DD have it , and still not go off my plan.

Robin, your post had me kinda laughing about the air between the legs. When I stand with my legs together now there is so much empty space that I kinda look bow-legged. LOL.

Oh Robin, that is a great NSV! I'm getting to that point myself - while I was reading your post, it occurred to me that I used to hate this time of year, because the season for wearing tights or pantyhose was past, but when I wore skirts without tights or pantyhose, I'd be uncomfortable due to the thighs rubbing together. Occurs to me that this hasn't even crossed my mind as an issue this year, because my legs have a lot more room between them - so thanks for the reminder! (not that I'm exactly in love with my upper thighs just yet - but running surely has changed them for the better)

Lilybelle, it's remarkable the changes we all make to our lives. WTG on the not pizza and the yes chicken and for hitting the treadmill. Did you ever think things like that were even remotely possible years ago? I LOVE it.

And yes, I almost feel bowlegged now. That"s exactly how I started feeling a few weeks ago. I felt as if I was walking differently, but couldn't quite figure it out and then the skirt incident and I'm like - WOW.

Yes, Rachel - this summer will be MUCH better. It was a long time in coming. :smug:

LOL, Robin welcome to the being bow-legged club. Before losing wt. I didn't even realize that there was supposed to be an air space between my legs. LOL. I now have 3 separate air spaces down my legs and ankles.

My little NSV. I just made my wheat pancakes for breakfast and accidentally made them bigger than I usually do. I put them on my plate anyway and ended up still scaping at least a whole pancake off my plate into the trash. Before, I'd have stuffed them all down anyway. I have really gotten to the point now that I don't mind throwing food away. To answer your question, I never remotely thought these type of changes were possible for me.

Today I'm wearing a pair of pants that fit me before, the last time I lost all this weight, until about 15 lbs above my goal. I guess you could say this is the beginning of my second-last wardrobe, although temporary only. Getting to goal and maintaining it means that everything I wear for this size will be sold or given away. And my NEXT wardrobe will be the permanent one!

Yesterday, in the bath, I noticed my legs take up less room, too. Hadn't previously remarked it, but for a few weeks now upper thighs haven't been rubbing together whenever I walk, the way they always used to. There's certainly more to go, however daily walking is much less painful!

I've never entered an "NSV" before -- but today, I can! For the first time in about, oh, ten years or so, I bought "average" sized panty hose. I was afraid to even try them on -- even though the height and weight chart said they should fit. But not only do they fit, they actually feel good! My old queen sized ones were so long, there was absolutely no support at all.

I met a group of friends for lunch today to celebrate a birthday. This restaurant has the BEST pretzel "salad" (their words...it's really dessert) and it's positively SINFUL! I completely skipped it. I had a grilled chicken salad with the vinaigrette on the side and I dipped my fork before every 3rd bite. When she cut the birthday cake I did let them serve me a piece. I ate 2 bites (small bites, even) and let the rest sit there. Yea!!!

Tricia: Good for you. I think I know the "salad" you're speaking of - jello, whipped cream, etc right? I never thought about it until you mentioned it, but salad is a ridiculous name for that concoction. :lol:

My NSV: I had my measurements taken at Curves last night and, according to their records, I have lost a total of 14 inches (combined from several measurement spots) since joining 2 months ago. I haven't noticed a big change in how I look, but I figure that is coming...

My only NSV so far is two people asking me if I've lost a couple lbs. Granted, 10 lbs doesn't make much difference physically on a person if they have over 100 lbs to lose. But it always starts with my face. My face gets smaller. Heh. So it's still nice to know that my 10 lb loss is still visible to some.

My husband and I teach in the same school, so we share the same coworkers, parents, etc. Many of them have made comments to him about my weight loss, and he told me today that he never knows how they expect him to respond. He said it feels like they want him to talk about how glad he is that I'm thinner, but what he's happy about is the fact that I'm healthier and more active. He said, "I loved you with more weight on you, I love you now... It's still you." He seems confused about why he should feel any different about me, which I just think is WONDERFUL. To have such a sweet, gorgeous husband who loves me no matter how fit or unfit I am (even though he is absurdly fit) is a true gift and the biggest NSV I can think of. He did say, however, that he's thrilled about the fact that I love running now because when we go to 5Ks and things I'm actually in them instead of just watching him on the side, so he gets to share something he loves with me. :)

Here's the real question...why on earth did I wait so long?

That's really beautiful, LisaMarie. You are a lucky girl!

Thanks, Tiffany! You're doing awesome, by the way, in case I haven't told you lately! You reached a new "decade" and I didn't even know it yet! I love when people get to a new decade!

Laura: Yep! That's the one! It's positively delicious and is one of those things I will allow myself on occasion when I'm there with friends (we split it). However, today there were 10 of us and we were having chocolate cake. I would never order one "salad" for myself because I know me well enough to know I would eat the ENITRE piece! Chocolate cake I can look at....strawberry pretzel "salad" I inhale!

We had beautiful weather today and I spent 4 hrs. outside mowing my yard, picking up junk my dogs had tore up and sweeping my bi-level deck. It's funny but I've really developed a passion for yard work and gardening and such.

I am recommitting today. I have decided I need to say this every day.

Last month when I realized I had to do something with my body,it came about because I tried on some clothes from last spring that didn't fit, I have been exercising since then, and eating better. Today I pulled out a pair of pants that would not close on me 4 wks ago, today they are on buttoned and a little roomy . I feel good. lol.

All of my smaller clothes currently go on! Some aren't pretty, and I need to lose more to get back into them, but some are just about ready to be worn!

After I'm comfortably in these ones, I will have no more smaller clothes in my closet which means I'll need to buy smaller, motivational pieces. :D

After I'm comfortably in these ones, I will have no more smaller clothes in my closet which means I'll need to buy smaller, motivational pieces. :D

What a great feeling! Congrats! I LOVE to shop the clearance racks. A couple of days ago I found 4 pairs of jeans, 2 pairs of pants, 3 pair of workout pants, and 2 shirts for $53 total (which is UNDER $5 per item - got to love that)! I bought sizes all the way down to 12. That's how I shop, now. I love having things in the closet to try and and see where I am from week to week.

I had on a jacket and a cute skirt (size large from a regular store -- woohoo!) today, and a woman at work came up to me and said the following: "Seeing you standing there in that outfit, you'd never know you were ever an OUNCE overweight." I am clearly still overweight, but that was still nice to hear. So that was great, but later an even better one happened!

I went to a specialty shoe store to get custom-fitted for running shoes, and the guy fitting me pulled out a pair of shoes then said, "Wait..I hate to ask this because it's rude, but how much do you weigh?" I told him 184, and he said he asked because that particular shoe doesn't work for people who weigh under 150, and he thought I weighed under 150!!!

This was a very good day!

My usual breakfast is oatmeal and a banana. I have coffee when I get to work. Today, 2 guys from another dept. decided to go get breakfast. And breakfast means a cheese biscuit. And a cheese biscuit is not a biscuit with a slice of cheese on it. It is a large mass of dough wrapped around about a cup of shredded cheddar cheese. After they are baked, they are about the size of a softball or grapefuit. All greasy and cheezy and an office favorite. Well, I declined a biscuit! :carrot: A few months ago I would have eaten one just because they tasted (past tense!) good.

I usually do my measurements around the beginning of each month. Since I was out of town, that didn't happen, and I finally got around to them today. So, in about a month and a half, although I didn't lose a ton of weight in that time, I did lose 9.25 inches - which explains why clothes fit different. :)

Since the beginning, I've lost 37.75 inches - wowzers!

Last night DH & I took the dog for a walk even though we both just wanted to crawl into bed.

I am recommitted today.

I tried on some shorts that I hadn't seen since I moved to California this past August. They now fit! Next step...I want them to be too loose!

I didn't go to DQ at lunch time even though their Pecan Mudslide was calling my name.

Plus I had a chicken & rice micro dinner & some fresh brocolli for lunch. Here's the dumb part: I am satisfied. I was REALLY hungry before lunch & the healthy stuff seemed totally unappealing & I didn't think it would do. But now I am satisfied. Woohoo!

Lifeguard: That is way too funny. I had walked around the park yesterday during my lunch hour and then had to run to the bank. Well, the bank is not too far from DQ. I had eaten lunch and it hit me... I should get a blizzard. And then I thought "now where did that thought come from?????" I was able to steer my car past DQ, but it was almost more temptation than I could handle. I guess that's an NSV... the keyword is "almost"... I didn't cave.

I work with a woman who's lost about 50 lbs and has been encouraging me every step of the way. She's turned into quite an exercise fan - walks and bikes everywhere. Yesterday she told me that I was walking so much better - head held high, not shuffling along as I've a bad habit of doing - and said to me that we should walk together some stage. A few months ago this would have intimidated the **** out of me.

I emailled her my home and mobile numbers and she's given me hers, so I guess that means we're going to be walking at some stage...

This is my first NSV since I started on my plan. I had my first measure-in at my WI today and I have lost........8 inches. Wow!! I am amazed.

I realised yesterday, that since I began this journey April 2nd, I have not woken up in the middle of the night with acid reflux! :sunny: I used to stuff myself after this kids were in bed, with cookies or peanut butter cups, and about 3am I'd wake up almost sick. I had to quit cookies and PB cups cold turkey, they are trigger foods. Now I don't want them! Yippee!! Progress feels good!

I pulled out my 18's this morning for "measure" ~ just to see how far I could get them up my ole legs....and I got them on AND buttoned. :carrot: I was shouting Hooray from the roof top. When I started this journey I was a snug size 22 so this NSV is absolutely giving me the boost I have been needing for a few weeks. :cool:

Congratulations, Tracy!

I have a clothing NSV as well! I tried on a size 14 pair of black pants because my 16s are getting too big to keep wearing to work, and the 14s were too big! I ended up taking home two pairs of size 12 pants! That's just insane! Of course, they're from Old Navy and they seem like they're made bigger than most pants -- they're cut the same as the first size 16 Old Navy pants I got into a few months ago at a heavier weight. Still, I was just thrilled to buy 12s! Oh, and I bought a nice shirt in size large! Not extra large! Woohoo!

Lisa, that's fabulous!

We went out to eat tonight - Mexican - and I ate an order of grilled shrimp and a salad. No chips, no nachos, no extras...and I'm perfectly satisfied! This plan is becoming just plain ol' normal for me!

I was just sitting on the sofa and watching a movie. I reached up to rub my shoulder because it's sore. And I felt something hard...so I had to look to see what was there. Nothing was there...I felt my bones! There's still padding over them, but I can feel my shoulder bones! :D I'm still rubbing them (I had to check to other one too), to make sure sure it's real!

Yesterday I had a nice afternoon. 5 of us good friends were at one of the ladies houses. It was very nice, we all hadn't been together in a while. Well, of course the conversation turned to clothes and shopping and I was able to actively participate instead of cringing and praying that the coversation would turn to a different subject. It felt sooo incredibly wonderful to really and truly feel like "just one of the gals".

And I have a big party this afternoon. I'm not sure what I'm going to wear yet because I have 3 gorgeous outfits to choose from. 3 count em. one, two, three. Not just one that I had to settle for because it's all that could get around me.

Robin, doesn't it feel great to be really social again? I'm so happy for you!

Wow it sounds like everyone is having such a great month. This thread is always so inspirational to me!

My NSV:
I went to the hoedown (a huge country music concert in Detroit) this weekend with my sisters and that sparked several NSVs

I avoided all of the fried carnival food (I love elephant ears too) even when my sisters friend offered me some of her deep fried sliced potatoes with cheese, sour cream, and bacon.

I drank moderately but at least used diet mixers.

I walked so much and wasn't sore the next day. Normally when I walked around activities like this (I walked to and from there which is a mile each way from my apartment) my legs/thighs would kill the next day.

I got several complements from guys on how good I looked (not random people but guys that were my sisters friends that were trying to be nice). I wore a form fitting shirt (that was kindof low cut) and was not at all self conscious about it at all.

They had free t-shirts, I normally would have got an xl (a xxl if they had it) and hoped that it fit but I tried on the xl and it was too big so I ended up getting a large, then when we were there in the morning it was much colder then perdicted (like 15 degrees) so I deciede I would buy a zip up sweat shirt, well I went to the stand and the guy asked me what size, I asked if I could try on a large, he looked though all of them and at first though he only had xxl, which he said I would be swimming in, then found one xl left that he gave me to try on. Well it was too big on me, I ended up buying it anyways becuase I was so cold, but he cut me a deal on the price since it was too big on me. What a nice feeling!

You all are doing so wonderful...complements, clothing, awesome food choices...WOW!

I had a couple NSV's for the weekend that I wanted to share! MIL had her annual garage sale Saturday that I normally get recruited to work for her. A lady was looking at a pair of jeans that I had in the sale and I said to her that they were brand new, that they had never been on my body. She looked at the jeans, then at me, and said "OMG, these were YOURS????" I had to chuckle! On the topic of the garage sale, I pretty much only had my plus size clothing in the sale, I didn't have time to get other items out and priced. I made $315 on all my old clothes that I've tucked away to spend on new ones when I get to goal! Woo hoo!!!

Yesterday was DD's confirmation/middle school graduation party. I had found a really neat, form fitting dressy top at Dress Barn to wear with a pair of dressy crops for church, thinking I would come home and change into something more comfortable for the bbq/party. I felt so good and confident in that outfit that I left it on all day! I haven't been that happy with what I was wearing in YEARS! Later at the party my closest friend came up to me and said she wanted to talk. I love her, we're like sisters, but we don't get to see each other much. I said no prob, let's go in the house. We went in and sat down and she took my hand and told me thanks. When she saw my confusion, she went on to tell me that when she had seen me at her DD's bday party in March she thought about me for the next week, and that seeing me and my progress gave her all the inspiration and motivation that she needed to make some much needed changes in her lifestyle. I was her inspiration, and she's lost 15 pounds in the last 8 weeks. I almost cried!

This weekend I got a new bed and a car. And I just found out that I'm getting my own computer on Saturday.

Kelly, the last part of your NSV is amazing! To be an inspiration to others and to make a difference in someone else's life is incredible. The clothes NSV is good too, but to affect someone else in a healthy, positive, life-changing way is the ultimate!!
Way too go!

On a whim tonite, I decided that I wanted to ready my strawberry patch for planting. I hung a light above me (as it was already starting to get dark) and went ahead and got it about half ready. I just decided, why put off til tomorrow what I can get done today. Then, I came in and rested a few min's and hit the elliptical. I also planted a row of okra today and put stakes up on my tomato plants. I'm finding that gardening is something that I enjoy and gives me plenty of reason to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors.

My strange NSV, this morning when I stepped out of the shower, I noticed my back in the mirror. It was the first time since high school that I thought, "hmm, my back looks sexy." But, it does. I find it weird that 10.5 months into maintenance and I'm still finding new things that I like about my new body. Just gives me such great incentive to keep this wt. off.

A couple of NSV's for me (which I am finding are coming more and more frequently for me now :))

My mom was over on Sunday and said she noticed that I was losing weight. It feels good when people finally start to notice.

And I fit into a pair of size 20 jeans that were oh so tight just a few weeks ago. I have a pair of 18 capri jeans that I'm aiming for next. :) :)

JasonsLea, gotta love those perks! Good for you on all the new goodies!

Thank you, Diane! Having someone so close to me tell me to my face that I inspired them left me speechless. I am so happy for her! In fact, I picked up a card yesterday and sent it to her telling her thanks and I love her, and she can do this....I have so much confidence in her!

Lilybelle, you motivate me so much to just go do it, whatever it is! And those continuing NSV's, they kinda remind me of watching a movie over and over.....every time you watch it you catch something new that you've not seen before....good for you!

Tiffany way to go on the smaller sizes! That has been one of the most motivating factors for me personally through this whole journey so far. Fitting into something smaller has been just as important as seeing the numbers on the scale move. Good for you!

What a great feeling! Congrats! I LOVE to shop the clearance racks. A couple of days ago I found 4 pairs of jeans, 2 pairs of pants, 3 pair of workout pants, and 2 shirts for $53 total (which is UNDER $5 per item - got to love that)! I bought sizes all the way down to 12. That's how I shop, now. I love having things in the closet to try and and see where I am from week to week.

Best Movtivational Tool invented. I just ordered a swimsuit and thought it was going to be too tight. You know what, I am going to wear that sucker this weekend and I won't even have to jump off the roof to get into it.

Jan

I started class again tonight and as soon as I walked into the classroom someone I didn't know said how good my outfit looked. I vary rarely got complements like this while I was heavy.

Ok, this may sound really wierd but here's mine for the day: I was able to set my water bottle in between my legs while I was driving. It's been a long time since I could do that!

Tricia, I love little things like that!

My NSV today is that a student was bagging my groceries at the grocery store and he said, "Mrs. _________, I just have to tell you that you look WONDERFUL." He said it a few times and then said he has to bring a camera to school to take a picture of me and send it to a friend of his who moved away a few months ago and hasn't seen me in a while. Awww... sometimes I love students. :) It was especially nice because I actually looked all sweaty and hideous after coming from the gym.

Lisa, I love them too! It's those little day to day things that really seem to hit me hardest. My water bottle is too wide at the bottom to fit into the cup holder. I've always just held it, rested on my leg. Today I just set it down without even thinking about it because I was getting out of a tight parking spot and was partway home before it hit me! Another thing I noticed at the same time was there are at least 6 inches between my belly and the steering wheel...and my seat is moved up! In the past the steering wheel was not touching but closer than I ever wanted to admit!

I think it's so great how complimentary your "kids" are to you! I admire your courage at facing teenagers everyday! They intimidate the heck out of me!!!

Regular exercise has alwaysbeen my downfall. If I didn't get to do what I wanted, when I wanted...I just didn't do it. Well, for 2 nights in a row, I rolled with the changes and made it a point to fit exercise into my evening. And I feel so much better because of it! :lifter:

I stopped at Dress Barn on my way home from work today to look at some shorts that I had seen a month or so ago. Took a size 10 into the dressing room with high hopes, as a month ago I had tried on a 12 and they fit perfectly at the time. Well, not only did the 10 fit, they were loose! I went out of the dressing room with the shorts still on to get a smaller size (very few customers in there today), I picked up an 8 to try on AND THEY FIT!!!! Not the "snug but they'll look good in a couple weeks" but actually fit well! I was so excited that I bought them, and if I could've found them in another color I'd have bought them too! Now, I will admit that when I got home I compared them to a size 10 skort in my closet and they're the same size, but something about seeing that single digit on the size tag was just beyond amazing!

Ooohh....forgot to add this....as I was looking for an additional pair of shorts I ran across this "little white tee" that was toooooo cute, but they only had it in a medium and an extra large. I went ahead and took the medium into the dressing room, but was sure it would be too snug for me to be comfortable in it. WRONG!! It was so cute and fit great, I bought it too!

I try on clothes a lot now, but rarely purchase anything because I hate to pay the prices for new clothes that I'm hoping won't fit soon so I tend to end up at the thrift store for clothes to "get me through" so this was a real splurge today!

So, I'm going to my weigh in at lunch time which is in the other building - my work has 2 buildings on its site with staff spread out between them - and I run into Susan who I haven't seen for several weeks due to us working in separate buildings. She stops dead, stares at me in absolute amazement and says: "Nicole, what have you been doing - you look fantastic."

Obviously, I haven't lost a lot of weight - you can all see my ticker, but it seems that people are noticing the little that I have lost. I'm absolutely delighted - reality is my epilepsy meds tend to slow down weight loss so any week that I lose a pound is a fantastic week.

Given I was expecting a gain (but ended up losing :carrot: ), her comment just made my day...

I'm getting ready to head out into public in size 20 jeans and an xl tshirt! Who knew those sizes were something to be excited about!?!? :D

I had my annual physical yesterday. Blood pressure is back down to what it was in high school (it was never high, but still), lungs clear, heart strong, all my blood work good (except that darn iron - it's ALWAYS low!). She said I am very healthy and to just keep pluggin' away at my weight. She also said that I am carry my weight very well & no one would ever know I am at 250. Made me feel better about my health as with the pcos I have been feeling so worried about the damage my weight is doing.

Thank you everyone for posting your nsv's - I find them soooo motivating!

So this last week at work I've had a lot of people mention my weight loss, and saying how good I'm looking. One girl I haven't seen for a while even called me skinny. I'm far from it, but it's a fun word to hear. I know I'm doing this for me and to make me healthier, but it makes it totally more worth it and makes me want to keep going, when others notice! Does that make me shallow? Oh well. Hope everyone is having a good day!

Yesterday I had to go to the high school to get my DD enrolled in classes for next fall that will start her prep classes for college. I met with the counselor and she introduced herself. I reminded her that my DS graduated from there 2 yrs. ago and I had seen her many times while he was in school. She said, "OMG, I didn't recognize you". She asked how I'd lost so much wt. and I told her.

Yesterday evening I worked 4.5 hrs. weeding and readying 2 big flower beds for planting my fruit in. I was able to pick up and throw a total of 200 lbs. of rocks from the crumbled rock fence that was around the beds. I felt like Hercules. It reminded me of my old high school days when I used to throw the shotput and the discus. LOL. (except now I'm older and thank God for ibuprofen). LOL. I just love it that I'm a lot stronger now than I was previous to losing this weight.

Lifeguard: Sounds like a great dr. visit. Good for you!

My NSV: While I'm not quite at the need-to-buy-new-clothes stage yet, things that I already have in my closet are fitting me differently. This morning, as I was dressing for work, I grabbed a cotton sweater set that I haven't worn in awhile. Without thinking too much about it, I threw it on, did a quick mirror check and ran out the door (mornings are not my best time! :dizzy:). It wasn't until I got to work that I realized that, the past few times I have tried this particular top on at home, I haven't been at all pleased with how it fit and threw it back in the closet. I don't know what possessed me to grab it this morning, but I'm so glad I did!!

~Laura

I am not wanting to buy clothes right now but feel discouraged when I get dressed for work so the other day I made a list of the clothes that fit me & potential outfits for work. Then I organized all my jewellry into ice cube trays in the top drawer of my dresser. Now when I get up getting dressed is really easy & feel pleased that I have on outfits that work together.

Now this is an NSV I've been waiting and waiting for - while I've been losing inches all around, I've definitely held onto the belly and hips. Finally, finally, I think I'm losing my pooch of a belly! Hoping hips can't be far behind :)

Today after my kids got out of school (their last day - only 1/2 day) we got home and after about an hour I was really bored and just laying around on my bed. I decided I wanted NONE of that! So, I hopped up and told the kids to get their shoes on - we were going to the zoo. So we spent 3 hours this afternoon wandering the zoo...and it was hot (90 degrees)...and I still had a great time! Last summer I would have said it's WAY too hot for the zoo....we'll go some MORNING this summer before it heats up. I LOVE that I have so much more tolerance of exercise and heat and EVERYTHING!

Rachell, WTG on losing the pooch. I could just feel your happiness in that thread. Great job.

Tricia, doesn't it feel so great to have the extra tolerance for exercise and heat. I used to hate to even go check the mail when it was hot. Now, the heat doesn't bother me near as much and I'm the first one to suggest that we go anywhere.

My SD just brought a huge plate of french fries to me and said that she had cooked too many and she wanted me to have them. I told her "sorry, I've already had dinner and I'm full". Now, I never thought I'd turn down fries.

Last night I went grocery shopping. My son is home from college so I'm getting some different foods. I still bought healthy stuff. I haven't had bread other than ww tortillas and ww buns since January. I bought some natural ovens bagels and light cream cheese. I changed my breakfast OP from kashi and fiber one to a bagel and light cream cheese with soy milk. I was looking very forward to the change. I had it this morning. My NSV is I liked the soy milk the best. The bagel I was looking forward to with extra light strawberry cream cheese was okay but not as good as my soy milk. I counted all my calories the extra 110 calories was definitely not worth it. But it was a great learning experience. I'm going back to my cereal or oatmeal for breakfast.

I can be really poor at making my lunch to bring to work. So yesterday I had to go out to buy lunch. I went to the grocery store & really did look at all the baked stuff that I love so much & then ended up with grapes, a diet 7up, low fat taziki & pita bread.

The best thing about this is that I am starting to learn that when I'm REALLY hungry I don't have to have a big, calorie high meal to fulfill me. Having something on plan fills me up just as well without making me feel horrible after. lol - sometimes I can be a bit of a slow learner!

My nsv is that this morning as I was getting dressed in shorts and a tee shirt (school's out for the summer here! YIPPEE!!) I grabbed my mirror to make sure the "back" of me looked ok and I noticed that I have the most amazing calves! I've been unhappy lately with the hanging skin on my upper arms and the loose skin on my belly that just won't go away, but dang those calves are so defined and toned they look great! It just reinforces in my mind that I really do need to use my elliptical machine EVERY day!

Hi ladies I am back!! (went on an ATV riding trip and had a lot to do around here when we got home) LOTS of NSV's while I was gone. #1 - I saw folks that I havent' seen since starting this journey and got a ton of compliments! (which really does a lot for my self confidence!!) and a friend I hadn't seen brought me a bag of clothes - all very nice things, but they're 22's and all WAY too big!!:D The 20's are fitting nice now, and another couple of weeks and they're gonna be too big.

I LOVE THIS!!!! I just FELT so good at this ride, I know I am far from small, but I FELT small and powerful!!!

Everyone is so inspiring :)

I decided to wear my jeans (I only have one pair) and they are usually uncomfortable snug after washing. Well, this time, they fit perfectly, with baggy space to spare! I am so happy! I had been not wearing them because they felt so uncomfortable and it was a constant reminder of how fat I had become. Now, I plan on wearing them until they fall off me! :D

This NSV of mine was just one of the stranges feelings for me I've had.

I bought a really pretty blouse about 2 months ago. I loved it in fact. I went to put it on yesterday and it was absolutely SWIMMING on me. I wore it one time :( Anyway, who walks into my house later in the day, my very closest friend. I made her try it on. I'm soooo bad at judging who is a bigger size then me and actually wondered who was thinner, she or me. Well - IT"S ME!!!!! I'm thinner. The shirt fit her perfectly, well not perfectly - it WAS pulling a little bit. :) She told me she can't believe that I'm actually giving her my clothing that I've outgrown. In the past when I gave away my old stuff I had to give it to charity, because I didn't no anyone my large size. So it was nice on a couple of different counts - I was thrilled I didn't fit into it anymore (despite loving it), thrilled I was thinner then my friend (just because now I have a visual of my size, NOT that I want her to be heavy or unhealthy) and thrilled to actually know someone who can wear my old clothes. :)

I used to either skip breakfast, have something filled with sugar or leftovers like pizza or spaghetti. Today as I was eating my oatmeal with a banana in it and drinking my low fat soy milk I thought I enjoy this so much. When I ate the other junk it was not enjoyable. I just ate it mindless of what I was putting in my body and what harm I was causing. If someone would of told me a year ago to stop treating myself so badly I would of never listened. I had to experience for myself. I am so grateful everyday for what I have learned. I just wish I would of learned it sooner.:dizzy:

Sharon, your post made me tear up, it was so me too. I have wasted so much of my life being obese. I say it all the time, but I truely do LOVE my life right now. I LOVE taking care of myself and looking better everyday. I'll never be a beauty queen, but I'll NEVER go back to the person I was before. NEVER.

Oh boy. Can I join in? I'm right there with you Mrs. Quadcrew and Sharon. I simply can not get over how darn much I am loving this new lifestyle. This new ME. I wasted soooo much time, so much of my LIFE being fat and miserable. But I also don't know that I could have changed it any sooner. Why, oh why does it all come down to REALIZING that all (and I don't say that "all" very lightly) one has to do is treat themselves better. I would NEVER abuse (and yes that's what I WAS doing - abusing myself) my family like that. I would NEVER abuse my friends like that. I would NEVER abuse a stranger like that. Why in the world was I abusing MYSELF like that?

I agree, wholeheartedly. And I try very hard not to worry about the "wasted" time. I truly believe that for those of us that are as obese as we were it isn't about "knowing" how to lose weight....we all have known that for a very long time. No, it's more of a matter of being in a spot in our lives where we are comfortable completely changing WHO WE ARE. Our weight was a manifestation of who we each were as individuals....and changing who you are is a very scary prospect. I don't think that anyone who is very heavy actually "wants" to be fat. But the prospect of becoming someone else...of actually becoming someone who treats themselves as they treat others...well that's a hard thing to do. So, good on us for getting to that stage in our lives...no matter how much time went by. We're making it happen, now!

My NSV for the day is that in one month (I've been working on weights for 2 weeks but didn't measure at that point) I've lost 18.5 inches!!!! Bringing my total since January to a whopping 41!!! Gotta love that!!!

Gosh, that is so profound. I am not that far into this, but I think this is the first time that I, too, realized that it just isn't fair to neglect yourself like I have in the past. Robin, it IS abuse to yourself! I can't believe it took so long to see that in myself. And you're so right, I would have never treated anyone else like this, so why is it ok to have it apply to me?

I think we feel that we are doing the right thing by putting everyone else's needs so far ahead of ourselves. But it turns out to be so unhealthy and uncaring to ourselves. And, do we really benefit our family when we neglect ourselves? Is it ok to show our kids that we don't deserve to have time to exercise and eat right?? If we're feeling bad about ourselves, it affects everyone in our family.

Ladies, I totally agree. I am so totally thrilled too that I quit abusing my body with food.

My NSV''s. DH told me last night that I am "skinny", gotta love that. My clothes are looser than ever right now, and I'm back down 3 lbs. below goal wt. Yippee.

I had a lady at the karaoke club come up to me and tell me how beautiful my DS was when he got up to sing. I explained that he is my son. She just couldn't belive that I was old enough to have a 21 yr. old son. She said "did you have him when you were 10 or is he adopted". LOL, I explained that I was 26 when I had him. I love the "younger-looking" compliments. No one ever thought I was younger when I was obese.

I had that comment at our ride too! Our oldest DD turned 31 while we were there, and the folks that I had mentioned that too just were in awe that I had a daughter that old! It really tickled me!! :D

It's funny 'cause when I was looking at pictures of before & after I am constantly amazed at how much younger people look in the after. I think the weight really ages us in appearance.

Lifeguard, I always thought I looked younger when I was heavier but looking at the picture of me now and 4 years ago, I'm amazed I look younger now.

My NSV is that now all my size 18 misses petite pants fit. I'm bottom heavy so this is a real victory. The other day I also wore one of my size L (not XL) shirts to work. Today I will be wearing a ballerina top (size L) to show off the collar bones :)

So, we all have those days, especially now with it being summer, kids are home, most of us have foods in the house in summer, we wouldnt normally have in the house. In our case, its cheetos. Horrible food, but the kids love them. I buy them rarely and because Matt has to work the entire holiday weekend, we took our day off yesterday and went to the lake. On lake weekends, everyone can eat what they want when they want. We always pack our normal food, healthy choices, loads of fresh fruits and veggies and I let the kids get one bag of cheetos to share. When its gone, its gone. So, we had some left, so the kids had some with lunch, put them down for naps. Now, cheetos, in theory, I hate them, their horrible, nasty things, but they taste great. After nap, I headed into the kitchen thinking I'd grab a handful of cheetos, but having made a deal with myself, first I drank 2 glasses of water, make a hot cup of tea and gave myself some time to think about it. I cvhose the orange instead. I'm happy with my choice, but its amazing to me, that even a year later, sometimes I still have to THINK before I eat. We only have cheetos or chips in the house in the summer, so the bulk of my eating and weight loss took place over the fall and winter, so I hadnt had to face cheetos or summery styled foods yet, and I still had to think about it. I am so grateful that I know better now, how bad those cheetos are for me, and for my kids, so I filled the bag with water and dropped it into the trash. If I wont eat them, how can I possibly let my kids eat them? So, online shopping and 25 mins later, I've ordered them some organic, healthier version cheetos.

Good for you!

Wow - it did get quite deep!! I agree that its all about our minds working with our bodies - not against them!!

Thank you all, this was just the motivation I needed to remind myself that our camping weekend does not have to be an eating weekend!!

having my old navy size 12 capris too loose.....

Great NSVs, everyone, and such wonderful positive sentiments!

Some of you were talking about how people look younger after losing weight, and I've had a lot of people telling me that lately. I really am changing so much, inside and out.

Today, I had on an outfit that got me lots of compliments and I think I looked much thinner in it. One of my students was sitting near my desk and I walked past him -- he looked at my body (not in a creepy way, don't worry) and then said "Whoa, Mrs. _______. You've like...transformed yourself into a whole new person."

Yep, I really have.

Another little NSV is that the guidance counselors bought a bunch of Krispy Kreme donuts as treats for those of us who are helping with testing and I resisted. I resist lots of things, but when I saw that chocolate iced donut I REALLY wanted it. I decided it wasn't worth it, though, and that it would probably just be sort of sickeningly sweet and heavy in my stomach anyway. They really tried to get me to eat it, but I simply said no thanks, I'd like to but I'm not going to have it. They didn't push it after that, and just complimented me on my resolve.

On Friday at work a pizza sat out about 10' from my desk & I didn't touch it.

Yesterday I did 5 hours of yardwork & then went & had a healthy dinner out at my Mom's.

This morning I went to the farmer's market with a friend & bought fresh, local salad fixin's for the week.

I'm feeling pretty good...

Hopefully I'm not the only one who uses the hip "handle" to prop the door open when I'm at the counter etc. If so, it works like this, if the kids want milk, juice, water whatever, I in general will open fridge, get item, turn to counter, fill cup, place back in fridge without moving my feet or stance, my overhanging hip "handle" did the work for me. So, I'm doing this today and kept getting frustrated that the door kept closing on me. "WTH is going on?" I finally clued in when I felt the dooor brush against my hip. THE HANDLE IS GONE!!!! WOOOOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO.

My weight "loss" has stalled as far as the scale goes, but its these little things that keep me going. My inches are still coming off, my clothes are getting smaller, but the scale only wavers between the same 2-4 lbs. Apparently, I'm going through a slimming phase without any scale victory, but yanno, like we see over and over here, noone can see the number on the scale, no fat police will come tattoo it on my forehead, but man, people sure can see how wide you are. Now, I'm just a bit thinner and man it feels great!

I always find these NSVs so inspiring! Thanks for posting them everyone, they really help me to keep going.:)

My NSV is that last night I went a little overboard on dessert, and was feeling guilty and disappointed with myself. But this morning I got up and ate my on-plan breakfast, and then rode my bike. It felt really good to acknowledge my mistake, but then move on.

This morning walking into the bank my reflection in the window looked pretty darn good - don't know what was different - my clothes certainly aren't fitting better - but I'll take it! Normally I HATE those window reflections - they always seem to disappoint me when I think I'm looking good.

I haven't posted on the NSV in awhile, but I have had several lately:

1. Clothing NSVs! I have been wearing things that have been in my closet for at least 3 or 4 years (yes, I'm the type that won't go buy new stuff until I'm to goal because I have so many pieces that I said I will get back into someday).

2. I have had several folks at church recently comment or ask about my weight loss. I am not the type that HAS to have others notice (because I'm doing this to become healthier and for myself), but it is really nice to know that it is becoming noticeable. :-)

3. My husband said (jokingly, I'm sure, but it was still nice to hear) that if I keep losing he won't be able to find me in the bed. :lol:

Ritzy, I too was/am doing this first and foremost without a doubt for my health, but I tell you somewhere along the line vanity came into play. I don't know what it is about those compliments, but man oh man are they ever motivating and really, really rewarding. And my hubby said almost the same exact thing to me a couple of months back. I think it was something like, "Don't get too small, because I won't be able to find you in the bed". Too cute. I am sooo very happy for you. :) :) :)

My NSV. Well I went from having almost no where to shop 9 months ago and barely fitting into the largest size in the plus sized stores, to get this - I bought a long denim skirt today at a store for ............. Juniors. Yup. I was passing this store and it had some cute things in the window and I figured what the heck. I tried the skirt on in a large - too big. I wound up buying a medium. I still can't believe it. How quickly things can completely and totally change. :)

Woohoo, Robin -- a medium!! That's fantastic! :cheer2:

Today was a compliment-heavy day and I couldn't keep my pants up all day because they're 16s and I'm in 14 and 12 now -- woohoo!

A student told me I look "so different now," which is nice considering how awful I looked last year (I saw a picture recently -- oh my). Someone else at work did a bit of a double-take and said, "I didn't recognize you!" He asked if I lost weight by walking a lot and I said mostly running, then he said, "You look GOOD." Woohoo!

Woohoo, Robin -- a medium!! That's fantastic! :cheer2:


Did I mention that that was a JUNIOR medium? Oh yeah, I did. But that's because it WAS a JUNIOR medium. :D

Lisamarie, I'm sooo glad you're pants are falling off. Okay that just sounded funny. But, I AM glad they're falling off of you :D . Nice on the male compliment as well. :carrot:

Oh my, Robin, that's true. A JUNIOR medium. I read that but it didn't sink in until just now. A junior medium, so you're like....oh you know...the average-sized TEENAGER! You tiny little thing!

I had a funny NSV today... My work clothes are suffering majorly because I'm in between my old sizes and my new. Anyway, I decided to buy a couple dress shirts at Costco. Well I grabbed 2 XL shirts (they are fitted) and put them in my basket. The lady next to me was looking at the colors and had picked up an XL in her hand and once she realized it was XL, she threw it down in disgust and said something about the size being way too large. I was amused :) Anyway I brought home the fitted button up shirt and it fits pretty well although I would like it a bit looser before I actually wear it.

'Tis the week to talk about clothes.... Way to go everyone on fitting into smaller things. Me too!!

A shirt I couldn't even wear a month ago, now I can button 1 button, and just wear a tank under it!! Small successes :)

Clothing NSV's, I think they are some of the most important ones out there! I went shopping at the outlet mall while at the lake for the last several days. Everything that I tried on for my bottom half was a size 8 and it all fit!!! OMGosh!!!! Single digits, I'm having such a hard time wrapping my brain around it, but I'll take it!

I have one that really made me feel good.....we had a birthday party for my great neice last Sunday (her 1st) All the family was there - and I don't see them often. My Daddy was there, I hadn't seen him in person for a couple of months - he stopped in today to see me, and he said "I wanted to tell you something.....when you arrived at the baby's party, I did not recognize you! I couldn't believe it was really YOU, you look so nice!" :D I felt like the bell of the ball that day!

Great NSV's everyone.

On Saturday night my SD worked catering a huge wedding. She was sent home with a huge slab of chocolate cake. She urged me to "try a piece". I took one small bite and threw it out. It was simply too rich for my tastebuds now. This was great for me because before I'd have eaten tons of that cake no matter how rich it was.

On Sunday we spent the day at the lake with our kids. My 21 yr. old son told me "you are sure skinny in that bathing suit". OMG. I about fell overboard. It made my day and I didn't feel like I had to put my shirt on everytime I got out of the water to cover me up.

Ritzy, I too was/am doing this first and foremost without a doubt for my health, but I tell you somewhere along the line vanity came into play. I don't know what it is about those compliments, but man oh man are they ever motivating and really, really rewarding. And my hubby said almost the same exact thing to me a couple of months back. I think it was something like, "Don't get too small, because I won't be able to find you in the bed". Too cute. I am sooo very happy for you. :) :) :)


Thanks, Robin. I haven't accomplished as much as you have, but I am making a difference in my life. This is huge for me. :)

Another NSV: Last night I was sitting a little ways from my husband when all of a sudden he said "Honey, I can really tell you are losing - especially in your face. You are starting to get back the features you had when I first met you. You are so beautiful." Talk about making my heart thump. He was so serious, so sweet, and he did it in front of my two boys who, in turn, chimed in that I was beautiful, etc. (which I hate - just haven't learned to take compliments very well yet. :) ) But, that was so encouraging to me for my family to be such big fans. I might not believe what they are saying, but they do and that helps make this journey all the more worthwhile. :)

Anyway, when hubby is happy with my progress it makes it so much more worth it.

Ritzy,
That is sweet. I've started to not be able to recognize myself. It is a freaky thing to not recognize yourself when you look in the mirror. I asked DH about it and he says I look a little different. I asked him what if I change and he doesn't recognize me? He said I'll always be his baby. We met when I was at my highest weight but started dating quite a few years later when I was about 290. So neither of us knows what I'll look like as I keep losing.

just haven't learned to take compliments very well yet.

Well darling, you had better get used to it. I was the same way too. It was so very hard for me to hear something complimentary about myself. But the further you get into this thing - you simply will not believe all the compliments you are going to have to deal with. Some people gush SO MUCH that is does get a bit embarassing. But then again it is extremely rewarding. And yes, the ones from the ones you care about most, for me that's hubby and my kids are extra, extra special. I'm so glad your DH is noticing and letting you know about it. Very sweet. Ain't it great?!?!?!

Nelie, your hubby sounds like a sweetie too. And the thing about not recognizing yourself, it is very, very odd. I sometimes look in the mirror and think "Who IS this woman?" I also find it strange when others don't recognize me. On one hand it's complimentary, very much so in fact and on the other hand - a bit disturbing..........

Ritzy, I've just got to tell you that when I read your last post about your hubby and boys, I near about cried! That was beyond sweet. You've got a winner, and you ARE a winner!

As for me, I can bend down to tie my shoes without getting as red in the face, and when I come up from tying my shoes, I'm not out of breath.

Yes, it was that bad. Exercise has done that!

Lynn

Ritz - I know exactly what you mean about being able to take a compliment gracefully. It's HARD!

Yesterday a friend and I took our daughters (both 9) out for a girls spa day. They had manis, pedis, facials, makeup, haircuts, styles ("updos"), THE WORKS to celebrate being out of school. (We went to a little girls salon...not a grown up one....don't worry! It was all suited for their age! :) ) Anyway, after they were all done up we took them out for fondue and as we were sitting there my friend (who just this year gained 10 lbs so she now weighs enough to donate blood :p) said I "look so good". I responded by saying "well, I know I look better but I think GOOD is a stretch". Then I caught myself and said...but thank you. I appreciate the compliment and I know you truly meant it.

Still, though, compliments are NOT my thing! I'm just now not feeling like a fraud when my husband says "Good morning, beautiful". He has said that everyday...even at 261.5 lbs....but it always made me feel so strange!

What a sad frame of mind I was living in. I'm so glad to be coming out into the sunlight! --- That's got to be my NSV of the year!

Nelie: I think it is so wonderful when our DHs love us no matter what. But, when they start the compliments, they are very special because you know they love unconditionally.

Robin: I know I need to get used to the idea of getting compliments, but I must say this is definitely something I'm working on. Just can't quite get the brain to cooperate (or worse yet, my retort back to the compliment giver! :( ) Some day I will get better at this. Some day.

Lynn: You are SOOOO right! I DO have a winner!! He is such a wonderful husband. I could NOT have found anyone better for me.

Tricia: When you find the trick to gracefully accepting compliments, PLEASE pass it on to me! I'm in dire need of help in this regard! :lol:

I just came back from my evening walk. I banged into a woman I know fairly well. I last saw her about 3 or 4 weeks ago. It took her a few seconds to recognize me, she would have walked right past had I not said hello to her first. I am beginning to think these last 10 lbs lost on me has really, really changed my whole look. Anyway, she said to me "It's the the incredible shrinking woman." I tell you, that is really what I feel like lately - a shrinking woman. It's beginning to hit me. I've definitely - shrunk. In 6 pounds I will be exactly 1/2 my former self and I really think it shows. I do feel 1/2 of what I once was. I think. It's all very, very strange.

Ritzy when people would compliment me and say how much weight I lost my first reaction was always, "Thank you but I still have a long way to go." I couldn't just say thank you, I just had to ADD that I have a long way to go and kind of put myself down. I can't use that line anymore. It just brought about more compliments - like "No, where would you ever lose it from?" or "No way, you're thin enough" or "You look great just how you are." So now when people gush and they go on and on and on, I just say, "Thank you so much, it's so sweet of you to say so." Or something to that affect.

Ritzy, your NSV was so sweet, you must have a great hubby.

Ok, so speaking of learning how to deal with compliments gracefully, I'm getting a lot of practice these days. My NSV for the week is the absolute slew of compliments I've gotten this week - not that people haven't been commenting already, but there must be something about the last 10 pounds or so, since I have had an amazing number of comments about how good I look this week. I've just been smiling everywhere I go because of it :) Still working on not answering the same way Robin mentioned, i.e., by talking about how much more there is to go...I too am trying to learn to just say thank you without feeling the need to deny the original comment.

Wow, learning how to accept a complement gracefully is harder than any of us ever expected, huh? I'm still having trouble with it too....

My NSV happened at the lake this week....many complements, and even a couple of whistles while I was walking, but here's the biggie for me. My 5 year old niece came up to me and said she wanted to sit with me in my lawn chair. A year ago I would've been sure the lawn chair would crash to the ground from having too much weight on it, but not this time so I pulled her up onto my lap. She looked at me and said "not on you, Aunt Kel, WITH you". I said ok, we'll try, and scooted over (can you believe it, I scooted over in the lawnchair instead of filling it up!) and she sat NEXT to me! We fit in the chair together perfectly!

Someone asked me how much weight I've lost last night! Woohoo - it was starting to bum me out thinking that no one was noticing.

WindyCityChick: Ritzy, your NSV was so sweet, you must have a great hubby. I really truly do. He is my very best friend. It sure makes life so much easier to be married to your friend. :)


My NSV for today: I found another jean skirt in the back of my closet today that FITS really well. I haven't been able to wear this one for 3 years! Sorry if these clothing NSVs get "old" but they are so cool to me. :D

As a side note, I went through my closet yesterday and was able to get rid of about 10 or 12 pieces that are now too big for me (ones that I was wearing just 4 months ago)! It felt doubly good to pack them up in a box for mailing to a Brazil missionary for his parishioners. :)

Oh Ritzy, those clothing NSV's NEVER, EVER, EVER get old. They are the very BEST. They're just incredibly, incredibly amazing, awesome and mindboggling. I'm so happy for you!!!!!!!!! :)

I agree, clothing NSV's never get old!

Mine today - I got a haircut and color and my hairdresser noticed all my weight loss and wanted me to go really drastic. I didn't this time....because I am one of those people that really has to gear up for these things. So, instead, I made the appointment for 6 weeks...my birthday...and the time I've challenged myself to get below 200... So, I'll have a GREAT new haircut with cute chunky colors for a birthday and Onderland celebration!

The NSV in all that is the newfound courage I have to try something very different. :D

(By the way - I cut about 7 inches off today and am above the shoulder...so that was a change in itself! :) )

Oh Ritzy, those clothing NSV's NEVER, EVER, EVER get old. They are the very BEST. They're just incredibly, incredibly amazing, awesome and mindboggling. I'm so happy for you!!!!!!!!! :)

Thanks, Robin! :hug:

And to think I almost got rid of these skirts when I felt hopeless about my weight about a year ago. So glad I didn't now! :)

Fantastic NSVs, as always, everyone!! I love the clothing ones -- so much fun!

My mom, sister, and her kids were in town the last few days, and they went on and on about how "small" I was. So that was nice. My mom said something about how I'm so different it's almost like she misses the old me (though she's very proud and all that and very happy that I've lost weight). My sister said, "What are you talking about? I like this Lisa, the one who's healthy and who runs." It's so weird being talked about like I'm 2 different people. I'm not sure yet how I feel about that, but I love the pride I saw in my sister's face. She owns a gym and teaches aerobics and all that, so that makes it even cooler.

I already posted on the "One Reason" thread about how we went out and I had a "cheat meal" but it wasn't very satisfying. I don't feel guilty about eating it, and it tasted good, but I truly realized that I just don't care about "sinful" food anymore. Sooooo not worth it.

Today I got one of those delightful male compliments that we all love. I bumped into a friend of my husband's (he coaches cross country with him) and he said "Lisa, you are looking so fit." Woohoo! I had on a t-shirt and tight workout shorts (I'd just run and was quite sweaty because it's HOT outside, so I looked pretty gross, with my pale white chunky legs, actually!) It made me feel so good, though. "Fit" -- an adjective that has probably never been used to describe me before!!

NSV - You know, for months now, I've been doing the healthier eating, more movement, weights been dropping. In my head, I knew that the "this is for the REST OF YOUR LIFE", but I don't think I had actually turned the corner in my heart. I hope this makes sense. The last few days I've been thinking alot about Robin and Lisa's and several other ladies success and I think it truly hit me, this is not just in their head, but its firmly in their hearts. It was a serious lightbulb moment. NOW I understand what Robin means when she says, she just woke up one day, and decided it was time and never looked back. My NSV, the last week or so, I havent looked back. It just is. I eat healthy because I like it, not because it's a prison sentence and I'm waiting to be paroled back into the land of junkfooditis. I've completely and totally embraced my new life and I like it. It seems so much, easier, I guess is the word. There's no more struggle internally. Gads, I hope this makes sense.

My NSV for May is that I started again!! I've been "off the wagon" for way too long and have gained back most of what I lost. I'm starting fresh, though!!
Stacie

NSV - You know, for months now, I've been doing the healthier eating, more movement, weights been dropping. In my head, I knew that the "this is for the REST OF YOUR LIFE", but I don't think I had actually turned the corner in my heart. I hope this makes sense. The last few days I've been thinking alot about Robin and Lisa's and several other ladies success and I think it truly hit me, this is not just in their head, but its firmly in their hearts. It was a serious lightbulb moment. NOW I understand what Robin means when she says, she just woke up one day, and decided it was time and never looked back. My NSV, the last week or so, I havent looked back. It just is. I eat healthy because I like it, not because it's a prison sentence and I'm waiting to be paroled back into the land of junkfooditis. I've completely and totally embraced my new life and I like it. It seems so much, easier, I guess is the word. There's no more struggle internally. Gads, I hope this makes sense.

Yes!!!! Of course, it makes perfect sense. I must tell you that it's hard for me at times to not go on and gush about how I feel, because I know so many people are struggling, heck I was one of them for over 20 years. But yup, it was just that simple, one day I finally decided I didn't want to be fat anymore. It's very hard to explain. Regardless of how difficult it is to explain, I am EXTREMELY happy for you. You're in a great place. :smug:

Angi and Robin. It makes perfect sense to me, too. In fact, I know know the difference between these two comments: "I wish I would lose weight" and "I wish I was skinny". So many people SAY the first one...but what they really mean is the second one. I did it for years!!!! YES, I wished I was skinny...but losing weight is HARD WORK...it takes commitment, thoughtfulness, determination, creativity, motivation, and sheer grit. I wasn't willing to put forth that kind of effort...so I REALLY didn't WANT to lose weight....I just wanted to be skinny!

Angi and Robin. It makes perfect sense to me, too. In fact, I know know the difference between these two comments: "I wish I would lose weight" and "I wish I was skinny". So many people SAY the first one...but what they really mean is the second one. I did it for years!!!! YES, I wished I was skinny...but losing weight is HARD WORK...it takes commitment, thoughtfulness, determination, creativity, motivation, and sheer grit. I wasn't willing to put forth that kind of effort...so I REALLY didn't WANT to lose weight....I just wanted to be skinny!

This doesn't suprise me one bit that you understand and can relate. I can tell from your posts.

But yes, those 2 statements are very telling. Though very short phrases and very similiar they tell a heck of a lot. OF COURSE I always wanted to be thin. I just wasn't WILLING to do the work before to get me (and keep me) there. There's no big secret, there's no magic pill to losing weight. It's all about wanting it so, so, so, so much that you give up the high calorie/high volume food and to add in exercise. That you don't give into temptation and your cravings. And boy oh boy, it's not always easy. But it IS absolutely without a doubt doable. It takes a tremendous amount of determination, strength, willpower and commitment, a small price to pay if you ask me.

I still love what Lisamarie said - "Food tastes great - big deal. Being thin is way more enjoyable." I LOVE it. Sorry LisaMarie if I messed up the wording.