Goal! - Amanda's Goal Story - 133 lbs Gone Forever!

Amanda’s (Extra Long Version) Story

Today was my first official weigh in where I was at or under my goal weight. I thought about waiting for a few official weigh-ins to report myself as being “at goal”, but decided that I’ve been hovering here long enough to make it official.

My name is Amanda, and I’m 25 years old. As of today, I have lost 133 lbs. I have gone from a size 22W with 49.5% body fat to a size 8 with 23.3% body fat. I have learned to love foods I never thought possible, to crave exercise, and to love cooking. My journey required a lot of changes, but I am still me. I still love to cook, bake, and yes, eat. I still love to make cookies and cakes and pies, though now I pawn off most of the goods on neighbors and friends. I still love to entertain, though I do so with healthier dishes, and 99% of my guests can’t tell the difference. I weigh 55% of what I did at the start, and I didn’t put my life on hold, deprive myself, or make myself crazy with strictness. I can sum up my plan, loosely, as follows:

1. Calorie count. The level that works for everyone is different, but I found a level that would let me lose 1-2 lbs a week and stuck to it like glue unless I made a choice that something was “special” – see #3.
2. Plan, plan, plan! I plan my food a day ahead of time, and dinners every week. I make 4 portions of every dinner so my partner and I have ready-made, on plan lunches every day. I plan my healthy snacks and make sure they are always available. Planning is so essential to long-term success, I can’t emphasize this enough.
3. Exercise! Strength train and do cardio. It makes you feel better, builds muscle, and in my experience, makes healthy choices food-wise even easier to make.
4. Make allowances for what matters. There were days I decided to go off plan. Usually, these were special days…birthdays, celebrations with family, holidays. Sometimes they were not…dinner with friends, or a date with my partner. But never forget it is a CHOICE, and never neglect to go back to your healthy ways after. At least every 2 weeks, I made a choice to go over my calories – sometimes more often, sometimes less. But I always chose to go back to my plan afterward.
5. Figure out what isn’t negotiable to you and plan for it. For me, it was dessert. I feel deprived without it. So every day, I saved myself 150 calories of my allowance, and I had something delicious and sweet. An individually portioned ice cream bar, a mini-cake I baked with whole wheat flour and fruit, whatever it was, it was essential to me, so I made a plan for it and made it happen. Whatever your non-negotiables are, you can fit them in with good planning!

When I started my journey, I weighed about 295 lbs. I never had a scale in my house, but I went to visit a friend, and there was a scale in his bathroom. When I stepped on and saw that I was just 5 lbs away from the 300 lb mark, it scared the heck out of me. My grandfather, not a small man, died of a heart attack when I was 2. My grandma had a stroke. What’s more, I have struggled with an anxiety disorder, and it manifested itself in fears about my health. At age 23, I spent so much time simply terrified that I was going to die of some preventable disease…heart attack, diabetes, you name it and I worried about it. I was setting myself up for a short life, I knew it, and I was terrified.

My partner was much smaller when she met me. She came to college in about a size 12-14…not a tiny girl, but not big either. By the time we’d been together 5 years, she’d gained to nearly meet me – 280 lbs and a size 22W. We wanted to have a commitment ceremony, and she had proposed on our anniversary in 2004. Neither of us wanted to commit to a date, though, until we were smaller. The idea of fitting into a wedding dress was just too scary.

In early 2006, my sister got engaged. Sarah and I had been planning our ceremony with no real progress for a year. My sister said, essentially, “Look, you were engaged first, so you get first choice of date, but you had better pick something soon or I’m planning regardless”. We found our dream location and took the only date they had available, April 21, 2007. The date was booked around April of 2006, and suddenly we had a VERY quickly approaching wedding. It was time to start making some changes, for both health and vanity. It was the final push we needed.

I made a commitment to cooking every night. I work from my home, so it was easier for me than most to get dinner on the table. On my lunch breaks, I’d spend 15 minutes prepping dinner so it could be on the table in 30 minutes or less, half an hour on stretching or strength training, and the remaining 15 minutes eating. When Sarah got home, dinner was only a short while away – a blessing for us.

We learned very quickly that eating small portions for our main meals wasn’t a workable strategy for us. I cooked many dinners at the beginning that just felt small, and we left the table unsatisfied. I started tweaking, adding extra vegetables into everything, cutting back to lean proteins, and bulking out reasonable servings of whole grains with lots of produce. We ate things we had never had before, like roasted pork tenderloin, quinoa, whole wheat couscous, and any number of different veggies. We learned that we could still have big plates of food so long as we made sure that they consisted mostly of veggies. I learned how to cook in a completely different way, removing oil and replacing with chicken broth, spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients. I replaced sodas with unsweetened iced teas and plenty of water, and switched to drinking my coffee black. Some things, though, I didn’t sacrifice. Sarah and I ate dessert every night, usually a calorie-controlled single serving of some sweet treat. It made us feel indulgent, and we made sure each day had room for the calories.

About 4 months into our new way of eating, we subscribed to a Community Supported Agriculture farm, where we paid a certain amount to get whatever the farm had in season that week. As the veggies and fruits I’d never heard of came out of the box, I had to adapt. I learned how to cook winter squash, beets, greens, eggplant, and tomatillos in healthy ways. These things are staples for me now, all due to that wonderful box subscription. And I gained more confidence in myself as a cook, which led me to create even more recipes we could enjoy. I used FitDay to track total calories and played around with new preparations and ingredients, and I can honestly say that I have loved 95% of the meals I’ve eaten while in weight loss. In fact, I’ve started being disappointed at the richness of restaurant meals – I see oil on the plate and just KNOW they could make the dish healthier. Drives me crazy.

I knew exercise was important, but didn’t really know what to do. I bought a rebounder (mini trampoline), and would turn on the TV and just bounce to break a sweat. After a few months, Sarah and I started getting up before work to go for long walks, which progressed into jog/walks as the summer went on. Then, when Fall hit and it got cold out, we joined a gym. The first time I walked in, I was terrified…all of these thin people and me, over 200 lbs, feeling so horribly out of place. I changed before I got there, unwilling to strip in the locker room in front of anyone else. The gym did, however, offer 2 free personal training sessions a month. I met with a trainer, who taught me how to really work the gym, and helped me develop lower and upper body strength training routines. I realized that the gym wasn’t a place to be afraid of…it was a place where I could feel strong! To this day, I never feel smaller, more toned, or more fit than when I am looking at myself in a gym mirror, weights in hand. I got myself into a routine – cardio 6 days a week, weights at least 2, and “bonus” workouts whenever I could fit them in on a lunch break.

Fast forward to the ceremony, 1 year after we started. I remember bursting into tears the first time I tried on a size 22W wedding dress. But my dress, which I purchased in October in a size 18, had to be sized down by a very skilled seamstress to a size 12. My arms looked toned, my waist looked small, and I felt incredibly beautiful. I was 6 lbs shy of the ultimate goal I’d settled on (which was actually goal #3 – first goal was 180, second 170…I decided to go past both of those when I reached them because I didn’t feel I was yet where I wanted to be), but I felt great.

Then I hit my first “plateau” – but man, was it a whopper. I went 6 months without losing a single pound. I did lose some inches, and a couple of dress sizes, bringing me to about a size 8. But not one pound. I’m not going to blame this all on fate – I know that after the ceremony, I was a little more relaxed – the big event had already taken place, so I backed off a little. I maintained my workouts but maybe added a few more treats. I was maintaining right around my wedding weight, so I decided not to panic. I knew that my body would either cooperate eventually, or if not, I’d get tired of being stuck and eat clean for a few months to get the last few pounds gone.

5 months into the plateau from heck, another whammy – my left knee started throbbing in pain every time I went down stairs, and making a horrific popping noise. I went to my doctor, was scheduled for an MRI, and told not to do –any- weight bearing cardio until we knew what was going on. My only option was to swim, which I did, but not nearly as often as I wanted. I could only do upper body and core workouts, with no lower body work. It was miserable, and I was watching the scale creep upward. I finally got the drive to cut out the extra treats, vowing to two of my favorite chicks (thank you Robin and Heather!) that I would not let this derail me. I worked my arms into well-toned submission. When I saw the orthopedist and he scheduled surgery, I told myself the end was in sight. Unfortunately, after the surgery, we discovered two other problems with my knee going on at the same time. To this day, I still haven’t done a full lower body workout without a physical therapist’s direction. I have finally worked myself up to 60 min on the elliptical trainer, my old cardio standby, but have to tape my knee in such a way that my kneecap can’t dislocate. I think the key, for me, was that I NEVER gave up. Even when I could do nothing but arm lifting, I would get to the gym at least every other day, just to lift. I was always thinking of ways I could still move and keep my body happy without hurting the knee.

I still don’t understand how it happened when my cardio was so limited, but 4 weeks after surgery, I dropped 4 lbs rapid fire, from 168 to 164. Then another three weeks of nothing as I slowly ramped up the exercise, with some events going on in between (including my birthday and all the associated cake and frosting!). Then on Friday, I weighed in at 161.6, and today, on my official weigh-in, there it was…goal.

As most of you know, I was featured in Woman’s World magazine in the October 30, 2007 issue as a “Weight Loss Success” cover story. The whole thing is still surreal to me, but there I am in full color (I should know…I have enough copies to prove it!). What amazed me most about the article was the impact it had on other people – already I have heard from so many people who are trying my recipes, experimenting with new veggies, and getting ready to move to a whole different lifestyle. It amazes me to no end that I might have that sort of impact on people.

My life is completely different now than at any point before. Me, the girl who crossed 200 lbs in 8th grade, who was teased, who was ridiculed, who got out of breath singing even in the car, and who was so darned ashamed of who she was now has a healthy BMI, wears a size 8, and is so darned proud of herself she could burst. Today I ran into a friend I hadn’t seen since high school. I had to introduce myself (it’s a common thing…I look completely different), and her eyes went wide as she said “You look like a completely different person”. And I really am.

Sorry for the length, but that is the whole story. I cannot thank the wonderful people here at 3FC enough for the support, encouragement, and ideas. I would never have done it without being here. And to every single person reading this who is sitting where I was sitting a year and a half ago – you can do this. And when (not if, but WHEN) you do, for each pound you lose, you can’t even imagine the amazing things that you’ll gain. To close, I give you a quick list of some of my favorite gains:

1. A wide selection of amazing recipes that I can cook for me, for company, or at bake sales without going off plan OR disappointing anyone. I’ve cooked healthy meals for my in-laws, my parents, my friends, and my relatives, and no one has said anything about the food being light (even the meat and potatoes types!). Those recipes will carry me into maintenance and beyond. Related, I developed a huge knowledge of dozens of healthy, natural foods and how to cook them.
2. A clean house. Let me explain this one. I can only cook in a clean kitchen…dishes in the sink, dirty counters, etc, make me not want to cook. To proceed on my cook-at-home-eat-healthy path, I have to have a clean kitchen. Once the kitchen is clean, I tend to clean everything else. In addition, I have a ton more energy to clean up the everyday messes.
3. A fabulous new sense of style. I love my clothes, I love makeup and styling my hair. I’ve gone from “I don’t care” to “give me a minute to throw on some lipgloss,” and have never felt prettier.
4. My confidence. I have confidence in my looks, my health, and my decisions. This is priceless to me.
5. My health. I no longer worry about medical problems striking me down. I am in control of my health and body.
6. My self-respect. I didn’t respect myself when I was bigger. I felt I was failing, and I was, really, failing myself. I have so much awe and respect for what I have accomplished, and it has helped me believe I can accomplish so much more.
7. A belief that I can do absolutely anything I want to do, if I just put my mind to it.

CONGRATULATIONS! :celebrate:

Mandalinn, I am so excited for you! THANK YOU for the length of your story. THANK YOU for posting how you did it. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU for still being here & being an inspiration.

I read through your story and know now more than ever that this not just possible for me, but inevitable if I just keep going!

You've worked so hard. You've had setbacks. You overcame them. You deserve this moment so much!

Thank you. :)

:carrot: Yay you have met your goal. Your story shows that I to can do it, thank you for sharing your path with us

What a truly amazing and inspiring story.

You've earned every bit of that pride you have in yourself.

How did Sarah do on this journey?

Sarah has lost 90 lbs, from a size 22W to a size 12.

In the WW article, she is the "friend" who lost "up to 90 lbs" :D

Amanda~you are truly amazing! Thanks for sharing your story.

:congrat::cheer2::cheer2: Inspiring story!! Thank you so much for sharing and the before/after pictures are great!! Enjoy your success!!

You are truly an inspiration.

I want to be you and Trazey when I grow up! Seriously, that "never say die" attitude you have is something that I am in awe of. I think sometimes, it's just too easy to say "I'm sore" or "I'm tired" and just forget about working out, but when I start to pull that crap with myself, I'm like, "No, if Amanda can bust her butt after knee surgery, then what excuse do I have?"

So thank you for kicking me in the butt and getting rid of my excuses!

What a truly inspiring and motivating story, thank you so much for sharing. Youve really encouraged me to get going on my journey again. What an amazing story, would love to see some pics!!

Thank You!

Amanda,

Your wedding pictures were gorgeous and you are an amazing woman. I am very happy for you :)

Faerie - thank you! It is ABSOLUTELY possible. I think it is Robin whose goal story said "If I can do this, ANYONE can" - and I absolutely share that thought. If I can do it, it is possible for everyone.

Nelie - Thank you! I know I will treasure those wedding pics forever, and I felt so darned good in them!

Mom2Gabby, Alinnell, GonnaBe165, Cbmare - thank you! It is hard sometimes to acknowledge sometimes what I've done and be proud of myself. I'm working on it!

Pigginpodgey - get right back on it and just. keep. going. It really will work!

CABunnyGirl - you're welcome.

Sara - I'm glad to provide butt-kickings any time. Seriously, though, it was one of my biggest challenges, because my impulse was to say "Ow. My knee hurts and I am upset. My pain has clearly earned me a giant bowl of ice cream". But that wasn't the answer, and it wouldn't have made me feel better. Seeing the scale go down DID make me feel better.

Congratulations! You are tough as nails girl, enjoy all your success because you deserve it. Thanks for being such an inspiration. :)

Amanda: You've heard it before, but it is true--you ARE an inspiration! :):)

Thanks for every word of this!

Congratulations!!! Thank you for sharing your story and for all the support you offer. You are amazing and I always love your recipes you share.

Shananigans - thank you! "Tough as nails" is never a description I would have given myself, honestly, but in a lot of ways I guess it is true!

Jen415 - it blows my mind, and often makes me cry, to think of myself providing even a little hint of inspiration to others here. Thank you.

Midwife - I'm glad you like the recipes! We are big on eating tasty things in this house.

Ya'll seriously have me in tears, here.

Thanks so much for sharing your story. Glad your knee is getting better - I followed you through the surgery and recovery. I doubt I would have been so brave. Congratulations!

Amanda, you are truly a wonderful inspiration! I've been watching your progress for some time now, right up to the wedding, and I have tremendous respect for you and your commitment to being healthy and slim. You seem to have really "gotten it" about what it takes to be a big loser!

:congrat: and :bravo: and a million :cheer2: for your success!!! :hug:

Jay

Amanda :bravo: and :hug: :hug:

That is a fantastic story. I've also followed your progress here over the last year and a half and was heartbroken with you when the knee problems started. To persevere through all that show the tenacity and drive to keep you a successful maintainer!

Congratulations :)

Mel

Gail - the knee was a blow. It was not going to stop me. Period. And you know what? You are already doing the things I did to make me so "brave" - posting here! It was a post here that gave me the extra "oomph" to push through it, so don't sell yourself short.

Jay and Mel - its so weird to me that people followed me! Of course, I was following SO MANY of the other members here, so maybe that is why it seems weird. Thank you both.

Amanda,
You story was truly inspirational, that was a great read! I applaud you many times over, you certainly were bound and determined to reach your goals and you did. I must say, you certainly have got it together at 25 years of age, you are so wise beyond your years, plus a cover shoot under your belt too, I think it is FANTASTIC! I'm certain your maintenance will be a breeze. I wish you and yours continued success and happiness....
~wendalyn

Thanks for taking the time to post your journey Amanda! It was a wonderful and inspiring read!
I appreciate the enthusiasm and joy that you bring to all of your posts. You are a blessing to everyone on 3FC :)

Oh Amanda, I am soooo very happy for you. Not only for reaching your goal (big yay!!!! for that, of course), but for carving out a better life for yourself and for ridding yourself of those worries, the same exact ones that I had. The ones where you know that you are putting yourself at added risks for all sorts of preventable diseases and ailments. I'm just so glad you did it a younger age then I did. You are a shining example of what can be done when you set your mind to it. As if you hadn't done enough already, you then showed us all how to rise above a bad situation (your bum knee). I WILL remember that for always.

I love how you wrote and I agree with it 150%, that you need to figure out what is not negotiable and plan for it. That is soooo key.

And by the way, it was LisaMarie who first said it in her goal story, "If I can do this, ANYONE can". And then we all kinda chimed in and shared that we felt the same way.

Congratulations on a job VERY well done. I am so grateful to have crossed paths with you and I look forward to spending many years in "maintenance" with you, learning from you all the while.

:bravo::cp::bravo::cp::bravo::cp::bravo:

Amanda, you have been such a positive role model to those here in so many aspects of your life. Thanks for sharing yourself and Sarah with all of us here - you're like sisters to those of us who have been here awhile.

Great story!

Amanda, you rock! Incredible stuff!

I'm inspired & amazed - Thank you :hug:

I'm so happy for you and so glad you took control while you're still so young! Now you can enjoy a long and happy life that YOU are in control of!

Thanks so much for sharing! I'm so glad we have 3FC. It makes the impossible dream seem so possible! I've been dreaming of losing weight since I was twelve. Now at age 36 I'm finally doing it!

Job well done Amanda and Sarah( sorry if spelled wrong) You both are such an inspiration , your story is just what I needed I'm so frustrated right now thanks for sharing .:hug:

Evilwomanisshe - I don't think maintenance is a breeze for ANYONE. Still, I believe I have all the tools and strategies in place to work it every day and make this weight stay off for good.

CountingDown - I think its less that I'M so encouraging and more that when I get on 3FC, all of the support and encouragement is infectious. I see so many wonderful people helping eachother, and just get all jazzed and happy for everyone.

LisaMarie - full credit for using your quote!

Robin - It is so good to have those fears gone. Better, even, than smaller clothes in the closet. Now if my shoulder hurts, I know its probably because I did some heavy duty lifting, not because I'm having a heart attack! And I really can't thank YOU enough for the push I needed to work out and stay on plan DESPITE the knee. And me hitting goal - I think thats the proof I promised you and Heather.

HRBabe - Sarah loves all of you, even if she has never posted a single message. I talk about 3FC all the time!

Lisao - thank you! Great job on your loss also!

Nicolen and Jigglybits - thank you both.

SkiniJeni - You ARE doing it, and if you keep going, those dreams can ACTUALLY happen! I never believed it either, but its true.

Losinitin07 - Trust me, I know the frustration (remember that SIX MONTH plateau in the story?). But you CAN work through it, and if you keep on track, eventually your body gives you what you want in return.

Thank you all again, so, so much.

Amanda, thank you so much for sharing your story :hug: You've accomplished so much, and you've done it the right way. Slow and steady loss, nothing drastic, and you've accomplished much more than weight loss. I appreciate that you shared your tough spots, like your plateau from ****. It sounds like your goal and your final accomplishment was better health, but you look absolutely fabulous!

:congrat:

Suzanne - oh yes, my health. I'm a little bit like Trazey though - a liar! Note that what finally drove me to lose weight wasn't my health, though I was worried about it for sure, but the idea of being in a wedding dress in front of a hundred people. In the end I got both - better health in addition to looking better and being happier. It's a win win!

Wow! I have tears in my eyes! What a wonderful story, and what an awesome, inspiring story. Congratulations to you and your partner. :) Amazing!

Congratulations to both you and Sarah, for your weight loss success and your committment to each other. Thank you for sharing, Amanda. What an inspiration you are!

Oh, Amanda, you know that this is AMAZING! :)

I am so proud of and happy for you! And thank you for providing your (extra long) story; it is very thoughtful and generous to allow us all such insight into your journey.

Yay!! :yay:

JustMare and Jane - thank you! There goes that "inspiring" word again! It really blows me away.

ShrinkingChica - You're so sweet! And I dunno about "generous" - I was pretty excited to write it (heck, I have been writing it in my head throughout the 6 month plateau).

Absolutely wonderful post!! So inspiring and meaningful and beautiful. Post that recipe for pork loin, willya??

Jen

Glory - recipe? Its the "other white meat" - you can do SO much with it. I use it in so many ways. It is great with a spice rub or marinade and simply baked, then sliced. I butterfly it, pound it flat, and lay the top with spices, roasted red pepper, basil or spinach leaves, and maybe a few laughing cow wedges, then roll it up and roast. I slice it into long strips and use it in stirfries. Once I baked it with simple spices and quickly cooked up some apple slices with cinnamon, a small amount of brown sugar, and a pinch of salt in a saucepan, creating a great "pork chops and applesauce" type dish. I've slowly simmered it in a pan of chicken broth until it is falling apart, then shredded and mixed with bbq sauce - serve in a pita for tasty bbq pork sandwiches.

I've got a vision in my head of glazing with a sauce of pumpkin butter, chicken broth, and maybe some fresh sage and a hint of cayenne. That same "pork and applesauce" type sweetness with a little difference.
Pork tenderloin, with the fat trimmed, is comparable nutritionally to chicken:

3 oz. of chicken (skinless breast, cooked and trimmed) *

140 calories; 25g protein; 3.1g fat (0.9g saturated, 0.7g polyunsaturated); 73g cholesterol

3 oz. of pork (tenderloin, cooked and trimmed) *

139 calories; 24g protein; 4.1g fat (1.4g saturated, 0.49 polyunsaturated); 67g cholesterol

Edited to add: Just be sure not to cook it to death! It is so lean, it does dry out, so cook until just firm and opaque in the center - just like a chicken breast roasted for 45 min will be dry, so will a pork tenderloin. And let it rest before carving.

Thanks!!! All of that sounds fabulous - especially the part about the cheese wedges. What do you set the oven to? (I've never cooked pork!)

Amanda, thank you so much for sharing your amazing, inspiring story. You're just such an important part of 3FC -- I've learned so much from you and have been so happy for you as you've met with so much success. We're so lucky to have you as part of this board -- and I don't know if I ever told you how beautiful you looked in your wedding photos, but you were simply stunning!

Wow, Amanda, I hung on every word -- what a wonderful, inspirational story! (from a wonderful, inspirational woman :hug:) Welcome to the world of maintenance! :balloons: C'mon and check out Maintainers some time -- we'd love to have you join in. :D

Thanks for sharing the whole story. "Your" issue of Women's World finally made it to Alaska, and I snapped one up. You've done really well, and you are an inspiration. :congrat:

Eek! Got behind!

Glory - I cook pretty much everything at "betty crocker temperature" - ie 375. This was amazingly tasty last night. The cheese wedges sort of get melty and make a sauce. Mmm.

LisaMarie - I love those wedding pictures so much. Not only was the day amazing, but I actually felt pretty. It was priceless. Thank you!

Meg - calling yourself a "maintainer" is so scary! I am trying to make the mental switch. The raising calories part...well, thats a whole other issue.

Pat - Yay! I made it to Alaska! Thank you so much! You know what? You were one of the VERY first posters that responded to me EVER here on 3FC, in a thread about whitewater rafting, back when I was too scared to start any threads. You and Junebug reassured me that I wouldn't probably fall out (and then I did. I have skills). But it was responses like yours that kept me coming here.

I read all the story about successful achievement and never get bored and i am very much inspired how she got her objective with really hard work.I like these kind of personalities.I congratulate her for her great achievements.

Hi Amanda! I bought and read and read and read and looked at the pictures a million times!!!!!!
Yay! Congratulations to you and Sarah! Can't wait to get there and share my story!!!! Again, Congratulations!:carrot::carrot:

You are blessed that you lost 133lbs for ever.It is a great achievements.You have achieved an impossible task I congratulate you.Enjoy your life .I wish you the best of luck,

Jar - Thank you! Keep on trucking and you will be posting your story before you know it!

Gaswer - Yes, it is a great acheivement, but it is NOT an impossible task. It takes some choices, dedication, some gym-time, a lot of work, yes...but it is NOT, I repeat, NOT impossible! Absolutely everyone can do it. Easy, no. But impossible? 100% not.

Amanda, How did I miss this thread!!! Ok, now that I've read it, I've got goosebumps. I'm so proud of you; you've done a fabulous job with weight loss and I'm sure you will tackle maintenance with the same steady, intelligent way that you tackled weight loss. Thanks for sharing your story. :hug:

Amanda: Congratulations on making your goal! :high: Thanks so much for sharing your story with us. :hug: I want you to know I have so enjoyed reading your posts throughout your journey. Often times I have heard people describe how a significant weightloss affects other aspects of their lives as well. I don't think we can really understand beforehand how these things in our life change as a result of this journey but you do give some fine examples in your story. i.e. having a clean house because of the inability to cook in a messy kitchen. :lol: I am certain there are more earthmoving examples than this one that you have experienced but it made me smile...

I have no doubt you will have continued success as a maintainer :yes: There is nothing like an injury to derail even the most dedicated person during their journey. But there you are... going in to lift upper body as your knee recovers. :^: Good for you!!! Just think of it as a time to just really focus on upper body right now. You know, those mirror muscles...I am sure you are going to have some smashing delts, biceps and triceps by the holidays so find something now to show them off for the holiday parties! ;)

Congratulations again Amanda. I am so excited for you and all that you have accomplished. :coach: Now, tape that knee up and get back on that elliptical! Just kidding...

You and Robin are two of the people I noticed on here first when I joined -- you were both in the middle of your weight loss, on a mission and nothing was going to stop you!! Thank you -- you are an inspiration, and "larger than life" in a good way!!!:D I think making your goal on here tends to make you a celebrity -- the heck with the super models of the world -- I think what you did should make you famous -- god knows it takes much more work and dedication. Congratulations and I'm sure we all look forward to joining you soon!!!

Lydia - the clean house thing surprised me, but I'll take it. There are so many other benefits, but that one really strikes me as something you don't think about.

Injuries have always derailed me in the past. This time, I've had two - a shoulder issue and the knee problem - and I made the decision not to let them stop me. It was a tough decision, especially the knee which cut out a lot of cardio for a lot longer. And yes, I get frustrated - unbelieveably so at times. But I have learned to channel that frustration into doing something productive (right after the knee went out, I referred to my UB workouts, which were intense, as "punishing my arms for my knee failing". Healthiest attitude? Probably not. But it did get me through).

Shelby - Yes, I am looking forward to all of you joining me soon too! One foot in front of the other. Thanks!

Amanda,

I've been following your "story," so to speak, for practically a year now. And I'm so, so happy for you. Congratulations... you really worked hard for this, and I'm so excited for you.

BTW, I made your turkey sausage/white bean soup a few weeks ago, and it was DELISH.

Dana -

I love that soup. So filling. So much fiber. And SO tasty with the sausage. It is on the menu for sometime this week, in fact. It is a staple around here.

Thanks for the congratulations!

Oh man, I just realized I never commented on your story before!

Anyway... AMAZING story. I'm an emotional person and it almost made me cry. I think it is so, so cute that your initial weight loss efforts revolved around wanting to be smaller for your ceremony AND that you and Sarah both lost weight together. What an awesome support system, and as I've said before, you both look beautiful. :D

And of course, I bought the edition of Woman's World with you in it. I never buy WW, but when I saw it finally hit the stands at Publix, I remember saying all excitedly (is that even a word?) to my girlfriend, "HEY! I know her off the 3FatChicks web site!!!" She got excited for me, then told me to use my "inside voice" :lol:

I wish you could have told my mother to use her inside voice while discussing the magazine...apparently ALL the women within a 3-checkout-line radius ended up buying the magazine, and got into a lively conversation about how great their kids are and how nice it is when they get acknowledged.

Your story is awfully inspiring also! Thank you!

:balloons: Thanks for sharing your story. I do love extra long versions of anything. I know you've heard it before, but I got to say it--truly inspiring, motivating, heart warming even. Congratualtions and thanks for being here.

p.s. I am the same about my kitchen:) Now I am off to hunt up your recipes!

I am cracking up at your mom at the grocery store. That's too cute.

How much weight has your partner lost? She also looks fabulous in your profile picture.

Dana - 100 lbs total.

Ollie27 - I seriously, seriously love my clean kitchen. Shiny sink, shiny counters. Thank you!

Truly, truly amazing!!! Thank you for sharing!! Makes me think that I can do it too!!

Pgreier - You CAN! Stay here, keep putting one foot in front of the other. If I can do it (and SO many others here can do it), trust me, so can you!

Thanx so much for sharing! You have done great!!!

Holy heck, Jasmine, when did you get into Onederland? How'd I miss it?

You're doing so well yourself! :cheer: for you!

"About 4 months into our new way of eating, we subscribed to a Community Supported Agriculture farm, where we paid a certain amount to get whatever the farm had in season that week"

I live in Vacaville...can you give me more info on this? It sounds interesting!

Farm Fresh to You delivers to Vacaville on Monday nights...wake up every Tuesday to a fabulous box of organic, fresh produce...mmmm.

Sample box (this week's):


Fresh Cranberries*
(.5 lb.)
Baby Head Lettuce
(6 oz.)
Satsuma Mandarins
(1.5 lbs.)
Nantes Carrots*
(1 bu.)
Garnet Sweet Potatoes
(2 lbs.)
Rapini
(1 bu.)
Kale
(1 bu.)
Butternut Squash
(1 ct.)
Mixed Peppers*
(.5 lbs.)
Chard *small box only
(1 bu.)
Gala Apples
(5 ct.)

The cost (delivered) for that box is $29.00, and you get one every week. Great deal, GREAT fruits and veggies. MMMM!

I just went to their website!! How cool!! My hubby isnt much of a veggie eater..so I'll have to convince him that the $30/week is worth it!!

I hate to admit it, but I've never heard of Kale or rapini....it would probably make cooking fun to have ingredients youve never seen and are now forced to use!! :hun:

Way to go! :) You look absolutely amazing! :cheer:

Your story is a great inspiration. Thank you for sharing and congratulations!!

Tamara - thank you! You're doing so well!

:carrot: Amanda! I got my veggie box today!! There are things in there I never heard of so it will be fun to experiment!! I am really enjoying the white radishes!!

Hooray! Veggie boxes are AWESOME. What was in it? Need help with anything?

I find that if you can't find a recipe for some weird vegetable, post a thread in the "Whole Foods Lifestyle" forum with the title "What do I do with <vegetable>?" You'll get LOTS of ideas.

Amanda, I'm still pretty new to the boards and you've already welcomed me and given me advice in other threads, but I've finally had the chance to read through your wonderful journey. Firstly, CONGRATULATIONS! It's amazing to read about your process and choices. You are truly an inspiration! I have found a lot of great things to incorporate into my own plan -- one I'm trying tomorrow: I'm going to try to cook a few portions in advance tomorrow... no, not try, I will cook a few extra portions :) Thanks for sharing

REady4AChange - Thank you! It is AMAZING what cooking extra portions will do - make your lunch packing SO much easier. Just grab and go! On days when I eat out or don't have leftovers, it is crazy how much harder figuring out what to have for lunch is.

WOW!! What an inspiring story! I can feel your excitement and confidence in your new self and it sounds great. You have done what some people say is impossible to do! Congrats!! Your will is so strong and I am sure that is what keeps you motivated to be at your best!!

Hot Tamale - Thank you! It definitely isn't impossible. It may take some work, but it is do-able with hard work.

Amanda,

You're a real inspiration! I loved your before and after pictures. And your posts and advice on the Introductions forum shows such real caring.

Mary - thank you! I know how overwhelming it is when people join here - so many different forums! So many different people and threads! So I try to point people in the right direction when I can.

Fantastic!! I peeked at your profile pics...you both look breath taking in your wedding dresses! Great tips too! I think I'm going to join a community supported farm too...GREAT idea!

Jedi - I loved my CSA boxes. I seriously had to learn how to cook so many good things! Also, I'd be getting such a variety, and that was important to not getting bored. Without my boxes, I had the -same- veggies every week... not very exciting. I also gained exposure to a ton of new fruits...mmm

If you need to find one near you, go to Local Harvest (http://www.localharvest.org)

Thank you for the wedding dress compliments! We were so happy that day that I think we would have looked good in potato sacks, but it was nice to have a pretty white dress.

WTG Thats a great story and inspiration!!

Marie - thanks! Can't wait to see you around more and get to know you better!

What a wonderful story! Thank you for posting it!

LolaDark - Thank you! I was so happy to be able to post that story.

Congrats! Thanks for sharing your story!

What an inspiration. I am so desperate but no willpower. I have battled this weight for my whole life (I am 52) It makes me sick to see pictures of myself now. I just went on vacation with my daughters and would not let them take any pictures of me. I really need to have somebody to keep me motivated and somebody I can chat with regularly. I am just learning this website and pretty confused. I have yet to figure out the little tracker thingy.
Anyway..you go girl....you are my inspiration.

Janni - You need to keep YOURSELF motivated. That being said...we have plenty of people you can talk to regularly here! Go visit the 100 lb club and meet the gorgeous chickies there.

And if I may offer a word of advice - take the pictures. You'll want them so you can compare when you get to goal! You can do this!

Addisonsmommy - thank you! What a cutie in your avatar...might that be Addison herself?

mandalinn, I just want to tell you that your story has brought tears to my eyes. You are just an inch shorter than I am... our starting weights are the same... Your pictures help me see that this can happen. I can do this. It's an attainable goal.

I have spent the last four months in limbo due to some circumstances beyond my control, but I refuse - I mean REFUSE - to give up. I started a new plan this week and I'm using it to keep my calories in check... I've also re-acquired a piece of equipment to help me exercise while I can't get to the gym (it really is impossible for me to do so at this time, but when things in LIFE calm down I know I'll go back. I miss it and crave it more than I crave sweets! lol) I've already worked myself sore in two days. :p

Thank you for giving me a glimpse of the beauty in the journey, and the peace and joy in reaching goal. I look forward to being fit and fabulous this time next year. I know it's going to happen. I can already see it! :D

Thank you! (((hugs)))

Ekstatica - Of COURSE you can do it - look at what you've done already! You're a weight loss rockstar!

And things DO get in the way (see the knee surgery nightmare. :yes: ) but they don't have to derail you. You just keep moving ahead. Congrats on getting back into exercise!

Congrats!

Great job i cant give up sugar but i'll keep trying .need to drop 67

BabyGT and Miss Rocky - thank you!

I never gave ANYTHING up. Do I eat less pastry/baked good/sugary stuff now? Of course. But I still have it, and I have something sweet every day. It is all about moderation, to me.

Great story! Thanks for sharing things you've learned with us!

Bethbeth - as I've said over and over, 3fc was SO helpful to me, and the big losers here both inspired me and gave me great advice. I only hope I can be half as helpful to people as I go through maintenance. Thanks!

Congrats!! Thanks for sharing your amazing journey. I’m only just starting out and your story is truly inspiring.

I love your attitude about eating the things you like in satisfying portions!

This morning, I am re-reading some of the goal stories for inspiration.

Gail - thank you!

THANK YOU so much for sharing your amazing goal story! I have to tell you that you have truly inspired me, Amanda :) .

Have a beautiful evening,

Denise

p.s. I am extremely interested in finding out if we have a "Community Supported Agriculture farm" in our area. It sounds like a wonderful thing!

Denise - head on over to www.localharvest.org...you can search for one in your area. They are an awesome, awesome thing if you have one nearby.

I almost felt myself tearing up as I read that.
Bravo. BRAVO. You are an inspiration.:hug:

Kristi...thank you so much. It blows me away sometimes, but if I can serve as an inspiration to other people, it is a wonderful thing.

thank you so much for sharing your story and your photos. I think one of the most motivating things I can do is to read others success stories. Thank you for sharing yours

Skinny - you're right, success stories are super motivating. I can't wait for the day when I get to read YOUR success story.

Wow - you have an amazing story.
You totally rule. :queen:

Chinchilla - thank you! Stick around and keep posting.

Thank you so much for sharing your story! I feel a strong connection to you - we're similar ages, we are the same height and have almost exactly the same highest weight - and I hope to eventually be at the weight you are now.

Lunalore - wow, we do have similar stats! You can absolutely do this...just keep on going.

You are truly an inspiration! Thanks for sharing!

Maryea - thank you! I like to give back here, since so many gave to me for so long (and still are, thanks to the Maintainers forum!)

You're an inspiration! I appreciate your success and
your sharing of your story. I'll be back to reread when
I need a boost in my motivation! :)

Ellen

Seachild - not just me, certainly! There are a TON of inspiring stories to read here...look around and find one, two, or ten, and read as needed.

You are so awesome! CONGRATS!

Congratulations and thanks for sharing! Your "goal" post is VERY inspiring and your charm and enthusiasm just jumps off the page! Beautiful wedding photo, too, you both looks great!

Rayelle - thanks!

TylerDurden - You're so sweet. I am very proud of those wedding photos...never thought I'd feel that pretty EVER.

Woooooooooooow:carrot:
truly an inspiration... You have given me hope.. I came on teh net today to see real people with similar concerns... needing to loose so much as 120lbs, I thought it was impossible till I read your story... :)

Thank you

Sharry - with effort, dedication, and of course, 3FC, all things are possible! Stick here! Settle in! Find a spot and get moving.

Congrats on your 8 lbs so far!

Thank you so much for your amazing story. I am about your size at your biggest...a size 20 and recently started to care about my body. I see a personal trainer twice a week and joined weight watchers. Thank you for letting me know its possible.

Taylor - that personal trainer will be worth his/her weight in gold, if only to teach you what you need to be doing. Have you found our Weight Watchers forums yet? This is absolutely possible and it seems like you're on a great path to making it REAL!

Amazing! Thanks for sharing your story!

Readytobefit - You're on your way...2 lbs down! :bravo:

Wow...a great story to read for a beginner! Thanks for the inspiration :)

Soul - thank you! I'm glad you found us - :wel3fc:

wow great job, congrats!

Thanks ss123! Welcome!

your story is truly motivational!!!! I'm so happy for you!!!!:)

Wow....just plain WOW! Talk about motivation, inspiration, and perseverance. You have given me renewed hope. Thank you for sharing your story!

BreatheMe - thank you!

LadyBBaller - you can DEFINITELY do this, so take all the hope you need.

Wow!!! Thank you for sharing. It is the motivation I need once again on my own journey. I had lost 100#'s over a 2 year period and it has slowly found most of it's way back to me. I need this inspiration.

WOW! what an INCREDIBLE story. thank you so much for sharing! and, btw - your pics...you look absolutely amazing! :D

Wow. I looked at your pics and you look absolutely amazing! Then I read your story and must let you know that you really are an inspiration to me! You are the same height as me and your starting weight/size are just about identical to mine. Likewise, your goal weight is just about the same as mine...(mine is 165, give or take a pound). So, it is really wonderful to see that you met your goal and look so fabulous and confident. I've already lost 50 pounds and have about 70 more to go and now I know I can do it!!! Thanks for sharing your photos and story!

Kells - you've done it before, so you can do it again! And this time, you'll have the maintainers to back you up when you get to goal...just one of the MANY reasons I love it here so much.

IndyChick - awww, thanks! You're so close...the last bit can be tough, but you'll be there in no time.

Kris10 - you can do this. Trust me. Stick around, read and learn, and you'll take your 50 lb loss (WTG, by the way! :carrot:), add even more, and start the whole SECOND journey that is learning how to maintain. It's a wild ride, but so amazing too.

CONGRATS on meeting your goal!! You did soo amazing :) You deserve to be proud!!

what an amazing story.

TDI - thank you! You're doing so well...keep it up!

Lifechange - :carrot: on your 20 lbs so far. You're on your way!

Wow! you look fantastic, congrats on all your continued success !

Rachael - thank you!

I've been coming to this site for awhile, and i've seen your picture before and been inspired. I just now read some of your story and saw your before and after pictures. How Wonderful! You have been an inspiration before and even more so now. If you can lose and maintain the loss again the odds of a bad knee, I can maintain too! Thanks for sharing your story.

I know I've said this before, but I can't express enough how mind blowing it is to me that I could be an inspiration to anyone, much less many people. You can DEFINITELY do this!

Amanda, thank you for sharing your story. It is inspiring and a reminder that I, too, can do it. On my tough days, I come back to success stories like yours to reinvigorate and inspire me to keep going.

So glad to have encouraging members like you on 3FC.

Julz - YOU CAN! I'm glad you stick here during the rough days...it DOES make them feel a little less rough, doesn't it?

Thank you so much for posting your story! Reading what you've been through, how you did it and what kept you motivated has really helped me put it all in perspective!

Thank you for the motivation your journey has provided!!!! :)

MissJenny - I'm glad I could provide that motivation...always makes me feel good to hear that someone is taking what I did and being inspired.

WOw! thank you for sharing your story, it's so inspirational! it sure has inspired me..:carrot:

Veronica - that's so sweet! :wel3fc:

Can't wait to get to know you better!

Thank you for sharing your story!! That is amazing! congratulations!! I agree that one of the best feelings is running in to your old friends from High school and having to introduce yourself, it is actually one thing that truly keeps me motivated! congrats to your partner as well!!

Again, Jenny, thank you! I really do like being able to choose who I talk to when I go home.

You're story is truly inspiring! You are amazing and should be so proud of yourself! I also loved how you were able to share the process with your partner. Congrats to Sarah also!

Congratulations and thanks for your story, really useful advice, I really appreciate it.

Sherrita - It was so helpful to have someone to go through with me. Thanks!

Gracesmommy - I try to be as helpful as I can, and appreciate that you found it useful. 3FC gave so much to me that I like to give back.

wow- I left here just shortly after you got married - and I just came back and came across your success story.
Congratulations and thank you for the inspiration. Thank you for a reminder that being back is a good thing for me!

Yay, LizzieP! I'm so glad you're back!

wow congrats!!! this is an amazing story

Great Job!!

Amy and Roxi - thanks! I'm glad you've joined us here - stick around and keep posting!

Congrats! This story is really inspirational! The only part I have trouble doing is expanding my cooking abilities- I'll have to push more of that on turner (my long-term BF and will-be hubby) :D :D I have trouble experimenting.

Did you have carb foods (pastas, rice, breads mostly is what I'm asking about) at meals still? How often?

Flute - yes. I have a starch with almost every meal. Usually, though, I try to make it a whole grain carb (whole wheat pastas, brown and wild rices, etc).

Experimenting can be fun! I'd encourage both of you to give it a shot.

Amazing. Thank you for your story! I needed it today.

Happiness - you're welcome! Keep reading the goal stories here...they're all so great when you need a little boost!

I am so glad I read this today.

Amanda, you are an inspiration!

Wow!!!!!!!

Thank you for posting this. What a delightful journey you've shared with us all! Wow!

FullofGrace - Aww, thanks! You're doing great...over 20 lbs! Keep it up!

Amazing! :) You are proof that it can be done. :)

Has anyone ever told you that you look like Justine Bateman? Every time I see your picture on the site I think the same thing. :)

I haven't heard that, but you better believe I Googled images of her! Thanks!

There is PLENTY of proof that it can be done here...just look around!

That is fantastic! :carrot:

Taurie - cute avatar! Thank you!

:broc:

WOW, I just read your story. Congratulations on that loooonnng journey. I have learned that weight loss is a journey.

You talked alot about recipes, can you recommend an sites or cookbooks for a more natural way of cooking. I usually use the food network, eatingwell, and cooking light, but i think I am looking for something different.

BTW, I can't cook in a dirty kitchen either. I have to clean the whole thing prior to cooking. Frustrating, and time consuming, but it is a must!

Insatiable -

I mostly cook from my own creations...never have been much for recipes. My suggestion is to look at the same recipes you're looking at, but less for overall plan and more for ideas. For example, you might see someone making a pork roast with peach sauce on the food network, and then create your own low-cal version at home with a nice lean pork tenderloin, some peaches and spices, cutting the oil down, etc. I go with general concepts, but almost never follow an ACTUAL recipe.

awesome job!
http://www.gogoplat.com/fat.jpg
http://www.gogoplat.com/nice.jpg

feypore - thanks!

I can say without a shred of doubt that I have never been so inspired by any story--weightloss or otherwise--in my entire life.

Thank you, Amanda. I'm on the verge of tears because your story reminded me that I can do it, too.

LeeAnne - now I'M on the verge of tears!

But you don't need ME to tell you that you can do this...the evidence is right there in your ticker. Over 100 lbs? YOU are an inspiration!

Wow, your story is inspiring!

Hopefully - thanks! Can't wait to read YOUR goal story someday!

Im almost in tears, i hope i have the strength to give this my all. Thank you for your inspiration!

Linds - you CAN, absolutely, 100% do this. I'm so glad you've found us!

I just joined today and your story is very motivating. I'm glad to know that no matter how long or hard the journey is, the goal will be attainable.

Carla - I am so glad you found us! Stick around and keep posting.

That was such an inspiring story! Thank you for sharing and motivating me! :)

No prob! Love your avatar, and thanks!

mandalinn,

Great inspiration! Thanks for taking the time to share it...woo-hoo!

thinkerbell

Thanks, Thinkerbell! It felt GOOD to write it down and share it. :wel3fc:

Amanda - I'm so happy that your goal story popped back up to the top. Today is the first time I read it. I should be sitting here working but I couldn't stop reading. Congratulations on your amazing accomplishments! I read your posts all the time and I am truly inspired by you! Thank you for providing so much support and encouragement to others! I look forward to the day when I share my goal story! ;)

Barb - wow - 55 lbs, you go! I can't wait to see your goal story either! Thanks!

Wow. That is such a wonderful story. You give me so much hope. Thank you so much for sharing your experience with me.:o

Aww, thanks LadyPepper! You'll be there soon, too!

Thats Fantastic and a great story,
Its amazing to see the difference in you and you look great!!

Lipgloss - the difference may LOOK good, but I'll tell you, it FEELS wonderful.

Good luck on your upcoming surgery!

What a great story & great plan.

Thanks, AAAA! :wel3fc:

Wow, This is incredible. What a challenge you have overcome. Thanks for writing so much and letting us know how you did it.

Congrats

Maria - that's so sweet. Thank you!

Wow, congrats on your loss! Reading your story is definently inspiring. I jumped on the forum this morning to find some words of encouragment, and I did. :)

Misspiggy - you'll find encouragement ALL OVER this site...just look around at any/all of the fabulous posters here!

Congrats - you should be proud of yourself. Onwards and upwards.

YogaJane - yep, onward and upward into the equally challenging world of weight maintenance. :wel3fc:

What a wonderful story. Congratulations!

Etherence - thank you! Congrats on your losses so far!

Thanks so much for sharing that! Its stories like this that make me know I can do it also!

Erinkman - you definitely, definitely can do this. Just stick here, keep posting, and soak up information and support.

i guess i am sitting in similar shoes, my wedding is just around a year and a half away. i weigh 282, and it scared me to see how close i was to 300, and my ideal goal is around 150but i dont expect to be there before the wedding anytime in 2010 would rock. i'd love to know some of your recipes if your willing to share.

Cynthia - my recipes are scattered all over here, look around! The 100 lb club 101 Things to Do with Chicken thread is good. I'll be adding more soon to what I have posted here.

You can totally make progress before that wedding! Stick around here!

you're story is so inspiring....i feel so motivated after reading your story, thank you for sharing it. and congratulations!

Olivia - thank you! You're doing GREAT so far - :bravo: for your first five GONE!

Amanda,
Your story is amazing. It is definitely the motivation I need for today. I am 230 lbs, short and totally unhappy with my apprearance.

My husband at I are going to Dominican in the middle of January, and I find myself 6 weeks out and terrified of being the fattest person there. I always look around to see if there are any fat girls there and most of the time I am disappointed. In a few weeks I have to start looking for a bathing suit and vacation wear.

I am really disappointed with my dedication so far, but maybe this desperation will motivate me. Wish me luck because i will need it.

Stacie

Amanda your story really touched me you seem like you have grown into such a happier person. It is crazy to look at your picture collage at the beginning where you are singing to the end where you are dancing. It doesn't seem like your spirit changed at all :). I really want to have a transformation so badly like yours. I really loved all of your tips of what you have learned and changed.

Thanks so much for being so inspiring :)

Stacie and Amber - thank you both so much. You both CAN have this - you just need to make the decision that it is TIME. Get on that wagon, stick around here, and keep going.

You can do this!

Thanks Amanda!

Congrats on your awesome accomplishments!!! Btw, your wedding fell on my bday :) Congrats on that also!

Mali - thanks, on both!! :wel3fc:

I don't know why but your story made me cry at work! Lol. I'm so happy for you. It's hard...definitely not easy, but worth it.

TheTinGirl - thank you! WOW! You are doing SO well. You're right that it isn't easy, but it IS worth it!

Wow! You are so inspiring. Great job.

River - thanks! Hey, you're about a third of the way to goal! Bravo!

You give me hope! I am at 270 right now ( I think) and my goal is 160! I am only 35 and i know i can do it! i just NEED to do it! Loved your store and Hope to be you soon!
:carrot::broc::swim::woops::yoga::strong::belly:

Sachi - I can't wait to see YOUR goal story! Thank you and, as I said in your intro, Welcome!

Great story! You look great!

Snoozles - aw, thanks! :bravo: Congrats on your losses so far...almost at the 20 lb mark!

Thank you for posting your story! It is inspriring. Do you have a link to some of those recipes you use? I really need some inspriation and guidence in that department. Cooking for a pick husband and son make staying on plan just that much more of a fight.

Coffee - my recipes are all over the place here, around the boards. I posted several in the 101 things to do with chicken thread, the magic white bean soup recipe is around...just browse and you'll find tons of delicious recipes, not just mine!

this is a beautiful story thank you for sharing

You're very welcome! Stick here and you'll be posting your own in no time (well, OK, not no time. But soon!)

Dear Amanda,

Thank you so much for posting here and sharing a part of your life. Inspirational no where describes the emotions I feel...

Blessings,

Colleen

Awww, thank you, Colleen! Congrats on your successes so far!

I love your story!! Congrats to you!

Willow - thanks! WTG on that first 7 lbs lost...onward and upward!

OMG, thanks for sharing that! I have tears reading your story. I hope I can stay as motivated as you did.

Hayley...you know, it's less motivation (because TRUST me, that comes and goes...read some of my more recent threads and you'll see what I mean) and more COMMITMENT. So, right now, I'm VERY unmotivated. Just not feeling it. But you know what? I'm still on plan. Because I've made a commitment to being on plan, so for me, there isn't an alternative.

I think people tend to expect that, when they do this, they'll have some magical motivation that'll carry them through. Incorrect. Only by COMMITTING can you power through not only the times when you HAVE motivation, but more crucially, the times you don't.

Thank you for your comments! :wel3fc:

What an AWESOME story! I can really relate to you...I started at 290 myself and am at 196 now but want to lose another 26lbs to meet my goal of 170. I even have a before picture of me singing karaoke in one of my before pics! HAHA! That is so awesome that you were on the cover of Woman's World...you rock! You are my inspiration to get that last 26lbs off! Thank you so much for sharing your story! :carrot:

Tatumas - wow, we DO have similar stats! :bravo: on your incredible losses so far. You may have to stick it out a bit to get the last pounds off (they're killer!) but you can definitely do it!

Wow I am speechless! Your story is AMAZING AND INSPIRATIONAL =] I feel like my goal is so far away but I seem to be 100% on plan lately and I love to read success stories where someone of a similar size has really "done it." Congrats on the weight loss and for being such a strong woman. YOU ARE AMAZING!:congrat:

Thank you so much! WTG :bravo: on your 12 lbs lost so far...keep going!

Thank you so much for sharing your story. I am in complete awe. You are truly an inspiration and have given me extra motivation today. Thank you, again.

You're welcome! I'm glad I could provide motivation for you!

I've just read your story. What an amazing transformation.
You look amazing!

This is just the motivation I need to get me moving on my weight loss!

Pick - thank you! We have pretty similar stats...I'm glad you found 3FC and hope you stick around and keep posting!

Thank you so much for writing your goal story. It truly is an inspiration. I needed to read this and knowing I can come back here and re-read it anytime I want will mean the world to me. Thank you again.

Laura

Congratulations!!! You are an inspiration to me. It must have been a horrible feeling to see the scale creep up to 295. I can only imagine what a good feeling it must have been to go below 200. I know that's when I'll be ecstatic, but one day at a time. Hugs to you.

Thank you so much for writing your goal story. It truly is an inspiration. I needed to read this and knowing I can come back here and re-read it anytime I want will mean the world to me. Thank you again.

Laura

I too am another one who comes back and rereads people's goal story. They are all just so amazing and keeps me inspired!

Amanda I am in awe of how wise you are and SO young! When I was 25 I was a DOLT compared to you!

I am serious! LOL! :D

Laura - awww, thanks! Keep going, and you'll get where you're going in no time.

Jada - Onederland IS a really good feeling, a MUCH better feeling than the scary moment of seeing my weight so HIGH. Even scarier was trying on the wedding dress (having to have THOSE photos as my wedding photos...when I was so UNCOMFORTABLE with myself...I can't imagine it). You're on your way, 6 lbs already!

FlatIron - and here I am wishing I'd started SOONER. I'll never be able to re-live high school or college at a normal weight. Still, I've got the rest of my life ahead of me and I'm certainly glad that I figured it out when I did.

I'm flattered and humbled that my story can drive ANYONE forward on this kind of journey.

FlatIron - and here I am wishing I'd started SOONER.
Still, I've got the rest of my life ahead of me and I'm certainly glad that I figured it out when I did.

I'm flattered and humbled that my story can drive ANYONE forward on this kind of journey.

You know I've been heavy for a long time now (7 or 8 years I think) but I only got REALLY heavy (morbidly obese as opposed to fat) the last 2 or 3 years. I too wish I had started sooner too. I only started having to take BP meds 2 years ago so maybe if I had started earlier I might have been able to avoid the pills as I hate taking them.

But I guess the important thing for me (and you too) is that I am doing it NOW!

Wow, so young and so wise! Honestly it makes me weep because at this stage in my life I feel too tired to do it again but I'm morbidly obese again and desperately need to get it off! I've struggled with my weight all of my life and kept it off for the most part but now I am so ashamed and can't seem to muster the courage to do anything. Looking in the mirror is painful and as someone else said I just don't seem to care anymore. I want to care again, I want to lose the weight again and keep it off. I've gotten off all of the medication that caused the weight gain in the first place and now to lose the weight.

Low carb worked for me in the past but I don't feel well on it so I'm going with counting calories and eating good fats. You are truely an inspiration. I wish I were half the woman that you are...

Hi Amanda, I am new here and reading your story really inspired me..congratulations on your accomplishment. =)

I just caught up on your journey Amanda - loooove that you did it all so sensibly! :)

ohfaithful - don't worry about being half of what I am - focus on being more, better, stronger than YOU are today. You'll get there!

Ilia - thank you.

Danni - thank you, also. Sensible isn't flashy, but it works over time (and you can keep doing it for the long-term).

Wow you are amazing! I read tat whole story and love it!

Minya - thank you! :wel3fc:

I read your story, Amanda, and you're awesome! Thank you so much for sharing so many tips on your success ... I've copied it into a Word file and saved it on my computer for motivation when I need a boost!

Thanks!

oh wow amanda. What an inspiring story! I know you worked hard for it! congratulations!

Texas - Thank you so much. It still, to this day, blows my mind that I can be an inspiration like that to ANYONE. Still, I'm so glad if I can help just one person out there!

Jendiet - it IS hard work, and I did work hard (and work even harder to maintain almost 2 years!). But it's totally, totally worth it.

Wow!!! Your story is amazing. Thank you for sharing you are an inspiration to me and many others. Awesome!!

Vivian...thank you!

Thank You so much for posting this. I am so pumped up right now after reading your story. You are truly an inspiration and my new motivation. When I feel I can't do this anymore I will come here and say, "YES I CAN". I have struggled long enough. I weigh around the same as when you started and my final goal is the same. You are beautiful!!!

Natoshial - Yes, you can! :cheer: