[MiSSxB]

Hey all. I've been lurking for a while so I thought I should finally introduce myself and tell my y'all my story.

I’ve battled off and on with my weight for most of my life and at 12 years old, standing only 5’2” at the time, I weighed over 200 lbs. I managed to lose 60 lbs over 2 years by working out to music, running at school, walking to AND from school rain or sunshine, and working out with Denise Austin over the summers. I walked into highschool looking like a new girl. Old friends didn’t recognize me and boys who never said a word to me were suddenly asking me on dates! I maintained the weight throughout highschool and up until 3 years ago.

2007 was a very difficult time for myself and my family. My boyfriend of 4 years had been cheating on me and a very close relative was using drugs and stealing from me and my mom. My car was stolen over the summer and I was just an emotional wreck. The pounds piled on. People were no longer commenting on how “small” and “cute” I looked. I was busting out of my clothes and because I was so depressed, I didn’t really care. I never realized how bad I looked, but it was definitely taking a toll on my health. My knees hurt and I would lose my breath often just doing simple tasks. February 2008, I decided enough was enough.

3254623401_fc321c7f88_o.jpg 3255454398_232a1d0c2d_o.jpg 3254623381_9a3bb17282_o.jpg

I had no idea I’d gained so much weight until I took that first picture. Look, I couldn’t even close my pants! That’s super embarrassing. I was just testing out my new camera, but that was definitely a reality check. I decided that day I was gonna lose weight and this time I’m gonna keep it off for good.

It took me 1 year to lose 53 lbs, 5 months to gain 27 back , and after a 12 week break to mentally prepare myself to finish this journey, 8 weeks to lose 20.4 lbs. As of this this morning I weigh 169.8 lbs, and I’m able to wear a size 10 again.

My goal is 145 lbs by my 25th birthday, July 6th, but I’m extremely happy with my progress so far. I feel better, I look better, and I’m proud of myself for being able to do this on my own and not giving up. Hopefully I’ve inspired some of you to keep going as well. Thanks for reading.

xoxo,

Brandi (who is no longer and will NOT go back to being “a big girl”)

[leeway]

Hi Brandi!
You certainly had your share of difficulties so it's easy to understand the weight gain, emotional eating can be such a vicious cycle - but you're back on track now and off to a fantastic start - the support you need is here to achieve a healthier, happier you.

Glad to have you join us! There are lots & lots of different groups and forums - I'm sure you'll find some that will keep you motivated and inspired. Try the 20 somethings and the weight loss support forums, they're active and very helpful - also the Success stories are a definite must for motivation.

There are bunches of people here with more to lose and some with less - the bottom line is that we all have to do it a day at a time. The good thing is that we'll have lots of company along the way.

I've only been here since last fall, having NEVER been part of an online forum. What has been so eye-opening is how much it has helped me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or defeated, I just log on and read some of the success stories, complete with their before & after photos - or read about others still dealing day to day with their challenges - and before I know it, the time has flown by and so have all the thoughts of going off track or giving up. It has made all the difference in my success so far.

So welcome - you've found the right place - join in by inspiring us and being inspired!

All the best - good luck with your goals - here's to the Brandi you want to be,
Lee

[Lori259]

Welcome BRANDI ~YOU CAN SO GET TO THAT BIRTHDAY GOAL ~NEVER GIVE UP! If you ever need a friend Just send me a message.
HUGS!

[AR4life]

Welcome Brandi great post, I'm glad you've found us, good luck with your plans.

[MiSSxB]

Thank you for the warm welcomes, ladies! I've been trying to find a weight loss suppport "home" for sooo long and it looks like I'm found it!

[LovebirdsFlying]

I appreciate your statistics. It helps me to set realistic goals for myself. This is a great weight-loss support site. The best I've seen.

Your pictures are inspirational. Thank you. And I hope things are going much better with you now.

[Judy Lynn]

Welcome! Congratulations on your weight loss so far, and good luck reaching your birthday goal. You can do it!