I don't really remember when exactly I hit my initial goal weight because I was so dismayed at what my body actually looked like. I never made a big deal of the scale weight day. I do remember, though, going to a birthday party for my aunt six years ago today and being at my initial stated goal of 135 pounds.
I hovered there for about 3 years, then lost another 15 lbs. At just under 5'3" and very muscular (now), 120 is the low end of my comfort zone. My "line in the sand" is 125- and I've been consistently under or at it now for 3 years! I really didn't think I'd be able to do this when I started, and I can't tell you why I finally succeeded. But I do know why I maintain- the world of difference in my life. So many of you have written about it far more eloquently than I could. Meg's story, Robin's story, Amanda's, Glory's and many others mirror mine. I wasn't morbidly obese when I started, so didn't face a lot of the physical obstacles that many of you did, but the mental anguish and fear of medical issues were the same.
Thank you 3FC! Thank you Meg, Karen who is no longer here, Suzanne and Jen, and all the wonderful people here and at gyms that I've met and worked with.
Mel,
CONGRATULATIONS!!!
You are a wonderfull inspiring rolemodel to us all.
We are the same height, but I am 15 pounds heavvier...I do hope I ever will get below the 130 mark, and I cannot even imagine getting down to 120. But I surely would like to!
Rabbit
You, my dear, are a big reason why I'm still hanging on at the 5+ year mark. We may have lost different amounts of weight but we fight the same demons. So big thanks right back to you!
(see, everyone -- Mel and Meg really are two entirely different people! )
(see, everyone -- Mel and Meg really are two entirely different people! )
Hmmmm, I DO wonder sometimes, ya know? Just kidding. Gosh, I sure wish someone would mix ME up with either one of you.
Anyway, Mel, I ALWAYS find you super eloquent, wise, informative and kind. I love reading everything you have written.
What is there to say? You AMAZE me, inspire me, benefit me, teach me and - keep my hope alive by showing me not only HOW to do it, but that, yes it CAN be do. Against all the crummy statistics out there, you have managed to keep your weight in check for 6 incredible years. CONGRATULATIONS. And THANK YOU for all that you do here at 3FC.
Keep up the amazing work. Like there's a chance in you know what that you wouldn't.
Mel, Six years! That is such an accomplishment. You are such a wonderful role model for those of us who are still struggling to reach our goal. Thank you for all of your encouragement and for sharing your knowledge with us.
Congratulations, Mel, for 6 years. That's remarkable.
Your achievement is an inspiration for me -with my eight months at maintenance weight, six years seems like an infinity away.
From somewhere, I came to believe two numbers: if you can maintain for five years, you might become part of that two percent who don't gain their weight back. By that criteria, you're one of them.
Good luck as you continue, "Working Maintenance Everyday".
Mel: I just had to jump in here and say Congrats to you too! I don't think I can even try to begin to explain what an incredible influence you have had on my weightloss and road toward fitness. Here's to you and your six years! (whey protein in the glasses of course)
I had to change my signature!
)
Contratulations Mel
C~O~N~G~R~A~T~S
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