[KristiS]

I'm so excited! For the first time in 3.5 years I am under 180 pounds. A little over a year ago I lost about 15 pounds but gained it all back and then some. I wasn't eating very much and when I started eating again, well you know the story.

I used to be totally against exercise. (I have this thing about sweat. It just totally grosses me out.) When I hit 200 in February it was the last straw. My size 18's were also getting a little tight. I also had a full second chin. I was always tired. I am getting married June 10th and I didn't want to have to look at my wedding photos and just be disgusted with myself instead of remembering how wonderful it was to get married. I decided sweat or no something had to change.

I joined the gym. This was a huge step for me. I was sure that people would be looking at me and just know that I had no idea what I was doing. Paranoid huh? I have found that I actually like working out now! It's an awsome stress reliever for me. I don't do running, but I love the eliptical. I usually do about 45-60 minutes. I still hate sweat, but that's what showers are for.

Well, 21 pounds lighter and I'm starting to notice big results. I tried on a pair of jeans I bought a while back that were way too small. (I didn't double check the size on the tag.) Now they are even a little bit loose in the waist. I am almost down to one chin. My blood pressure has gone down. One of the best things is how much more energy I have. I haven't felt sexy in years, but I'm getting close. It's a good thing I bought a wedding dress with a lace-up back! It's adjustable.

I also don't feel that I am on a diet. I still eat all my favorite foods, but I've learned moderation. I've learned that I don't need to eat a whole can of pringles. And I've learned that they put the information for a portion size on there for a reason. For the first time ever I am confident that I can see this through.

It's only 21 pounds, but it's a world of difference.

(Sorry to ramble on so much, I just can't believe how strongly I feel just for breaking 180. )

[Libby1972]

Good for you! That's wonderful and 21 lbs is a HUGE deal. You've lost over 10% of your body weight. That is great. We have very similar starting and goal weights. We should buddy up and compare notes.

Keep up the good work!

[alwaysbelieve]

That is terrific, a big congratulations.

[KristiS]

That sounds great Libby! It's hard to talk to people about trying to lose weight. Either they've never been overweight so don't understand or i feel like they think I'm obsessed with losing weight. (And maybe in a way they would be right.)

How tall are you? I am 5'2" and very curvy. Even when I was 115 pounds way back when I STILL had a big butt and big chest. At least it kind balances out that way!

[Jordan1975]

Congrats! I am still working to lose my first full 10. Thanks for sharing your happiness. It truly is inspiring.

[KristiS]

The first 10 were really hard for me. I actually gained 2 after I started going to the gym. The first 2-3 weeks I was ravenous after working out. I guess that's pretty normal. If you're not used to exercising, your body tries to get you to replace the calories you just burned off. And of course, I went for the chips and junkfood instead of healthy alternatives. Once I got past that, it was not nearly as hard. You'll get to that first 10 before you know it!

[KimL]

Way to go!!!! Congrats on your 21 pound loss!!! That is fabulous! You should be proud!

[rosiegold]

Losing 21 lbs is a big deal.I am looking forward to the day I can say I weigh 180. Congrats to ya & keep up the good work.We're all here.

[sli]

Wow, 21 lbs is great!!!
Congratulations!
Wedding is only a couple of weeks away, bet you are too excited!

[lilybelle]

Congratulations on the 21 lb. weight loss. You are doing great and will make a beautiful bride. Keep up the good work.

[Hpnotq]

Congratulations on your loss! I'm also working on my first 10 and newly inspired by your success and excitement!

[Jtjoray]

You should be proud! You are gonig to be one sexy mamma on your wedding day!

[Libby1972]

Originally Posted by KristiS

How tall are you? I am 5'2" and very curvy.

I am 5'. I have struggled with weight since my early 20's really. I had some weight issues as a teen, but not that bad. I just now for the first time in my life have a clear understanding of what a difference good nutrition and exercise can do in your life.

When I was 19 I weighed about 110 lbs, but I was so unhealthy. I worked out, but did all the wrong stuff and too much or too little. I was all messed up. A good support system has brought me a long way also. This community of wonderful women is part of that support system.

Best of luck on obtaining your goals and congrats about the wedding. I wish yoiu and your honey a long and happy life. My hubby and I will be married 9 years in January of 07. God Bless.