It has definitely been a daunting task. I've had my ups and downs, my good days, even better days, and days where I wanted to disappear from the earth. But through all the struggles, I have found the courage to make a change for the better. I may have my days where I cheat (for instance, I ate like 10 cookies today!), but I always start the next day fresh. I'm human..I make mistakes. I may not always learn from those mistakes, but I try to make better choices the next time around.
There were times where I would get so disappointed and overwhelmed. I wouldn't lose any weight for months at a time. I would read stories of women who would lose 80 or a 100 pounds a more in the same time period it has taken me to lose 40! But, I've come to the realization that I am for once, really happy with how I look and how I feel. I am not "skinny" by any means, but I am a lot healthier and am much more confident.
These past 16 months, I lived my life. I ate healthier, but enjoyed a slice of cake on occasion. I learned to be more active. I never got a chance to go to a gym; mostly because I live in rural area and because I have to stay home to take care of my two daughters. I walked! At first 30-35 minutes at a very slow pace. I have now worked up to a 45 minute (almost 3 mile) walk/jog. For me, this has been just right, Maybe that is why my progress has been more slow, but it's okay. It works for me!
It took me a while to find what worked for me. At first, I used something called the Military diet. You can find it on Pinterest. It might be a fad diet, but it did work for me in the beginning. It kicked started my body and I lost about 15 pounds after doing it (and exercise) for 3 months. Then I tried not eating as much...I lost some...slowly...but who wants to be starving!? Not me! So then I tried Slim Fast. Lost about 5 pounds, but still found myself hungry. Then I turned to Weight Watchers. I can honestly say I liked it the most! I at 3 meals a day and never found myself to be hungry. I would eat mostly anything (except I really cut back on the junk foods). Now, I'm not following any particular diet. Just eating healthy and exercising 5 days a week.
When I first started, I never even thought I would lose a pound. Now with these 40 pounds gone, I am down 3 dress sizes. I can wear clothes that I would never had worn before. I want my confidence to shine through... I am beautiful...I am strong....I am healthy...I am happy! If you too are on a weight loss journey, don't give up hope...you can do this!
