What Is That? Is It What I Think It Is???? MUSCLES!!!

I haven't previously felt confident enough to post "skin pics" that show my muscles, back fat, etc but now I am beginning to see muscle definition. I thought I'd share to encourage the rest of you to tone as you're losing. You'd be amazed at how sexy seeing muscle definition makes you feel. Not bad for a 219 lb middle aged female huh? ;~)

You Look Marvelous!!!!

I thought it might be nice to show you my progress. The scale has been slowing a bit but the inches are still coming off and I'm finding muscles that have been covered by fat for far too long. Top to bottom: Top: 247 lbs October 2010
2nd photo: 230 lbs December 2010
3rd & 4th photos: 225 lbs February 2011
bottom photo: 220 lbs Easter 2011

Profiling Me

I probably should have been doing this all along, but I am going to post progress pictures every 3 months during this journey. I have noticed my belly toning considerably, but I still have a long ways to go. The hysto fat apron on my belly is gone, so we're getting there. Anyway, here are some profile pics to show my success so far:

Making Progress

Hello friends,

It has been a while since I've done a blog post so I thought I would do an update and post a few progress pics as well. This has been quite the journey: I am now down 24 lbs and eating far more fruits and veggies than I ever thought possible. I'm enjoying discovering new flavors and textures and honestly wish I had made this lifestyle change sooner. Often when people comment on my weight loss and ask how I achieved it, I will explain that I gave up (most) dairy, refined sugars and flours, soy and gluten and they respond with "What's left to eat?" A LOT!!! As a result of the choices I've made, I have to eat fresh food, I have to connect with the people who prepare my food, I have to know what is in my food and I am finding that to a terrific adventure.

For example, today's menu consisted of the following:

carrot cake oatmeal, a banana and coffee for breakfast
Moroccan veggetable soup and Garden Fresh stir fry for lunch
paprika braised chicken, spaghetti squash, roasted root veggies and salad for dinner
Greek yogurt and an orange preworkout
dark chocolate and a rice cake post workout

The first picture is me at my starting weight of 247 lbs Halloween 2010. I was miserable and in pain constantly.

The second picture is me and my husband at my company holiday party. Six weeks post-hysterectomy at 226 lbs.

The final two photos are me gussied up for Valentine's dinner. Current weight 220 lbs.

I have to say that I am rather enjoying learning to take care of myself, to enjoy exercise and to find peace in the process. Onward and downward!