MFP 1 Year Anniversary, 50 lbs down, w/pics...

I technically joined MFP in February 2011 after having my second baby but didn't fully commit to changing my life until 8/1/11. My top weight was 232 at the end of my pregnancy with my first child and I managed to get back to my pre-pregnancy weight of 205 (so not good to begin with) the week I found out I was pregnant with our son. I got up to 225 in my pregnancy with him and lingered around 210 until August 2011.

Here I am on 12/15/10 at about 215lbs (I'm 5'5):


Here I am in August 2011 at the very beginning of my journey. I'm about 205 here:


I started out by exercising everyday and eating about 1200 calories. I didn't eat my exercise calories back in the beginning and was very strict although I eat some if not all of them back now. I never deny myself anything but the awareness that logging my food has brought me causes me to choose wisely.

I try to eat lots of veggies and fruit and try new recipes and foods that are just healthier in general. Stuff like cottage cheese, greek yogurt, substituting thin bread or only eating half a bun with a burger, sharing food or simply having a restaurant put 1/2 of my meal in a to-go box before they even bring it out to me.

As for exercising I've mainly focused on cardio. I'm excited because I'm about to venture into the world of weights so I can have a lean and toned body. My exercise includes walking, tennis, Dance Central for Kinect, step class, zumba, eliptical, mountain bike, stationary bike and sometimes I'll alternate my walking with light jogging. I move every day no matter what. I LOVE exercising and feel more energized and productive after a workout.

Here I am on 2/2/12 for my son's 1st birthday. I am approximately 165lbs:


Finally, here I am today at about 155lbs:


I eat approximately 1500-1700 calories/day and try to burn at least 500 calories/day. I like to mix up my routine a lot although I do walk our dog every morning so that is kind of a staple. I'm very proud of my hard work and am very proud that it rubbed off on my husband and he has managed to lose 40lbs through it all! I was also asked today to share my story and be the member of the month at my gym (24 Hour Fitness)! It's neat to have them notice this transformation! I just wanted to share my success because this website has been crucial to my awareness, my choices and my success.