Success! Then and Now.......

I have been on MFP for 2.5 years, but started my change in eating and exercise habits in June 08 for a 4th of July family get together. Of course, I was behind the 8ball, and wanted to lose 50 pounds in 6 weeks........just like everyone else!!

After searching the web for a fast fix, I happened back upon this site. Oh yeahhhhhhhh, I remember this! I had never been a member of an online community, and really just used the food log to eat my 1200 calories. At the same time, I was dealing with a neck injury from a car accident and had just given up on ever being able to work out and lose weight. Thank God my Orthopedist got me into physical therapy, where the experts showed me how to work my way back up.

Well in 4 short weeks I lost a few pounds.........8lbs I think, but I realized the weight being gone was secondary to the way I felt inside for having accomplished even this small goal! Also, I was getting to the point I could walk a mile without the need for someone to call the paramedics!! :laugh:

All my adult life I had added 5 lbs a year.......Sure, I had been on quick diets.........lost 10......gained 20. It seemed every time I lost a few I would get so excited I celebrated with food! :mad:

This time it was different. I made friends on MFP who encouraged me, comforted me, INSPIRED me, helped me, showed me the way.........

At first I was afraid of the set back. OH NO I ATE RIBS!!! Someone (Marla!!) slapped me upside the head "So what? Get back on the wagon NOW...!"

I am learning now, more than ever, that I have this! I am eating better and exercising more............even when I do not feel like it. Even when I get sick. Even with surgery.............I STILL GOT THIS!!

I am so thankful to all my MFP buds and family for helping me learn this very important thing...........This is a journey. We all get there our own way. We learn and teach and encourage and inspire each other along the way.

I have been able to focus on getting better, healing and moving. Instead of wigging out and eating through my fears and pain I have maintained my weight. I am not afraid of food. I will never fear going back to the Old Jeannie! She is gone far away with her 36 pound of fat:laugh: :laugh: