46lbs to go...halfway there w/pics!!

I started this amazing journey back in April 2010 after years of yo-yo dieting. And like many out there, I wanted a quick fix, couldn't find it, so I gave up and continued my bad habits. Out of many mini-wake up calls, not sure which one finally did it, but I was told about MFP and decided, what the heck, why not?

I cut soda completely and drank 8-10 glasses of water ( that alone was HUGE for me! I would drink a 6pack and at least a 32oz or so PER DAY!), it was hard, but I did it and haven't had ANY soda up until about 3weeks ago when I was sick and had Sprite. I started drinking TONS of water and still get in at minimum 10 8oz a day.

I drastically cut out fast foods, not completely out, again, everything in moderation. I upped my protein intake, fruits, and veggies. I even tried new foods and learned to stop being so darn picky! I walked 2x a day, everyday and after a week, I lost 3lbs. Me, Bru, the girl who has only lost her cell phone, car keys, and a sock!! I couldn't believe I actually lost the weight! Soon after, I started checking the forums out, looking for motivation and stories and info in general. I started to educate myself better with food and exercise info, the typical stuff that many forget to do.

My exercise over the past months has been : walking, Couch to 5k, swimming, dancing, dvd's like Walk Away the Pounds and 30 Day Shred, and Wii games Just Dance 1 and 2. Two great MFP friends and I, started a little personal challenge called the BMK to help us push each other throughout the weeks ahead. Even though we have stopped the BMK, I still find myself doing some of the challenges still today! I even ran/walked my first 5k in Sept and have my 2nd one coming up in Jan. I have slowed in my weight loss, but that is to be expected..

I still have around 45lbs to go, but I plan on going until I feel comfy in my skin, not an exact size or number, even though I wouldn't mind to be around 140ish or a size 8-10.

Yes, it's hard work, and lots of dedication. Even though the hard times, and believe me, I've been through many hard times lately, but it is very possible. I don't look at this like a diet because diets don't work. Sure maybe for a few weeks, but then you often gain it all back (and then some). For me, this is a lifestyle change and a great journey. My biggest tips are to remember that it IS a lifestyle change, drink at least 8glasses of water a day , watch your sodium, tape measure yourself at least once a month-if not every other week rather than weigh in all the time, and everything in moderation.

Since this journey started, I have lost 46.3lbs and 53inches from neck down to calves!!!! Thank you all for your support, whether we have friended each other, or seen each other in a thread, you have all helped me remember why I do this...for ME!
Bru


And as promised my before and current pics:

April 2009 @ 245ish and trying hard to suck it in...


Two months after starting MFP:


Two days ago:


And my most recent 'dress up' side by side comparision: