dear resolutioners (transformation tuesday)

This was originally posted on my personal Facebook page. There are some elements that don't apply here, but I'm reposting this on the boards here because so many people I shared it with found it inspirational.


Two years ago today, I packed everything I could fit into my car and ran away to Los Angeles. I had no job, very little plan and even less money. Honestly, it didn't make much sense, but it was something I felt compelled to do. I was drawn to invest in a dream (that I still haven't quite figured out) and I'm determined to make it my reality. I still don't have much money, but I’ve made some other big changes since then, and I’ve never really publicly acknowledged them.

I questioned myself, I struggled, I stuck it out, I found work, I tried new things, I met new people, I cried, I laughed, I explored my new home, I fell in love with a truly incredible guy. I also got healthy.

I learned about nutrition, ate (mostly) healthy foods and found ways to get active that didn’t feel like punishment. I lost 60 pounds over the past two years and went from a size 10 to a size 0. I didn't just lose weight and inches, though – I got fit. I can hike for miles on trails that used to get me winded within minutes. I can support the weight of my entire body on just my hands. My body is capable of doing so much more and I'm enjoying my life more because of it.
I’m sharing all of this because I want you to know that you absolutely have the strength, the willpower, the ability, the CHOICE to change your life. Whatever your goals may be, you have the power to reach them. But remember to make the choice for you. I’ve been on the receiving end of quite a bit more body shaming as a healthy person than I ever did when I was overweight.

There will always be someone to tell you that you can’t. That you’re doing it wrong. To eat a sandwich. To NOT eat a sandwich. That you’re too skinny, too muscular, too something. But your body is your own. It carries you through this life and takes you on wonderful, beautiful adventures. If you treat it well, it will return the favor.

I’ve been hesitant to share this and the before is probably the least flattering photograph EVER taken. But in the spirit of courageous leaps, new years resolutions and the first ‪#‎transformationtuesday‬ of 2015, here goes.

So yes, I’ve changed. The new me is stronger, healthier and happier than ever before. And in 2015, I’m not apologizing for it.