major NSV - performing in public (pics included)

Well this was supposed to be a blog so sorry it's so long but I wanted to post pictures so here goes....

After gaining way more than the usual freshman 15, I found myself at around 190-194lbs on the day of my college graduation. I was very proud of what I had accomplished academically but very disappointed in how much I had failed to take care of myself physically. I was mortified after seeing my graduation pictures and didn't even like taking pictures after that. I decided to make a change. I started working out jumping around from one thing to the next like bootcamp, workout dvd's, gym memberships, yoga, pilates, you name it. I get bored very easily and have to change it up often so I can stick to working out atleast 3 - 5x a week. I am not disciplined enough to do an intense workout for a prolonged period of time like p90x, chalene extreme etc, and I need variety everyday to keep myself going. I love food and its hard for me to go on strict diets without me feeling deprived and finally giving into binging on all the bad stuff.

Anyhooo almost 2 summers later, I find myself feeling very happy with how far I've come. I used to be very self conscious about every little thing and I hated summers when everyone could wear shorts, bathing suits and tank tops and I wouldn't dare leave the house in anything of that sort. Well I think last night was the night I realized how much confidence I have gained after sticking to MFP this long and having the support of all my wonderful MFP friends who never gave up on me no matter how much times I slipped up. I am a happier,healthier me who has regained the confidence I once lost. I absolutely love this feeling and no scale can measure this and no money can buy this awesome feeling.

Last night I performed a zumba routine at the half time show (alone with about 100 other people) for the New Orleans Voodoo game, I found myself very nervous but the reasons were completely different. I was not worried about how I looked, how big my arms/tummy/legs, etc looked or how much they would jiggle when I danced. I was worried about not messing up the steps, not losing my friends in the crowd, and most importantly not having fun. After hiding from the cameras for years, I was jumping in everyone's pictures so I could have a record of one of the most amazing nights I've ever had doing something completely new and exciting!

Thanks so much to everyone who has helped me along the way. :flowerforyou: I haven't met my goal weight yet and it has been a slow process but I've fully enjoyed meeting some amazing people on here who keep me motivated.

Ok enough talk, here are the pictures...


practicing before the game

waiting for the game to start

waiting backstage for the half time show