56 pounds - Before & During pics

i am overwhelmed by such kind remarks and so many comments!

i have always loved viewing the success stories and pics here, and had looked forward to adding my own to them.
So many have inspired me with their determination.. i hoped perhaps i could return the favour a lil.

i am really unable to explain just how odd (overwhelmed? stunned?) i feel to think that something i have done could have inspired anyone in truth though.

so thank you... all!

oooh and btw... i totally respect and understand why some folks have no desire or need to make their food diaries public.. i debated that decision with myself in my first couple of weeks in mfp.
i chose to keep mine public... firstly it really does help keep me accountable ('ack... do i REALLY want to have this "name your favourite food vice" and then have to put it in my diary? no way!')... and i am a stickler about recording absolutely everything *L* (drives some of my family nuts as i am trying to figure out what's in some dishes at a restaurant so i can record it when i get home *L*)... plus, i absolutely love cruising other peoples diaries, looking for new ideas, something to tweek my tastebuds or give me an idea of what to have for supper *L*

My mfp diary has become a real anchor to help me keep myself under control... i love tracking things, seeing trends, finding ways to get biggest bang for my nutritional 'buck' aka, calories. Have i mentioned i love nothing better than a great deal or garage sale 'find' so it made sense to me to treat my calories the same way *L*.. is why i virtually never 'drink' my calories.. all have to be foods i love and that will also love me *S*
The one thing i love most about the diary? Planning... most days i plan the next day's meals and snacks out before i sign off.. and sure i may change them later, but, it helps me feel 'under control' to start each day knowing how i plan on 'spending' my calories *LOL*


i really want to say thank you ALL... friends on my friends list, i am honoured and humbled by your support and encouragement, and so darned proud to be counted as one of your friends *S*.. plus mfp'ers i've never met but have enjoyed reading your blogs and successes, suggestions and challenges, i've learned so much from you all... seeing others go through the same introspection and self examination, helping themselves 'figure out' what they need to sort out to move forward into a healthier lifestyle and have let me peek into their thoughts as they've done so, thank YOU all! the mfp community totally rocks!

oooh and to everyone to said i lost years along with the weight?
i REALLY love you guys! *grins*

sheesh.. that sounds like some sorta award speech *L*.. *looks around* where's my emmy? *LOL*