70 lbs, pics

Thanks!

Thanks everyone.
To answer some questions:

I lost about ten lbs over a year or so because I started walking. The last 60 was in the past 8 months.
I went through 18 years of an abusive marriage, 8 children, and a difficult separation 2.5 years ago. I had gotten to a really bad place of trying to numb my pain with all kinds of things. Sugar was one of the biggest. But also social media and movie binging, etc.
I decided to stop numbing my pain. I dropped the crutches one at a time. When I’d start to hurt, I’d stop what I was doing and get alone with God and give it to Him and ask for His help. Sometimes that was on the floor in my bedroom, sometimes it was out on a hiking trail. I have found that facing my pain has allowed God to bring things out and really heal me.

I also rediscovered my love for being outdoors and for running. I started lifting three times a week (just at home with dumbbells, though now I’m doing more whole-body movements without weights). I also used to be a very active dancer, and have been healed enough that I am able to dance again.

I set small goals. “Lose 5 lbs by the end of this month” or “fit into one size smaller in two months”. I set goals that I knew were easy, and felt awesome when I surpassed them.

I don’t like counting calories (sorry MFP!). I get too obsessed with food and my weight. I just chose tiny portions. I didn’t restrict any type of food at first, but I’ve found that over time I’ve preferred healthy foods. Junk and sugar makes me feel sick and depressed.
I also fast intermittently. That’s because my life is insane and I am desperate for God, but it definitely has health benefits beyond the spiritual. It seems to reboot my system and helps me keep on track.

I still fight the temptation to numb pain. Sometimes I’ll movie binge again or something, but it’s a process. I’m learning how to manage the pain and stress in healthy ways. I’m very thankful for the grace of God in how He helped me to turn to Him.

Thanks for the encouragement!
20 lbs to go!