This is my success story. :)

Here is my success story.
I started my weight loss journey last October 2011. I had 25 pounds I wanted to lose. Somehow that weight had just crept on slowly over time, and before I knew it, I was in trouble. I was miserable looking at the photos from my October vacation. I couldn't believe that frumpy bumpy person was me. I didn't like it. I didn't have a lot of energy. I felt bad about myself. And for me, I think what was worse, was that I kept buying bigger and bigger clothes, thinking that would be the end of it. But then they would get tight again, and I'd buy more in a bigger size. I hated not having anything that fit or was comfortable to wear. I hated not looking good or feeling good about myself.

That was my turning point. I decided I needed to do something. I started counting calories and found MFP. I loved MFP! Right off, I found some wonderful and supportive friends (who are the BEST)! Then I started exercising again. I now feel like a whole new person. I weigh and count everything that I put in my mouth. I understand better about what is a healthy portion for me. I eat several small meals a day, including planned snacks. Because I never go longer than 2 hours without eating, I never feel hungry. I don't avoid any food, so I never feel deprived. I try to focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, and I love dairy.

I am 5' 3" tall. My starting weight was 150 pounds.
I reached my 25 pound weight-loss goal (125 pounds) on February 8, 2012 and hit a 30 pound loss (120 pounds) on February 22.
My weight loss took me 4.5 months.
I lost 1 inch on my neck, 5 inches from my waist, and 4 inches from my hips.
My BMI went from 26.6 (overweight) to 21.3 (healthy).
I went from a size 12 pants to a size 4. YEAH!

I learned so much on my journey. Most importantly, I learned that I can do anything I put my mind to.
I've started running again. I'm an amateur and not very good at it, but it feels so good to be active again.
To challenge myself, I'm planning on my very first 5K race in April, and I'm excited and petrified. But I know I can do it!

I'm a bit camera shy, so it's taken me a while to get this post out there. Thanks to my friends for their patience!
My photos are terrible, so my apologizes in advance!
I blanked out my face to keep my secret identity, but I'm sorry you can't see the weight loss on my face, which still surprises me when I look in the mirror! Anyway, here they are:

Before photos (October 1, 2011)


After photos (February 11, 2012)


Here's my before and after side by side:


If you've made it this far, THANKS for reading my success story!
I wish you the best of luck in your journey. I know you can do it!
It is SO worth it! Nothing can replace your health and feeling good about yourself.
YOU are worth it.
Friend me if you like. I'm happy to support you.