First, for my husband. He works hard and stays in great shape for me and I felt ashamed that I did not do the same for him. It had a very negative effect on our relationship. I was pretty down, didn't have much energy, and certainly did not feel attractive. My goal was for him to return to a more energetic, positive, and confident woman, which, he did!
Second, for my kids. There were so many times I would waste the day away just sitting around. The girls would want to go outside and I would make up a lame excuse why they couldn't. I knew I wasn't doing my best as a mother and wanted to do better. Now I have much more patience with them. I am up and active going out and having fun with my girls.
Third, for our adoption. Yes, some countries will not let you adopt if you are over a certain BMI. I would have been mortified if we were unable to adopt the child(ren) we wanted because I was overweight, what a shame. I also knew I struggled to keep up with the 2 kids I already had and wanted to make sure I was physically ready to take on whatever child(ren) we get.
Last, for me. I have always struggled with being content with the body I had, even from a very young age. I was usually in pretty good shape and still was not satisfied, so imagine how it felt with 40 extra pounds on. It is so frustrating standing in a closet full of clothes and not being able to fit in half of them, now I get excited about the combination of outfits I get to choose from. My knees would ache at the end of the day, now they feel great. I finally appreciate the body God gave me. I am not a stick figure girl, God gave me a larger build and I am finally okay with that.
There is no 'quick, easy, fix' for weight loss. It requires some change and action. I was able to do a couple workout programs at home (P90X & Insanity) when the girls were down for a nap. I would dread the workout, but afterwards you feel amazing. I was also drinking Shakeology, which really helped me get all the nutrients I needed in a day. I had lots of energy and it helped take away my cravings. I also joined a challenge group, which really helped keep my going. I knew I would have to share with everyone what I ate, how much water I drank, if I had worked out, and I definitely did not want to be the 'slacker' of the group. I am thankful for the women who kept me going and encouraged me along this journey.
If you feel the way I did then contact me and we can work together to get you healthy. Don't go another day feeling that way, life is so much better when your body is the way it should be. My goal is to help women feel better so they have the energy to be the best wives and mothers they can be. It is worth all the hard work and dedication.
Before: July 2012, 210lbs
After: April 2013, 170lbs
