:) :) :)

This is such an exciting post for me!!! After a year and five months of hard work and changing my life, as of Friday I have officially lost

50 pounds!!!

While at times it's been really frustrating and hard, it has been one incredible journey,one that I hope will continue in the future. It's so different than any other times I've attempted to lose weight before: I'm not on a diet, that is my number one rule; I am making a lifestyle change. I am going to have to keep an eye on my weight for my entire life, I know that. That is why I am making changes in my life that will always help me to stay on top of it. Being healthy is the main point!!! That's when I feel my best, when I can run up the stairs and not have to stop and catch my breath, when I go looking for fruit instead of candy, when want to be outside doing something active instead of sitting and watching TV.

I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to this point: My roommates last year and this year, for always supporting me in my endeavors. Makayle, for randomly telling me that I look good (major boost in my self-esteem!) and for making me get off my butt several days over the last year when I didn't want to go work out. Most of all, my mom, for always telling me that I can do this and much more and for always being there to comfort and encourage me when times are hard. I love you! Thank you to all!!!! :)

Together we can all continue our own health journeys. I want to so much to tell others that there is no magic, easy way for it to happen, but that it takes a long time! But IT IS SO WORTH IT!!!! I want to shout all of my knowledge from the rooftops and help others feel as good as I do!