I feel normal

[changing]

So... 43 pounds, 3.5 pants sizes, and many inches ago, I was self-conscious. I knew that when people looked at me they saw a "fat" person. I knew some might even laugh at me or make fun of my size, even though it's a horrible and cruel thing to do. But some people are mean and I could tell that it was going on. I hated the way I looked and wanted to be invisible, even though I knew I probably was sticking out both literally and figuratively.

And now, even though my BMI is still in that "obese" range, I have tons of energy and exercise everyday, filling my body with healthy foods. I drink tons of water and take my vitamins. In other words, I live like a healthy person. And I feel like a healthy person. People are looking at me differently these days. I feel like I can "blend in," in a good way. I'm okay with how my body looks right now, I look fine. I look normal.

Maybe it helps that I live in Central Maine, where "normal" is quite a bit heavier than other places, but that doesn't matter.

I am happy with my body. Getting down to goal from here is going to be a pure joy. I am patient for it because I am happy already, and I want to do everything I can to keep this gift I've given myself.

I hope everybody has wonderful days.

[sombersusie]

Re: I feel normal

I think that's wonderful Changing! I can agree with many of your points, I feel much more confident this summer, wearing smaller clothes, going to the pool and not feeling as self conscious as i used to be. Keep up the great work girl!!

[Katlam]

Re: I feel normal

Good for you Changing! That's awesome! I totally can understand how you are feeling now. I feel normal now too. Way to go on the training for your 5K! Where's it going to be held?

Kathy

[changing]

Re: I feel normal

Way to go on the training for your 5K! Where's it going to be held?

Right in Bangor, Maine! Through the middle of the city... I heard from a friend who has run it before that the first half is a steep uphill jog. So I'm trying to train on hills. It'll be an experience, that's for sure.

[ValidRouge]

Re: I feel normal

Changing, I'm right there with ya! It's so exciting to be "normal" isn't it?? Congratulations on your success, you've worked hard and had a positive attitude and you deserve it!

[changing]

Re: I feel normal

Congratulations on your success, you've worked hard and had a positive attitude and you deserve it!

Aw thanks a TON, Joy! I feel the same way about you!

[iyamamaschke]

Re: I feel normal

WOOHOOO Cahnging you are doing sooo INCREADIBLE great thing come to those who work for it and GIRL you are workin it, YAY YOU, you rock I can't wait to hear about you crossing the finish line on your 5 k .

Sarah

[Kate113]

Re: I feel normal

Good for you! You have a great attitude. I'm still feeling as big as an elephant and I can't wait until I can have your attitude, too.

[kkat55]

Re: I feel normal

What a beautiful post! I'm so happy for you!!

[Momtofour]

Re: I feel normal

I loved reading your post. It is a great feeling when you realize that you look like the "normal" people in the crowd. I was having a bad evening until I read this upbeat ditty! Thanks!

[BenandHallesMom_1]

Re: I feel normal

So happy for you Changing! I'm getting there but know I have a lot of work ahead of me. You have such a great outlook and attitude is definitely MORE than half the battle! So here's to you girl!!!

[changing]

Re: I feel normal

Oh you guys are much too sweet to me.


I needed another look at this post, frankly. In the month since the original post, I've lost another 10 pounds, which is great, but am now facing a weight loss "hesitation" (still a long ways to go before we'd call it a stall) ... I think it's because my body remembers this weight and wants to stay here for a little while.

I was feeling kinda down about it and needed to be reminded myself of how far this body and mind has come these last 6 months.

You are all beautiful. Thank you for your kind words.

[Momtofour]

Re: I feel normal

I had some mini rests at particular weights too. I had a bad one at 200. I sat at that weight for 6 weeks. That was a bad place to sit and wait. Then I started losing again. I have been stalled between 188-190 now for 6 months. It is frustrating. I just started to push myself harder with exercise to lose. I will let you know if it works. I guess my point is that these "pauses" are normal but dang frustrating. I have to keep telling myself I'm on this for the rest of my life, so it will come off at some point. Hang in there, you are doing great!

[changing]

Re: I feel normal

I guess my point is that these "pauses" are normal but dang frustrating. I have to keep telling myself I'm on this for the rest of my life, so it will come off at some point. Hang in there, you are doing great!

Oh absolutely! You have a great attitude! I've really been trying to stay in that place where I'm not concerned about a timeframe and more concerned with relatively permanent weight loss (though I know even maintenance has its slight ups and downs).

I really appreciate the encouragement.

[Lyssie]

Re: I feel normal

Is that really you in your signature? If it is, I think that you're my twin.