When I first thought of writing this blog I knew I had to lose weight. At 5’3″ & 198 pounds, I was no longer the cute girl wearing a size 4 or 6, yup I had now reached maximum density. This really came to light in May when I returned home from the BlogPaws Conference and saw a pic of me and Riley walking the red carpet for the Nose-to-Nose Awards.
OhMyShihTzu.com Finalist for Best New Pet Blog of the Year
Yes that is me and Riley, so embarrassed to say. But when I look at it I just can’t believe it. How did that happen? Because in my mind I still look like this.
I’m not sure what happened, but somewhere along the way I stopped working out. No quick 30 minute 3 mile runs or leg pressing 300 pounds, now I am 60 lbs overweight. But is that the worst?
Change Needs to Happen NOW!
Apparently NOT! September 10th, 2014 was a life changing day. It was the day I was diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes, high cholesterol, hypothyroidism, anemia and high blood pressure. OMG!!! I’m too young for all this to be happening. I was sent home from the doctor’s office with a glucose meter and a ton of prescriptions for medications. To be honest I cried on the way home, but at the same time I knew this was not going to be the end of the world or my life. It was going to be the beginning of becoming healthy and beautiful once again.
Being Healthy is a Journey
Fast forward a few months and I have managed to lose 12 lbs, no longer anemic and my cholesterol levels are normal. Yes, medications have been helpful with a few things, but I don’t want to stop my progress. I have a goal to become healthy and not have a need for my Type 2 Diabetes medication. I have a goal to run a 10 minute mile again. I have a goal to live a long happy life.
To help me along on this journey I have decided to join Weight Watchers. Even though I know how to eat healthy, I need accountability and love the idea of weighing in every week. I have a competitive spirit, so competing against myself is great! After my first week I lost an additional 2.2 lbs! So we are down 14 since I was first diagnosed. Yippee!!!
This is going to be my journey and today I invite you to join me on that journey.
Be sure to check out my About Me page know a little more about me and what you will find coming up on this blog!
Great job! Yay you, taking your life into your own hands for good. I’m on the journey, too, but not so successful yet.
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Oh you will be successful… little steps my friend, little steps 🙂
Hi Christine!
Congratulations on your journey to get healthy! Just take it one step at a time. Remember, it’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon, and you are doing great! Sending positive thoughts your way!
Hugs from another California girl,
Jen
Thanks Jennifer!!! All the positive thoughts I can get 🙂
Awesome job taking control of your life! I am not that far off with the same height and weight…I haven’t been told I have any issues yet, but I feel that I better get control before I lose control. Thank you for sharing your journey and I can’t wait to read more about it and about your success!!
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It’s a scary thing to “have” to do this… but I don’t feel my age, so I shouldn’t have to take medication like I’m 75!!
I’m participating in the 50 comments thing and imagine my surprise to see the title of this post and blog. I immediately thought of you and was about to email the link to you and then I saw the first picture.
Personally, I think you’re beautiful. But I know what you mean. I had the same realization when I looked at pictures of myself and I’m still struggling with how I look. I already have a warped view of my image and the extra 20 pounds I put on after we lost Blue doesn’t help. I’m working through losing the weight and, to be selfish, I’m so happy that I have a friend who is going through the same thing and I hope that we can lean on each other through this.
I’m so happy that you’ll be at BlogPaws, because it’ll be nice to have someone to inspire me to eat right and exercise even though I’m on “vacation.” I’ve lost 5+ pounds so far and tonight, I’ll be starting the nightly walks with my girls and I joined a gym near my work. Fingers crossed.
I’ll be following along to learn more about your transformation. I didn’t even look to see the date of those post.
Kimberly Gauthier recently posted…Dog Supplement Update | Diarrhea, Dog Eating Poop, and the Good News
Ohh… this is going to be wonderful!! I think we have so much more in common with each other than dogs. And yes I am going to lean on you a bit more/ and lift you up also at the same time! I am so excited that I will be seeing you in a few short months!!
Yes would love to follow you on your journey! Congratulations…..
Yes!! Thanks so much Becky!
Congrats on losing some weight. I am hoping to tone my abs and drop 10-15 lbs. this Spring even though I hope to get pregnant again in the next year. Being healthy is the most important thing and having energy to chase after kids.
yes, keeping up with the kids is important! Though mine have 4 legs, getting out on the agility field is going to be tough if I can’t run because of this weight 🙂 Good luck on your goals, I know you can do it!!
Congratulations! 14lbs is a huge accomplishment already! I used MyFitnessPal to help me keep track of my food intake and exercise and it motivated me to keep logging in everyday and seeing my progress. I did find myself obsessing a bit so I took a step back from the app but use what I’ve learned about portion sizes and foods and am more conscious about snacking and fountain drinks and other unhealthy eating habits I had and I’m down 17lbs so far!
Your story is inspiring and you are beautiful no matter what size, I applaud you for taking matters into your own hands and kicking Diabetes’ butt! Keep on being fabulous!
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Thank you so much!!! I have a long journey, but I know I can do it!!!
Good luck on your journey. I will be routing for you and following your journey.
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It’s great that you are so positive about meeting your challenges and making the changes! It’s very inspiring- everyone needs to work on something, and your attitude is a good model.
Congratulations so far on the progress you’ve made towards improving your health 🙂 – I’m looking forward to reading more about your journey.
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Thanks so much Mary… all I have to do is stay positive… I’ve made some short term goals and of course the long term also…This is definitely going to happen for me. And thanks for your encouragement!!
Good luck with your weight loss journey! Your a brave woman on a mission. Keep on moving and you will reach your goal. Loved the picture with you and your adorable dog. Reminds ms of my dog Oreo!
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Congratulations on your progress! Keep taking it a day at a time, I was diagnosed with food sensitivities a few years ago that were causing a whole host of issues. Getting my health under control has definitely been a process, but so worth it! You’re on such a great path I have faith you’ll conquer this!
Ashley Krout – i Find Hope recently posted…6 Ways to Have a Pretty Home on a Shoe String Budget
Congrats to you for taking your health seriously and doing something about it. You’ve making great progress. You’ve got this. My goal is to exercise more. I’m been lazy during winter. 🙂
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You are amazing – realising that you need to make changes and grasping the nettle takes courage and determination. You have both!! Taking control is a vital and important step and you have us all cheering you on!!
Well done, and best wishes for a slimmer happier YOU!
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Type 2 Diabetes is definitely a life changer. I say that from experience. My diagnosis was in December 2005. My ride home from the doctor’s office was filled with tears, as well.
The good news, though, is that you can take back control of your body. It’s up to you, and I think that you have the right mindset to do so. Just the fact that you’re already bringing your weight down shows your commitment.
Good luck and congratulations on the progress you’ve made thus far.
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Congratulations on your weight loss so far and for taking the bull by the horns in your quest to improve your health. Like Kimberly, I think you look beautiful in both pictures. But I understand why it was time for you to make some changes. I was in Weight Watchers for many years, and I think it is a great organization. It helped me a lot!
Good luck on your continuing health journey!
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Very true. Healthy living and eating is indeed a journey and one that requires a commitment. Fresh foods. Avoiding processed foods. Clean living. it all takes a lot of work.
I applaud your efforts and wish you much success.
Troy S. recently posted…How to find a smile everywhere
I am also on a weight loss journey, and congrats to you for losing 12lbs. I’ve done the same, through eating smaller portions and doing regular exercise. I’m finding it easier now I’ve got into healthier habits, and I’m planning on continuing until I’ve lost another 40lbs at least. Good luck. We’re going to feel so much better when we reach our goals.
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Bless your heart, I would have cried too. But, crying is therapeutic and what you needed to get going. I recently looked in the mirror and thought what happened. Just two months ago I was looking fit and somewhat fine. A couple of months not going to the gym, coupled with not altering my eating habits, whew! I’ve outgrown some clothes that I just purchased in December. Congrats on your recent weight loss. You can do this. Plenty of people live healthily ever after even with diabetes and I’m certain you can do it too!
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Good for you for taking action on your diagnosis. My husband is diabetic and doesn’t take it seriously. He is on a lot of medication, also for epilepsy. We have been trying a low carb diet though with some success. Next week I am going to a dietician (for fertility) but I”m hoping she can also help us get our blood sugar levels stable (since the fertility specialist thinks that could be affecting things for me too).
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Keep up the good work. You are beautiful in both pictures. You are on the right track. My father in law was also diagnosed with type 2. He did everything he was supposed to in the beginning but then gave up. Don’t give up. Your health is so important. Keep smiling and when you look in the mirror know that you are beautiful on the inside AND out.
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i also started my blog to chronicle my health issues. I have a thyroid condition as well and have learned that it is actually an autoimmune issue triggered by gluten, something your doctor may not be telling you. There is an online summit of health care experts going on next week called the diabetes summit that I’m sure will be amazing if you are interested. It’s free and will feature many of the leading experts in the field. Just wanted to pass it along if you are interested! 🙂 (just google diabetes summit).
Congrats on your success, it takes a change of attitude and a whole lotta of support to do what you have done. I am so happy for you that you have taken your health into your hands. You are right accountability is one of your best tools!
Yeah! I am so proud of you & I know you are so proud of yourself. It is just taking the first step. It can’t be easy, but it will benefit you in so many ways & already has. Can’t wait to read more of your journey. Keep up the great work.
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Great job in deciding to be fit and healthy! We will support you all the way! 🙂
Ginger P. Arboleda recently posted…Tempur Breeze Launch in the Philippines
Good for you girl! You have taken your health into your own hands. I, too, was recently flabbergasted by a diagnosis of extremely high cholesterol with Type 2 Diabetes and completely flipped the switch on my unhealthy lifestyle. At 56, I started running half marathons (I needed a goal), cut out all simple carbs (this was my key to dropping 20 pounds in 7 weeks), and closely watched my saturated fat intake. I’m off all meds now!! If I can do it, I know you certainly can. I’m pulling for you Christine- we’re in this fight together!! Didi
Way to go on loosing some weight already & deciding to make a change for you & your health! I have been type 1 diabetic since I was 6 years old but will always have to take medicine my whole life unless there is a cure. The doctors told my parents when I was diagnosed a cure would be found within 10 years & that was 26 years ago. So glad you are making changes to not have a need for medication.
The weight creeps up on all of us & I know how shocking that diagnosis is! Well done for doing something about it and doing so in a healthy sustainable way.
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Keep up the good work! You can do it! I know the journey is long and hard, but you can do it! I am impressed by your motivation and drive. I know for us coconut oil and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables helped us drop weight. 🙂
Nathana recently posted…Dads Hurt Too: Miscarriage Support
Good luck in your journey! I too have a bunch of weight to lose and originally started my blog for that purpose. Sounds like you have made some good strides.
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You’re doing so well and I’m sure you’re inspiring others! Best of luck with reaching your goals.
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Good luck! I posted something similar this summer about my weight loss journey. It is so hard, but so worth it! Here is the link if you are interested in what I did and what helped me. http://www.whisktogether.com/2014/07/11/how-i-lost-33-lbs-kept-it-off-for-3-years/
Great job on losing 14 lbs! I know you will be successful! I just had a baby 4 months ago and am the same height as you. I always gain a ton of weight when I am pregnant. Being 41, it is harder now to lose the weight, but it is coming off slowly. I eat using the Trim Healthy Mama plan and it has worked for me in the past. Good luck to you!
Thank you for sharing and good luck on your journey.
🙂
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I will definitely be following your journey! I actually will be joining WW on line today! Returned from 3 days in Long Island, NY where I ate nothing but junk and I couldn’t understand why I felt so awful! Time to get real and get to my goal before my 50th birthday in October! I suffer from GERD and I have no doubt the extra 40 pounds and nasty eating habits are not helping. Will be cheering you on!
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Good for you! What a transformation! Keep it going!
-Kim
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Congratulations on your decision to get healthy! I know it is a difficult one. I personally, am sitting at 5’5″, 235 lbs having gained almost 70/80 lbs with my first pregnancy two years ago and after a year of struggling with diets and exercise finally found a wonderful all natural nutritional cleansing lifestyle system that helped me lose 40 lbs between Feb ’14 and Nov ’14 when I found out I was/am pregnant again! I slacked off over the holidays (ok, I practically quit eating healthy at all) and gained weight back but am happy to say that I’m back on track with my shakes and snacks and compared to the first time, I haven’t gained near as much! When you find the teammates and the right nutrition to put in your body anything is possible – my friends in the 100/200 lbs lost club know this personally and once this baby comes out I am going strict and gonna join them 🙂 Whatever happens DON’T GIVE UP! Haters will be out there and there will be times that you say ‘screw it, i’m gonna eat a cookie’ but no matter what, remember that tomorrow is a new day and what you see when you look in the mirror and how you feel about it is the number one most important thing. <3
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My dad also has diabetes and I am rooting for you to be healthy! Best of luck.
Chai Galapon recently posted…If You Think You Have Done Everything and Yet No Success Comes Your Way then THIS POST IS FOR YOU
I am glad you are making some changes and feeling a bit better. It will take time but you will be happier in the long run. I have some friends who have passed because they let diabetes overtake them! It was very sad and they were too young! I hope you can continue a healthier journey and realize your goals 🙂 Kudos to you for trying!
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I think you’re doing a great job! Remember that being healthy is a much more important goal than just losing weight – it’s a lifelong mission! Congratulations on the weight loss all the same, though 🙂
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I wish you well on your journey and I hope you get all you want out of it. I need to lose some weight myself. I am hoping the warm weather is going to make me kick my butt in gear.
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Baby steps lead to great rewards! I’m sure you will get to your ideal weight as well as get back to being healthy as well.
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You are going to reach your goals! you have a great attitude, and honest perspective and motivation. Thanks for the inspiring post and good luck to you. You have the drive, I can tell.
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I love Weight Watchers. I lost 40 lbs on it. I know how you feel about still thinking you’re another size. When I gained all the weight due to a birth control pill and stress, I didn’t feel that big. I still don’t feel as big as I am at the weight I’m at now. I would suggest getting a FitBit too. I was going to join WW again to get the last 10 lbs from my pregnancy off, then I tried out my fiance’s FitBit and realized how useful it was. Much like WW, it helps me with my food amnesia where I forget what I’ve already eaten. I’ve lost 8 lbs this month.
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Congratulations on your weight loss so far and keep up the great work. It sounds like you are taking care of yourself and know the steps that you need to take to remain healthy. Good luck!
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Very inspiring! Keep up the good work and you will get there…
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Great post and thank you for sharing. I applaud you on your journey. You’re doing a great job. Keep up the great work and thank you for being an inspiration for others.
After having my second son I have realized the need to get healthy again. I have been using the excuse that its too cold outside to go for a walk or I’m too busy, but this is something I am striving for again this summer!
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I’m so excited to see this and so proud of you, Christine! I have to start my own journey to lose 20’pounds after the stress of studying for the Bar exam. I can’t wait to see how life progresses for both of us. 🙂