Weight loss?!

Let's be clear (and blatantly honest): I never thought I would ever be blogging, much less be blogging about weight loss - especially my own weight loss. However, the last two months have been just that - "my own weight loss." See those jeans in the picture? Those used to be tight (TIGHT). This picture was taken AFTER washing them in hot water AND putting them in the dryer. Yes, I can't believe that's me!

At 24, I was relatively healthy: good cholesterol levels, good glucose levels, relatively-decent blood pressure (ok, ok I was borderline hypertension the last time I took my blood pressure), relatively active, etc.

My spine completely changed my opinion of my body and my health... after months of severe neck and should pain, my chiropractor found three (THREE!) abnormal curves, one of which was attributed to my weight. It was only going to get worse if I didn't do something...Dr. Guillory's advice? Lose weight... a LOT of weight.

It seemed completely hopeless, since I never, ever EVER lost weight easily (no, really...). I used to get excited about losing .5 pounds in a few weeks. However, over the course of the last two months, my outlook on life, food, exercise, and even beauty and perfection has changed drastically. And it has been suggested I share all of this with you, so... here goes:

Where am I today?
1. -30 pounds
2. -8 inches from my hips/butt
3. -6 inches from my waist
4. -5 inches from my thighs (I am most excited about this!)
5. -1.5 inches from my arms
6. My blood pressure is in the "low normal" range.

How long did it take?
6 weeks

Future Goals?
1. -25 more pounds
2. Be able to jog 4-5 miles a day
3. A certain clothes size (that I will share once I reach it)

How it happened?
1. EDUCATION/INFORMATION.

No, really. I started paying VERY close attention to what went into my mouth (both quality and quantity). What does that mean? It's actually pretty simple: NON-PROCESSED foods. Basically here is the percentage that my sister gave me (and it has WORKED): daily: 45% protein, 35% fat (GOOD fats only), <20% carbohydrates.

Benefits:
1. Weight loss
2. MUCH better emotional stability
3. MUCH more energy
4. Stronger love for my body and the way it works, what it looks like, etc.
5. Lower blood pressure
6. Better/deeper sleep at night


What will I share in this blog?
1. Workout progressions
2. Future pictures
3. Food progressions
4. Other general health information
5. Frustrations!

Note: positive reinforcement is PRICELESS... so if you know someone working hard, tell him/her how great you think he/she is doing!