- Height: 5′ 4″
- Start Weight: 178 pounds
- Current Weight: 152 pounds
- Total Loss: 23 pounds (so far!)
- Start Pant Size: 12-14
- Current Pant Size: 6-8 (sometimes a 4!)
- Start Blouse Size: XL-1X
- Current Blouse Size: M
“I never in a million years thought I’d be in a one digit size. “
What is a Success Story? What I’d like to say is that no matter whether you have 5 lb or over 100 lbs to lose, it is still a DAILY challenge. Some of you probably think, “I don’t have much to lose, why can’t I get it off?” I was one of those people. I really only wanted to lose about 20 lbs. I tried quite a few weight loss programs and just couldn’t seem to keep the weight off. They worked alright, but somehow I managed to gain it back.
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I was introduced to Kimkins sometime back in 2009, I believe. I followed some guidelines before joining because I thought, “I don’t want to spend more money on another weight loss program only to gain it back over time.” After losing the first 10 lbs in 2 weeks I decided to join.
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What I found with Kimkins is that I was able to exceed my goal! I originally wanted to reach 155 lbs, and once I did I wanted to go even further. So, my next goal was to reach 150 lbs. I’ve come close, I was able to reach 152 lbs. Oh, trust me, the journey isn’t over. I don’t think it is ever over.
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This way of eating is definitely a lifestyle change. We can still have those sweets that taste delicious, only to find that they are very unrewarding. They serve the purpose of a temporary fix. If you want a sugar rush you can certainly get that. The recipes in the Recipe Box are more than enough to satisfy that craving.
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Oh yeah! We here at Kimkins get recipes so that we can stay focused and on plan. They are not much different than what we eat already. I’m still trying to get the program nailed so I don’t have to second guess myself when wanting to eat something that I’m not too sure about. We all fall short, but we have to be sure that we pick ourselves back up, dust ourselves off and get back in the game.
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Along this journey I have learned many things about myself. This isn’t just a website about weight loss and weight issues. It is also a site that has allowed me to meet others, just like myself, that have the same goals and ideas about what is right for us.
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Joining a Group Challenge was the best thing. Once I found a challenge group that I felt would best suite my needs (trust me, there are plenty of them), I was able to be more accountable to people that know exactly what I am going through. They, too, are going through similar circumstances. Everyone posts their thoughts while offering encouraging words and sometimes a swift kick in the hiney if you need one. Friendships are formed and the support is so important.
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I am in a couple of challenges. The first one is New Year – New Rear and Sassy Sista’s. While on the Sassy Sista’s challenge I was inspired by a cyber friend, Mary, to run a 1/2 marathon. She was very instrumental in me reaching my running goal. She encouraged and cheered me on along the way. Thank you Mary, I couldn’t have done it without your support.
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Last year, 2010, after much training and never ever running in my life, I ran a few races from a 5K, 10K, 7 mile and a 1/2 marathon (13 miles). I’ve been doing pavement as well as trail races. This has become a part of my life and I’m loving every minute of it. You, too, can do anything you set your mind to do, whether it’s running or something else you’ve always wanted to do — but thought was too late. I never thought I’d run a marathon (26 miles) but I think 2011 will be the year for that!9
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There was a time when I had asthma and a bad case of allergies to food and the environment. Since I’ve changed my way of eating with the Kimkins program I no longer have allergies or asthma. I used to carry an Epi-pen just in case I needed it. I haven’t needed one in quite a while. Now, that is definitely something to write about!
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Along this journey I have also found that there are goals that are met along the way. Not only do you get excited about losing the weight, but each milestone is something to scream about! Every piece of clothing that you buy in a smaller size is an accomplishment in itself.
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I never in a million years thought I’d be in a one digit size. I went from a size 12-14 pants to a size 6-8. I can sometimes squeeze into a size 4. I am now in a size M blouse where before it would have been a XL or 1X depending on how they were made. It sure is reassuring when people start noticing that you are looking different. It sure put a huge smile on my face when people started saying, “Wow, you look great,” or “You look tiny.” I thought, “Tiny???” I never thought anyone would say those words to me.
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The pure excitement of trying on clothes without the negative talk is wonderful. I can now buys clothes and know they will fit me. My hubby can buy me clothes and me not have to return them because they don’t fit right. He’s always good about buying my clothes but it is always me that says: It’s nice or cute BUT (fill in the blanks) … I no longer say that. I’m sure there are plenty of you that can relate.
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I can’t say enough about how this program has helped me feel better about myself. The accountability is exceptional. When our husbands or family can’t relate to how we feel about ourselves due to our weight, you can always read someone’s post and be inspired by it — knowing you are in the right place.
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All that I have to say this: I didn’t think I was a success story because I didn’t have a lot of weight to lose. If I can touch just one person with my story then I’ve succeeded. I know there are many of us out there that only need to lose 20-30 lbs. It’s time to hop on the band wagon and shed those unwanted pounds once and for all. It really isn’t hard at all.
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The key is following the program. Work the program so that it works for you. When all else fails, read the instructions. How much more simpler can it be?
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Last but not least, I’d like to thank my wonderful husband for his love and support and a HUGE Thank you to Kimmer for always being available to lend a helping hand. We sure couldn’t do it without you. Keep up the good work Kimmer!
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Sincerely,
Tammy
