What a Year.....

      Today marks exactly one year since I started my weight loss journey. I had no idea HOW much I needed to lose, but I knew I just wanted to go by the fit of my clothes and get to where I was comfortable. I have learned SO much in a year... I have learned things about myself, my eating habits, what's good for you, exercise, etc. I have actually come to love nutrition and talking about it. I hope my story will help others in the positive way it helped me. It is amazing in just a year how your total body can transform. It's astonishing  to put on a pair of jeans that you could wear three months ago, only to find out they are now way too big. It not only motivates you, but gives you the confidence and determination to keep going. I never plan to be that person again. I NEVER  want to be the unhappy girl who has zero confidence and hides behind bulky big sweaters everyday... If you're struggling with getting started, just remember that the hardest part IS starting. Once you get yourself on a routine, you will come to learn that it is actually quite easy! After just two weeks of eating right and exercising, you will notice that you feel good and look good! If that doesn't give you determination, I don't know what will!

   Over the holidays I put on a few pounds from all the wonderful holiday food, but once January 1st hit, I was back on my diet and exercise plan that I have followed for the last year. I'm about four pounds from my pre-holiday weight, so that's not too bad. I'm enjoying getting back in the gym with Sam and sweating it all out. :) I have been following a low carb and low sugar diet for the past year. It seems to work for me, so if you're interested in what I'm doing, let me know. I'll be glad to help.

   If I can tell you one important thing it's this: Don't call it a "diet." Don't assume you're dieting and then once you reach your goal weight, go back to how you were. It's a LIFE CHANGE. If you look at it as a "diet" you will never stick with it. Make positive life changes for yourself and your loved ones around you. Sam has not always been a healthy eater, but he's come to love healthy food because I have motivated him. You don't realize the people's lives you touch when you least expect it. Another thing..Don't think you can never eat sweets, pizza, cheeseburgers, or whatever your heart desires. You can! It's just called moderation and we must always keep EVERYTHING in moderation..

  I eventually want children, so I knew a year ago I needed to change my lifestyle. I'm not only changing my habits for me, but I'm helping Sam and someday, our children. That was my wake up call.. If that's not the main reason to change, then I don't know what is.... :)


Please, please let me know if there is anyway I can help you or your loved one. I would love to create a food plan for you or simply help you with an exercise plan!  My email is brittneyhanks@hotmail.com

Brittney

Here's some motivation for you all: 

Left was from 1/16/2013 

Right was from 6/16/2013

Left was December of 2012

Right was March of 2013

Left was November of 2012

Right was April of 2013

Left was October of 2012

Right was July of 2013

Left was July of 2011

Right was October of 2013

Another Before/After pic 

Another Before/After Pic 

A before picture with my BFF at her wedding in November of 2012 

A before pic of November 2012 

An AFTER pic of July 2013

An after pic on November 2013!