Transformation Tuesday

Happy Tuesday! I have been so busy with some redecorating at my house and the mess has had me all over the place. I'm almost finished and I will have a nice home office space!

Today's story is another "pleximony", but it is about so much more than weight loss!!!!

This is from Ashley:

My Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis and how Plexus has kicked its Butt!

I think every person has their “cross to bear”… I got dealt mine when I was 6 years old. 
Symptoms started out with high unexplainable fevers (that no amount of Tylenol or Motrin would break) and aches and pains (mainly in my wrists and hands). The doctors weren’t quite sure what it could be. Finally after a lot of tests and being sent to specialists they discovered I had Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis. Back then (almost 25 years ago) the options for medications weren’t anything close to what they are now… From what I can remember the first course of treatment involved a lot of aspirin, so much in fact I was vomiting from it. At that point I started seeing a Rheumatologist on a regular basis. In first grade I started having to go in for weekly blood tests and Solganol injections (Gold Shots). Not exactly much fun for a 7 year old. I was also going to physical therapy twice a week to try to help with my range of motion and strength and wearing braces on my wrists on a daily basis. The disease got progressively worse and it wasn’t long after the wrist braces that I also had shoe inserts. Along with my Gold Shots I started taking Plaquenil. Due to the major problems Plaquenil causes I then had to start getting yearly field vision tests. The doctors also decided Naproxen would be good to add to the mix for my inflammation. So I was 7 years old getting poked twice by nurses every week and having to learn to swallow pills. This medication regimen continued until about 10th grade. 
Due to the arthritis doing so much damage to my joints I had to have foot surgeries when I was 13 and 14. The orthopedic surgeon had to break the metatarsal heads and reset my toes with temporary pins. Recovery wasn’t easy. 
When I was in tenth grade I got a new Rheumatologist. He then decided that my meds weren’t doing enough for me. My fingers were showing major signs of deformation and active arthritis. He then did cortisone injections into my knuckles (yes that hurt like hell). He also took me off of my Gold Shots. And about a year later he put me on Enbrel. Talk about a struggle. I had finally gotten used to being poked on a fairly regular basis and now he wanted me to start giving myself injections. That was a major adjustment. The Enbrel and I got along for a little while and then one day I totally blacked out and my mother caught me as I fell. She said my eyes were so dilated that the pupils were covering the iris. From then on out I got dizzy a lot. Talked to my Rheumatologist and it was decided I needed to go off the Enbrel. Meanwhile I was back in therapy, this time occupational and being fitted for finger and ankle braces.
Then at age 17 I was due for yet another foot surgery, this time inpatient and not a quick outpatient procedure. They did a subtalar fusion. This took away the possibility for me to do some of the things I loved, like downhill skiing. It also involved 3 months in a cast and a walking boot after that. Of course more physical therapy followed once again to help with the major atrophy. Then at age 19 I had a bunionectomy and more metatarsal work done. 
At age 21 I was living in Hawaii and had a new Rheumatologist. My meds were then switched up a bit again. I then started Humira and Methotrexate along with the Plaquenil and Naproxen. Methotrexate is a form of chemotherapy so I also had to start taking folic acid. This regimen continued for a few years and then my doctors realized that the Naproxen just didn’t seem to be cutting it anymore. So they put me on a different anti-inflammatory called Meloxicam. And for any associated pain I was given Darvocet till it was taken off the market, at which time they switched me to Tramadol. 
At age 24 I had my first cortisone injection into my left hip. What a delight that was. At age 26 I then had two more foot surgeries to correct further damage to my left foot that my Arthritis had caused.
This was all just exhausting! None of these meds seemed to be doing much for me. When I moved back to Michigan I went back to my Rheumatologist I had through high school and he urged me to try a vegan/gluten free diet. At that point what did I have to lose? He also set me up to get a new custom ankle brace and more cortisone injections into my subtalar joint on my right foot. So I put forth my best effort to abide by the diet, all the while craving a steak lol. After nearly a year I gave up. I didn’t feel like the vegan diet was doing much for me and I was still on the Methotrexate and back on Humira.
March 2014 I had a horrible reaction to Humira. Shortness of breath trouble swallowing and all the lovely allergic reaction stuff that can scare the pants off anyone. Luckily I had sense enough that as soon as I felt strange (about 3 min post injection) I grabbed the Benadryl. I then went back to my Rheumatologist completely frustrated and in a lot of pain. He gave me the info packet on Orencia and a referral to a Pain Management Doctor. 
The Tramadol wasn’t cutting it anymore for my pain. I was miserable. Not to mention the night sweats I was dealing with due to the Methotrexate. I wasn’t resting well at all. My fatigue levels were through the roof. Everything was just a mess and I was at my breaking point. Not to mention I was gaining a lot of weight cause I felt miserable and working out hurt. I like to think of myself as a pretty strong girl… All things considered. But I was to the point where I was breaking down crying about my Arthritis. I really try not to throw myself a pity party too often. So I went to the Pain Management doctor with high hopes. He said he wouldn’t give me anything stronger than Tramadol because a “30 year old female shouldn’t be on anything too strong” however he would prescribe me VoltarenGel and he wanted to do a Hip Bursa Injection (which is actually a series of 3 shots into the joint). So I proceeded with what he recommended. The Voltaren Gel really did seem to be helping and I was very pleased with that. However a week after my second Hip Bursa Injection my face swelled up like a damnpuffer fish (just like the one in Finding Nemo). I asked all my doctors what could be causing the facial edema and they said they weren’t sure, but it shouldn’t be the Hip Bursa...
I was to the point of avoiding mirrors at all costs! I didn’t look like myself from the neck up. I was devastated. Besides you try dating when your face looks like it belongs on a 500lb + person. It wasn’t good and I was still dealing with a lot of pain, night sweats, fatigue and more weight gain.
All the while this was happening my boss/friend at the winery I work at was quietly learning more and more about Plexus. It wasn’t long before Sherry approached me on the subject. I was nervous, anxious and excited. The what if’s were too great to not give this a shot. What did I have to lose at this point? I have been on disability since 2008 with a pretty limited income and I decided no matter what I was going to find a way to be able to afford to give Plexus a try and if it didn’t work for me then at least I would be able to rule out another option. 
I decided to become an ambassador to be able to get the best prices I could, even though I didn’t know if it would work for me. Talk about a leap of faith. So I placed my order the first week of July and it came in the mail on July 8th. I started taking it immediately. Sherry had recommended the Plexus Slim, ProBio and the Bio Cleanse (now known as the Triplex). 
Within the first week of taking it I noticed immediately that I was sleeping through the night. It was the biggest shock of my life! I can’t remember a restful night’s sleep. Since I was 6 sleep consisted of a lot of tossing and turning and adjusting to get comfortable and re adjusting so my joints didn’t lock up. And during the day I wasn’t totally fatigued. I couldn’t believe it. My bad food cravings were being curbed and I wasn’t craving huge portions anymore. After that it seemed like every week I noticed more and more improvement with my health. It got to the point that I was forgetting to take my Meloxicam (anti-inflammatory) and my Plaquenil because I was feeling so well. So then I decided I wanted to quit my Methotrexate. I didn’t tell my doctor or even my mother who has been super involved with my health because she has Lupus and a bit of a glimpse of what I’ve been dealing with all these years.  
And so I took myself off everything. Everything, but Plexus! Before I knew it the night sweats were gone and I was feeling great. I had energy to walk my dogs, to go kayaking and biking again. The pain levels were so minimal compared to the life of chronic pain that I knew. Pre Plexus I was taking two Tramadola day and it was hardly taking the edge off. Now I take maybe 5 Tramadol a month. That is huge for me! To top off all the improvements with my arthritis, I’m down 28lbs. And I’m telling you now even if I hadn’t lost an ounce I would continue to take Plexus daily, because it has completely changed my quality of life. When I started taking Plexus I didn’t tell anyone, Sherry was the only one that knew. I was worried my friends and family would think I was nuts. However it didn’t take long for that secret to come out. When people started noticing my improved energy, health and weight the questions rolled in. They all wanted to know what I was doing. The answer was PLEXUS! And the proof was in my lab results on September 22nd. They took 12 tubes of blood and everything came back within range. Only exception was my CRP which was borderline elevated indicating mild inflammation. Which my doctor wasn’t too worried about and she said see you in 3 months. (Now I don't go back for 6 more months)
Plexus has changed my life completely and I can’t imagine ever living without it at this point. I can’t thank Sherry Coste enough for bringing it into my life. I’ve totally become a walking “Product of the Product”. And I love sharing my story with others that might be in a similar situation. There is hope; you just have to take the leap of faith.

Absolutely AMAZING story!

You ask why I keep sharing and becoming one of those "crazy plexus ladies."  

HER STORY IS WHY! 

Not just to make money, but to share so others can become happy and healthy!

PLEXUS WORKS!

I am still on the search for more stories to share for Transformation Tuesday! If you would like a chance to tell your story, click here to fill out the form or e-mail me your story at klgoodman1976@gmail.com I LOVE seeing all of the inspiration and we have to lift each other up! We are all in this together!

Sending you all love and healthy wishes!!!

Keep Losing,

Kari

Transformation Tuesday - Special Edition

Happy Transformation Tuesday everyone! This is one of my favorite days on social media.  I LOVE seeing all of the transformations photos and stories from men and women who are working to become happier and healthier.

Typically, each Tuesday I share a story of someone who is working hard to become happier and healthier.  Today is going to be a little bit different.  Today I am actually sharing the story of 2 people who have worked hard at transforming me into the person I am today, my parents.  Today is their wedding anniversary.  They have been married for 42 years.  What an amazing accomplishment in the world we live in today!

Here they are 42 years ago today, pledging to love each other through everything good and bad for the rest of their lives. 

So today, my blog is going to tell you the top 5 (out of a million) ways my parents transformed my life and that of my two sisters by the way they lived and loved for the past 42 years together.

1.  SUPPORT: My two younger sisters and I were not always the angels that we are today :).  But no matter what we did or said or how we behaved my parents were ALWAYS there to support us.  Even when we made stupid mistakes and they warned us ahead of time, they were there to pick us back up and remind us that we were loved.  This has taught me to always support my own children and to show compassion to other people no matter what.

2.  COMMITMENT: My parents were young when they married.  My mom had just turned 16 and my dad was 20.  They got married pledging to love, honor, and obey one another through EVERYTHING for the rest of their lives.  Today those words don't always keep their meaning in a marriage.  However, my parents meant those words.  I know they have not only had easy times in their 42 years together, but they stuck with each other.  I also know that they can both drive each other nuts at times, and this is the best example they set for me.  In my first marriage and my current marriage, I have used their example of commitment during those harder times.  Let's face it, when two people begin living together, it is not all unicorns and rainbows.  No matter how "perfect" you are for each other, there are going to be things that DRIVE YOU NUTS! And my parents have taught me that it is okay, but a commitment is a commitment no matter what!

3.  DEDICATION:  Life was not always easy for my parents and my family.  I can remember many nights that my dad was out of town working.  His and my mom's sacrifice and dedication were all for the good of my family.  They both worked very hard at what they did to provide the best life for us three girls.  I am sure they gave up many of the things they wanted in order for us to have the things we needed, but I cannot remember one time they every complained or griped about it.  Their example has taught me that I must be dedicated and prepared to sacrifice my own comforts for the needs of others.  Today, my parents are both retired and can enjoy a few extra luxuries now that their money-draining daughters are all out on their own.  I look forward to planning ahead enough that I can enjoy my retirement as well!

4.  UNCONDITIONAL LOVE: As I mentioned in number 1, my sisters and I were not always the angels we are today.  Not only did our parents support us, but they showed us unconditional love each and everyday.  And not only to us girls, but to many, many people that maybe did not deserve their love.  My parents taught us that love is not only an act, not only what we do for others or how we feel or what we say.  It is a deep down, real thing that really cannot be explained.  They may not realize that they taught us this, but they live it everyday.  Even when I remarried after losing my first husband, they took my (step)son in from day 1 as their grandson, no questions asked.  Today you would never know that they first met him when he was 5.  There is not one difference in how they treat him versus the other 3 boys and I cannot express how much that means to me and my family.

5.   EXAMPLE:  This is really a summary of the above 4 points.  Life has not always been easy for my parents, but they have been a wonderful example of what marriage truly is: ups and downs, good and bad, laughs and tears, FOR LIFE! Their marriage and lives are an example to many people of what God truly intended marriage to be.

So mom and dad, I want to wish you a very happy 42nd anniversary and thank you for all the things you have done to transform me, Krissy, and Kathy into the women we are today!  I can never find enough words to express how much I love you and how much your love has meant to me!

Here is a quick little video highlighting some of their 42 years together.

Tune in tomorrow for a What I Ate Wednesday post!

Sending you all love and healthy wishes!

Keep Losing,

Kari

Transformation Tuesday - Meet Amy

Happy Transformation Tuesday! Today I want you to meet Amy!

1. Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m a military wife with four children. Two live with their biological mom, and two live with me in Southern Oregon while my husband is deployed in Afghanistan. We are about to move to Tucson in November. I enjoy dancing, singing to people, and playing with my kiddos. I am currently an unplanned stay at home mom, but I have worked in the wireless industry for a decade. 

2. What made you decide to live a healthier lifestyle? 

The breaking point was when I was 20. (13 years ago.) I had just had my oldest son Jae. I weighed 335 when I gave birth, and I began to have problems about three months later. My appetite couldn’t be controlled. My ex husband was rude about my appearance. I felt like I was eating all of the time. I had to purchase size 24 pants, and my dad had even made a comment along the lines of “do you ever stop eating?” These things combined made me realize that it was time to change.

 3. What changes have you made? 

It has been 13 years of ups and downs. Today I weigh 183lbs, I fit in a size 10. I have quit smoking, I run, I lift, and I no longer focus on the scale, or what it says. I’ve also changed my families eating habits with the help of my husband. We eat 80% clean, and keep dyes and HFCS away from the household. 

4. How is your life different now? 

I’m a happy person. I don’t think that dress size has anything to do with it, but when you start prioritizing yourself, it all falls into place. Everything is different. The way I feel when I walk into the grocery store, the fact that I smile now when I attempt something new at the gym and fail. I smile when I fail because I know that fail won’t be there for long! I make a habit of kicking butt almost every day. I’m married to a very active man who supports my goals.

 5. Any advice for others on their own journey? 

Everyone says be consistent. Great advice, but to add to that, be flexible. Give yourself flexibility. If you are on low carb, great. Find the ratio that works for you, and don’t be afraid to change it up when it stops working for you. If you are working on fitness, and today is legs, but you don’t want to do your same old routine, do something new. Don’t be afraid to walk into the weight room and own it.
Thank you so much for sharing your story with us Amy!  I love your advice for others.  I truly believe flexibility is a major key to success!!

Amy also has an awesome Facebook page so check it out here, https://www.facebook.com/Amysawakening

If you would like a chance to tell your story, click here to fill out the form.  I LOVE seeing all of the inspiration and we have to lift each other up! We are all in this together!

Tune in tomorrow for my What I Ate Wednesday post that will feature at LEAST one new recipe we tried for dinner this week!!

Sending you all love and healthy wishes!

Keep Losing,
Kari

Transformation Tuesday! - Meet Elizabeth

Happy Tuesday!!!!! I love this day in the social media world because of all of the transformations that are shared.  It is so motivating and inspiring to read about other people who are changing their lives by eating healthy and moving more.  And today, I want to share Elizabeth's story with you!

Hi. I lost 100 lbs in 2011 by doing Insanity, Asylum, P90X, BBL, running, and swimming. I ate healthy and drank a bunch of water. Was going to join the military. Due to some medical complications, never joined. Gained 126 lbs. I found out I had plantar fasciitis over a year ago.

I started my fitness journey cause I was looking up devices to help clean my own behind. I had trouble to even go to the restroom. How horrible is that? Sad. I had thoughts of ending my life because of the choices I made. The regaining the weight I lost. The lending out 5K to a guy cause I wanted him to want me. I had bad self esteem. There was other reasons of why I wanted to end my life. But for every one I knew I had 100 more reasons to stay. And I finally stopped feeling sorry for myself. And just looked at the cup half full and not half empty. Yeah I gained the weight back. So freaking what? I'm not dead yet. I will get to where I want to be. It may take a year or two. But I'll get there.

I was going to get gastric bypass surgery. Decided to sign up with a PT instead. Then after a few months of that. Decided to do the T25 workout program. So happy that I get to still spend 25 min a day with the love of my life. Lol. And I'm so grateful that I have hope again and that my foot isn't stopping me this time. I'm down 50 lbs so far. Thank you all. Love you all.

I LOVE her story and I relate to her so much.  She is a amazing lady who has taken back control of her life and I know she will inspire many others to do the same.  I am  telling you all that depression is a very real and very invisible thing.  I think even more so for those of us that battle with our body image and self esteem issues.  Some days the thought of it all being over can be overwhelming, but Elizabeth is proof that we are not going through this alone and that there is hope!!!  For even more check out her Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/shrinkinglady.

If you would like a chance to tell your story, click here to fill out the form.  I LOVE seeing all of the inspiration and we have to lift each other up! We are all in this together!

Sending you all love and healthy wishes!

Keep Losing,

Kari

Transformation Tuesday - Meet Jennifer

Happy Transformation Tuesday! I have a GREAT story to share with you today!  Meet Jennifer:

Tell us a little about yourself
I'm a married, mother of two, teacher and working on my doctorate in central IL. Busy and always made excuses until a former student was killed in a car accident and I decided life is way too short and I was making mine shorter. Signed up for weight watchers the week after the funeral and haven't looked back.

Starting Weight
329.8

Current Weight
203.8

What made you decide to live a healthier lifestyle?
I decided I wanted to fit better. Into my life. Into my clothes. I just wanted to be happier and no one was going to be able to change that except me. 

What changes have you made?
I eat healthy food. Crave it now instead of the bad stuff. Junk food is named that for a reason. I eat to fuel now and drink tons of water to flush out. I eat more clean than not but I don't want to stress forever. Now it's a lifestyle.

How is your life different now?
I went on a roller coaster for the first time at 39 since I was asked to leave one at 16 for being too big. That didn't motivate me to lose weight. I am comfortable in my own skin now and am smaller at 40 than I was at 12. Amazing this way!

What do you do for physical activity?
I love Zumba and will be certified this year but I also love to walk, bike ride and use the elliptical. I have begun weight training to tone but am no where near an expert at any of it

What is your favorite healthy food or meal?
I love fruits, veggies and all things clean but my favorite non-clean snack is Almond Nut Thins and Laughing Cow Garlic cheese wedges. Creamy and crunchy with a little bit of salt. Yum!

Any advice for others on their own journey?
Change one thing each week toward a healthy life and remember that success is not a straight line. You didn't gain it overnight and it won't come off that way! A trickle fills the cup!

Do you have a Facebook Page, blog, Twitter, Instagram, etc. where others can find you?

www.facebook.com/jkeithwatchingweight

AMAZING transformation! I love how she says that a trickle fills a cup! It is so true especially when you have a long way to go! And I really want to try those Almond Thins she talked about! Anyone know where I can find them?

If you would like a chance to tell your story, click here to fill out the form.  I LOVE seeing all of the inspiration and we have to lift each other up! We are all in this together!

There are still a few days to join Weight Watcher's Cheer Buddies for August. For more information click here! Check it out!

That is it for today! Sending you all love and healthy wishes!

Keep Losing, 

Kari

Transformation Tuesday - Meet Trisha

Happy Tuesday! I want to start with a bit of GREAT NEWS! I had my last post-op visit today and my surgeon released me from his care.  He said I could go back to regular activity as long as it doesn't hurt.  He also said it may take 6-12 months to build back to where I was and have zero pain, but I am okay with that!.

I got a GREAT session in at the gym today and I am feeling fine!

AND NOW:

Today, I want you to meet Trisha! I LOVE following her journey on Facebook and I hope you will find encouragement from her story!

Tell us a little about yourself

My name is Trisha. I am 35 and have been overweight my whole life. At one point I had lost 110 lbs but then I lost my focus and gained it all back. I am a wife and mom. I work part time and have no excuse. It's time to finally get to my goal!! Starting Weight

358

Current Weight

275

What made you decide to live a healthier lifestyle?

Everything was getting hard for me. I was so tired all the time and nothing fit right. I also really want to have a baby and it was a scary thought to get pregnant at 358 lbs. What changes have you made?

I joined weight watchers and have changed everything about my eating. I eat a lot more fruit and veggies now and exercise more.
How is your life different now?

I am much more active, iI am enjoying life a lot more and having a lot more fun!

What do you do for physical activity?

I walk a lot. I also found that I love swimming!! :)

What is your favorite healthy food or meal?

Hmmmm I eat a lot of ground turkey. I use it instead of beef. Any advice for others on their own journey?

Don't give up. You will have ups and downs just don't stop! It's ok to eat "bad" food just limit how much!

Do you have a Facebook Page, blog, Twitter, Instagram, etc. where others can find you?

Yes! www.facebook.com/pathtolosing160lbs

I encourage you to make a visit to her Facebook page.  My favorite part of her page is her openness and honesty.  She shares the real journey, the ups and the downs.  I love how she said there will be ups and downs and that we can eat any food, just in moderation.  Thank you so much Trisha for sharing your story with us!

If you would like a chance to tell your story, click here to fill out the form.  I LOVE seeing all of the inspiration and we have to lift each other up! We are all in this together!

Sending you all love and healthy wishes!

Keep Losing,

Kari

Day 585-586 - Transformation Tuesday - Meet Kayla

I have an AMAZING story to share with you today.  I want you to meet Kayla.  She has started a journey to become healthier and is rocking her goals so far.  

Tell us a little about yourself

Hi there! My name is Kayla Anderson. I just turned 27 years old a couple days ago. I graduated with Human Resources associate degree 2 years ago. Currently, I am working on my bachelors degree. I was born deaf and wearing one hearing aid on my left ear. I was in speech therapy since I was 3 till 18. I speak really well and do lip-read. I love to do scrapbooking when I have time, dancing, cooking, and shopping.

Starting Weight
308.8

Current Weight
287.4

What made you decide to live a healthier lifestyle?

Back in February 2014, I just woke up and decided that is enough. I need to make changes for me. I am sick of being sick and tired. I knew I want to have children someday by 30. I have Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and if I stay like this, it is unlikely for me to have children. I want to be healthy so I can stay around for my future children and grandchildren.

My both sides of family have a long health history, such as diabetes, heart disease, breast cancer, depression, so on and on. I knew I needed to do something now to avoid those.

What changes have you made?

I joined Weight Watchers on March 1st, 2014. I started to have more veggies and fruits, drinking more H20, and started slowly with the workouts. I completely stop going to fast-food places since March and a couple of weeks ago, I had a cheeseburger with fries. Let me tell you, NEVER AGAIN!! It didn't agree with my stomach! I rather eat healthier food than fast food. That is a huge change! I started to focus on myself more now than ever. Another change would be eating salads. Before I started WW, I HATE salads! I cannot stand the texture of lettuce because it reminded me as a grass. I finally found something I love, spinach!!! I LOVE LOVE Spinach!! I would eat those as a salad, on sandwiches, or on pizza. YUM! I love those kind of changes!

How is your life different now?

OH my goodness! Where I even begin? I may not lost a lot like other people, but I am so proud of my total loss of 21.4 lbs! That is a lot!! I am looking forward to many more lbs! I don't eat a lot of processed food anymore. I love to eat fresh food and able to cook for myself knowing it is good for me for my body. I have been walking almost everyday or even every other day, going to Zumba once a week, and doing fun 30 days challenges. If someone said to me 6 months ago that I would do the workouts and doing the challenges, I would laugh at them and shaking my head no. I feel SO much better comparing back in March when I first started out! I cannot believe only 21 lbs that changed my life for better! I have more energy, more outgoing (yes, I was outgoing before WW, but somehow more of me is coming out with joy), and more stamina to do things that I wouldn't do before. I look the life differently now and I am so thankful for doing this.

What do you do for physical activity?

Walk 2-3 miles per day (depending on the weather) 

Zumba 1 hour on Wednesdays

If the weather is bad such as raining, or too hot: youtube workouts for 30-45 mins

30 days challenge
For example: This month (June) I am doing planks and increasing time each day. Day 1 is 20 secs and 30 days is 5 mins.

I make sure that I keep moving throughout the days because it is easy to sit down and watch tv. That is no good!

What is your favorite healthy food or meal?

My favorite meal would be Spanish-Inspired Grilled Shrimp, couscous, and grilled asparagus. YUM!! Spanish-Inspired Grilled Shrimp recipe is actually from Weight Watchers weekly brochure.

Any advice for others on their own journey?

My advice for others on their own journey would be: Please don't give up when you are feeling that is not working, be patient with the process. It will happen! Don't focus on weight loss only, there is much bigger in life than looking at the numbers. Numbers are being numbers, it doesn't understand YOU. When you get frustrated, look back and see why you started this? Enjoy the process! You have to accept this journey will never ends and accept this as a healthy lifestyle. Love yourself before you even start this journey because what happens when you reach your weight loss goal, and don't love yourself? You probably would end up back where you have started. LOVE YOURSELF!! One last advice, have faith in yourself! That will open up many opportunities for yourself if you do.

Do you have a Facebook Page, blog, Twitter, Instagram, etc. where others can find you?

I have Facebook Page that I want to share my personal experience as I go on a journey with a huge change which is weight loss/healthy lifestyle. I am hoping that my experience can inspire the others.

https://www.facebook.com/JourneyOfTheShrinkingPrincess

I LOVE everything she shared with us.  And 21.4 pounds is awesome!!!! She looks amazing and feels even better!  I encourage you to go check out her Facebook page for even more inspiration.  Thank you Kayla for sharing with us, you are inspiring others with your story!!!!

If you would like a chance to tell your story, click here to fill out the form.  I LOVE seeing all of the inspiration and we have to lift each other up! We are all in this together!

That is it for today! Sending you all love and healthy wishes!

Keep Losing,
Kari

  

Days 568-572 - Transformation Tuesday and Weekend Recap

I can't believe it is Tuesday already.  My kiddos last day of school is Thursday.  I am ready to have them home for the summer.  I had an AMAZING weekend.  I unplugged from social media and it was so nice and relaxing to just spend time in the moment with my family.  Here are a few pics to sum up my weekend:

Friday night I got to hold my baby kitty again.  I cannot wait until he is old enough to stay with me all the time!!!  We spent the night just relaxing at home!

Saturday night we got out in the convertible and enjoyed the BEAUTIFUL weather.  We had dinner at Outback!

Some of our friends were camping at the lake, so we decided to go down there after dinner.  I walked/rolled as far as I could, but I still enjoyed watching the sunset and watching them all fish!

Sunday we took the convertible out again and went to Red Lobster.  I tried this dish and oh my goodness was it delicious.  I was just sad that I couldn't eat it all :(

Monday we relaxed around the house and hubby grilled for us.  I did manage to clean most of my kitchen up.  With me being immobile and having two boys and a husband it was pretty gross.

Needless to say that today I am EXHAUSTED AND SORE.  I am trying to not take any pain meds and I can definitely tell. Today I am relaxing in my chair and binging on Lost.  What a crazy show!

And now for this week's Transformation Tuesday story from Angie at Fat an Flab 2 Fit an Fantab : My Journey to a New ME.

Hi, I would love to share my story with you and all of your followers. I am 38 years old and a mother of 4 children ranging from 20-11 years old. I work full time and these kids of mine keep me pretty busy, so just like most people I used that as excuses for not having the time to take care of myself. In November of 2011 my mother who was only 56 years old lost her left leg due to Diabetes and circulation issues. Her health has been one horror story after another before and since then. At the time she lost her leg I basically became her sole caretaker in the beginning until all the medical care and therapy, doctors’ appointments and other newly failing health issues we had to place her in a retirement home so that someone could be with her 24/7.. At 56 years old… for the next few weeks I would look in the mirror and cry I didn’t want to burden my children to have to care for me in that capacity, missing time with their own families and creating memories to have to care for me because I made the CHOICE NOT TO care for myself. On Christmas Day we always take family pictures me, my kids, my mom, and my husband and my oldest child made a comment that she had never seen me so big, my heart sank.. and I started the very next day changing my life, I walked into a WW meeting ( like I had done so many times before, that they always remember me) I stepped on that scale and was pushing 270 pounds I almost died right there… I used their plan for about 8 months losing the first 46 pounds of my journey … with the WW points system and exercising… then I switched my system to using My Fitness Pal and my daily workouts I have since lost another 50 pounds total time on my journey has been 28 ½ months…. I have not made drastic changes like cutting out certain food groups, I try to avoid FAST FOOD DRIVE THRUS, I enjoy the dinners out with my family, at real restaurants, I enjoy the baked sweets which was once my weakness…. I enjoy these things in MODERATION, I learned to move more, that my body could do things that I never would have imagined because I was too busy making excuses as to why I couldn’t. My life is different because I look good, feel good inside and out, I don’t beat myself up or feel like a failure when I slip up… I am proud to say that now I enjoy life and living it instead of just being here and existing in it. My advice for new people following this journey or even those recommitting is to start small, you don’t have to change everything in one day, don’t start something you know you can’t do for the rest of your life, take time to focus on you (it’s OK to be selfish, to exercise, meal prep, just to work on the mental side, a very hard thing to do especially those with families at home) if you don’t do this one day you not be here to enjoy the good times and memories that are going to be made. And most important if you fall off the wagon, don’t beat yourself up take the time you need then get up dust yourself off and get back on.. It’s a LIFESTYLE CHANGE … lose the DIET MENTALITY.

What an AMAZING story.  I really have nothing to add.  She said it all here.  Thank you so much for sharing with us!  You can follow her on Facebook for even more inspiration at https://www.facebook.com/AngiesFatnflab2FitnfantabMyWeightlossJourney.

If you would like a chance to tell your story, click here to fill out the form.  I LOVE seeing all of the inspiration and we have to lift each other up! We are all in this together!

Sorry for the lengthiness today! Sending you all love and healthy wishes!!

Keep Losing,
Kari

Day 565 - Transformation Tuesday - Meet Marylynn

I have another AMAZING story for you today!  Today meet Marylynn!!

Tell us a little about yourself:
I am a working wife and mother of two teenage boys who are very active in Football. I love watching them play and being one of their biggest fans!! I treasure every moment that we get to spend together as a family!!

Starting Weight:

235

Current Weight:

175

What made you decide to live a healthier lifestyle?

I typically am the person who would never be in pictures or was never in a situation where I had to be in pictures, and then it happened. In April of 2013 we had a birthday party for my boys and one of my friends took my picture and posted it on Facebook. I was tagged in it and was horrified, all I could do was cry. I kept saying to myself I can't really look like that, and then it was how did I allow myself to look like that. When I looked in the mirror she wasn't who I saw and my husband was always telling me how great I looked so I just didn't realize my size. Back then I was devastated about that picture but now I am forever grateful. That was the reality check I so desperately needed.

What changes have you made?

I started going to the gym every morning before work no matter what. Which is five days a week. I also cut out all sodas and drink water all day long. I used My Fitness Pal to track my calories and predominantly stay at or around 1500 which is what it recommends for my weight loss. I also in trying to have my whole family eat healthy utilize my weight watchers cookbook and make my family dinners from it.

How is your life different now?
I for the first time in years am taking care of myself. I have started getting my hair and nails done. It feels good to invest in myself and take pride in my appearance. I have alot more energy and I absolutely love going to the gym. That's my me time and I embrace it.

What do you do for physical activity?

I workout at the gym, I am getting into more of the weight training but still get in at least two days of intense cardio a week.

What is your favorite healthy food or meal?

My favorite is spinach salad with strawberries and light Greek yogurt. To me its like having dessert for dinner.

Any advice for others on their own journey?

Don't get discouraged, for the last two months the scale has only changed three pounds for me but I know my body is changing. I only weigh myself once a month and I don't let that number define me or discourage me. Know one sees the scale but me, others only see how I look in my clothes and not what size they are either.

Marylynn, I cannot thank you enough for sharing your story with us.  I LOVE what you say about the scale.  I think so many of us get wrapped up in what the number says and we forget all of the other amazing things that are happening to our bodies.  And what an example you are setting for your boys!!

If you would like a chance to tell your story, click here to fill out the form.  I LOVE seeing all of the inspiration and we have to lift each other up! We are all in this together!

In case you missed yesterday's post, I am coordinating a new program called Weight Watcher's Cheer Buddies.  For more information click here!  Check it out!

Sending you all love and healthy wishes!

Keep Losing,

Kari

Day 551 - Transformation Tuesday - Meet Ashlean's Journey to 199

Today, read a story about an amazing lady who decided to take control of her life!

I'm a twenty something girl from Vancouver Island in Canada. I've ALWAYS been a bigger girl my entire life. The day I decided to to live a healthier lifestyle was the day I went to meet with a gastric bypass doctor, I was so ashamed that Iet myself get to the point where I was actually considering such a serious surgery. I felt like I couldn't do it myself. The doctor came off kind of rude, and was telling me that if I just followed a balanced diet and exercised regularly, I would be melting the pounds off! And you know what? It really was that simple!

I cut out the carbonated drinks (keep it limited to once or twice a month for a treat) sweets, salty snacks (again, limited amounts!) And eat lean meats, vegetables, fruits and whole grains! I am trying to limit my wheat intake too! I go to the gym 5-6 days a week if I can & try to walk as much as possible

My life is different in that I feel good about myself after losing 80+ pounds, I smile more, my relationships are stronger and thrive and I'm not sore from walking or out of breath after two flights of stairs

My advice to anyone on their journey or looking of starting one is to take it one day at a time. It's a process and a life-long commitment.

You can follow her for more inspiration at  https://www.facebook.com/ashlean250.  Thank you for sharing your story with us!!!!

Today has been busy, busy, busy so this is all for today! Sending you all love and healthy wishes!!!

Keep Losing,

Kari

Day 558 - Transformation Tuesday - Meet Paula

Happy Transformation Tuesday!  Today I want to share another amazing story with you all the way from Ireland.  Today meet Paula:

Hi All,

My name is Paula from To fit and healthy n beyond (https://www.facebook.com/pages/To-fit-n-healthy-and-beyond/139104099582381) and im 25 and from Ireland.... I started my fitness/healthy lifestyle approx 2 years ago. I had tried insanity but was not fully committing so it was when I was on holidays with friends you know lots of drinking and bad food choices that I just didnt feel great I knew that when I came back I had to do something about it. I choose to do turbofire for the 20 weeks and seen some really great changes in the shape of my body as well as the scale. The main changes I made around the time of starting turbofire was eating clean so trying to avoid processed foods and finding new recipes I could cook and enjoy and would make me not miss the 'bad' choices. Right now I can say that having started this journey it has left me feeling more confident in myself but also discovering weights and martial arts I also feel more empowered and physically stronger. Like anyone I have fallen off the wagon numerous times and just lot motivation but at some point I have gotten back on again as fitness is something I just love to do. I have maybe lost 2 stone (24 lbs) from my heaviest weight which I am very happy is gone!

My best advice is if needed start making changes one at a time so you do not become overwhelmed....cut down on soda one at a time or instead of fries make some roasted sweet potato fries. When it comes to working out it might take some time to find what you really like doing but that is the most fun.....

and always remember YOU CAN DO IT!!

Thank you Paula for sharing your story with us today!  Go and checkout her Facebook page for even more inspiration!

And her is my most recent Transformation Tuesday picture.  My sister found a new "fat" before picture!  I love these progress pics and I want to encourage you to take pictures along the way.  When the scale is being evil, look at them and see how you are changing on the outside and reflect about the changes on the inside as well!

Today is my late husband's birthday.  He would have been 37 today! So Happy Birthday Jesse and enjoy celebrating with Jesus today!

That is it for today! Sending you all love and healthy wishes!

Keep Losing,

Kari

Day 544 - Transformation Tuesday - Meet Shannon

Today I have a WONDERFUL story to share with you.  I want you to meet Shannon.

I've submitted a transformation pic on Transformation Tuesday before. I'm a 36 year old mother of 4. A few years ago I decided I was tired of being overweight. I was worried about being the "fat mom" at sporting events. It sounds cruel..but it is true. I didn't want my children to suffer because of my poor habits. I started walking on the treadmill at 4:30 a.m. before my kids got ready for school. If I waited..I would find any excuse not to do it. I changed my diet and began counting calories.. I am still an avid calorie counter. I eventually joined our local YMCA and made tons of friends. I love Zumba and Body Pump. I lift free weights. I work out 6 days a week from 2.5 to 3.5 hours a day. I will be the first to admit..sometimes I overdo it. But, almost everyday I truly amaze myself. This body can do just about ANYTHING I will it to. I went from 276 pounds to 150 pounds and 16.9 percent body fat. I am less worried about the scale now and just the body fat. I started running, which I never thought I could...two months ago. Just two months ago!! I always said, Oh I'm not a runner or I can't run. My daughter and I signed up for a 5k intending to walk and we ended up getting caught up with the excitement and I ran it in 35:35... a runner was born. I am training for a half marathon now . I actually have thought IT IS ONLY 13 MILES. So, I know I will do this!! My advice is to surround yourself with people with a similar lifestyle and goals. Step out of that comfort zone..that's where the change happens! I am always there to encourage others. I may not be obese anymore, but it is very hard to change the years of low self esteem.

I LOVE what she says about change happening when we step outside of our comfort zone.  What a transformation.  Thank you so much Shannon for sharing with us.

If you have a story you would like to share, please e-mail it to me at klgoodman1976@gmail.com.  It doesn't matter if you have lost 1 pound or 200 pounds, you never know how your story could inspire others!!!

Okay, so this morning I met with the Fitness Consultant at my new gym.  He spent a lot of time with me going over my goals and really talking about how I can make these changes in my life.  He had me talk about how many years and attempts I had made to lose weight and get healthier.  I told him it had honestly been a battle for about 20 years.  He said that those 20 years were 175,200 hours of my life.  That shocked me, I let that much time go by and just let the problem get worse and worse.  He asked me if I got a hole in my roof, would I fix it right away or wait 175,200 hours?  If I had a problem with my car would I fix it right away or way 175,200 hours?  Of course the answer is to try to fix it right away.  He said that we are more likely to spend our time and money fixing everything but the most important thing to ourselves, our bodies.  This really clicked with me.  A roof or car can be replaced, but this is the only body I get to have on Earth and it is now time for me to take care of it.

He also talked about how we invest our money.  He asked about how many times we used to eat out a week. My answer was around 4.  He said that for just me alone, I was spending about $120 per month on eating out.  This doesn't even include if kids and hubby go with me.  So I can't complain that a gym membership costs too much if I am willing to spend three times that on food out!

He also took my body fat.  UGH!!!  My percent was very embarrassing, and I wonder what it would have been 104 pounds ago.  My body fat is 48.1%.  That makes me sad to think that almost half of my body is just FAT.  What really drew me to this gym was that they do 9 week assessments.  The trainer meets with you every nine weeks to do measurements, fitness testing, weighing, body fat percentage, and help mold your program more.  That was a key factor in choosing Anytime Fitness.  I have one more free training session on Thursday morning at 9:00.  He really worked out my arms today and I LOVE THE SORE FEELING I HAVE NOW!!!.  They also offer personal training packages, so I am seriously considering a once a week training session to learn how to build up my endurance and strength.

Whew, I rambled forever about the gym.  Can you tell I am excited??

I also saw my foot specialist today.  He is concerned especially about my left foot.  He has ordered an MRI for Monday morning.  He said there is a long list of possibilities that it could be and some could require another surgery.  I am not worrying about it until I get the results and I will go from there!!

Tomorrow I will be sharing my goodies from my April foodie pen pal! Sending you all love and healthy wishes!

Keep Losing,
Kari