I almost don't even know where to begin. ONE YEAR! I'd say I can't believe it, but every time I watch my 14 month old attempt a new milestone, I am reminded how fast the time has gone. He is running after his big brothers now, and thanks to Trim Healthy Mama, (affiliate) I can too!
I began this journey in March 2014. Two months postpartum with my fourth (and final) little boy. Having topped the scale at 212 pounds during my pregnancy I was very disheartened at the idea of beginning a weight loss plan. I knew (or I thought I did) from previous experience, how difficult it was going to be to watch what I ate and find the time to put in those hours burning calories on the treadmill. Thankfully my friend Jesi didn't give up on me. She just kept mentioning her success with this book she had about switching up fuel sources and cutting out the sugar. Looking back now, I'll have to blame my delay on our long distance relationship. Because when you see a person shrinking before your eyes it's hard to argue with the results. However her persistence finally broke through my hesitations and I bought the book. You can read about my first six months and an overview of the book here Food Freedom: My Six Month Trimaversary.
The last six months have continued to bring forth more health and freedom. I can't say I have reached my goal weight, only because I never set one. My goal is: To be in the best shape of my life, by my 30th Birthday. I still have one year left to reach that goal but thanks to THM all I have left to do is tone up this trim and healthy body. Officially, I have lost 65 pounds and gone from a size 18 down to a size 4. My only regrets are not starting sooner and not taking my measurements. Since THM is a protein centered lifestyle, inches fly off faster, and more consistently, than pounds because you aren't losing your muscle along with the excess fat.
The wonderful thing about THM (besides eating chocolate and bacon and shrinking without effort) is that it's designed for life. So now that I am nearing the end of my loosing phase I am slowly transitioning over to maintenance.
I am beginning to incorporate both carbohydrates and fats in my meals
to maintain a healthy weight and satisfy my dietary needs. I may still
have a few inches here and there to loose but I am discovering that I
feel better with some S-Helpers and Crossovers added to my week. Some of my favorite go to foods are Gwen's Nest, Easy {E} Bread, Skinny Chocolate (Page 371), Choco Pudding (Page 366), Joseph's Pita Pizzas, Vanilla Coconut Muffin In A Mug, Frozen berries topped with heavy cream, Oatmeal with Polaners All Fruit Spread, Bacon, Peanut Butter Yogurt... this list could go on for a long time. So I will stop here and say, whatever you are craving there is a high probability that you can satisfy that craving and stay 100% On Plan. There's no need to cheat when you love the foods you are "allowed" to eat.
One of the greatest joys of being On Plan with Trim Healthy Mama is being able to inspire others to begin their journey to health. My success has made a positive impact on my family and friends and I can joyfully announce I will be celebrating my One Year Trimaversary by facilitating my first THM group session with a number of the ladies that have been watching me shrink this past year. I love that THM not only opens the door for physical health, but spiritual health as well. God desires us to glorify Him with our lives, wholly and completely, including how we steward our bodies. He provides us with grace and healing through community and fellowship and I am looking forward to being used by Him to encourage others who have joined me on this journey.
Another blessing THM has shown me is how to celebrate Non-Scale Victories. Here are some of mine from this past year:
- Being able to wear my wedding rings again
- Feeling full on a "diet"
- Comfortably crossing my legs
- Being told I don't look like I've ever given birth, especially to 4 babies in 6 years.
- Being called "A Tiny Little Thing"
- Confidently wearing horizontal stripes
- Feeling skinny
- Contentment
I could continue this list for pages! I can truly say Trim Healthy Mama has changed my life. I feel good, even when life gets in the way and I am stuck eating something off plan, there is no guilt, maybe some bloating and indigestion, but no condemnation. Just a few hours until I get a fresh start and I can reward myself with something good for me. Because my mindset has changed; I truly believe it is more fulfilling and rewarding to eat On Plan than have a "cheat". Thanks to Trim Healthy Mama, and the persistence of a good friend, I have found my trim and gained a lifetime of food freedom.
Until Next Time,
Sonja
(If you are interested in learning more about Trim Healthy Mama feel free to contact me or visit any of the links on my page)
Wow! Your story is incredible! What a transformation you have had. I am so inspired by you! I hope I can get to where you are someday! It's hard, but it's stories like yours that tell me I can do this. Thank you so much for sharing! :)
ReplyDeleteThank you! Remember every one is different and to just take it one day at a time. You can do it!
DeleteI am starting today, your post is so very inspiring! I am also the mom of all boys :) I hope a year from now I have an equally inspiring story to share. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on starting your health journey! Remember it is a journey, there's always unexpected twists and turns but learning to enjoy the fullness of life while finding your trim is what THM is all about. I'm sure you will have a great story to tell! All of us Moms of Boys always do ;-)
DeleteBrought tears to my eyes :) so happy for you and you look amazing!
ReplyDeleteAw, you're sweet! Love you! :-)
DeleteYou are beautiful and thank you for being a wonderful inspiration. I have started THM and am losing inches. I need to really stick to the plan and I am going to. Blessings.!!!!!
ReplyDeleteThank you! Congratulations on your progress!
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing! Newbie here, one week in and still learning what S, E's, etc., are ok. Have read the book and just taking it day by day. Your a inspiration to me, as to your starting weight is what i'm at know. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteTaking it one day at a time is the best way to start. I also recommend the quick start guide on Gwen's Nest... You can do it! Because you are worth it. :)
DeleteInspiring, Thank you
ReplyDelete