It took about a year of CICO and hitting the gym. I’ve been maintaining about a year and a half.

It’s been a roller coaster for sure. It began because I was having health problems. My stomach was constantly feeling awful, I had no energy, and I began getting kidney stones. It was terrible. I lost 15 lbs the first time I had a kidney stone, and it was the kick in the pants I needed. It was time to be serious about getting healthy.

It wasn’t easy, but with the support of my husband I changed my eating habits completely. I started going to the gym regularly. I slowly made progress and just kept at it.

To say I feel like a different person is an understatement. I am so much healthier now. I have the energy to keep up with my kids. I feel so much more confident. I actually like going out now, clothes shopping is fun again, and I don’t die inside every time I take my kids to the pool. My anxiety is much, much better controlled, and for the first time in years I’m beginning to love myself again.

It is so worth it. Every drop of sweat and tears has made me stronger, made me happier, and has helped my feel like I am in control of my own body again.

So, to anyone else trying to better themselves with diet and exercise— YOU CAN DO IT! Just keep at it! It doesn’t happen in a day, but if you keep at it, your day will come! I thought after two kids it was impossible, but now I know I am capable of so much more than I ever knew.

Thank you to everyone on this sub for the kind words and pictures. It was a wonderful motivation, and I love this community!