Shrinking Natalie

I wasn't always overweight.  In junior high and high school I ran track, played softball, and was a normal weight hovering between 128 to 135 lbs.  I didn't start gaining weight, or developing seriously bad eating habits, until the end of high school; and then in college my problems spiraled out of control. Within six years I had gained 100 lbs.

There are many explanations for my overeating, ranging from my addictive personality, to being raised with "a clean your plate" mentality, to a lack of self control. No matter what is underlying my behavior, I have learned that acknowledging my problem and taking responsibility for my actions is the first step to recovery.

I am not a victim. I will not play a victim. I will not sabotage myself.

I started my journey in May 2008, when someone close to me expressed concern over my health. After going through the stages of grief (anger, denial, bargaining, etc) I finally realized I needed to make a change. On Thursday, May 22nd, 2008, I walked into my first Weight Watchers meeting and began to make that change. I am committed to this journey for my own health and self-esteem, but I also want to lose weight so that I may start a family (and not be classified a high-risk pregnancy because I am obese), as well as pass on good habits to my future children.

I will take control of my life. I will be a healthier person - mind & body.

UPDATE

On March 26th, 2009 I hit my goal weight of 135 lbs and started on the second leg of my journey - maintaining a healthy weight, and mind, for life.

I have taken control of my life. I will remain a healthy person - mind & body.

Before                         After