Perseverance

Yup, that's me.  Sitting at a table playing a game during Christmas of 2011.  I was fat, insecure, hated who I was, uncomfortable in my own skin, and always wanted to hide.  For some reason, eating more and adding on more layers of fluff made me feel like I could hide better.

This is me now.  I am more confident, comfortable with who I have become, and I don't want to hide behind my fat anymore.  No, I am not 100% secure just yet, but I am getting there.  

My journey has had its ups and downs, struggles and successes, failure and challenges...but through it all, I have persevered.  

I have a mission:  get fit and get healthy.  On the days I think I just need a break, I just want to quit, or I just don't feel like it...I remember how I used to feel, and I keep going.  

Changing your lifestyle is not easy, and it takes time.  But I have goals that I am determined to achieve!  Come hell or high water, I am wearing a bikini WITHOUT shorts this summer.  It's going to happen!  

Looking back on the past year and seeing what I have achieved so far is still crazy to me, but it just goes to show that when you put your mind to it, you can do anything.  There will be super easy days, and there will be days that make you want to pull your hair out, but you CAN do it.  If you give up, the only person you're quitting is YOU.  God only knows how long we are all going to be on this earth, so while you're here - why don't you make the most of it and be who you really want to be?  That's the way I see it anyway.  

If you really want to achieve your goals, you have to be able to persevere through anything that comes your way.  Remember why you started, don't give up on yourself, trust the process, and stick with it.  If I can do it, you can do it!