Disclaimer: Any anonymous haters who have the urge to call me a narcissistic bitch for obsessing over a couple of photos, just stop right here. I’m not. I’m just using the internets as accountability as I try to drop a few pounds and get healthier. I wouldn’t go this far except nothing I’ve used as accountability has ever worked before, so public humiliation seemed the way to go.
As I got ready for bed last night, I looked in the mirror and felt — finally — that I was losing some inches off my waist. Unfortunately that hasn’t been reflected on the scale and without having tape-measured myself when I started working out again, I really had no way of knowing for sure.
Then I had an idea.
The bff’s wedding was when I felt my weight had peaked. I saw all the photos posted on Facebook and was mortified (enter debate about whether you should just be happy about how you are or you should strive for what experts say is healthy. I usually fall in between.)
That dress was tight and uncomfortable and unflattering in all kinds of ways, but mostly because it didn’t fit. It was too small from the waist down (and too big on top as always). I knew I could use that as a benchmark for how my body has changed in the past month.
I took a page out of Jenn’s book and employed Microsoft Paint so as to protect the innocent. Ummm, ok, maybe not innocent.
It’s not the best photo benchmark, but it was the best I had. Before:
Flowers placed at strategic points.
A month later:
A waist! I have a waist! Stuffing still in effect.
I know it’s hard to see much of a difference, but it feels different. And before you try to tell me I’m fine just the way I am, know that I’m 5-foot-3. And I’m not showing you my cushy tush. I’m just not ready for that step, Internet. But, now that I have a benchmark, I’m going to have to do this once a month every month til I reach my goal.
The difference is noticeable, and you look great! As someone who’s 5’2″, I totally understand the struggle you’re going through. A 1 pound gain for us looks like a 2 or 3 pound gain on a taller person. Whatever you’re going is working through, so stay positive!
You do look great! It is noticeable. That’s a great change in a really short period of time! Good for you!
I think that’s a neat way to benchmark it. The scale isn’t a good indicator if you’re toning up.
Clothes are absolutely the best way to gauge weight/inch loss. The scale might not change for a bit, but the clothes will always tell the truth. You have always been beautiful, no matter your size. And I’ve known you since you were 18, so I’m kind of an expert.
Its really really noticable. Way to go girly. I am using you for inspo – Gym in the AM on Monday!
I think it’s a good idea and I can definitely see a difference. Bravo to you for all your hard work!
I think you look great. That is a tough dress to pull off, but worth the effort!
I notice it!! you look great!
Thanks, everyone! The encouragement helps me keep going.
Great work. Keep it up!
Do you read “A lard off my mind?” it’s a great weight loss blog. Highly recommended.
Great job. You have a gorgeous figure! I am usually one of those people who dislikes it when people bitch and complain about their weight. But I think that if you want to feel a bit better about yourself, it’s fine to want to lose a few as long as it doesn’t become the only thing that you focus on.
I’ve lost quite a bit myself over the past year mainly because I moved closer to my work and decided to take the half hour walk there and back every day instead of taking the bus. It’s made a huge difference, even though I didn’t expect it to. And I feel a lot more comfortable being out in public now.
NuttyCow: I will definitely read it. I’m still getting acquainted with your blog!
Rebecca: Thanks! I totally agree with you. I do think people should be comfortable with how they are — esp. if they have good figures. I hate the way advertising and movies promote stick-think women. I love my curves! But at the same time, I feel healthier when I’m a few pounds lighter. Plus, it does do quite a bit for your self esteem 🙂
I think that’s a great difference! Good work! This reminded me about Boot Camp bring a friend day, which sadly I missed because I was on the road last week. Normally I am very good about remembering stuffs like that, and I forgot. I apologize. Next month, though, it is set to be on June 19. If I somehow forget again, feel free to remind me.
This is my first comment on your blog . I like reading your blog. I just never have anything smart to say.