I have lost weight. To be a little more accurate, I have lost a pretty significant amount of weight. And while the journey is and has been a primary focus in my life, I didn’t know if/when I would address it in detail. But, over the past couple of months, there’s been an increasing volume of inquiries via Instagram messages, asking “how”. So, I’ve decided to share. It isn’t a secret, I don’t need anyone else’s validation, and it’s not even that I think I owe anyone details. I firmly believe someone’s health journey is their own and their body’s appearance is no one else’s business. And, I want to be incredibly clear — I do not believe anyone’s body size makes anyone more or less worthy. But, as someone who has spent her life struggling with weight, food, confidence, and all sorts of things that go along with it, I think that some of you may be able to relate to my story. For the majority of my life, I have not been comfortable in my own skin. I wanted to be really thoughtful and thorough in today’s post, which is why it has taken a bit to publish. And, my health journey does extend far beyond weight — I may end up publishing an additional post detailing that. In today’s post though, my focus is on weight loss. And everything that has contributed to my (as of publishing) 92 lb. loss.
There’s a part of me that’s nervous to share for a few reasons. 1. Talking about my appearance makes me kind of uncomfortable. Always has. 2. I open myself up to judgement, and I’ve always care about others’ opinions. 3. There becomes a level of accountability once it’s put out there. It isn’t the first time I’ve lost weight, but it’s the most weight I’ve lost. Worries about regaining extend beyond myself once I share.
**I cannot bold this disclaimer enough. I am not a physician and I have no medical background. While I am sharing my own story, it is just that. My story. I am not offering medical advice of any kind. Please consult with your own physicians and healthcare professional(s) for advice on how to reach your own specific health goals.
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Before we get into it, I will say up front that this post is not intended to belittle anyone of any size, regardless of where they are in their health journey, regardless of what they weight, and regardless of how they feel about themselves. I am not claiming that my journey is the correct path for anyone else and I reject any belief that a person’s weight determines their value, one way or the other. This is purely a take on my own lived experience and if this topic is too sensitive, it may be a post to skip.
I know what it’s like to see someone smaller than me complain about their weight/size and think “well, if that’s how they feel about themselves, how must they feel about me?” I know what it’s like to be making personal progress but feel set back when I see someone else’s starting point — and it being further along than my own progress. I know what it’s like to see someone’s “before” and think “What I wouldn’t do to even be their ‘before’. That would be enough for me.” I know what it’s like to avoid circumstances in an effort to avoid any hypothetical/potential discomfort.
I can relate to so much, and I hope that this post will be relatable to some of you.
A (Not So Little?) Back Story
I grew up incredibly active in sports, but even so, I can’t recall a time I ever felt thin. As someone who was born in 1985 and lived her most formative years in the 90s — along with the prejudices and beliefs of that era, and mixed with some of my own traumas and instilled beliefs — I was never unconcerned about my weight. Even before I could understand the concept of health and wellness — before I was even my own responsibility — a belief that not being thin was the worst thing you could be was cemented in my core — through observation, external influence, and even instances of how I was treated.
I developed a fear of the scale when I was in elementary school. I didn’t know what I “should weigh”, I just knew that what I weighed was apparently too much. The only time I would get on a scale was for a sports physical, but even then, I would try to avoid looking. Then, I went years… maybe decades without stepping on a scale. I would refuse going to the doctor for that one simple, secret reason.
I lost weight before my wedding using using a (not recommended and incredibly restrictive) program. It was awful and I couldn’t wait to be free from the method I was using. At that time, it wasn’t my health — just my appearance for my wedding — that was the primary motivation. My motives were a total indication I was setting myself up to fail. As the weight crept back on and Dave and I worked for years to expand our family, I went back to living in denial until 2018. That was the year it became clear that we were meant to grow our family through adoption. When it became clear, it became clear. And I believed it with my entire being. But along with everything hopeful adoptive parents have to go through (and believe me — it’s extensive and wild), one of the items for home study approval was a full physical. With everything else that would be endured through that process, it may seem trivial or even ridiculous, but as someone who had developed a full on phobia of stepping on the scale, it was the first time I could recall being terrified, but knowing it was a necessary step toward something that would be more than worth it. I had no idea — like not an inkling of a clue — how much I weighed until I stepped on the scale that day. For someone who didn’t feel great but had just accepted “this is who I am”, facing reality stung. But, I did face it.
NOTE: I pulled some old photos I was able to find back in my phone archives and am feeling really vulnerable putting them out there. But, I thought if I was going to share today’s post, the visual should go along with it. The difference I see though isn’t just the weight loss.
(RIGHT) Skirt | Top (Similar) | Chunky Gold Ring | Apple Watch Band | Cross Ring | Initial Bracelet
After that, I avoided the scale again and we walked the emotional journey that made our family whole when we brought Eliza home from the hospital.
(RIGHT) Shorts (Now $9.99!) | Cover Up Shirt (Now 70% off) | Cloud 6 Sneakers | Thin Gold & Diamond Ring | Apple Watch Band | Cross Ring | Initial Bracelet
I thought I was making healthy choices — as I pretty much always assumed — but it wasn’t until July of 2020 that I decided to work on my health. It was the middle of covid and while a lot of people were growing more stagnant, I felt genuine motivation for overall wellness for the first time. I bought a treadmill, walked on it twice a day, and started counting an ambiguous amount of calories. I knew that if I was going to be able to progress, knowing myself, I needed to get a reference starting point and I put myself back on the scale again. It was basically the same number I saw in 2018. But, it was crucial for me to face reality and be honest with myself. I am all about non-scale victories, but for someone who hides from herself, I have to look at the numbers to take ownership and accept wins and progress.
(RIGHT) Shorts (Now $11.98!) | New Balance Sneakers | Thin Gold & Diamond Ring | Apple Watch Band | Cross Ring | Initial Bracelet
After losing 50 lbs, I plateaued throughout 2021 and lost a few pounds here and there but mainly held constant. I was still walking daily (but not two times/day) but I had relaxed on my diet. I was proud of my progress but lost my motivation and was kind of content where I was. Then, my dad got sick and everything went downhill.
I won’t go into the details today but that was a catalyst that took a big mental and physical toll on me. There’s always life that happens — with all of us — and I give myself a pass because I survived that time the best I knew how, worked to heal, and then finally made my way back. Life doesn’t stop happening and heartbreak and trials are a guarantee. I am hopeful that I will prove to be more resilient and consistent in my choices, moving forward, even when hardships take hold.
Fall 2024
Fast forward to post-summer 2024. As I neared 40, I felt this incredible pull to once and for all work on becoming the healthiest version of myself. I had been working on my health in other areas of my life (spiritual, relational, etc.), but there were areas I had longed to address and I felt I was finally read to take ownership. I knew that to reach my goals, I really needed to truly understand “where” my health was, go to the doctor(s), get vitals taken and blood drawn for a baseline and starting point, have the exams, and go from there. I actually started with a dermatologist appointment to address — what I found out was — rosacea on my face and psoriasis on my body — and taking that first step was the tiny bit of confidence I needed to move forward.
I had never stopped walking and I enjoyed being on my treadmill every day, but I had no idea what was (or wasn’t) helping me reach my goals. So, I got back on the scale, faced the reality that I had re-gained about 40 lbs., and knew that my lax approach wasn’t cutting it.
I found a doctor after reading lots of reviews, went in for my initial visit and did all the things. I requested a full blood workup to get my baselines and while my weight was a life long struggle I wanted to address, I wanted to find out the condition of my overall health and make sure I was tending to every aspect. Their office made me feel really comfortable. I even asked for a referral for a mammogram — which I also completed (!!) — since breast cancer has been rampant in my family. (BTW — not nearly as bad as I had thought and I booked another for next year before I left.) As I mentioned at the beginning of the post, I *may* write a more comprehensive post on addressing health goals — mental, physical, spiritual, etc. — because today isn’t the day.
I talked to my doctor and shared that losing weight was a major health goal. She asked if I had considered a GLP1 as an aid, based on my history and previous attempts. At this point, based on what I had heard others’ experiences had been, I was more than interested to try it. As someone who typically gets more than 10k steps/day, walks on the treadmill daily, stayed fairly active, cooked at home, and — by all accounts — was doing all the generally recommended surface stuff, I couldn’t understand why it had always been such a struggle for me. I lost a little weight during the month of October/November by reducing calories and focusing on protein, before ultimately starting a dose of Tirzepatide.
What’s the Deal with GLP1s?
Now, some of you may know and some of you may only have perceptions based on what you’ve heard online. But, access to GLP1s is a racket. Currently, the two big ones are Semaglutide and Tirzepatide. Ozempic (the most popular name) is Semaglutide that’s approved for diabetes. Wegovy is Semaglutide approved for weight loss. Mounjaro is Tirzepatide approved for diabetes. Zepbound is Tirzepatide approved for weight loss. I wanted to try the active ingredient — Tirzepatide — but do not have diabetes so I could not be prescribed Mounjaro. My insurance will not cover it for weight loss (Zepbound), so to this point, I was able to order a Tirzepatide compound injection vial via prescription to a local compounding pharmacy. Still expensive but not AS expensive as ordering Zepbound direct from the manufacturer. However, the compounding pharmacies were only allowed to compound the injections until Tirzepatide and Semaglutide were off the shortage list — which they have been and are — so it is no longer being compounded. So, once my dose runs out, until other changes are hopefully made, I will have to purchase Zepbound direct from the manufacturer at full price, if I want to continue.
My doctor had advised me that along with the Tirzepatide, that I should focus on high protein and low carb, minimally processed foods, and add incorporate some weights into my activity. Easier said than done, right? I don’t like much meat and I LOVE breads and rice. But regardless of trying so so hard in the past — and if you’ve truly struggled with weight, you may relate — food is an addiction to some (me), not being able to identify fullness is real, and the feeling of not fulfilling a comfort need of satiation is seemingly impossible to get away from. Food noise and an onslaught of constant subliminal messages all day every day is something I’ve lived with my entire life. And, this isn’t an excuse, it’s just an actual thing. An actual thing that some people think they understand (but don’t), an actual thing many people think is just not enough discipline or trying hard enough… it’s an actual thing that has so many different causes and contributing factors from genetics to hormones to our individual responders and the way we are uniquely built.
The biggest misconception (I think) about GLP1s (and there are a LOT of opinions and mis-informed opinions out there) is that people take them instead of working out or instead of working on their diet. GLP1s are an aid. They aren’t magic injections. They require putting in the work but for the first time, I feel like I’m not sabotaging my efforts — it has made the mental part SO much easier, making the physical efforts follow suit. I can’t speak for anyone else — and I do know that there are people who don’t change what they eat, just the quantity in which they eat — but I have radically changed my diet. (And I thought it was pretty good before). And, I have been able to do it without the emotional attachment I have for food. It is crazy. Again — this is just my personal experience — but not only does the GLP1 help me get full faster, but I can identify WHEN I am full, I don’t get the same sense of comfort from being stuffed, I can leave food on my plate, I can eat when I’m hungry or not eat when I’m not hungry, and not everything I eat has to be the best meal of my life. I can now look at food as fuel and be strategic about what I’m putting inside my body. That does mean a lot of boring meals, by a lot of people’s standards, because it’s easier (for me right now) to just keep it super simple. I try to be mindful of calories but I’m not snacking and when I do, it’s protein. I don’t love that food has a hold on me (and if you haven’t struggled a lifetime of it, you probably will never understand), but I love that I have found freedom from its grip on my daily life. The food noise has been hushed, I don’t have to grab a snack when I walk past the pantry, and it is almost unbelievable to have an almost indifferent relationship with food. I would give up the excitement and joy from a delicious meal a million times if it meant being free from its stronghold. I still get cravings and when I do, I partake. But, I can do it in true moderation now.
Here are some random lunches I snapped — not because they’re aspirational (they’re not), but because they are just simple ingredients that I wrestled up in the moment, based on what we had, looking to fuel my body. Again, right now, keeping it simple is easiest for me — especially since I’m not turned on by food as much as I always have been. I eat until I’m full and stop eating when I feel satisfied. Not stuffed, but satisfied. Also, no judging what we eat here, either good or bad. This is just my typical reality and it’s been an easy update to keep things simple and more focused on whole contents, nutritional value, and how they each help me reach my goals. If you have a complicated relationship with food, this might look tough, or good, or impossible, or something else entirely. I am not a nutritionist and I am not offering nutrition coaching, but am just sharing what I typically consume. Again, no judging or speculating on contents, calories, etc.
Small Things I’ve Done (Many That Were Previously Seemingly Impossible)
While these were always suggestions, my attachment and enjoyment to food never enabled me to actually live this way (without seeming like torture). Now, it feels like small attainable steps. If these don’t feel attainable, believe me, I get it. Also, some of these are totally contrary to what “the people have always said” growing up.
- Given up sauces and a lot of dressings. That means no Chick Fil A or Polynesian dressing.
- Subbed lettuce for buns (if I’m feeling indifferent about bread at the time)
- Drink my coffee black
- Keep dark chocolate pretzel thins for a sweet tooth. If there’s a cookie and I want it, I don’t deny myself, but it’s easier to pass on them.
- Eat when I’m hungry, don’t eat when I’m not — even if it’s meal time.
- I guess I technically and unintentionally typically intermittent fast. I prefer dinner early (5:00 p.m. if possible), and I typically don’t eat breakfast because I’m not hungry for breakfast. I don’t subscribe to “you have to eat breakfast, it’s the most important meal of the day” mantra. If I can save the calories and I’m not hungry, I’m not eating then. I am eating lunch by 11:00 a.m. most days (again, unless I’m not hungry yet). This routine has been normal for me though for years — not just recently.
- I drink a lot of water. Like, I make it a concentrated effort. This is something else I’ve done for a long time but I consume at least four 40-oz tumblers of water a day from THIS water bottle — my all time FAVORITE and 100% worth it.
- I don’t waste calories on soda (except for a pre-biotic Olipop during lunch sometimes). And, the only time I drink diet soda is if I get a combo while out and it comes with it. I totally think if you enjoy diet coke, drink it. I can take it or leave it (but still enjoy sometimes) but like that I don’t experience bloating as much by sticking to mostly water.
- I weigh myself daily. Every morning at the same time. First thing. This is contrary to most advice I’ve ever heard, for me to hold myself accountable, I like to see how different things affect my body. For me — with my decades of scale aversion — this is actually a must for me. And, I know when there are gains (there are a lot of days!), it’s not fat gain weight, but water retention because of what I consumed the day before, how my body is reacting to external elements, etc. But, logging my weight daily — for me — is how I hold fast to my routine and hold myself accountable. Many people can weigh once a month and feel the same but I can’t. There are so many different factors that effect weight (also good things like muscle gain), but keeping track also helps me notice and celebrate the non-scale victories. And, if you’re someone who doesn’t weigh themselves at all but can be real with yourself, that’s fantastic. I can’t though. I will live in denial in my stretch pants, not noticing how my body is slowly changing, and develop a comforting body dysmorphia when I look in the mirror.
- On average, I get 7,500 to 12,000 steps/day during the week. That involves a lot of office and desk sitting, but running around the house doing chores, walking on the treadmill, and just regular life. I spend the first 10 minutes on the treadmill also using free weights.
- I don’t go to sleep as early as I once did or wake up as early as I once did, but I head to the bedroom by 7:00 p.m. to settle in (read, relax, or watch tv), hope to sleep by 9/10 at the latest, and wake up by 5:00 a.m.
- I’ve made food swaps that prioritize protein. I’ve embraced cottage cheese, Dave grills lots of chicken for me for the week on Sundays, I have used Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for years, and I have switched to Quest protein chips.
- I rarely snack and when I do, it’s protein/veggie/fruit based and low cal.
- I don’t track my calories to a “t” (but if you never have, I would DEFINITELY do that for a look at what you’re realistically consuming), but I do monitor my calorie intake. Ultimately, regardless of how clean you eat (or think you’re eating), consuming fewer calories than you burn is what leads to weight loss.
- I don’t drink. Not because I refuse but because I haven’t been much of a drinker for years and now, it just doesn’t appeal to me. Even during most celebrations it doesn’t sound appealing — I’m 100% good on saving the calories.
- Serve myself on a small plate. Portions are much smaller and much easier to keep smaller on a GLP1, so a lot of times, I will wonder if I’ve served myself enough, but still not finished the plate. This has taken some adjusting.
- I love finding social media accounts (like Smaller Sam) that share low cal, high protein options when eating out. I save my favorites and stick to those orders when I do find myself out. Again, equipping myself with knowledge is most of the effort now. These are enjoyable to me and don’t make me feel like I’m sacrificing anything. Two of my most common orders (if I find myself out)…
- At Chick Fil A, I do a kale crunch salad with 12 grilled nuggets and toss them in a packet of sweet and spicy sriracha before dumping them on the salad.
- I started going to Popeye’s for 3 blackened tenders (with hot sauce and a packet of honey), and a side of mashed potatoes w/ no gravy.
I don’t know that I’ll ever share my weight — starting nor current — as I don’t think that’s anyone’s business and I can’t currently see the value or how that would be helpful to others. In terms of my continued health journey (both weight loss and as a whole), we’ll see. Some times, I may feel more willing to share than others but like everyone, I have times when I’m feeling good and times when I don’t. I have times of increased self confidence, but I still have days where my esteem is lacking, too. And the fact of the matter is — so much of the work in health improvement, weight loss, or wellness journeys first start with a mental health check in before even addressing the physical.
Actively working towards health goals in tandem has me feeling more confident in my own skin than I can ever recall, which is so incredibly rewarding. I won’t go into all that today, non-scale victories, etc., but reclaiming my health and intentionally living and working towards goals that I’m proving to myself that I can reach and do has been a joy and has reminded me of what I’m capable of.
Wherever you fall on the spectrum of health and your satisfaction with yourself, appreciate what you have, know you are capable of hard things, focus on yourself and your family — not the opinions of strangers — and if you’re seeking change, consult with real professionals that you like and trust to help you reach your goals. I’m still working towards my goals and I feel really good about my motivations, the tools, aids, and people around me.
Ending today’s post with a few shots from our weekend — size doesn’t determine our value but as someone who has always shied away from the camera (and still gets uncomfortable in photos), I’m finally starting to embrace showing up in captured memories. No matter how you feel about yourself, take the photos, get in the photos, and stand next to the people you love in all the snapshots.
Button Down Cover Up Top | Shorts | Slides | Sunglasses | Earrings | Apple Watch Band
Thank you for your honesty with this topic. I have been on Zepbound for about 8 months and you still have to constantly work at it. It is an aid, not a cure-all. Best wishes!
Hi Kelley, Thank you for taking the time to visit and for sharing your journey with me. You are so right…lots of hard work is required. I wish you the very best!
Thank you for sharing your story. You have made a decision to focus on your health in a manner that’s best for you. This journey is yours alone and not dependent on the thoughts and opinions of anyone else. Many people have had weight loss surgery and still resort to GLP1 medications . Obesity is detrimental to us individually and as a society because we all bear the costs one way or the other. If medication helps reduce health risks it’s worth it for millions of us. I love seeing you comfortable enough to “get in the picture.” Sending you all the good wishes for continued healing and getting closer to your goals.
Autumn, Thank you so much for your thoughtful message. You are so right…this is the path that has worked best for me but others must take the paths that work best for them. I appreciate your well wishes!
Thank you, thank you, thank you for the inspiration. I needed the encouragement!
Vicki, I am so happy to know that this post is helpful to you. That is the main reason I wanted to share my journey in hopes that it would be a help to others. I wish you the best!
First, you look wonderful & loved your post.
Second, I’ve had the same problem all my life. Growing up, all I wanted were sweets.
Third, you don’t ever have to tell how much you once weighed. That’s your business.
Fourth, tell Eliza her biggest fan said “hello sweet girl “.
Kelley this post is amazing and so generous. I felt like you were speaking my exact struggles into words. I have yet to figure out this grasp that food has on me and how to turn off the noise it creates but seeing your success is very inspirational. I am 10 years older than you and I am thrilled for you that you have been able to make so my progress on your health journey for both you and your beautiful family. May you continue all of the success!🩵
Thank you, Lexi, for your kind note and for taking the time to read the post. I can certainly relate to the food noise and being able to alleviate it has been a huge assist. I really appreciate your encouragement!
You are always the kindest supporter, Dianne. Thank you and I will definitely tell Eliza you said “hello!”
Kelley, I am proud of you. I can relate to a lot of your post as I am 200 hundred and plenty pounds for 37 years (my daughter was born) and I have only gone two pounds in either direction. I don’t eat enough protein and I eat too many cookies. I have been exercising 30 minutes a day every day for 4 years straight. I have to think it is cookies. Anyways, I actually never noticed your size but I did notice your effort now and that you were also, like me, trying to unload extra studs from my house. I am a sr citizen and you are a great mom too.
Thank you so much, Karen, for your encouraging words. It’s definitely not been an easy journey, but I’m happy that I found the formula that works for me, after working on this for so many years. It’s definitely been a challenge to eat more protein, but I’m always happy to find new sources that I can incorporate into my diet. I wish you the best!
Good for you! I’m happy for you that you are working on your health goals!
Thank you, Alicia, for taking the time to read the post and for your encouragement!
What a brave, well-written, and profound post, Kelley Nan. How wonderful that that you have been able to release some of the mental and physical burdens you’ve dealt with for so long. I have noticed a change in you and I have been rooting for you.
No doubt, the experience you’ve shared will inspire many people. I hope you know that. God bless you for having the courage and selflessness to to think of others at a time like this.
I have a friend who struggled with her weight for 20 years after having kids, including twins. She finally went on a GLP1 and at the same time made radical lifestyle changes. She has gone off the meds, and one year later has been able to keep the weight off. She just has different attitudes and habits now. So it can be done!
Wishing you every happiness and continued success in your journey!
Cici
Thank you so much, Cici, for your encouraging words. I really appreciate your support and thank you for sharing your friend’s journey with me!
Thank you for your beautifully written post and for your honesty. You are truly amazing!
Donna, you are the sweetest and I appreciate your kind note!
Kelley,
Sooooo proud of you. Keep doing you and no one else! You look fantastic. Would love for you to continue to share food choices, meal plans, healthy snacks etc. So helpful!
Thank you, Marjorie, for taking the time to read the post and for your kind note. I really appreciate your encouragement and I plan to continue to share my food choices.
Dear Kelley Nan,
Bless you for this generous and important post. How brave of you to share this vulnerable part of yourself, for the benefit of others……
This post’s importance is right up there with your post about Living with Less/Reducing Shopping/Simplifying Life…. and I have found they are related. Both food and shopping help us buffer life’s stresses and can take the place of many other things….
What an accomplishment, that you have taken up your health destiny with both hands, first, not only to show up for yourself, but also to be present and active in the lives of your husband and child for a long time to come. What could be more important!?!?!?!
I have found that when taking this med for my Type 2 diabetes, the ability to “take or leave” snacks and foods that previously triggered me has also happened with respect to impulse buys! I would see something cute and my brain would say to me, “very cute, but I already have enough of those ” just like when I’d pass an ice cream store and my brain would say “Looks Yum, but not today”. I believe it is because the medication acts on the same part of the brain that has those dopamine receptors.
The nutrition habits of eliminating sugary sauces and other carbs that you have changed will stand you in good stead whatever happens for you in the future, whether you continue on the meds or not. I had made the switch to low carb before the meds and found that this stopped the hunger headaches, and yearnings for carbs if I had not eaten in a few hours. And the unintended intermittent fasting gives your body more time to burn fuel before raising insulin, as happens whenever we eat a meal. Sometimes I’d forget to eat just from turning low carb!
Once I began the meds for my Type 2, they helped my metabolism behave in a more normal manner, and having less glucose in my system (while eating low carb) gave my body a chance to burn fat, and I finally began to lose weight as normal people do when they eat properly and exercise, as I was doing.
Your new nutrition and movement habits will def help you regulate your blood chemistry, which is so important for your heart and stroke prevention…. I wish I had done that at 40 as you are doing now! What a gift to yourself and your family!!!
Wishing you the best of health , joy and Peace with your beautiful family.
Thank you, Eden, for taking the time to read the post and for the insightful comments you have provided. Yes, over the last several years I’ve made some big lifestyle changes that I believe are for the better. Thank you for your well wishes!
KelleyNan you never have to explain or get anyone’s approval regarding your weight loss journey. You are beautiful inside and out and the only important people you should focus on is your sweet angel Eliza and your husband. Never let anyone steal your joy. ❤️
Thank you, Reba, for your sweet note. I so appreciate your support!
Just wanted to say you GO girl! You are gorgeous inside and out, I admire your strength & courage, and enjoy the ride!
Thank you, Leslee, for taking the time to visit. I really appreciate your encouragement!
You look great and thank you for this article! You are so lucky you did this before diabetes gets you. I waited to late have Type 2 now. So I am doing the Monjuro shots and eating/exercising but loosing interest as I have only lost 11 lbs in 3 months. Plus, my Maltese is dying from kidney failure at age 15, I feel like I am beating my brains out dieting/exercising and this is all I have lost!!! Not to mention it has been so hot here in N. GA. I hope I can flip the way I am thinking lately. Hang in there as you look great! Keep sending updates and what you eat as it looks better than what I am limited to. Sending prayers for you. XO
Thank you, Sandy, for taking the time to read the post and for your kind note. I am so sorry you’ve having a rough time and hope that things improve for you soon. Here’s to better days ahead!
What a courageous and GENEROUS post. Thank you. The same lovely woman who leaves snacks for the delivery drivers during the holidays because she knows they barely have time to stop for meals, is putting herself out there for the sake of others today. What a lovely human being!
Kelley, Congratulations on your weight loss journey! You are such an inspiration to so many people from decorating, life style, weight loss and so much more. Thank you for sharing with all of us! All of your pics for meals has greatly helped me as I struggle with getting enough protein. Thank you for being transparent and helping others as you share part of your life with us! 💙☺️
Hi Jennifer, I really appreciate your support and encouragement. Your kind note is so appreciated and I thank you for following along with us!
My thoughts exactly!
Thank you so much, Jean!
Your kind note really made my day! Thank you so much for being here and for following along with us!
Thank you so much for sharing your journey and being vulnerable and honest. It means so much to hear from others who have struggled with weight and have been able to lose weight (and how!) You look wonderful, and I pray that you will be blessed as you bless others.
Jeanine, You are the sweetest and I thank you for your kindness. I am hopeful this post will be helpful to others and wanted to share.
Bravo on your courageous weight loss and health journey, especially sharing your personal views and experiences. You will be a light to many! Thanks!
Thank you for your encouragement and thoughtfulness, Margaret. I really appreciate you taking the time to read the post!
You are terrific. Thanks for sharing and continued success in all your goals.
Thank you, Melisa! I appreciate your well wishes.
thank you
Thank you, Robyn, for taking the time to visit!
Dear Kelley Nan,
You are a beautiful soul inside and out. I really enjoyed reading your post and understand how hard it must have been for you to decide to share your journey. I had noticed that you and Dave seemed to have lost a bit of weight and were looking really healthy! I assumed that you were making sure that you would be around for the long haul for your gorgeous daughter. The respect and consideration in your post for other people is amazing and is one of the things that I have always noticed when reading your posts. Thank you for sharing.
God bless you and your family
Heather
Thank you, Heather, for following along and for your kind note. I am hopeful this post will be helpful to others!
Thank you for sharing. So much good information. I’ve been following for a long time. Best wishes for continuing success. 💕
Thank you, Mary, for being “here” and for taking the time to leave a note. I appreciate your well wishes!
I applaud you for being brave and sharing your journey We’ll done!
I can relate as I’m on a similar one
Thank you, Sheila, and I wish you the best on your journey!
Ah, what a beautiful testimony. I’ll bet most all of your readers have gone down a similar trail. Thank you for sharing your story and I hope you feel as beautiful as I think you look. May God bless you and yours.
Thank you, Corine, for taking the time to read the post. It’s been quite a journey to find the methods that work best for me. I so appreciate your encouragement!
You look wonderful! You’ve always been beautiful! I’m so glad you are seeing it also.
Thank you, Sue, for always being the sweetest! xoxo
That’s amazing! Thank you for sharing your journey! It takes a lot of dedication and strength! You should be really proud of yourself!!!
Dina, Thank you for your kind note and for taking the time to read the post. I so appreciate your encouragement!
You look great! Congratulations on your weight loss.
Thank you, Jane, for your kind note!
Many women can relate to your story. You are an inspiration. Thank you for sharing! Also, I love all of your home decor and organization ideas.
Thank you, Kim, for your kind note. I appreciate your feedback on my content and am happy to know that you also enjoy my home decor and organization posts.
Good for you! You look awesome and I know you feel great! I started on Mourjano a little over a year ago, mainly for diabetes. My A1C has gone down several points, into acceptable range, I’m off insulin and have lost about 40 lbs. As you’ve discovered these aides certainly make it easier to manage food. Thanks for sharing your story.
Thank you, Kathy, for your kind note and for sharing your story with me. I wish you the best on your journey and am happy to know that it’s having such positive results!
Kelly,
Thank you for sharing your story. You put into words everything I’ve ever felt my entire life. Im 65 years old still on the yoyo of losing and gaining the weight back. I feel worthless and sad every-time I fail. Im trying to love myself because Ive realized thats the cause of my sadness and emotional eating.
Ive been following you since I started IG. You were one of my first home decorating accounts. Ive also used tons of your Christmas tree ideas over the years. I truly enjoy you and your family. congratulations!!!
Your success is motivation for the others just like me and you.
Im truly happy for you!!! Sending you blessings and happiness. Looking forward to seeing you all through the holidays. I like your examples of food ideas too.
❤️😊 Debbie
I know this is long but I was wondering if your mom is still close by and doing well. I hope so!!
Debbie, Thank you so much for taking the time to send the sweetest note. I so appreciate you following along with us! You definitely need to love yourself and celebrate all of the goodness that you provide. Yes, my mom is still close by and is doing well. Thank you so much for asking. I’m looking forward to sharing new content over the holidays, so please stay tuned!
Congratulations Kelly!
I’m so thrilled for you and proud of the hard work and dedication you’ve done to make this incredibly difficult goal a reality. You look fabulous!
Thank you, Gail, for your kind note and for your encouragement!
Congratulations and thank you for sharing your journey. I can’t begin to imagine how difficult it must have been to write this. Your story and honesty are inspirational. Please do not let anyone make you feel bad! You Rock!!!!!!
You are so kind, Stacie, and thank you for your sweet note! It was a challenging post to write, but I’m hopeful that this will be helpful to others. I’ve been overwhelmed by all of the positive feedback I’ve received.
Kelley –
Your post couldn’t be more timely for me. I live in Georgia (Milton) and have struggled with the same challenges throughout my life. Now in my 50s, I’m finally ready to make a real change. Just this past Saturday, I took my first Zepbound shot. I ended up purchasing it directly from Lilly — it’s a financial commitment, but one I’m willing to make for both my mental and physical health.
I truly appreciate your vulnerability and openness in sharing your journey. It means so much.
Thank you, Natalie, for reading the post and for sharing your own story with me. I wish you the best on your journey!
I noticed. But I would never ask.
I’ve also lost a significant amount of weight. I don’t feel different, and I’m much smaller than I realize. I’m at the top of the scale for my height, and I’ve heard super unkind things about my weight loss and my “skinny legs.”
Like most folks, I just want to live my life and have a healthy future.
Best of luck to you and your cute family.
Thank you, Mick, for sharing with me. I’m so sorry to hear that some folks have been unkind in their comments. I’m sure you look great and feel better. I wish you the very best!
Your an inspiration! I love your lunch ideas. I never thought to eat like that, but am going to try it. Thanks for the post!
Thank you, Corinne, and I’m so happy to know the lunch ideas were helpful. I will try to share more in the future!
Thanks for sharing – very helpful for all of us in the boat – motivates me to start – I am on the high end and needing motivation to start. Stories like yours are so helpful and you wrote it so well – Thanks!
Thank you so much, Barbara Jean, for visiting and for taking the time to write a note. I’m hopeful my story will be helpful to others and I wish you the best!
Thank you so much for sharing. I actually cried while reading it and am praying that I can reach similar results as I start Wegovy this week. I could identify with all of your story, except the treadmill (to which my dogs would object), and am so impressed with your dedication. Thanks also for the food tips!
Oh, Vicki…thank you so much for taking the time to read and for your kind note. It’s definitely been a journey and I wish you the best on yours!
Congratulations! I’ve been a long time follower and also noticed your weight loss. I’m right along with you. Reading your story on your blog and seeing your pictures, I saw myself! I’m down 85 pounds and I’ve never felt better. I started Pilates which has been life changing for me and picked up needlepointing as a new hobby! I’ve been on a GLP1med since August of 22 and will always be on something because of my PCOS. My symptoms have basically disappeared. I have lots of non-scale victories now. If I lost another 10, that would be great but I’m not stressed about it. In May of 2024, I had a Mommy Makeover. Breast lift and tummy tuck. Best decision I’ve ever gifted myself. Thank you for sharing your story with strangers. You aren’t alone. I posted a picture with of myself on my IG account as my anniversary date for my surgery. The response was overwhelming. All positive. I remember you adopting your daughter and have loved seeing her grow and your flourish in motherhood. I’m currently dropping my only daughter off at Auburn University and man does it go by quick! Enjoy your new body and family! Proud of you hard work and look forward to all your future posts! All the best, Lexi
Thank you, Lexi, for sharing your story with me. Bravo to you on your positive journey! I love that you have new interests and the positivity that your health changes have made to your life. I appreciate you following along with us and yes, time definitely goes by way too quickly. I’m sure having your daughter start college is a big life change for you both and wish you the absolute best!
Thank you so much for sharing your struggles and successes! I can definitely relate to a lot of it! I am currently seeing a dietician and found out that I am sensitive to dairy (milk) and egg whites. This is a major complication but I will succeed in this life change! I’m hearing very good things about the GLP1’s and wondering about it for myself. Honestly, I’m nervous about the possibility of side effects (mostly upset stomach type stuff). Keep jumping into those pictures. I know I have to force myself to do it.
Hi Libbe, Thank you for taking the time to read the post and for always being the sweetest supporter. There are lots of dairy alternatives these days that have worked for me, like almond milk, which our entire family actually prefers now. I’m so impressed with your resolve and wish you the best!
You need to change your picture. You look wonderful. I have the same problem & I am stopping sodas. I weigh 30 lbs less than I did when my husband passed away & couldn’t zIp my jeans today. I can’t tell my gut from my butt!
Tell Eliza hello from her biggest fan‼️
Dianne, Thank you for taking the time to stop by and for your kind note. I’m so sorry about your husband’s passing and imagine you’ve had a tough time. Changing my picture is definitely on my list…I just haven’t had the time for that yet. I will definitely tell Eliza hello from you!
I appreciate your story. You are a beautiful person inside and out! I always enjoy your blog.
Misty, Thank you so much for taking the time to visit and I really appreciate your kind note. I am so happy that you are following my blog!
Hello, Happy Holidays!
You look amazing and so healthy! I’m so happy for you. I read your story and so happy for you! I’m thinking of getting a treadmill or walking pad since I work from home!
Deborah, Thank you for taking the time to read my story. I really appreciate your kind note. My treadmill is one of my most used items amd I always feel so good after I have used it. I hope you and yours have a wonderful Christmas!