As I try to write this, there are tears in my eyes.

I never in a million years thought this was possible.

When I saw myself on TV a year ago, filling out a 3XL jersey on national television, I was disgusted and embarrassed. I couldn't believe the person I was seeing was actually me. When had I just given up on being healthy? When had I become okay with being 275 pounds?



Looking back, I was so unhappy. I was good at masking it with a smile or a joke, but I hated who I was.

These are really humbling. When I just opened them for the first time in forever, I was honestly shocked.








I am just so thankful that the day I took the first two pictures, I decided it was time to do something. When I searched "Free Weight Loss Plan," I feel blessed that SparkPeople came up.

SparkPeople has taught me how to eat right, exercise frequently, and just generally care about my body and myself more. I am so thankful for all of you amazing Spark Friends, who comment on my page and blogs, or even just like my status. It's nice to know that I have people all over the world cheering me on.

Since joining SparkPeople, I've run two 5k races as well as a 5 mile Turkey Trot. I've run 100+ miles and walked probably 100+ more.





And my body has just completely changed. I'm not finished with this journey to improving my health but I'm so much closer than I was a year ago.






I started this journey at 274.8, and this morning, one year later, I am 183.8.

91 pounds gone forever.

And I just can't thank you enough.

Thank you Spark Friends.

And thank you, SparkPeople.