let’s be honest–I’m fat

(When I wrote this post it was NOT my intention that it would be the beginning of a 31 days of honesty series.  The immense response to this post has given me the courage to embrace an entire month of Honesty, Authenticity, and Truth.”)

I think I’m real.  I think I’m honest.  I pride myself on not having an agenda.

But I lied.  and it is bugging me.  So I’ll confess here and then again later.

We moved and I needed to get a new driver’s license.  I put it off because I still struggle with this place being “home”.

So studied for the test, made sure that my hair looked great, packed 3 kids in the van and went to the Secretary of State.  (I won’t mention here that I forgot all the paper work on the counter and had to go back home . . . that would make me seem ditzy and unorganized–of which I am neither.)  When I arrived for the second time, ahem, I went to the various counters and answered the questions–took the test and only missed 1 for a score of 97%–I was feeling very successful until . . .

ma’am, how much do you weigh?

For the record, “none of your business” is not the correct answer!

I lied.  I lied.  I lied.

I gave a number that is 20 lbs less than what I really am.  I feel like a fake.  I feel like a fraud.  I am embarrassed.  I don’t want to be this size.  I feel like I betrayed myself–again.

Why did I lie?  If it causes me so much unhappiness, why did I do it?  If I knew that they were going to ask–maybe, maybe I might have told the truth–maybe not.  I haven’t said the number out loud to anyone.

I’m not sure what I am going to do about the lie.  I thought about going back and telling them that I lied–but then they might think I lied about other things and take my license away or they might just think I’m crazy and take it away.  A lose-lose situation.

So I decided to do this.  I decided to own the fact that I weigh 60 lbs too much!  I’ll be honest about that.  I lied about 20 but the real number is 60!!!  I have decided that now is the time for me to let go of all the heartaches that I have made me seek out food as my friend.  I have real friends now–and I’m not going to eat them!  We don’t eat our friends–we eat food to nourish our bodies not to be a friend.  I’m getting it.  Now is the time in my journey to figure this out.

I have watched enough Oprah episodes and a season or two of biggest loser and read the Roth books . . . I get that it is not about the food for me.

For me it’s about having things taken away from me–it’s a long list–if I thought that the list actually mattered I would make it, but it is not in the list but in the repeated heartbreak of losing.

I think when I finally gave up was when I had my first miscarriage–I was 3 months pregnant, 136 lbs and wearing a bikini with an adorable little bump.  Then not.  The pain and loneliness of the loss of a child was overwhelming.  From that moment to when I had my son I gained over 100 lbs.  Once I held that baby the world seemed “right” again, yet I had a shadow of disappointment and feeling like a failure.

I lost a ton of weight and found out I was pregnant the day after my Mom died.  I lost that baby the week before Thanksgiving . . .thankfully I was so upset I couldn’t eat.  I’m sort of joking here but if I could eat I think I wouldn’t have ever stopped.

I remember feeling empty, failed, hurting so deep inside at a place I didn’t know was even there. The doctors told me I wasn’t supposed to get pregnant again.  I stopped living and caring.  I did not feel alive.  I felt dead.  I lost ALL hope.  I poured myself into my only child.

Well, the happy ending is that I did get pregnant again, and again, and again.  I have 4 beautiful children and with each one I put on 20 lbs that never came off!

Now I am ready to be honest with myself.  I am ready to own my size.  I am ready to change.

My intention is to post on the 1st of each month–except probably January–I take holidays off–I won’t post my weight (well I might but for now . . . NOT) but I will post a photo and tell you what I’m doing to get there.  I know that I can do this.

linking up with Fellowship Fridays

I don’t really want to do this alone . . . if you want to join along . . . leave a note in the comments or email me at joyfulmombaudeatgmaildotcom . . .  we can do this together . . . or if you have done this before–can you cheer me on?

(oh, yeah–I’m scared out of my wits to push the publish button on this post–praying for . . . what should I pray for grace, understanding, fortitude???)

Be Blessed–not matter what size you are!

Miscellany Monday Hear it, Use It Playdates with God Multitudes on Monday The Better Mom Motivating Mondays Motivation Monday
On, In, and Around MondaysWelcome Home

On Your Heart Soli Deo Gloria Hip Homeschool Moms Top {Ten} Tuesday What I Learned This Week Titus 2sdays Teach Me Tuesday Heart and Home Linkup Just Write

Walk With Him Wednesday, Deep Roots At Home

Whatever Wednesday,God Bumps and God-Incidences,Unwrapping His Promises Living Well Wednesday,Women in the Word Wednesday,Works for Me Wednesday,wip-wednesday,

Company Girl Coffee, Friday Favorite Things, Faith Filled Friday, Just for fun Fridays, Consider the Lilies, in courage

105 Comments Add yours

  1. Oh how I love your vulnerability! Praying that Grace becomes your best friend as you journey on. I love this line: “I have real friends now–and I’m not going to eat them!” I too often turn to food for company as well. Not good. May the Lord remind us all of Who nourishes and pleases us more than anything we can put in our mouths.

    1. renee says:

      Lisa, thanks for your note!!! A friend used to say that my prayer should be “I hunger and thirst for you” but now I’m seeing what she meant.

      Be Blessed.

  2. Cynthia Swenson says:

    I think you are beautiful & just want to remind you that it is the unseen things that are eternal (faith, love, etc.) I am in awe of God to see October being claimed for crazy joy by Ann because maybe I thought it was only me but God reminds me we are a BODY! I am 55 years old & still struggle with eating habits but I WILL get the victory in Jesus! I love you dear one & will pray for your weight loss & for crazy joy!!! in Jesus, Cynthia

    1. renee says:

      I’m following Ann, Lisa Jo and The Nester with 31 days of honesty/truth–feel free to follow along. Wish me luck! Thanks for your prayers! (loving how you called me dear!)

      Be Blessed.

  3. Andrea Piper says:

    Three thoughts. First, you are beautiful!!!! So glad you posted that picture. Second, I am currently reading a book by John Piper called “A Hunger for God” which thus far is VERY good and VERY insightful. Third, I have been on this journey before and am currently on this journey again. Two very helpful resources for me have been a Bible Study called The Lord’s Table put out by Setting Captives Free – (you can do it free online or order the book) and Weight Watchers. Weight Watchers helped me lose weight, but did not take my focus off of food and it seemed a little idolatrous. The John Piper book and The Lord’s Table Book have both helped me put my food intake in perspective. Just my thoughts.

    Thank you for your post!

    1. renee says:

      Your thoughts are very welcome! Funny you should say that about the picture–because it was such an after thought . . . then I realized that I have very few pictures of myself because I’m so self conscious of my size. My husband actually took the pictures of me for my “headshot” and he was being silly and making me laugh.

      Can’t do WW–just can’t–one day I’ll post on why or if you want an email I’ll send you one . . .

      Be Blessed and thanks again for your encouragement and thoughts.

      1. Andrea Piper says:

        How do I email you?

        1. renee says:

          look in your inbox :-)

  4. Judy King says:

    Great post Renee! After being in Michigan for almost 5 years I still struggle with it not being “home” to me. I literally have that struggle on a daily basis. Menopause isn’t helping either but that’s another story. Good luck in reaching all of your goals!

    Judy

    1. renee says:

      Thanks Judy!

      oh, menopause . . . as if puberty wasn’t bad enough!

      Be Blessed.

  5. I have so been right were you are!!
    I have started and stopped the weight loss journey and struggled with my weight all my adult life, but this year I found freedom, and I have changed my life. All things are possible with Christ! Be encouraged! you can do this! :) stopping by from hear it use it, Showers of God’s blessings over you today!

    1. renee says:

      Thanks so much for positive thoughts and God’s blessing! I need people like you in my life.

      Be Blessed.

  6. Awww, I’m so sorry that you worry about this. Weight, honestly, has not been too big of an issue in my life (pardon the pun!). I KNOW I have been blessed with a great metabolism. But I also struggle to let people know of the areas where I “feel” fat or a failure. So I’m impressed by your courage and by the way, think that you look great–even with the extra weight. But I will pray for you on this difficult journey–that God fills that hunger you feel with Him and good people, like you’ve said so eloquently here. Great post!

    1. renee says:

      Thank you for your prayers–weight was never an issue for me either–I ran 1/2 marathons, hiked, swam . . . you name it I did it and loved it!

      Be Blessed.

  7. Thank you for your honesty and I’m cheering you one!

    1. renee says:

      Thanks! Some how knowing that I’ve made this bigger than just me . . . no pun intended–it seems possible.

      Be Blessed.

  8. In heaven – I’ll be perfectly me – without weight issues. I kept 5 lbs from each child and then stressed myself into 20 extra lbs. I’m trying to lose those 20 extra lbs now – and worry about the other 25 later – however, I’m sure there’s 10 lbs somewhere that would have me awesomely fit – but I’m not looking for perfect – I’m just looking for comfortably me!

    I’ve lost 14 lbs since January, gained 5 back and am trying to make it to a goal point where I need to lose 13 lbs.

    We can do this!!!!

    1. renee says:

      Wow! Congrats to you for losing weight!

      I love your quotes “I’ll be perfectly me” and “comfortably me”–I’m not sure what comfortable is for me–but I’ll let you know.

      Be Blessed and praying you find your “perfect, awesome and comfortable” fit :-)

  9. Hey friend! I’m right there with you. I actually have always struggled with my weight, even when I was a normal size! My mom loved THIN! I wasn’t thin, just normal and always felt fat.
    As the torrent of life carried me along, I gained, first with the stress and strain of a difficult marriage, then with the stresses and strains of illness(my children, my mom, and mine), I gained. Finally, with a blessing, a fourth child at 47, I gained a whopping 40 pounds AFTER I had her. I stared myfitnesspal about a month ago and am working really hard to try and become healthy again. I wish I only had 60 to lose. I have probably a hundred pounds to lose. We will regain our health and become the women on the outside that we are on the inside! Enjoyed your post! I soooo identify!

    1. renee says:

      I just visited your blog! I book marked you!

      Good for you for having a strategy–I have myfitnesspal on my phone but don’t use it . . . maybe that would help?

      I love that–being the woman on the outside that I want to be on the inside.

      Be Blessed.

  10. messymarriage says:

    Awww, I’m so sorry you feel this way, but I’m also very glad that you’re fighting your fears and putting yourself out there for us to see your progress. I don’t necessarily struggle with weight, but believe me, there are plenty of issues where I “feel” fat or a failure and struggle to be authentic about them. So, you go, girl! I’m praying that He will fill you up with Himself and the good friends who are a good satisfaction for that void.

    1. renee says:

      My “honest” issue is about fat and not losing weight and I love that you said that you having your own struggles–makes me feel like we all have something in common.

      Be Blessed.

  11. Keya says:

    Cheering you on and praying that you be gentle and kind to yourself through this journey!

    1. renee says:

      Thank you for your prayers!

      Be Blessed.

  12. Susan C. says:

    You can do it! You’re brave! This is the first time I’ve ever read your blog. (Found the link on A Holy Experience… the title of today’s post caught my eye.) Gotta find my own motivation and I have a lot more to lose than you. I’ll continue to check back.

    1. renee says:

      You can do it too! Thanks for checking in–I’ve decided to do the 31 days challenge and write about honesty/truth for this month–it won’t all be about losing weight but as I “unload” other things in my life I think it will work out.

      Be Blessed.

  13. Vicky says:

    I love your honesty and I admire you greatly. Putting something in writing is like a tablet of stone to me….scares me to death. But you did it and I intend to pray for you daily on your journey. And just for the record, you are beautiful! Your picture is gorgeous! I know you want to be comfortable with yourself so only you can determine what your weight should be so I support you in that. YOU CAN DO IT! I will be back.

    1. renee says:

      Thanks–funny you should say “scares you to death”–for tomorrow I’m writing a post on top ten things that scare me!

      Keep praying–I appreciate it and so need it! My prayer is that God will heal myself and those who are on the same page of being authentic!

      Be blessed.

  14. I love your post…and your honestly :) I identify completely, even the part about not feeling at home. I’ve got alot to loose also, weight that is. Looking forward to more posts.

  15. I’m half way through a similar journey. I’ve lost 60 with another 30 to go- put on in the year after the birth of my older three (I had 3 in 9 1/2 months). I hope you meet and exceed any goals you set yourself, but remember weight does not maketh the lady (nor breaketh the lady!) You are a very beautiful girl.

    1. renee says:

      Thank you! I will keep your words close.

      Be Blessed.

  16. neritia says:

    I don’t know you – and because of the 31days via The Nester I found you blog…and I am now doing my *happy dance*! Happy dance = head and arms and feet all moving at once in different directions!

    Your TOTAL honesty floored me…completely! We work in kg’s – and I’ve gained 15kg’s since January this year. Fo some reason I carry that weight kind of well, but the fact remains…I’m not fitting into ANY of my clothes and blah-bah-blah, BUT what really gets to me is the effect it has on my wellbeing. It’s weird…as I gain the weight it’s almost as though I creep into darker places. It’s hard for me to live in the Light – because I know that for the most part it’s lack of self-control…I can blame the hormones, and believe me I want to – but the reality is…I eat like a caterpillar and if it was greens….I’d probably be in a way better place!! :)

    You’re going to do it – make it and have fun while you’re at it!! I’m going to return, with the hope that some will rub off on me!

    Warm blessings xoxo

    1. renee says:

      thanks for stopping in! I’m not sure how much weight I’ll lose in the 31 days but I’m sure I will gain in knowledge about myself! Looking forward to hearing from you again.

      Be Blessed.

  17. Brianna VanValin says:

    Cheering you on!!! If you need/want any tips or advice, just let me know :)

    1. renee says:

      I need your scheduling advice–when do I fit in a workout–I started to do yoga because the thought of running/jogging/walking is not where I’m at. Maybe that will change as my mind begins to accept and let go . . . right now I feel like I’m spinning in all directions, in the fog, with lots of little people talking all at once . . .

      Be Blessed.

      1. Brianna VanValin says:

        Sorry that I just saw this!! Making workouts a routine is so important…but it also the most difficult part. I have found that it helps people to find time each day, but not necessarily the SAME time each day. For example, on Monday you might walk in the morning, but Tuesday mornings you have XYZ, so you can’t. Instead of skipping a workout, find a time where every Tuesday you workout at the same time (like an afternoon or evening.)

        Also to see some results sooner (which will be encouraging too!) is that you have to push past the “getting in shape in order to workout” fallacy. Even if you can’t imagine walking for 30 min, just walk for 15. A big part of this is just your body proving to your mind you can do something! Once you see you can do the 15, why not do the 20? (or 30!) Yes, yoga is awesome and I recommend it, but to really see some good results, get that heart rate up and that sweat dripping! I like to tell my clients, that after a workout, they should be surprised that they actually made it through :) If it was comfortable, it wasn’t hard enough. I know that probably makes it seem like the LAST thing you want to do, but just think how empowered you will feel when you do make it! (and when that “impossible” workout starts to get easy!)

        I hope some of this helps a little bit! YOU CAN DO IT!!!

        1. renee says:

          You are awesome! In the 30 days series I was able to identify so many areas that I really needed to get in perspective–so I’ve made a list of what is the most important tasks to the least important–what an eye opener! I found that I had (over time) shifted my priorities! Of course it took a month of writing to figure things out . . . holding myself accountable to the now–not what happened . . .

          I’m motivated in a different way now–it’s not about what people will think–it’s about how I feel! I’m doing it for me now–that is huge!

          Be Blessed.

  18. Mary Beth says:

    I’m in awe of your bravery and honesty. You should check in with Jessica at Muthering Heights. She gained about 100 lbs I do believe after babies and has lost it all and kept it off. She’s writing an eBook about it. Like Messy Marriage said, weight hasn’t been a huge issue in my life, but we all have our struggles. And they are all easier fought in community with folks cheering us on!

    1. renee says:

      Thanks–I think of Brave as going to war–I’m just a fat lady who is ready to face the demons and make a change. Messy Marriage checked in . . . I’m on it. Mary Beth you are such an inspiration and I value your input.

      Be Blessed.

      1. Mary Beth says:

        But it is brave—you put your struggle out here for everyone to see! That’s amazing. I know you are inspiring many women to “go to war” against this battle!

        Thanks for your to compliments. I’m glad to be an encouragement!
        Thanks for linking up with WIP!

  19. Gail says:

    I applaud you for your willingness to own up. It is embarrassing to have to tell your weight to a complete stranger. I’ve sometimes “rounded down” my number as well, I’m sad to say.

    1. renee says:

      uugghh–it was horrible. I think the last time I had to get a drivers license was 11 years ago and my weight was NOT on that one so I was totally caught off guard. I can’t wait to lose weight so I can go in and pay $10 for a new license!

      Be Blessed.

  20. Pamela says:

    I need to lose fifty and would love to join you. You’re braver than I am, not sure I could make it public on my blog.. Too many real-life friends. It’s the exercise that gets me every time. A friend once got me a mug that said “My dream is to weigh what my driver’s license says.” It’s time I make that happen.

    1. renee says:

      I too have real life friends on my blog–but part of being authentic is that my blog really does mirror my life–keep me honest friends, ok? Feel free to join in all month long for my 31 days of honesty.

      Be Blessed.

  21. I appreciate your honesty!

  22. Tonya says:

    oh! I forgot to tell you…you are beautiful!!!

    1. renee says:

      Thank you so much!

      Be Blessed.

  23. Anita H says:

    This could have been my post. I was a normal size until I got married and totalled our car. I felt guilty and punished myself. Then i got pregnant. I loved being pregnant and eating without worry. So I continued to look pregnant for years – through 2 miscarriages and 2 healthy births. I’m happily married but I, too, am fat. I, too, lied on my driver’s license. I, too, think of food as my friend and comforter, not fuel for my body. I stumbled upon this blog for a reason. I think God wants me to join you on this journey. So, I’m with you – for better or worse. God bless us both with strength, humor, and love for ourselves.

    1. renee says:

      Anita, praying for you–I’m really amazed at how we share the same story!

      Be Blessed.

  24. Anita H says:

    By the way, I hate exercise, too. I recently (3 months ago) started yoga and I LOVE it! So, if you haven’t tried it, give it a shot!

    1. renee says:

      I just checked out a bunch of Shiva Rea from the library and have a meditation downloaded to my phone. Great minds think alike.

      Be Blessed.

  25. Momma Bug says:

    Renee, You certainly are a lovely woman! That kind of vulnerability is very hard to be, and I’m blessed by your candidness. I just started T-Tapp and I am SO impressed by the doability of the workout! With a bunch of children myself, I love the fact that I can do under 20 minutes a day, and this workout strengthens your core, doesn’t take any special space or equipment, and while I haven’t been doing it long I sure feel better after I do it. If you get a chance, read some of the testimonies (favorite is Charlotte Siems) and check out the “try before you buy”.

    Whatever means you take, blessings as you endure!

    1. renee says:

      thanks so much for stopping by! Thank you for your blessing–I’m feeling very supported.

  26. mommasylvia says:

    I think you are beautiful! I will cheer you on! When I had my appendix out they asked me how much I weighed. I froze at first then said 155 not really knowing and thinking it was more. But i was spot on! still need to loose 20 though.

    1. renee says:

      Thank you! Be Blessed.

  27. edith kerns says:

    I have been praying about finding someone to partner with for accountability- I am wanting to do the 17 day diet by Dr. Mike Monerno but have put if off, reread the book and put it off- now I am praying for a 10 day Mission trip to Haiti and don’t want to start til I get back. So I am looking at a start date of Mon Oct 22. Would love to stay in touch- thank you for your honesty and vulnerability- this is a HUGE struggle for many women but no one talks about it enough.

    1. renee says:

      Well Edith, this entire month is about honesty–so I’m sure that I will be writing about things that no one does want to talk about–because being honest is hard and scary!

      Be Blessed.

  28. Kristin says:

    You are beautiful!!! But I know how you feel and I pray you get to a place where you are happy with yourself. God already is and again, you look BEAUTIFUL!
    Blessings to you~

    1. renee says:

      Thank you so much for your blessing!

  29. Jenn Hand says:

    I loved loved reading your blog from the SDG linkup. I love your bravery, honesty as everyone said.. and i love your beautiful smile!! you radiate Jesus. Praying for you

    1. renee says:

      Your prayers are very welcome! I do feel joyful and my soul sings–I want to be smaller for me not for anyone else–that is what I’m working on now . . .

      Be Blessed.

  30. I’ve posted about my struggle with weight as well. I definitely use food as a comfort. For what it’s worth, you are beautiful. However, I understand the underlying need here above and beyond “getting skinny” Blessings to you!

    1. renee says:

      Thank you so much! Love the chocolate chip muffins!

      Be Blessed.

  31. Amanda says:

    I’m fat too. :(
    It is frustrating. I’ve gained about 50 pounds in the last 7 years and it is so aggravating! I don’t hate exercise, per say, I just don’t ever get up and do it. I make excuses, or tell myself I’m waiting for Josh so we can work out together…but that never happens. I really hope to get back to working out on a regular basis now that the weather is conducive to being outside and not dying of a heatstroke.

    Good luck! I’ll be trying too, although I might not post about it often.

    1. renee says:

      SSOOOO frustrating. Praying that you will be able keep moving towards your goals!

      Be Blessed.

  32. Thanks for being honest!
    I recently went public and admitted that I need to lose 40 lbs. It sucked to admit it at first but now I’m glad I did. It is proven that a person is more successful if at least three other friends are doing it with them. That’s the reason I recently started my blog to document my weight journey, and offer support and connect with others that are in the same boat. I will check in with you and check how you’re doing and share how I’m doing..Please stop by my blog and check out my weight journey..

    1. renee says:

      The pool looks so fantastic! I love to swim outside! I will book mark your site. Be blessed on your journey and thanks for checking back with me!

      1. Naturally Sports & Wellness says:

        The Pool is great but not heated. I think I only have a couple of more weeks before it is time to say good bye to swimming for the winter. I’ve added your site to my google reader so that I can check in..
        It’s nice to meet you! Let’s do this together!!!!!!!

  33. saleecash says:

    I have often thought it interesting that the one thing women will usually always lie about is their weight . . . and for men it’s their height. My drivers license doesn’t reflect my correct weight either.

    1. renee says:

      I wonder how many people “fudge” weight on the license?

      Be Blessed.

  34. Kathleen says:

    You ARE beautiful, but if your heart is telling you it’s time to lose the baby weight, then do it for your health, and out of respect for the body you’ve been given to use in this world. That’s where I am. And I need accountability!

    1. renee says:

      Well, come on back! The entire month is not going to be about weight loss but it will hopefully be inspiring.

      Be Blessed.

  35. ljbmom says:

    Renee, I think you are absolutely beautiful :). Thank you for sharing this part of your story–I feel so honored. My Bible study girls and I are doing Lysa Teurkerst’s Made to Crave right now and it has helped me to have a healthier view of food and my body. I’ll be praying for you, sweet lady.

    1. renee says:

      I find your site to be very inspiring and a great place to visit and feel refreshed. Thanks for stopping in and having your link so that I can actually share my story! Without you it would not be heard and hopefully be helpful.

      Be Blessed.

  36. Pam says:

    You can do it! Congratulations on taking the first steps – just remember to keep it at baby steps – don’t go all out right away or you’ll burn yourself out. Good luck!

    1. renee says:

      Oh–no worries on the going all out! To be honest (no pun intended) I don’t really have a plan. My intention is to get rid of all the “stuff” and feel like I can begin a new.

      Be Blessed.

  37. Hugs! I can appreciate how hard this is for you to write. Even though I lost all the weight I gained in high school while in college, I still see myself as that overweight girl. That was over 20 years ago! I don’t want my daughter to carry that kind of message in her head. I’m working on appreciating my body for what it is. Exercising and feeling strong has helped a lot.

    Thank you for linking up at Motivation Monday!

    1. renee says:

      Thanks for the opportunity to link up! Your site is very motivating. I am wondering when I lose the weight how will I perceive myself–right now I think I’m a thinner version of myself than what the mirror shows . . . check back with me on that.

      Be Blessed.

    2. Loretta says:

      First off, I want to say thank you for being honest and showing us that we are not the only ones. I think this is why we ladies don’t share more often about these things. We think we are alone. As you can see, we have been there and it’s nice to know that you can relate. I know we are not proud of our shortcomings! But together we can support one another. And that’s why you will be successful in your journey. Finding out why we do things, is how we can change the outcome. I’m interested to hear how your journey is helped along in whatever study you may use.

      I can relate to Barb too. Now I’m in “maintenance mode” and trying to stay there. I’m using a website, http://www.loseit.com, for my journey. It lets you use your own eating and exercise plan. It counts calories for you as you log what you ate and I’ve never counted calories before! It’s really about portion control for me and getting active again.

      Anyway, I just wanted to agree with Barb when she talks about her daughter. I was at my heaviest while in my senior year in high school more than 20 years ago. I now have a 6 year old daughter myself and wonder what message I’m sending her about food and self-worth, without realizing it. So I’m trying to make eating healthy and within my calorie allotment, a very normal thing without drawing attention and being obsessive about it.

      Teaching our children with humility is so hard for me. But it makes learning more genuine and lasting for all of us.

      You have another cheerleader here. Can’t wait to hear what God has in store for you!

      1. renee says:

        Thanks so much for your comments. I think that you have given me a few more ideas for posts!

        I’m getting nervous . . . a week has gone by and I’ve not dropped a lb–but I think this month is about losing emotional weight and then moving forward.

        Thank you for your encouragement.

        Be Blessed.

  38. I loved this post the first time I read it, and thank you so much for sharing it at Thriving Thursdays!

  39. I’ve held onto an extra 5 lbs per pregnancy, but after 12 babies, that makes me 60 lbs over my ideal weight. Ugh! My youngest is 2 1/2 now, and I started trying in earnest this summer to shed those extra pounds. I’m down 20 so far and determined to lose at least another 30. Thanks for your post and your honest admission. I’m looking forward to being inspired by your monthly progress reports!

    1. renee says:

      Wow! 12 babies! If I had 12 babies I’d weigh . . .

      Thanks for your kind words–I’m sort of nervous about the progress reports. uugghh why did I write that.

      I will do this–thank you for your encouragement.

      Be Blessed.

  40. Christina Z says:

    Wow…some similarities in our stories. I found out I was pregnant two days after we buried my mom (she was 54). Although, I didn’t miscarry, he came 2 months premature and though I pumped and pumped and pumped, I never produced any milk. I blame the prematurity and no milk production on the grief and stress of losing my mom. I’m obsessed with the fact that I didn’t breastfeed him (he’s a healthy 14 month old now) and it (something I can’t control now) has overshadowed my life and my weight is unhealthy (something I can control now).

    1. renee says:

      Peace my friend. Leaving the past in the past is hard. What does Oprah say “we are not our past”. This moment belongs to you now–what will you do with it? I ask myself that a million times a day–when I start to worry, compare, eat–I go back to the moment that I’m in–and start over. not easy.

      Be blessed.

  41. Katrina says:

    I’m proud of you for taking this step! Putting it out there’s is hard! I have an emotional eating problem…and I’m learning to turn it over to God. Just remember we are NOT what we weigh, and sometimes it’s easier to lose the weight when we focus on getting healthy and active instead of focusing on a number that has so many variables playing into how it changes. I’ve lost 60 lbs since my son was born in February, I haven’t been focusing on the number on the scale but instead focusing on making my family healthier and I signed up for a 5k. Yes I obviously do weigh myself very now and then (about once a month) but I have come to accept the weight is going to be different than what I want it to be just yet. Just telling you what works for me :-)

    God Bless

    1. renee says:

      what an inspiring story! If I could lose 60 lbs . . . I would like that!

      Be Blessed.

  42. You are pretty amazing to be able to be so candid, open and honest! You CAN do this, remember- it’s not about a diet or a size, it is about healthy!

    1. renee says:

      I’m not amazing–I’m just tired of pretending–and you know what? It feels great not to have to put all that energy into my life being a shade of perfect!

      Be Blessed.

  43. Jenn Marquardt says:

    I would definitely like to lose weight with you Renee! We all have something we are not happy with when it comes to our bodies. Together we can do it! I think exercise is a big part of the weight loss too, I just have to find time to do it!

    1. renee says:

      alright! let’s get this plan in action–this next week! even if we just make a facebook page for accountability would be a start! I’ll schedule–you bring the enthusiasm!

      Be Blessed!

  44. for what it’s worth Renee, I think you are gorgeous. A real woman, radiating your all around beauty

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