the big 30 day challenge update!

If you had asked me a year ago if I ever thought I'd post a picture of myself on my blog in only a sports bra and shorts, I'd tell you that you were crazy. Out of your mind insane.

But here I am...doing just what I said I'd never do.

Well, it's 16 days into my 30 day challenge. 

I figured it was about time for me to give y'all a little update to hold myself accountable...

As much as it embarrasses me and makes me want to hide my face, I know that seeing people being totally real with their weight struggles encourages me more than anything. I'm a real person with real weight issues and I'm okay with putting that out there, because that's me. That's who I am. Because it takes more than just my own willpower to keep me going in this battle. It takes the words, the comments, and the encouragement from others around me to help me to not just throw my hands up in the air some days. 

And some people won't get that--some people will laugh at me or snicker behind my back. And that's okay. They just don't understand. 

So, I'll post about my weight. I'll post about my struggles. About how hard it is on a daily basis. I'll post about my triumphs. And I'll post pictures of me before, during, and after, because if  any of that encourages even one person, it's worth it. So worth it.

The first picture is April 15th, taken with my phone. 

The second picture was last night (May 2nd), taken with Andrew's phone.

**note to self--use a real camera next time! Sorry for the grainy quality.

Umm...am I crazy or can I see a little bit of a gap in between my thighs in the second one?! 

I've never seen that before. That gap has never existed. 

Promise, these haven't been retouched in any way. I DID try to fix the flash on them though, because I look totally awful and bright with the lighting in the first. Other than that, nothing has been altered (as much as I wanted to blur the whole thing out haha!) Just for clarification :)

I know it's not a huge difference, but I can tell. I can see a little less pudge in the tummy area, a little less back fat, and a little less muffin top. Maybe I'm imagining it. Either way, it keeps me motivated to hit the gym and put down the fork for another day. 

I've lost 6.5 lbs as of today.

I'm down 2.25" off my waist and 2.5" off my hips. 

I forgot to measure my bust and arms at the beginning, but I can tell a difference in both of those areas, too. My arms feel more sculpted than they've ever felt before!

My pants are fitting so much better. My stomach doesn't feel as flabby. I feel a lot more toned in areas I never thought would be toned. 

I tried on a bikini today and actually didn't think I looked terrible in it.

My boyfriend said to me, "Babe, you look so skinny in that!" 

And inside, I did a little happy dance. It feels so good to see a change in my body when I'm trying so hard to make a change happen. 

..........................................

Here are a few little tips, recipes, and motivators that are keeping me going!

How to get rid of that awful arm jiggle.

Awesome casseroles for under 300 calories, because sometimes you just need a casserole.

A few workouts to trim those inner thighs, one of my most hated areas!

Some motivating words to get my butt off the couch.

The best motivation ever.

Quick, easy, and yummy lunch for ladies on the go!

Happy Thursday, loves! Whatever your goal is, make a plan and stick with it! Results are possible if we force ourselves to to stay committed to what's important to us...as hard as it is, it's totally worth it in the end!