December 5th. That was the morning I woke up, looked in the mirror, and asked myself, “Who are you? And why have you allowed yourself to get so heavy?”
Yes, I have asked myself that question before. I have struggled with my weight for the past 8 years. But it was finally the wake up call I needed to help me say “No!” to all my poor choices of my past.
Cancer screwed with my metabolism. Chemotherapy, being sedentary for a year on a couch, and steroids caused my metabolism to plummet. My body has never quite been the same. But reality is that I’ve been in remission long enough to not be able to use that as excuse any longer.
The fact is I could eat this stuff for the rest of my life and cancer or no cancer, it will cause me to gain weight. No questions.
Sobering questions:
“Is being healthy truly important to me or is it just what I know I should say?”
“Do I find myself attractive? Do I walk with the same confidence I had in my personal image when I met Jeff?”
“Do I feel the same energy levels as I did when I didn’t have 57 pounds of extra weight on me?”
Sobering facts:
I live in a world that is discriminating towards people who are overweight, especially women. Anyone who argues with this fact hasn’t been overweight. I went to a class where I saw this first hand. The thin healthy girls were chosen as the examples in every case and used as models for the portraits. It was possibly the most degrading I’ve ever felt as an adult. The same 5 girls were used over and over. It was blatantly obvious and brought up by several participants later in the hotel lobby. I acted as if I didn’t agree with them or notice, but I knew it. I tried to use my normal optimistic, “Oh girls. I think it’s just been a long day and we will all feel better in the morning.”
Hogwash. I knew it was hogwash as it was coming out of my mouth. You see I used to be the skinny, healthy athlete that was always chosen. I can not tell you how much it crushed a part of me. Even typing this is hard because I am having to face the fact that I’m not that healthy person I once was.
When I gained weight, the last thing I wanted to do was buy fashionable clothes. It was the mentality, “I’ll buy cute clothes when I lose weight.” My wardrobe consists of clothes used to hide my weight. But all it does in reality is make me feel worse. What am I hiding? I’m just accentuating it by dressing in a potato sack.
If I don’t get my body fat down, there is a high likelihood that I’m going to get a recurrence of cancer or another disease. I’m a nurse. I know the sobering facts. And Jeff and my children don’t deserve that. Heck, neither do I. I’m finally at a place in my life where things are starting to happen in my life and with this blog. The last thing I want to do is fight for my life instead of living it to the fullest as I’m starting to taste right now.
So on December 5th I stepped on the scale and I was 187. I feel like I need to be as honest and vulnerable as possible. Typing that weight itself just made my eyes well with tears. That’s painful for me to admit. I’m not putting down anyone that is heavier than me.
This morning I am 169 pounds. I’ve lost 18 pounds in roughly nearly 6 weeks. It’s no rocket science what I’m doing. Eating right, eating more of what is good (protein and vegetables), eating less of what is bad, and moving more. No hidden secrets. I have 39 pounds to go towards my goal. At 130 – 135 pounds, I’m typically a body fat percentage of 18-20%. It is that body fat percentage, not the weight, that I need achieve and maintain to keep cancer at bay. I ask for you to pray and send good thoughts. I must get there.
I received an email yesterday that shook me to the core. I don’t know if it was the sender’s intention. I’m going to say no, because I want to believe the best in people. I did respond in love because all I can do is control my actions and the words that come out of my mouth (or blog). That is what I am responsible for.
Essentially the sender was thanking me for wonderful stories, my cupcake series, and tutorials but pointed out that my blog would be more powerful if my personal image improved so that I could “put cute self portraits of myself in trendy clothes” in my posts daily. She said it could get me to the next level.
I was having a great day. Getting lovely comments about my polaroid tutorial and had just responded to a second email from a person going through cancer treatment. I was feeling like I was making a difference. Then I received this email and I ALLOWED it to sink me into despair. That sadness effected the rest of my day and my family.
All the goodness that was flowing in was immediately sidelined by one email. I read these 2 posts from Karen and Hayley last night before going to bed and they put me in a better frame of mind. After a good night’s sleep I am in a different place.
So here is my response:
Dear Anonymous Reader,
I received your letter yesterday and at first it hit me like a ton of bricks. I believe you had honorable intentions and I thank you for your compliments about my blog. I too wish I had cute self portraits and wore trendy clothes. But alas, that is not me at this time. My cuteness is just surrounded by a little too much fluff right now.
I started this blog because of a wake up call to live life to the fullest. I didn’t want to see another moment pass me by where I wasn’t living intentionally to achieve my ultimate goal and passion of completing items off my life list.
If I accomplish all of that and have only 5 readers at the end of this journey, THAT will be the ultimate level that I choose to strive for. If more than 5 readers want to join along and feel inspired, then great. But if I don’t achieve my goals on my life list and have 50,000 readers at the end of this journey, I will have failed. I will have failed myself. And I will have failed you.
You see, I might be fluffy but I can assure you I am authentic and I speak from the most vulnerable place right now. A place of pure painful honesty. Thank you for reminding me why I am writing this blog, living this journey, and why I must get healthy. I just think our definitions of making it to the next level are a little different.
Blessings sweet reader – Jenny
I promise updates to follow. My goal is health and a low body fat percentage. I struggle like you to find that balance. But if I can help encourage any of you or you have any suggestions, I welcome them. I treasure your comments and try to respond to all of them. Even the ones that sting a little.
Please be gentle in your comments to all involved. I’m just genuinely speaking from my heart. I am by nature not a critical person.
Have a lovely weekend sweet friends – Jenny
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Comments
Monica McNeill
Beautiful. Thank you for sharing your humanity with us. AND awesome, amazing progress since December. HOORAY for YOU!!
Jenny
Thank you Monica. I’m going to get there. 130-135 here I come!
Jen Kinkade
I admire your vulnerable honesty, but most of all your integrity. I think you addressed the reader with grace. I applaud you for how you reach out to your audience. We know that God knows the heart of man and that you will be blessed by your efforts–not to be cute and trendy, but to create relationships that make a difference!
keep it up.
that being said, yay! for you journeying to be healthy because you know that is what your mind & body NEEDS!!
let’s encourage one another!!
blessings to you!
Jenny
My body is already happy with the 18 pound weight loss. My joints already feel better. It’s that feeling that I’m trying to remember when I am faced with the choice to exercise or not or eat well or not. Thanks for all your encouragement Jen. I’m so glad to have you and Nicole in the internet world. So thankful for you.
Janet Carr
Ohhhh JENNY!!!!!! Bless your heart!!!!! I think you are so beautiful and I LOVE your zest for life!!! The confidence in which you live each day!!!!!! Your raw honesty and warm beautiful smile that you share with each of us is amazing and gives me such great inspiration!!!!!!! Thank you so MUCH for being just who you are!!!!!! Just remember… as Ali says… I am enough!!!!! (by the way I just ordered that necklace from Liz Lamoreaux and I can’t WAIT to get it!! LOL!!) BIG HUGS and I hope you have a WONDERFUL day!!!!!!!
Jenny
Thank you Janet. I’ve been soaking up all these words of love and encouragement and I can’t begin to explain how appreciative I am. I am enough. I know this but sometimes I get discouraged like everyone else. But I am in a much better place today. Thanks again for everything Janet!
Julia
From one fluffy woman who’s trying to reduce her fluff to another – you Rock! I needed this today.
Jenny
Thanks Julia. I think we both needed it. Today, I’m truly thankful that I received that email. It just took me a little bit of time to get there. Thanks for your encouragement. Let’s both get healthy!
Lisa Muniz
You handled that beautifully. It is nice that you were able to take what was said and make a positive out of it. It seems to have helped you define (again) your goal and intention with your blog and view on life. I too would always choose “health” over “skinny”. And as far as your blog, I would choose “honest” over “famous”. Keep the inspiring posts coming!
Jenny
I think famous is overrated. The blogs I follow are authentic above all. I can’t stand pomp and circumstance if there is no substance. Thanks Lisa- I’ve been able to gather a lot more positive out of it over the past couple days now that I have had some time to reflect on this post and process it all.
Angela Mills
I love your blog. You are an inspiration and am excited to be on this journey with you. Thanks for including us
. PS…I went to Bossier High and graduated with Julie.
Jenny
Yes Angela! I remember who you are. Thanks so much for your compliments and I’m thrilled you are coming along with me on this journey. I’ll let Julie know you stopped by- she will be thrilled!
stephanie
Love, love, love this post. I’m right there with you needing to make health changes, but not brave enough to write a post about it yet.
You do have my prayers and cheers!
Jenny
Thank you Stephanie. You can make those health changes and I wish you luck and many blessings in accomplishing those goals this year. Thanks for your prayers and cheers – I’ll take them all!
Gayletrini
you are an inspiration and I am so happy that you were able to shake the negativity of the comment and find your inspiration form it.
You can do it!
Jenny
Thank you. It truly has inspired me more than discouraged me. I just had one bad afternoon, but I did allow it to have that power over me. Lesson learned- I will have more unkind emails in the future. I need to take the constructive criticism and change what I need to, but then hold my head high and continue on my path. Thank you for your encouragement.
Nicol
Jenny, you totally rock! You are such an inspiration to me. I love your honesty and admire the way that you put yourself out there to inspire others. I know you can reach your health goals. I am cheering you on all the way. Hugs!
Jenny
Thank you Nicol! I’m going to need all the encouragement you can muster. So appreciate those good thoughts. I’ve got a long way to go, but I’m going to do it.
Angie
Truly inspiring – as seems to be your intent. I realize this idea sprang from your cancer and recovery but I feel paralleled to your journey on so many levels that have nothing at all to do with that. Cupcakes! Family! Travel! Quirkiness! Craftiness! And even in this – Health! I think the best thing we can do for each other as fellow humans is to encourage each other. There is so much discouragement in the world – we need to hang on to every positive, uplifting word. Please know that since discovering your place I am a daily visitor and relish in the positive energy of your words!
Jenny
Thank you Angie. This indeed has been such an amazing journey and I am indeed quirky (and perhaps a little crazy
). It has indeed taken me in many directions. Thank you for your encouragement- we all need more of it. I completely agree. So glad you are enjoying the blog. That warms my heart.
Jennifer
I, too, am right there with you– I’ve had my own sobering health issues in the past few years- including a stroke at the age of 40 (no lasting damage, thank goodness) brought on by a multitude of issues: hereditary high cholesterol, a sedentary lifestyle, a desk job, a love of all things fried and sugary… you get the idea. In total, all these things add up to 50-60 extra lbs; I totally understand your feelings about ‘hiding’ yourself. Inside, I don’t feel like the person I look like on the outside. I am finally working on this for the LAST time, so I can be HEALTHY and FIT, once and for all. …and so I can wear the cute, trendy clothes, too!
Good luck on your journey, and thank you for sharing your feelings with us, your readers!
Jenny
Jennifer- I so relate to your comment about not feeling like the person I look like on the outside. I think I said that exact phrase to my husband several times this past year. But indeed, it’s time. I do look like that on the outside, so health wise, it’s just not good for my insides either. So looking forward to us both wearing clothes that make us feel attractive and holding our shoulders back with great posture because of a new found confidence. Thank you so much Jennifer- we can do it!
Kathleen
My greatest hope is that the next big cultural trend in our society will be to treat each other with respect and dignity, to be as kind and gracious as possible or face public disapproval. I’m tired of the sarcastic, mean comments that people heap on others that they don’t even know. I’m afraid the anonymous nature of the internet has turned most of us into hip and snarky a-holes. Good for you for being able to channel that negativity into something positive. Thanks.
Jenny
Yes the internet has brought such amazing access to one another but it has allowed all of us (including myself) the ability to say/type things that we wouldn’t dream of saying to others in public. I have learned and am teaching my kids the importance of this very lesson right now. Thank you for your comment Kathleen.
JennyL
You are SO NOT ALONE. I’m right there with you , and look forward to the journey we will be taking together.
Jenny
Good for you Jenny. We can do this. We have so much to live for. Thank you for your kind words. All of these comments have humbled me and served to encourage me so much.
Julia
Thank you Jenny. I could make this a super long post, but if it is okay, I would just like to join along. I would like to post that at my post-op appt on Monday, I weighed in at 184. When you update us in a couple weeks, I would like to post a decent lower number, with an even lower number in the months to come. {big hugs} If Jenny can, I can too.
Jenny
Awesome Julia! Please do keep us updated. We can do it. We have a lot to get healthy for- most importantly ourselves.
Korie B.
I absolutely adore you Jenny.
Jenny
Thank you Korie. Just trying my best.
Dana
Jenny,
More applause for you, my inspiring friend. You have inspired me to do the right thing today and eat healthy. I appreciate all you post in your blog and look forward to your next postings! I am so excited when I see an email indicating a new blog post
Keep on striving towards your goals & you will inspire so many, including me!
Jenny
Thank you Dana for your encouraging words. It’s going to be a much healthier year for all of us. I’m determined! Thanks again!
Pam B
Oh sweet girl, I Love your honest, sincere take on life!! We’ve all been there and I, for one, know I will aLwaYs struggle with my weight and self esteem related to the way I look…..cute clothes can be over rated!!!:>)
I thank you!! You are such an inspiration to me,….every….single….day!! :>)))
Jenny
Thank you Pam. But when I lose weight, we are going shopping and having a burn my potato sack clothes party!!
Cindy
I am so inspired by you and I love reading your blog every day. I also have finally started on the path to being healthy and now I hope to travel it with you and I know you will encourage me to hang in there. Thank you for all you give to us!
Jenny
Cindy – I’m so glad that you enjoy reading, thank you. And let’s get healthy together and encourage one another. Blessings for a healthy week!
Nicole
You are a truly amazing woman and responded to that email in such a graceful way. Wow Jenny, just wow. With everything you have been through and THAT is what they chose to email you about? I can’t believe the things that people have the nerve to say to each other, especially online. Isn’t this ‘be nice on the internet’ week or something?? Ugh! Regardless, YOU ROCK, and I will be cheering you on every step of the way!! Hugs
Jenny
Thanks Nicole. Her intentions were honorable but our goals for my blog are just different. Although when I lose my weight, I do see a cute photo op in trendy clothes coming as a post.
Love you sweet friend.
Brenda F
Your reply was perfect. Good for you in staying strong in your journey to better health. It was three years ago in February that the number on the scale scared the daylights out of me. I went to WW the same day, lost 35 lbs by June and have maintained the loss ever since. It CAN be done. There are days when it is easier to make those healthy choices than others, but time has taught me that a bad minute or hour doesn’t need to spiral into a bad day or week. I’ve learned to accept the struggles and try to gain strength from them. Remember that willpower is a muscle, the more you use it, the stronger it gets! All my best!
Jenny
Thank you Brenda. I had a friend call and tell me the same thing. That if I have a bad meal, just move on and don’t allow it to lead to a bad day or week. Thanks for the reminder. And good for you on losing and maintaining a healthy weight. Looking forward to joining you in the maintained goal weight club!
sarabeth burke
i admire your honesty and think you are wonderful and your blog is perfect the way it is. this is about YOU and your reply was perfect too. i’m a little upset for you regarding the comment. i do not think that was a pick me up and get ‘er done move at all-i think you have the strength and charisma to accomplish your goals and remember that we are here supporting ya sister! you can only grow from here and we’re waiting to read on and see what you bring us
best of luck to you in your goals, we’ll be chatting soon!
xo
sarabeth
ps-keep me posted on your reading, i’m on book 2 and i’m still wow-ing!!!
Jenny
Thanks Sarabeth. I was discouraged that first day but after a good night’s sleep I’m back to myself and it actually fueled me and refocused me on what my intentions are for this blog. I know how much support I have and don’t take that lightly for one minute. Thank you for taking the time to encourage me and I’m planning on starting the book on Monday. I am certain that I will be hooked.
Cathie
I am so impressed and admire so much how you have handled the reader’s criticism. I strive for that kind of grace everyday.
I am new to your blog and I love it. keep doing what you’re doing.
Jenny
Thank you Cathie. I am a firm believer in the power of love, grace, and mercy. This world would be such a better place if we all offered these to one another.
Nicole
That was an honest and empowering response.. Go you!
Jenny
Thanks Nicole. I keep telling my children that we are only responsible for our responses to others because we can’t control their actions. Thanks taking the time to comment.
Jill
Jenny, I’ve just recently found your blog and I am hooked! I’m a first-time Project Lifer and am so inspired by all of your “creativeness!” You are amazing in so many ways! Thank you for your post today; it rings true with me, too. Know that you are loved ~ by someone who doesn’t even know you!
Blessings to you and your family!
Jenny
Thank you Jill. I’m thrilled that you have started Project Life. I appreciate your kind sentiments. I took a couple of days to just reread the comments and let them soak in. Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such an encouraging note.
Heather
I am so with you on this. Being in school for the past two years, I have gained 15 pounds and lost the self-confidence I usually have. I woke up after Christmas with the determination to lose the weight by my 39th birthday in October. My husband and friends are very supportive; I know I can do this, and so can you! Good for you for making your health a priority, and thanks for sharing your journey with us!
Jenny
Thank you Heather. It is so easy to gain weight when you are in school. I’m thrilled we both have good support systems. We can do this. Keep me updated!
Casey K.
I don’t think the writer was trying to put you down though in fact it did. It is a painful reminder of how appearance oriented our society is. The notion that your blog would be better if you had more pictures of yourself in trendy clothes is absolutely ridiculous. Perhaps the writer should quit reading your blog and keep watching The Kardashians. Honestly Jenny I, and I’m sure countless other readers, read your blog because of what you write, not the pictures you post. Two thumbs up on your classy reply.
Jenny
Thanks Casey. I agree, I do not believe she was trying to put me down. But where she is wanting me to go, is not my goal. If this blog takes off and becomes really popular with readers, great. But that isn’t my ultimate goal. Thanks for your comment.
Julie
Jenny, I have been reading your blog for several months. I applaud your commitment to your health. But honestly, that commenter can stick it. Your blog couldn’t be any more perfect, you are REAL and inspiring. Most people do not pay attention to the cover of the book, it’s what’s in the book that’s important.
Jenny
Thank you Julie. I do believe that original intentions were honorable but that what she desires for me isn’t the ultimate prize for me. I genuinely believe that after reading her email a couple of more times. Thank you – I do try to be 100% genuine. I can’t stomach insincerity so I know others don’t want to read about fantasyland or a life that doesn’t truly exist. Thank you for your encouragement. It means more than you will ever know.
Crystal
Jenny, I think you rock! I found you from Becky’s blog and have been following you ever since. Thanks for keeping it real and you are truly an inspiration! I love your zest for life!
Jenny
Thank you Crystal. Life is indeed good and I’ve been blessed. I look forward to some amazing things in 2012!
Marilyn Johnson
Jenny, Like you, being a nurse, we know what we need to do ourselves to be healthy. It is just so easy to get so busy caring for others that we put ourselves last. I applaud you on your weight loss and getting into shape. Your progress is great! I just started running again this week, after so, so, many years. By the way, you look beautiful!
Jenny
Thank you Marilyn. I am beautiful. I told myself that this morning!
I have most definitely been guilting of taking care of everyone else but myself. But that was before. Now, I’m allotting enough time for myself as well. Thanks for your kind words.
Marna
I can’t even write what I want to say. Love you friend! Love how you are inspiring so many others with your intentional lifestyle. You rock and don’t ever forget it.
Jenny
You are the best friend anyone can ask for Miss Marna Kay. Thanks as always for everything.
Julie
Jenny,
I’m so glad I found your blog. Heck, I’m thinking about my QUALITY of life more and more, making lists, checking lists, thinking about cupcakes (haha). And now we are trying to get healthier together. How fun is that?!
Now you’re helping me be more Mindful (myOLW) about what goes in and goes OUT of my mouth! LOL!
Good luck and keep being you sister!
Julie
Jenny
Julie- Mindful is such a great OLW. I know someone else who has that word. Mindful, focus, and intention are so closely intertwined. I’m so glad you are thinking about the quality of your life. It took me a while to get there and now I just don’t have the time to just fill it with fluff. It’s time to get healthy and have the energy to get those items checked off my list. Thanks again for your kind words and encouragement.
Julie H.
I think you and your blog rock. It’s not often that someone’s blog hooks-me-in, but I applaud your honesty and your resolve to meet your goals. Many of us find outselves in the position where our weight isn’t what it “used to be” – I know I am easily 40 pounds heavier than when I met my husband 10 years ago, and most of that was weight gain AFTER my second child (who is now six). It’s shocking to step on the scale and see that SCARY number (mine was higher than yours!) and then share it with the world. You are BRAVE. I could care less if you post “cute pics of yourself in trendy clothes”. Just keep up the honesty, keep shooting for those goals, and bake those cupcakes for your kids, girl
You’re AWESOME!
Jenny
Thank you Julie! You have been one of my greatest cheerleaders. I’m glad you are hooked on my blog- so am I. This is going to be a healthy year for both of us. It’s time- no more excuses. Let’s do it! Thanks again for your encouragement. I’ve been touched by the outpouring of encouragement.
Julie McD
Wow! You are incredible and huge kudos for blogging from the heart! I’m right there with you on the healthier quest this year…I decided that the ‘blame train’ stopped when the clock turned 2012. I am famous for blaming my extra 35 pounds on 3 kids, hypothyroid, lack of time, etc. The bottom line is I am 42, never liked to exercise, it wasn’t really ingrained in me to exercise, and I never really liked fruits & veggies…this is my year to BE {my 1 little word} active & healthier and to BE in a healthy zone on the scale! You are making amazing progress & are an inspiration to me! Hugs & keep strong!
Jenny
Julie- BE is such a great one little word. 2012 is going to be our year! The excuses have to be thrown out and we have to be mindful of what goes into our bodies and how much we move – even walking. If you don’t like to exercise, may I suggest to find different things and vary them up. I find variety helps me from getting bored. Hope that helps. Thank you for your kind words. I’m doing great!
Lyndee
Wow! You are truly the kind of person I would like to be.
Jenny
Lyndee- That is possibly the kindest compliment I could receive. Thank you immensely. But just ask my sister and Jeff- I’m not perfect.
Jodie
Jenny, I agree with the other comments, your anonymous readers can stick it, your blog is amazing, thoughtful, truthful and real. I only recently found your blog and it has changed my life. I was feeling very blah and then found your blog and felt and immediate connection. I am a nurse, I have 4 children, I have a husband, I love project life but struggled with starting. You inspire me you inspire others don’t change continue on your journey for the best life possible.
Jenny
Thank you Jodie! We do indeed have a lot in common! Thank you for your kind words. I’m loving this journey, even the bumps in the road. I’m a better person today though because of it. Looking forward to getting to know you more.
Susan
Love your blog. Thank you for your honesty. I, too, am on a weight loss journey. I have lost 32 pounds since last January and appreciate the opportunity to read about you and your beautiful family. God bless.
Jenny
Susan- congratulations on losing 32 pounds! Amazing work. Thank you for your kind words. Today is a new day and I’m back on track.
Sherrie
What a wonderful and powerful post. As a 7-year cancer survivor, I can so identify with everything you described. Your post has been quite motivational to me. (and thank you for the links to the other blogs). This will be the year I get back to being healthy and feeling healthy.
I found your blog via Becky Higgins, and I am so glad I did. I read it regularly and want to thank you so much for your inspiration. Thank you!!!
Jenny
Thank you Sherrie and congrats on 7 years. Isn’t life good? This is going to be a great year for both of us. We both have a lot of living to do and need to get healthy for ourselves and our families. Good luck on your journey and keep me updated!
DonnaG
hi Jenny,
Reading your post at first made me angry that anyone would write that to you. Then I realized that everyone comes from a different place and you handled it with such grace. Don’t let anyone get you down! I found your blog through Becky Higgins blog and I have really been enjoying it. I have made a “year list” because of you and have made a few of your cupcakes with my girls. We love cooking together! Thank you for all your inspiration and for incising everyone! I look forward to your post and your dancing video’s!!
I also took up running a few years ago. I still have a good 20lbs I would like to loose. Keep with it….the running community is wonderful. I ran 13 races last year which included 2 half marathons. Keeps me training and is a good energy boost. Some great sites that help….coolrunning.com and mapmyrun.com. Cool running has lots of races posted ( hopefully in your area too) and map my run helps you map out new course routes!!! Happy running and blogging!! Thanks again for all your hard work!!
Jenny
Donna – thank you so much. Phoenix has an amazing running community and I just signed up for my first race in March and I’m excited (and nervous). I’m so glad you have enjoyed this blog and the cupcakes. Life is indeed good. Just had one rough day but it helped me refocus and make sure I was heading in the direction that I set out to.
melissa l. j.
Jenny – if you only knew how beautiful you are. I just recently found your blog (after becky higgins posted your video) and I *love* your take on life. Please don’t let this one person’s thoughtless comments discourage you and keep you from being you.
I would give my left leg (gladly) to weigh what you do. I check in at a little over 230 pounds…. I have to lose 70-80 pounds easily. It’s easy to get discouraged and wish I had cute clothes to wear, but I’m trying to just take one day at a time. Thanks for your encouragement… keep doing what you are doing. =)
Jenny
Thank you Melissa. After a couple of days, this has just helped me refocus and keep my mind on exactly what I’ve been placed here on Earth to accomplish. And we will both meet our goals… one day at a time. Thank you taking the time to write such an encouraging note.
Mindy
Good for you – losing 18 pounds in weeks and getting healthier is awesome! Snaps for Jenny (ok, that reference comes from Reese Witherspoon in Legally Blonde – my sister & I frequently give each other snaps)! Would love to hear sometime some of your typical meals/snacks because obviously it’s working. Thanks for all of your inspiration!
Jenny
I’m going to do a big update in the next couple of weeks talking about all of this. But I am trying to steer clear of all white sugar/flour. I love string cheese, fruit, hard boiled eggs, protein bars/shakes (ease at work), almonds for snacks. Really sticking to a high protein diet, lots of water, good carbs (fruit/veges), and trying to move 30 minutes to 1 hour/day.
Tracey
Hi Jenny, I read this entry thinking What the..?!? Every time I read your website I think what a beautiful person you are and any photos I have seen of you, incl your dancing video, I thought you looked fantastic. If you feel you need to lose “fluff” then good on you but know that you look absolutely perfect just the way you are. Thank you for such an inspiring blog.
Jenny
Thank you Tracey for your encouragement. Now a month later, I regret responding to the author of this letter. I spent time addressing the only “complaint” I ever received instead of focusing on all the comments I get from my lovely friends and readers. Lesson learned and it won’t happen again.
Yes, I have fluff and want to lose it. But for my health and for myself… the best reasons to lose it. Thanks for your encouragement and kind words. – J