My Transformative Journey: How I Lost 70 Pounds and Embraced a Healthier Life for Good
Embarking on a journey to transform your health can feel like climbing a mountain – daunting, challenging, yet ultimately rewarding. For years, I dreamt of a healthier life, one where I felt energetic, confident, and truly present for my family. After sharing my recipe for Sheet Pan Meatloaves, I was overwhelmed by the outpouring of requests asking about my personal weight loss success: *How did I lose 70 pounds and, more importantly, how have I managed to keep it off for so long?* This question, resonating with so many of you, prompted me to open up and share my authentic story. This isn’t just about shedding pounds; it’s about a complete lifestyle overhaul that empowered me to reclaim my health and happiness. It’s a vulnerable space, but one I’m eager to share, filled with the tips, tricks, and hard-earned wisdom that genuinely worked for me. My hope is that by sharing my personal experience, I can inspire and empower you on your own path to wellness. Please, if any questions arise as you read, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Before we dive deep into my transformative journey, I want to share an important disclaimer. While this post is rich with personal insights and strategies that proved effective for me, I am *not* a medical professional, dietitian, or certified fitness expert. My perspective comes purely from the heart of a mom who, like many of you, faced her own struggles with weight and health. My driving motivation was to set a tangible example for my children, demonstrating that a vibrant, healthier lifestyle was not just achievable but infinitely more fulfilling than the one I was living. I firmly believe that if I wanted my kids to embrace healthy habits, I needed to embody those habits myself. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet, exercise routine, or health regimen.
My Story: The Path to Change
My personal journey with weight began subtly, almost imperceptibly, when I transitioned from the energetic freedom of my college years into the comfort of a committed relationship. When I first met my husband, I was in my early twenties, physically active, and in my final year of college. Life was bustling, filled with walks across campus, regular gym sessions, and a generally active routine. However, as we moved in together and settled into the rhythm of daily life, a sense of ‘comfort’ began to creep in – a comfort that, in hindsight, was detrimental to my health. I found myself caring less about my physical appearance, reassured by the knowledge that I had found someone who loved me unconditionally, exactly as I was. This feeling, while wonderful in its essence, inadvertently led to complacency regarding my health habits. The demands of full-time jobs soon took over, and our schedules became increasingly packed. A significant challenge for me was my lack of cooking skills; I hadn’t learned to prepare meals growing up, so healthy cooking wasn’t a skill I possessed or prioritized. This void was quickly filled by the convenience of daily drive-thrus and frequent takeout meals. Our evenings transformed into sessions of binge-watching shows, replacing the active lifestyle I once knew. The days of walking everywhere and hitting the gym after classes faded into a distant memory, replaced by sedentary routines and nutrient-poor food choices.
The reality of my weight gain truly hit home around my wedding day. Standing at the altar, I was nearing the heaviest I had ever been in my life. Reviewing those wedding photographs years later still brings a pang of disbelief; it’s hard to reconcile that image with the person I am today. The starkest realization came years later when my young son, looking at a wedding photo, innocently asked, “Who is that?” His stunned expression and disbelief when I told him it was *me*, weighing 165 pounds, became a powerful and sobering moment. It wasn’t just about my appearance; it was about realizing how far I had drifted from a healthy version of myself, a version my own child didn’t recognize.
Wedding day with my dad June 2017
To truly understand the context of my weight, it’s important to know I stand at a mere 5 feet tall (though my husband playfully insists I’m 4’11”!). At 165 pounds, based on BMI metrics, I was classified as obese. This fact, combined with other experiences, slowly chipped away at my self-confidence and overall well-being. The turning point intensified during my first pregnancy. At each prenatal appointment, the scale was a stark reminder of my weight. I distinctively remember asking my doctor if it was concerning that I wasn’t gaining much weight, expecting reassurance. His blunt, yet honest, reply resonated deeply: ‘Some people don’t need to gain as much as others.’ While in the moment, a pregnant woman’s hormones might have made me want to ‘throat punch’ him, his words held a profound truth. Given my already elevated weight for my small frame, I genuinely didn’t need to gain any additional pounds during pregnancy. This was a critical moment of realization, a wake-up call that my health was on a trajectory I needed to change, not just for myself, but for the new life growing within me.
First family photo May 2010
The day my son entered the world, in May 2010, I tipped the scales at 183 pounds. This marked my heaviest weight ever, a number that became a catalyst for change. Eight weeks post-partum, once I received my doctor’s clearance to resume physical activity, I embraced the challenge. I quite literally ‘hit the treadmill running,’ though my initial attempts were more like brisk walks interspersed with gasps for air. My first goal was simple yet profound: to complete one mile without stopping. Then, two miles, then three, eventually building up to a consistent four miles. I found my rhythm by zoning out to my favorite TV shows, letting the movement become a meditative escape. Before I knew it, an hour would fly by, and I’d have walked four miles. Each time I reached these milestones, it was a profound moment of ‘YES!’ – a surge of accomplishment and belief in my own capability. By the time my daughter was born in May 2012, I had already shed a significant amount of weight, arriving at a healthier 135 pounds. Since then, I’ve continued my journey, losing an additional 22 pounds to reach my current, sustainable weight. The transformation has been far more than just numerical. Today, I don’t just *look* better; I *feel* better in every conceivable way. My sleep quality has drastically improved, my mental clarity and emotional well-being are profoundly enhanced, and perhaps most importantly, I possess the boundless energy to chase my kids, play endless rounds of tag, and fully participate in their lives without feeling exhausted or held back. This renewed vitality is the true reward of a healthier lifestyle.
Family picture October 2012
Key Strategies for Sustainable Weight Loss: My Tried-and-True Tips
Here are my proven tips, tricks, and advice on how I lost 70 pounds and, more importantly, how I’ve successfully maintained that weight loss. While everyone’s journey is unique, these principles have been foundational for me and can provide a robust starting point for your own transformation. I’m here to share what worked and continues to work for me every single day.
1. Prioritize Home-Cooked Meals: Your Kitchen, Your Control
Without a doubt, my number one piece of advice for anyone serious about lasting weight loss is to **prioritize cooking and eating meals at home**. This single change offered me unparalleled control over my nutrition and became the cornerstone of my healthier lifestyle. Those quick trips to drive-thrus, daily coffee shop indulgences, and convenience store snacks are often brimming with hidden calories, excessive sodium, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients that derail even the best intentions. When you prepare your own food, you gain complete command over every ingredient that goes into your body. You choose the quality of produce, the leanest proteins, and the healthy fats, while consciously limiting sugar and excessive sodium. This level of transparency simply isn’t possible with takeout or restaurant meals. Many people fall into the trap of thinking a restaurant salad is inherently healthy, but often, they are loaded with calorie-dense dressings, fried toppings, and oversized portions that can rival a burger and fries in terms of nutritional impact. I learned to scrutinize menus, actively seeking out nutritional facts before dining out. It might sound meticulous, but this conscious effort to understand what I was eating, even occasionally, was crucial for staying on track. Beyond the health benefits, cooking at home can also be incredibly rewarding. I personally taught myself to cook by watching culinary shows, finding inspiration from chefs like Rachael Ray (who, funnily enough, also inspired me to start this very blog!). Learning to cook is a life skill that empowers you to nourish yourself and your family effectively.
Of course, life gets busy, and cooking every single meal from scratch isn’t always feasible or necessary. This is where smart, convenient options truly shine. My family and I are huge fans of Well Yes!® Soups. They offer a fantastic solution for those times when you need a quick, nutritious meal without compromising your health goals. With a wide variety of delicious flavors, boredom is never an issue. What makes them stand out is their commitment to quality: they are packed with protein to help you feel fuller for longer, made with non-GMO ingredients, and free from artificial flavors or colors. My husband often takes them to work, and with just a couple of minutes in the microwave, he has a hearty and wholesome lunch. It’s a stark contrast to many other soups on the market today, which can be surprisingly high in sodium and less-than-ideal ingredients. Well Yes! Soups truly deliver on taste and nutrition, helping me stay on track with my dietary goals without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
*Disclaimer – Well Yes! Soups are not proven to promote weight loss, but they are a great addition to a balanced, healthy diet.
Achieving a balanced meal is key. I often enjoy a serving of Well Yes! Soup paired with a thoughtful side dish. Depending on the soup variety, I might add a fresh, vibrant side salad with a light vinaigrette, a small cheese quesadilla made with a low-carb wrap and reduced-fat cheese, or a slice of seven-seed whole-grain bread with a tiny smear of light butter. The goal isn’t deprivation; it’s smart pairing and portion control. It’s all about creating satisfying, wholesome meals that support your overall wellness objectives. This strategic approach to home cooking and smart convenience items means I never feel deprived, always nourished, and consistently moving towards my health goals.
2. Leverage Technology: Your Personal Accountability Partner (MyFitnessPal)
In today’s digital age, technology can be a powerful ally in your health journey. My recommendation for a personal accountability partner is a robust fitness and nutrition tracking app. Seven years ago, I downloaded **MyFitnessPal**, and it has been an indispensable tool almost every single day since. This app revolutionized my understanding of food and my body. It allows me to meticulously track all my food intake, providing real-time insights into my caloric consumption, as well as the breakdown of fat, protein, sugar, and sodium. This detailed tracking empowered me to make informed choices, ensuring I stayed within my daily targets, not just for calories but for balanced macronutrients too.
The beauty of these apps lies in their user-friendliness. You simply input your current weight and your desired goals, and the app calculates personalized daily targets for calories and macronutrients. The barcode scanning feature is a game-changer; a quick scan of any packaged food item instantly populates all its nutritional information into your log. What’s more, many popular restaurant menus are integrated, allowing you to peek at nutritional facts even when dining out, reinforcing the habit of making conscious choices. Beyond food, I also use it to log my daily fitness activities and ensure I’m meeting my water intake goals. Regular weight updates within the app provide a compelling visual timeline of my progress, reminding me precisely how much I’ve achieved since I began my journey in 2010. Consistent tracking creates awareness, which in turn fosters accountability – a non-negotiable component for sustainable weight loss.
3. Embrace Movement: Hit the Trail and Find Your Joy in Exercise
While nutrition is paramount, achieving and sustaining weight loss is a holistic endeavor that absolutely requires consistent physical activity. It’s not just about what you put *into* your body, but also how you move it. My advice? **Hit the trail and make movement a joyful part of your daily life.** Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical exercise most days of the week. This doesn’t mean you need an expensive gym membership or an elaborate workout routine. Simple, accessible activities like walking, jogging, or cycling can be incredibly effective. I found immense joy and progress by simply lacing up my shoes and heading outdoors. The fresh air, changing scenery, and mental clarity that comes with a good walk or run are unparalleled. Exercise is also a fantastic way to bond with family. We often take our kids on nature walks, turning exercise into an adventure where they discover bugs, leaves, and explore the wonders of the natural world, all while getting their steps in. Finding activities you genuinely enjoy is key to long-term adherence. Whether it’s hiking, dancing, swimming, or playing a sport, make sure it’s something that energizes you, not something you dread. Consistency, not intensity, is the secret weapon here. Start small, build gradually, and celebrate every step of the way.
4. Invest in a Fitness Tracker: Your Silent Motivator
In addition to tracking nutrition, monitoring your activity levels can provide powerful motivation and insight. I highly recommend investing in a **fitness tracker**. Years ago, I received a Fitbit One for Mother’s Day, and it quickly became an indispensable part of my daily routine. I truly felt ‘naked’ if I ever forgot to wear it! These devices provide real-time feedback on your steps, distance covered, calories burned, and even sleep patterns, fostering an awareness that makes you more conscious of your daily movement. While today’s market offers a vast array of sophisticated trackers with advanced features, a basic pedometer or simple tracker is an excellent starting point for anyone looking to increase their activity. At the time, I preferred the discreet clip-on style of the Fitbit One, as I already had a traditional watch I loved wearing. While I’ve since upgraded to an Apple Watch for its additional functionalities like waterproofing and communication features, I still value the simplicity and accuracy of my clip-on tracker, often wearing both! Many workplaces or health programs even offer free pedometers or discounts on fitness trackers, so it’s worth exploring if there are any opportunities available to you. The consistent feedback from a tracker transforms abstract goals into concrete, measurable progress, helping you stay motivated and accountable every single day.
5. Embrace Balance and Fun: This is a Lifestyle, Not a Diet
Perhaps the most crucial, yet often overlooked, aspect of sustainable weight loss is the principle of **balance and enjoyment**. This isn’t a temporary restriction; it’s a permanent shift to a healthier way of life – a *lifestyle*, not a *diet*. If you occasionally indulge in an extra slice of cake or a favorite treat, that’s absolutely okay! In fact, it’s healthy. Depriving yourself entirely of foods you genuinely love often leads to intense cravings, feelings of restriction, and ultimately, falling off the wagon much harder and faster. The key is moderation and mindful enjoyment. Consciously save a little room in your daily calorie budget for those enjoyable moments. Your new lifestyle shouldn’t feel like a relentless chore. Instead, it should be something you embrace and find joy in.
Injecting fun into your fitness and food choices can make all the difference. Turn exercise into playful challenges with your family: a friendly competition with your spouse about who can do the most sit-ups in a minute, or a jumping jack contest with the kids. When you make it enjoyable, it stops being a task and becomes a natural part of your day. It’s also vital to acknowledge that setbacks are a normal part of any long-term journey. Have I ‘fallen off the wagon’? Absolutely! The holiday season, with its delicious Halloween goodies, indulgent Thanksgiving feasts, and festive December cookies, is always a challenging period. But the difference now is my mindset. I know and trust in myself enough to understand that a temporary deviation doesn’t erase all my progress. It’s perfectly okay to have a fresh start, to pick up right where you left off with renewed determination. Set realistic goals, embrace consistency over perfection, and allow yourself the grace to progress at your own pace. This journey is a marathon, not a sprint, and finding joy in the process is what makes it truly sustainable.
Smarter Choices for Your Grocery Cart
Transforming your diet begins at the grocery store. Filling your cart with smarter, more nutritious options is a proactive step towards achieving your health goals. Beyond fresh produce, lean proteins, and whole grains, I always ensure I have convenient, healthy staples on hand for those busy days. As I mentioned, I highly recommend keeping a stock of Well Yes!® Soups. They’ve been a consistent favorite in my household for their taste, nutritional value, and ease of preparation. My top three go-to flavors that I genuinely love and often incorporate into my meal planning are:
- Roasted Chicken with Wild Rice
- Black Bean with Red Quinoa
- Sweet Potato Corn Chowder
These soups offer a delicious and balanced option for lunch or dinner, especially when paired with a side salad or whole-grain bread, simplifying healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.
Celebrating Milestones: The Power of Reward
The journey of weight loss is punctuated by numerous small victories, and it’s essential to acknowledge and celebrate each one. The feeling of accomplishment when you hit that first 5-pound weight loss milestone is incredibly motivating. Don’t underestimate its power! Allow yourself to celebrate these moments with non-food rewards. Perhaps a new book, a relaxing bath bomb, a small piece of workout gear, or an experience you enjoy. Then, set your sights on the next 5-pound goal, envisioning another meaningful reward. As you continue to shed pounds, these small rewards will eventually lead to a truly exciting milestone: the need for a new wardrobe! Imagine the thrill of trying on clothes you’ve always wanted to wear, or finding that your old favorites fit beautifully again. That, without a doubt, is a monumental ‘YES!’ moment – a tangible representation of your dedication and hard work, reminding you of how far you’ve come and inspiring you to keep going.
4th of July 2017
Embracing Your “YES!”: A Future of Health and Vitality
My journey from 183 pounds to a healthy, active 113 pounds has been transformative, not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. It taught me the profound power of making consistent, mindful choices and the incredible resilience of the human spirit. So, I encourage you: **say YES to the good stuff** – to nutritious foods, to joyful movement, to self-compassion, and to habits that nourish your body and soul. When you commit to these positive choices, you empower yourself to confidently say YES to all the vibrant experiences and opportunities that a healthy life offers.
To anyone embarking on their own weight loss journey, I extend my heartfelt best wishes. This path is unique for everyone, but the core principles of dedication, self-love, and persistence remain universal. If you find yourself with questions – whether about specific meal planning tips, effective home workouts, strategies for overcoming cravings, or anything else related to health and wellness – please do not hesitate to reach out. I am more than willing to share further insights and support based on my own experiences.
I invite you to sound off in the comments below! Share your own ‘YES!’ moments, big or small, or let me know if you’re currently struggling and how I might be able to offer encouragement. Your journey matters, and building a supportive community is part of what makes it sustainable. Moving forward, I promise to continue sharing delicious, healthier recipes that reflect my authentic approach to family eating – recipes that are both satisfying and align with a balanced lifestyle. Together, we can champion a path towards greater health and happiness.
