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Tuesday, July 20, 2010
A Year Of Progress In Photos
by Erika Nicole Kendall
Since BGG2WL turned a year the other day, I know people are like “A year, er… congratulations?” But I’m serious! A year is a big deal!
If the question is “what can I accomplish in a year with knowing nothing at first?” then my answer is “a hell of a lot if you are patient, open-minded, and willing to put in some work. A year is research, learning how to cook, learning how to cook well, learning how to enjoy life outside of food… learning how to enjoy life with food sprinkled on top. Which do you enjoy more – the ice cream or the sprinkles? The sprinkles are not the same without the ice cream, but the ice cream is that much better with the right kind of sprinkles. A year allowed me to learn what kind of sprinkles I like. Sounds like a little, but it is a huge deal.
And just to prove that a lot can take place in a year’s time… here are 12 photos to show just what kind of difference a year makes!
From May, 2009 to April, 2010:
No jokes on my ensemble... you wiiiiill respect my fresh!
You’re looking at approximately 89 inches total lost, with about 110lbs lost. Sure, I could’ve “dieted” and lost the weight faster, but I didn’t want to starve myself or unreasonably deprive myself, either. I didn’t want to lose weight in a fashion that would cause me to gain it back. I wanted to incorporate healthy living, healthy and reasonable indulgences, as well as room for mistakes in my life. I wanted to learn a new life… in a way that would prevent me from reverting back to my old one. Basically, I wanted a permanent lifestyle change, and I was willing to make a few mistakes in order to learn how to build it from scratch.
There’s so very little information out there – in comparison to the amount of information pushing supplements, pills, products, programs and who knows what other kind of crap – about how to live and be and remain healthy. I used the support of my friend – the only fitness-savvy friend I had – and every book and magazine I could find to learn how to do this.
I went through periods where I believed that “organic means okay,” “as long as I cook it at home, even if it’s a quadruple layer chocolate cake, its okay to eat however much of it whenever I want,” and even had an “Oh, I’m losing… this means I can go back to the crap food” period. I appreciate all three of those “how to screw up royally” moments, because they taught me lessons that I can carry with me for a lifetime.
In the end, I look at it like this – I wouldn’t trade this experience for the world. I’m looking forward to what the next year will bring me in fitness (pole fitness and figure competitions, for the win!) and in terms of the site, as well.
Now, as far as what I look like now? Eh…. you’ll see someday. Here’s a little hint, though:
And yes, that IS electrical tape... what I look like putting holes in my wall? LOL!
Let’s just say that I’ve graduated from the progress dress… to the progress bikini. 
132 Comments
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Amazing! Such an inspiration. One question, though, does this qualify as “weight loss porn”? LOL
—Evelyn
LOL! That’s a darn good question! LOLOL
I know what my answer would be… but I’m not gon’ share.
For those who may not know about the “weight loss porn” topic, here’s a link and a quote:
And THANKS!
—Erika
You go on ‘head, gal!! I’m trying to get like you when I grow up!! GOOD JOB!!!
—Charlotte
LMAO! Thank you, mama!
—Erika
It’s weightloss porn to me!
I am so needing to read these words. I like that for you it wasn’t about weightloss, it was about health. For some reason, weightloss isn’t the goal for me either. I COULD do weight watchers, or some other diet program and lose weight, but what would I have *gained*?
Admittedly, I almost signed up for weight watchers when I saw how good JHud was looking, but I just couldn’t. Been there, done that, again, and again.
I am looking for a lifestyle change. Knowing that for you, that is how you accomplished your transformation, let’s me know the real deal!
Please, know,you are an inspiration!
—Kirsten
I hear you! I won’t even start on WW. LOLOL
If there is anything I can do to help you develop that lifestyle change, do let me know.
—Erika
Congrats on your progress you look great! Im on the same journey and so far its been a great one!!!
—Tilly
Thank you, and I wish you strength on your own journey!
—Erika
Congratulations lady! You’ve came a long way, healthily and that anyone can respect. I’m trying to get on your level! We live in a society where everything is about the “now” and everyone wants fast results. It is nice to see what a year of patience, endurance, and hard work will do. So worth it!
—Kenya
You’re absolutely right… but then again, this is the same society where more than two thirds of us are overweight. I’m done listening to society. LOLOL
Thank you!
—Erika
wo you look so good im trying to catch up with you. im trying to get into clean eating any books on it and do you know of a good jucier and recipes.
—victoria
Feel free to check out the recipe section of this site, as well as myrecipes.com and allrecipes.com for good resources, as well. I just got a nice cheap blender (I’m cheap, I admit this openly) and it works wonderfully for me!
Hold tight, because a clean eating challenge is right around the corner!
—Erika
OK, first, get some 3M hooks that don’t leave marks when you pull the tape for the bikini! LMAO!
Second, you are my muse! There is hope after all!
Third, I just posted a photo that I want to take next year on my bday! I have inspiration from that photo and your blog! Thanks!
—Moni
Hey… you leave my tape alone. LOLOL
And no, thank YOU!
—Erika
Well done. Inspirational.
—TKOEd
Thank you, friend. #putdownthebluecheese
—Erika
Thank You! I needed to get motivated again and you definitely succeeded in that. That bikini is dangerous! I love it! That will definitely run up someone’s pressure! lololol Have you tried Zumba? or thought about it? Just curious, it looks like a fun but effective way to work out.
—Chelle Bell
Thank you!
As far as zumba goes, I’m a fan of just about any activity we can use to keep moving. As long as we’re not sitting and staring at walls (or screens), we can get it in.
—Erika
Yay for you Erika!
I agree with you, a year makes a huge difference.
This reminds me, I gotta start taking progress pictures!
—Rita
Yes you do! It is a polite reminder of where you came from, and motivates you to remember where you’re trying to go.
—Erika
Congrats!!! You have done fabulously.
—Benee
Thank you!
—Erika
Great job Sistergreek!
I hit u up on twitter as well. I’m doing the same.. lifestyle changes.. no quick fixes!!!
Started in August and only 28 down but have about 15 to go!
—ambie
ONLY 28? Girl, boo! That’s progress! That’s whassap! I LOVE hearin’ this.
#teamnoquickfixes
—Erika
great pics sis! looking good!
—Reecie
Thank you, Reecie!
—Erika
Congratulations. I wish i could remember your twitter name by heart. Oprah had the best episode on Diabetes, and Obesity yesterday. It really targeted African Americans and stuff. I think you would have loved it, and it would have been a great article report to the readers. It was a big eye opener.
—ChellBellz
My name? @inetespionage
I did see it – I have an entire Diabetes week coming up, and clips from that episode will be a part of it. Thank you for the tip!
—Erika
You look amazing!!! And you’re helping me learn a lot that I’m passing along to my over weight father and grandmother, and my overweight self…(can’t leave out myself) I’ve started gradually into clean eating, no fast food, no soda, no processed foods, more fiber, and I can tell a difference already. I had been working out but still eating junk and noticing I was loosing weight, but you helped me realize it didn’t make sense to work out, and then pig out on junk. My question is… stretchmarks… what are you doing about them or did you have any? Because I have the most inelastic skin, and I get a new stretchmark just thinking about eating, and even while I’m shrinking I feel like the shrinking is make the stretchmark more noticeable.
—Ms. Nina
Think you can sit tight until tomorrow for me to answer your question?
Thank you! I’m so happy to hear that I’m helping! If you or your family has ANY questions, by all means PLEASE let me know!
—Erika
Thank you for sharing your journey, you’ve done a phenomenal job! The progress pics are a great idea..I’m doing them as well..it really tells the true story of where you’ve come from. I’m about halfway to my ultimate goal of 120 lbs..56 down so far..from a TIGHT 24 to a 14/16, so far. Your testimony is further confirmation for me to keep pushing forward! CONGRATS on your accomplishments thus far and advance congrats for those on the horizon!
—Lolita
Hey, that’s about where I started! Congratulations on getting so close to that halfway mark! You got this!
—Erika
As always I love reading your posts. You look great and I appreciate the fact that you make it known that if we want results we have to work. There’s nothing wrong with sweat! I know I need more discipline in eating habits. That is how I sabotage my workout efforts.
Yeah ok, I’ll be on that next clean eating challenge.
—BAnjeeB
Hey…. thank you so much!
And please know.. I expect full participation, mama! No more sabotage!
—Erika
Thanks so much for sharing your progress with us. I’m trying and was 15lbs down before I hit a roadblock with an illness. But, through different episodes of illness, this is the first time that I have taken the initiative to get back to my walking and eating routine (somewhat…it’s hard when you have to depend on others to cook for you). So, I’m sure that I need to take progression pics as well to keep the motivation going. Even after being sick and knowing that I have gained a few pounds back, someone at work just told me today (after not seeing me for a few weeks), “Hey, skinny!” I just laughed and said, “Yeah, I’m trying!” Well, that’s all i can do is TRY and not beat myself up about the pitfalls. Thanks again!
—Connie
Thank YOU!
Definitely take pictures. You absolutely should! Take a little time to marvel at yourself!
—Erika
You’re sexy looking. Sorry if I sound like a lesbian.
—Ty
LMAO Thank you! (And no, I’m OK with giving/receiving compliments from other women, LOL!)
—Erika
You look AMAZING! I hope you write a blockbuster book someday so all can learn from your success:)
—Mary
Ha! Well….
—Erika
You look amazing! Congrats on a huge accomplishment, not a diet but a lifestyle. I read your blog daily since I saw it on TV, and you have given alot of tips that I have already started using (making my own jam, using fruit in my water, etc). I have even passed on my beloved Crystal Lite (fruit punch flavor). I want to be healthy, inside and out. Thanks for the inspiration!
—Nicole
Ha! Well, thank you so very much for that kind of support! I appreciate it! And CHEERS to leaving behind the artificial sweeteners!
—Erika
Wow. Just…wow. Wonderfully inspiring. This has become one of my most-favoritest-blogs, so thank you for sharing your story and progress. Now if I could just get my OWN ass on that elliptical every morning……
—EmilyLovida
That’s easily one of the best compliments a girl can get! Thanks.
Stop thinking about it.. just go!
—Erika
During your weight loss journy did ya set goals to how much time it was going to take you loss this weight by the way you look amazing hope that i can do the same in my journey
—Michelle
I didn’t really set goals for weight loss. I set goals for my ability and my health… for instance, wanting to dance, be a competent yoga practitioner (called a yogi), now wanting to be a pole fitness enthusiast (not quite a pole dancer, LOL)… those are goals that I train for, with weight loss as a secondary result. I didn’t (and still don’t) care about the numbers on the scale… I care about being able to bend my leg over my thigh and squat down to my feet, LOL!
Thank you so much! I’m sure you can do it!
—Erika
Soror,
You look fantastic! Looking at your pictures is an inspiration. I so wish I had your focus and determination….I’m trying!
—Kim
Don’t think about it.. just do it!
—Erika
Aww Erica! You look so awesome, girl. And I am soo not hating on those yellow sweats! Haha
Can’t wait to see you rockin’ that bikini!
—Eunice
Hey.. and they’re terry cloth, too! There’s nothin’ sexier than terry cloth! LOLOL
Thanks, Eunice! I’m tryin’ to get on YOUR level!
—Erika
Oh Goodie! It was a definate wake up call for me and my mother who were watching it. She is pre-diabetic, and my aunt is diabetic. My grandfather is as well, but is actually really healthy. My grandmother passed away from cancer, but had diabetes as well. So I feel the need to do everything I can to prevent this.
—ChellBellz
Yep.. just hold tight.
—Erika
Omg. You are amazing. You did something a lot of us only dream of. You are truly inspiring. You should write a book about your journey pictures included.
—crystal
LOL Pictures included, huh? We’ll see.
—Erika
I would like to know how you was able to lose your belly?
—robinson
Y’all think I’m playin’ about that processed food and excess sugar? LOL
—Erika
You look fabulous. This is so awesome. I subscribe to your site to get that daily external motivation. This definitely is encouraging.
—Crystal
Thank you so much!
—Erika
I am so glad I have found your blog. You have inspired me so very much tonight. I love the energy of joy and confidence that radiates from your words. Congrats on your acheivement. I am just beginning and avoid the camera like it’s H1N1..but seeing this I might just take a pic a month and see.
—Angela
U look awesome and u did this in one year….I so motivated to get started…I’m taking pictures and all!
—b
Just a note to say YOU GO GIRL!! I came across this from a Twitter post. I’m also on my own fitness journey. I’ve never had any issues with weight until my mom passed away suddenly 3 years ago…that plus the other stress in my life caused me to gain 30 pounds. I went from a size 8 to a size 12 (pushing 14). I’ve started practicing Bikram yoga, have completely changed my eating, and am just in a much better place. Now that I’ve read your post, I’m even more motivated! Keep up the good work and congratulations!
—LaTaunya
Thank you, LaTaunya!
—Erika
Great story, thank you for sharing! What a motivation!
—Lydia
Thanks!
—Erika
I applaud you and yo have inspired me to do it the right way. I need to lose about 60 lbs and it had been frustrating, but after reading your testimony, it has re-energized me.
—Kim Creque
Thank you! Get on it!
—Erika
Hi Erika
I found your blog when Sherri Shepard posted the link on twitter. You are truly amazing and inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing your journey.
—Leslie
So proud of you mama!! You look amazing! And you are set on the path for a long healthy life as my best friend!
Much Love E!!
—Ross
CONGRATS ERIKA!!!! i’m so proud of you, you’re a huge inspiration to myself and thousands of women out there. your focus drives me, i come to this site right before i go to the gym lol
as far as my “progress dress….”
*sigh* my wedding dress. i have a LOOOONG way to go, and the wedding’s next august. i’m not even going to LOOK at a dress until next year. i’ll flip thru magazines all day, but i don’t want to go into a boutique to try on plus size dresses. i’ll wait lol.
keep it up, i want bikini pics next time!
—toyalise
CONGRATULATIONS on your progress! You are truly an inspiration for those of us who are going through the same type of process. Much continued success. And I’m not going to crack on the workout gear because I’ve been there, done that and will continue to do so as long as it’s comfortable. I’m there to workout and sweat, not be cute. LOL.
—Liyah
Congrats and thanks for being an inspiration! I’ve been trying to lose my 13 yr 40lb baby weight and it has not moved until I started really eating\working out the right way no shortcuts.
You are just one of my cyber motivational spirits and I can’t thank you enough for sharing. This post right here let’s me know that when the trainer is damn near killing me, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, preferably a white bikini
—akilah
Congratulations on your weight loss journey! I’ve been going through one myself for the last year and have lost almost 30 pounds. I did it with the help of WW and understanding that I need to make a lifestyle change. I’m now starting the maintenance portion of my journey. Found your blog through a friend and look forward to reading your journey.
—Honest
Woman you are amazing! I went through a similar transformation so I know for a fact how hard you worked! You totally rocked it!!!!!!!!
Congrats =)
—Mari
CONGRATULATIONS!!! I have been following you for a few months now and I am so inspired. You look great!
I started just 2 weeks ago and I am down 8lbs. I am with you on “slow and steady”. Keep it up girlie and keep us posted. You just don’t know how inspiring and motivational your blog is!
God bless.
—Courtney
Congrats on the weight loss!! I have lost about 20 or so pounds by fasting, praying and continuing to eat right, but I still need to tone up and keep off what I lost. I have a hectic schedule with work, church activites and home, and sometimes I’m real tired and I don’t have the motivation to exercise. What would you suggest to help me get motivated and start and continue a workout routine?
—Norkita
Just browse through the site… starting here: http://blackgirlsguidetoweightloss.com/its-all-mental/is-the-idea-of-motivation-merely-a-myth/
—Erika
I just wanted to let you know you are my shero!!lol! I am 225 pounds and wearing a size 18. I decided just this past weekend that I deserve more from this life than what I’m giving myself now. I went to the grocery store and stocked up on healthy foods and I also joined my local YMCA. Today makes it 4 days of my lifestyle change(no diets for me)and your blog has given me the motivation for the weeks and months to come. Sorry to be so long winded but seeing your progress makes me tear up because that’s where I want to be soon and because of you I know I can do it. Thank You So Much. You probably have people that inspire you, but YOU inspire me. Now off to the gym I go!!lol!
—Reddy
I am truly inspired! The 5 Reasons You Won’t Lose Weight article was right on point! Have you been spying on my life??? LOL. Seriously, I am motivated to do something different. I can’t expect different results if I do the same thing…that’s insanity!!! I appreciate this site, and most importantly your genuine nature in helping us all achieve a healthy lifestyle! Be blessed, as you have been a blessing!
—Tishana
Inspiring. I want to loss about 10-20lbs, but I had no motivation
—Tameakah
You are a wonderful inspiration. Keep up the job
—TaCreacia
In a word: AMAZING! Thank you for your example.
—Jacqui
Congrats on the amazing progress! Keep working hard and motivating other!!
—jamila
We should celebrate. Want to go out to eat…lol…j/k. Congratulations!
—Sherifa
Thank you so much for sharing this with us. It is truly inspirational and I appreciate all of the hard work you have put into this site and educating us.
—April
WOW, great progress. I am so glad I found this website and grateful to you for posting this helpful information.
I am 35 years old and have been struggling with my weight for the past couple of years. I come from a family who loves to eat and unfortunately I picked up the habit and pounds carrying it throughout my life.
Your site and photo testimonials have EXTREMELY MOTIVATED me to stop saying I’m going to do something, but to actually get off my tail and DO SOMETHING. I will be signing up next week at the gym Ive been contemplating about for the past few months, and stocking my fridge with much healthier things than I have been. Thanks!
—Starr
Yey!! Congratulations Erika!! I can’t wait to see you in the progress bikini and all your hard work paid off. By the way you are so right, your skin is very toned, you would probably never be able to guess that you ever weighed above 300lbs..
I’m getting dimples in my bum from not toning, since I’ve just been doing cardio but that’s all going to change!!
—Tj
I don’t even know you, but yet you still are an inspiration to me. It might be easier to starve yourself or have surgery or take diet pills, but I believe this is the right way. I just figured out that I am worth something. I am not only a mother, wife or co-worker. I am not happy with myself so there is nothing wrong with me investing in myself. Thank you so much for being you and having the courage to get in front of the camera and let us all in your life and accomplishments.
—Marie
Thank you so much for sharing your stories. I am truly inspired to get my act together and lead a healthier life.
—Chispa
I saw your brag post on #fitblog. What an amazing transformation! I love that you set your fitness goals & just let the weight come off as an added bonus. I think the biggest change to me is that you look sassy and confident in that last pictures, and definitely uncomfortable in the first ones. Congrats!!!
—sharlaelizabeth
i am not sure if you ever answered the ladies question about the stretchmarks I would like to know how would I cook the meals for an 8 yr old too so is getting a little chunky(which i was at her age and earlier)
—adrienne smith
A year is a big deal! You are so inspiring! Keep it going Erika! SMILE
—April B.
you are a inspiration………………………you go girl
—Glinda McMullen
Gurl you did your thang!!!!!! CONGRATS….. I hope I can stay motivated like you did…………..
—shonda
Erika, you are my inspiration. Exercising four times a week bootcamp style, following a meal plan provided by my personal trainer, and reading your blog helped me to lose 43 pounds since May. Seven pounds from losing 50! I bought that buttons over thing to make my favorite jeans fit better in the waiste. Eventually I’ll have to take them in or give them up. I also bought those clips (the kind your mom hooked your mittens to the sleeve of your coat) to pull in my tops I wear under jackets. I missed the window to wear some of my clothes, but that’s alright. I’ll give them away if I can’t alter them. BTW, I’m on the downhill side of 50 (way down, LOL). Love ya, Starr
—Starr
That’s incredible. You look amazing, and you should be proud of everything you’ve achieved, and everyone you’ve inspired.
I’m still on the journey myself (running, PowerPlates and Pilates are my workouts of choice right now, and I’m feeling/seeing results) and I’ve been working on letting go of the diet mentality in favour of choosing eating clean for health and fitness as a priority, and putting the pursuit of the white-hot physique second. It’s surprising (and amazing) how switching priorities can make all the difference!
Your blog has been on my must-read list for some time now, and it’s been a real inspiration.
This just goes to show: if you want real and lasting change and results you have to pay in sweat, you have to ask yourself the hard questions about your motivations and desires, and through that you have to change your lifestyle! But you don’t have to suffer.
Right, going to partake in a spot of photography
—China Blue
I am so proud of you sis. I am almost tearing up as I look at your progress pictures. I remember from 2006 to now. Meeting you, and immediately knowing you had a strong personality and were an undeniably strong person. To later talking to you about our individual business ventures and goals. To talking about weight loss and strategies. To now seeing you look absolutely amazing! If there is ever any doubt that determination can make any result possible, you are a true testament of that. Just want you to know that I’m happy that you never gave up and you are, every day, inspiring other women near & far to do the same!
—Atheena Jai
This is EXACTLY the way I wanna do this! I don’t want to deprive myself I want to build foundational principles that become so ingrained that I always keep with them no matter what the circumstances. YAY I’m so inspired!
—Traci R.
Absolutely AMAZING. Love your blog! Did I say that yet? : )
—Greta
You have totally inspired me. I had almost given up hope…*sigh* to the point of wanting to just get plastic surgery (a tummy tuck and butt augmentation). I cry because I try and try and nothing has helped…and now w/ school and work I just come home tired and exhausted….It’s not like my eating has changed. Oh well..but thanks for posting this. I follow you on FB as well…ad I am just trying to get the kick in the butt that I need.
—TheMochaPeach
Your site has truly been an inspiration. You rock! Your journey should be shared. How long do we have to wait for the book?! LOL
We need more “real” people sharing their weight loss journeys. Thank you for what you do.
—Maisha
You look amazing!!!!
—shlonda
God is truly merciful..He sent me to your site and it is sooo encouraging and a blessing. Congrats on your endeavors and many more to come. Thank you for sharing and may God continue to bless you and yours! One day at a time…and I’m ready to begin. Thanx! Smooches!
—Thia
I JUST WANT TO SAY THANK YOU BECAUSE OF U I HAVE CHANGE MY LIFESTYLE OF EATING AND KNOW THAT IT TAKES ONE DAY AT A TIME GOD BLESS U AND KEEP OF THE GOOD WORK
—LISA
Hi,
Someone sent me your blog as an inspiration, and to be honest I didn’t know what to expect.
All I have to say is, wow!!! You can’t understand the sort of inspiration that you have just become to me. I did all of the mess-ups that you’ve just quoted, and so to see another clearly intelligent person having a similar situation, but being able to get around it, has just become the kick up the keister that I needed! Congratulations!!
E
—E O
You look Great! You are such an inspiration to me. I too want to get fit and live a healthier life!
—Milka
Wow! I came across an article in Essence that led me to your site. It’s amazing looking at the progress you have made and it’s such an encouragement for me. I taken back my life and seeing this is such a motivation that I am on the right track. Thank you, thank you……
—Winifred
I’m tired of myself. I advocate success but have had trouble getting my big behind off the couch. I want to win at everything and that includes winning over the twinkie, the red velvet cake and the strawberry daiquiri on Saturday nights. I’m participating in weight loss challenge at the work in order to jump start my new program. I’m always seeking inspiration and this blog seems like a good fit. Here’s is to success. Best of luck to us all.
the Super Sistah
http://www.thesupersistah.wordpress.com
Be Super. Watch yourself Soar!
—the Super Sistah
Im so glad I seen your blog on yahoo first then I decided to come check it out. You are a great inspiration to me right know. I have tried diets in the past that didnt work one that did . But then I gained the weight back. I relaize I dont want to diet I want to change the way I eat and cook for my family. This january I decided to give up beef and pork. Next month it will be junk food. I plan to take it one day at a time to reach my goal of lossing a 100 lbs and keeping it off. People ask me why Im giveing things up that will help me in the long run. Since I love to eat certain foods to much it will be easier to give them up and gain control over bad habits. I feel like if I do it that way it will work coming from me and not some book I have read. Thank you again and good luck on your continue journey.
—Angel
I spent my entire President’s Day here! Thank you so much for starting this site and chronicling your weight loss experience. Like everyone else has said, your journey is truly inspirational, but I also want to thank you for the great information because it is also very educational–those are two things people need to have the success that you have had.
—Brande
You are truly an inspiration… I will spread the word about you. I have a group on a natural social network that is promoting weight loss, being healthy, and being natural and this site will be a topic amongst future discussion. Thank you for actually taking out the time to learn and educate… you will see future comments from me….
—Ecila
So I am super late on this but CONGRATS!!!! You are an inspiration!
—Danielle
Wow! You look absolutely amazing! Your journey is so inspiring, and I look forward to reading more about it!
—Ashley
Soror,
What an amazing story! I began my journey just three months ago and have been consistently losing about 2lbs a week. At this rate it will take me about a year and a half more to reach my goal. I keep telling myself that it’s taken me 15 years to put it on so I can take a year to take it off. Your story helps to boost my patience level.
—Chasisity
Good job Soror.
—Crystal
Ok so I have you on every one of my social sites and a favorite on my laptop!! I cant get enough of this website!!! Thank you for the inspiration to get healthy and fit the right way. I really felt like getting healthy (workouts) was punishment to my body until I felt what it was like after the soreness went away!!!! Thank you very much for this site!!!!
—Dayna
This is exactly what I needed to see…I had a rough month trying to fire up my metabolism. I’m not giving up!! I realized that I made my metabolism this way, so I must work to get it back burning. No easy way out for me–fad diets, surgeries…I’m in this fight to win. It’s my struggle and I’m learning to embrace the journey. You are an inspiration and I want you to know that your website is one of my tools that I’m using. Thanks so much!!!
—Cy
To say you look amazing and your accomplish is making me jealous is an understatement! Question: I ran across the Master Cleanse. What are your thoughts on that in regards to jump starting my weight loss?
—MsRoniJ
http://blackgirlsguidetoweightloss.com/qa-wednesday/qa-wednesday-my-thoughts-on-the-master-cleanse/
—Erika Nicole Kendall
Thank you for sharing with us. I had gastric bypass surgery about 5 1/2 years ago. I was 374 on the day of my surgery. Went down to 220 (which looks amazing on me since I am 5’9). I have since gained about 50 pounds.
From reading your blog and checking out your year of weight loss in photos, I am encouraged all over again to get back to the “loosing side” of my weight loss journey.
Thank you for sharing, thank you, thank you, thank you.
Here’s to wishing you a day of love, peace and continued encouraging progress.
—Annetta DangerousCurves Annetta
I’m so glad that I found your website; Congratulations!!! on the weight loss, better health & Engagement!!! I am EnCouraged & Inspired- b/c I know if someone else has done it the “old fashioned” way then I can too. I wish that I could talk to you b/c I have SO MANY QUESTIONS…I’ve started eating cleaner & I’ve started walking but I know that I need to step up my exercise quota. Funny thing is, I keep having this thought in the back of my mind that says: “what if it doesn’t work for me?” I’m older now (42)& it seems Ridiculously Hard to lose weight; I don’t think my metabolism even exists anymore. I’m 5ft and I need to lose 130lbs; Didn’t realize that I’d gotten so big- geesh I have fat in places that I didn’t know fat could go. My biggest concern/dilemma is losing this 6-8in of flab hanging from my arms & Xtra fat around my knees. I would love to be able to see my knee caps again; Can I really burn the fat off & what type of exercises do I need to do?
—ShaJuan
that is simply FAB!!! congrats to you…that is the same path I am on. Obtaining a healthy lifestyle..learning how to eat, workout, and be conscious of what you eat!! I dont want to lose all the weight, to gain it back!
You are a inspiration!!!
Keep up the good work
—Rasheedah
Congratulations sister! I have been blessed to lose 90 pounds and I am a totally different person! I am blessed to have made it to this point. I am at the point where I need to tone more but I am very pleased with my results so far. Thank you for sharing a part of yourself on this journey called life….May Allah (God) bless you!
—Saaudiah Muhammad
Your story was such an inspiration. I’m 24 and i have struggled with my weight and body images since i can remember, and like you i didn’t want to look towards any quick fixes but wanted to lose weight naturally. But its sooooooooo hard…lol…..but I’m jus tired of being the pretty fat girl and ready for a lifestyle change.
—graceful
You are truly a Rock Star! Amazing transformation. Your willpower is STRONG. It had to be to get the results you achieved. I can only imagine how proud of yourself you must be. And you should be. I know I would be. WOW! I take my hat off to you girl. WOW! Congrats!
—Antoinette
True inspiration indeed!! Awesome story…congratulations & THANK YOU!
—Nortelle
You look great.. so wonderful what 1 yr of progress can bring
Keep inspiring us!!!
—Felicia
Wow E! You look amazing! You are an inspiration to so many out there struggling and I couldn’t be more proud of you! Wow!
—Ross
The incredible shrinking woman!!! AMAZING!!! Great job, girl!!
—Rebecca
Women you my new BFF. I need to lose 50 and I’m praying you will be the one who wil help me get there
…
—Smiles ;)
Your site is an absolute inspiration. I’ve gone through a few different programs through the past 8 years or so (since highschool), and have lost and gained the same 30-40 pounds three times. This year in pictures showed me what is possible, and that I can do this. Thank you.
—Jacquie
Wow you rock Erika!! You are such an inspiration:)
Did you have a lot of plateaus?
—Vee
It is so hard to lose weight, I feel. Like my body doesn’t want to let go of the fat…Ladies, what to do?
—bplatonova