CNN iReport

In Nov. of 2008 I weighed in at 286 pounds. I had fought the "battle of the buldge" most of my adult life. After each of my four children the scale just crept up more and more and this was my highest weight that I am aware of. I say that because I might have weighed more at other times but refused to get on the scale. It was only after I got sick and had to visit the Dr. that reality of how bad my weight had gotten slapped me in the face. I hit the bottom so hard that I made a choice to live differently and change my life. The  raw reality of being obese had taken it's toll on me and I no longer wanted to live that way. Diets have never worked for me because they always have an end somewhere down the road...a place where you are supposed to be "there". I have a weight problem and I knew I would never be there and my changes would have to be simple, everyday, life long. I chose to eat foods that  are high in fiber, low in fat, lean protein. I have vegetables and eat fruits in moderation and plenty of water. I exercise 5 days a week. Walking is my exercise of choice with weight training 3 days a week. I first worked on my cholesterol and lowering that. I was amazed at how quickly through good nutrition and exercise I was able to go from having "mixed hyperlipidimia" to great cholesterol.  In January I will be doing my first "half marathon". I have now lost 113 pounds. I was a size 24 and am now a size 12. I no longer hide from the camera. I used to be ashamed to be seen with my husband because I thought I must be an embarrassment to him. (those were my silly thoughts and never his) I now feel amazing and proud and healthy. I can walk 13 miles. I can chase my 4 year old. I can carry my 12 year old around on my shoulders when we are horsing around. I can do anything I set my heart and mind to.  Losing the weight has been easy compared to the battles that still go on inside my heart and head. I have a blog that I keep to record my personal journey and the ups and downs.  http://www.jagjaglee.blogspot.com/http://www.jagjaglee.blogspot.com%A0%20

Journaling my struggles and triumphs has really helped me and gives me a record to go back and read when I am at one of those hard spots again. I have great friends who tell me that it has also provided them with some inspiration as they check in on my progress.  I still struggle and have to make choices that determine my direction. I know where I have been and never want to go there again. I choose my path and I have to remind myself of that constantly.