What I miss from 135lbs ago…Part 3

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Read part 1 here and part 2 here

What’s the moral here?

What’s the matter with missing 135lbs? With letting every one of them go completely and asking, gently, that they never come back? It’s not you, it’s me.

The matter is that, fat or thin, big or bitty, I’ll always be both. No, I won’t look in the mirror and see the other. No, I won’t praise one too highly. Because they’re all I know.

Each is valuable.

When you’re big for twenty years, the only twenty you’ve ever known, you’ll kindly not frown upon two decades. You’ll know that who you are was formed in there, and that’s beautiful.

Hear me.

Beautiful.

I hear accounts of those who’ve lost a tremendous amount of weight. Maybe they were on the Biggest Loser; maybe the cover of People. Most often, they speak about their former selves, the bigger ones, in a very detached way. As if the here and now is infinitely better and more lovely than the past. And maybe it is in lots of ways. But here’s the thing: it was you all along.

I don’t think back on my past and want to redo it. I don’t flip pages of my baby book and think, ‘dear, what cankles you had.’ I don’t see my adolescent self, my teenage self, and wish those pictures, scrapbooked and framed, would disappear. Mom, really, with the Glamour Shots? Really? My life, big, was always all I knew. And that is perfect in its own right.

Yes, I know now that with 135 extra pounds, something more was wrong than my weight. The scales I tipped should have tipped me off to emotional suffering. But not all of it was sad, or scared.

Some of the weight was happy and as well rounded as it came across.

Some of it meant that I developed a personality first.

A sense of humor before a sense of entitlement.

Empathy before ego.

Some of the weight meant that I didn’t care about myself. But in turn, maybe I cared deeply about a number of meaningful external parts of life. I poured my heart into relationships, molded to fit friends and circumstances. A big ball, I rolled with the changes. I doubt I’d be able to do that now, so much more rigid and spindly. I had a protective layer. Something to pull over my eyes when my dad, and the world, threatened to break me.

I found spirit.

I cared deeply about the way people perceived me. But maybe that made me more in tune and intuitive. Maybe that’s why, now and always, I could and would like to sit for hours and days on end, just listening to someone else. What’s your story? Where are you from? And, are you content?

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Maybe because I was painfully aware of my size, I cultivated an awareness of all of my life. A deep knowing. A way of sensing and trusting and believing that others won’t, or can’t, know as well. Maybe I feel deeper. More purely and intensely.

Maybe when I learned to, finally, love just being alone with myself, I fell harder in love than others ever will.

Maybe my present is more precious.

Maybe because my heart has ripped, and lost pieces, and still has visible stretch marks and sewn seams, my character will be ultimately more resilient.

The thing is, it’s easy to find the bad. I’m cynical. Pessimistic and realistic, too weathered to seem breezy. I can, and do, look at situations in pros and cons. But what I’ve come to know as true, in the last twenty-six years is that I am everything I’ve ever been.

I will always know fat. And love her. And know that fat, in itself, is not a bad word. I’ll own it and respect those two decades. They were hard, but they were sweet too. I grew up in that body, in that time, in that big, and beautiful, mind.

I will always know thin. She’s heavier mentally and maybe in presence overall. She’s effervescent. More willing and able to go toe to toe with life. Small but brawny. Seeking.

I will always know that the grass, though it seems emerald and glowing in that field on the other side, it isn’t. Flowers grow here; they grow over there. As weeds do, too.

But both are wide and they’re open. And I can lie and cry in one and move and spin in the other. Just knowing this: they’re the same field.

And they’re both mine.

Queen Anne 041

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256 thoughts on “What I miss from 135lbs ago…Part 3

  1. Halley

    I love how you see the whole story. I love how you wouldn’t erase the past and pretend it wasn’t there. I love this. This definitely gives me hope and better perspective. Thanks Andie.

    Reply
  2. Shelley

    you are literally the best writer out of any blog I read. I can’t even describe my admiration for you and I look up to you so much! Not so much because of any similarity in our lives, but more so because you are a strong, real, intelligent woman who I think just about anyone could relate to. I really mean all this! So inspiring :)

    Reply
  3. Ashley

    This is so beautifully written and honest. Thank you for sharing this. I have never looked at my weight loss like this, but you are right. I love your magazine cover too :)

    Reply
  4. Bianca

    Hi, your story is inspiring, but I have one question..how can you mantain your weight? I mean..you cook all that delicious food, food that is not precisely “diet food” and still you stay thin. How do you do it? Thanks.

    Reply
    1. Lisa in OKC

      Keep reading, Bianca. I wondered the same thing…and she does talk about that. If you’re new – you have a lot of catching up to do. I suggest taking a leave of absence from work. ;)

      Reply
      1. Tracy

        I am seriously new as well. I am just sitting here crying, remembering all these feelings, my father, my life, my fears. If you have any suggestions on catching up I would appreciate it. This is so beautiful and I am grateful Andrea will be writing books, I am surely going to buy them. God Bless and thank you. Tracy (need to lose 125 #)

        Reply
    2. Krystina (Organically Me)

      If I may interject…

      You don’t have to eat “diet food” to maintain your weight. Food is one of our biggest pleasures, and should be treated as such – just in moderation. If we don’t enjoy what we eat because we’re preoccupied with eating “diet food” then what’s the point in eating? By eating what we want (while trying to get the proper nutrients) and, well, moving a little – whether it be running, yoga, cycling, or even walking – people can lose or maintain their weight.

      Reply
    3. admin

      Bianca, I know. It seems impossible. But here’s the thing: once you know that it’s really not about the food, you are set free in a way. You realize, that if the second cupcake never made you any happier than the first, if you never felt more content after three slices of pizza than you did after two, then you can decide to stop when you’ve enjoyed all you can of a food, of a moment. So much of the reason we continue to eat past fullness is tied to not wanting a feeling to be over, not wanting to lose out on fleeting joy. The truth is that the food will make you feel joy, but treating it with respect and stopping to appreciate one big, beautiful cupcake, and not two or three, is the most loving thing you can do for yourself.
      And Lisa, thanks for stepping in to field questions. You know me well :)

      Reply
      1. Bianca

        Thanks Andrea and Lisa. I understand..everything is about moderation and learning to enjoy the good stuff in small doses :) I’ll try that!

        Reply
      2. Rosa

        Beautifully stated! Do you mind if I quote you? I know some people who could benefit from your insight.

        Thanks for your blog, and healthy outlook on Life, Love, and Happiness!

        Reply
      3. Laura

        Just stumbled across your blog – of all the ways – on Pinterest after I followed the link from a recipe…

        I am so struck with your writing…and when you just replied to a post by saying, “So much of the reason we continue to eat past fullness is tied to not wanting a feeling to be over, not wanting to lose out on fleeting joy” I could have broken down and cried at the truth of that statement.

        I am so very happy you were able to become healthy (body and mind) at a relatively young age. I am 52 and wanting desperately to change, wondering how I got here, knowing the answer lies within me (even in therapy to try to figure that out as I certainly know how to diet my way up to 300 lbs)…your writing inspires, gives me hope for another day, and how important that is to me…

        Thank you.

        Laura

        Reply
        1. Diane

          @ Laura, I can so relate! I also found this site by way of a link from Pinterest. It was like you were writing for me…I too am 50 years old, wondering how I got here, and dieted my way UP the scale! Are we sisters separated at birth? :) Most recently, I have been running to “comfort food” as we have been dealing with my husband’s cancer diagnosis. I’m banking on the phrase above “Maybe because my heart has ripped, and lost pieces, and still has visible stretch marks and sewn seams, my character will be ultimately more resilient.” It’s hard, but for today, I’ll keep putting one foot in front of the other! Good luck to you.

          Reply
          1. Laura

            @Diane – nice to know I have a cyber sister out there. :) Thanks for replying to my post. Made me not feel so alone….

        2. CindyLu

          Laura,
          It’s as if I’m reading my own thoughts in your words. I’m 48 this year, and wonder how in the heck I have gained 100lbs since getting married 18 years ago. I mean, saying that I’m still carrying baby fat after 10 years is not even on the verge of insane – it IS insane.
          One day at a time. Now why didn’t I think of that? Just today. My problem is (every year) I keep beating myself up about this time of year because I get to July and realize that if I had stuck to my new year’s resolution, that I could be down 50lbs by now. But noooo! UGH!
          But now I realize that I CAN do this, just by putting one foot in front of the other. Just by taking it one day at a time. Just by eating this time only until satisfaction is met.
          Thank you all for sharing. God bless!

          Reply
      4. Christina

        Seriously debating framing this statement: “So much of the reason we continue to eat past fullness is tied to not wanting a feeling to be over, not wanting to lose out on fleeting joy.” I read that sentence over & over because it truly hit home. When your life has been filled with a sea of misery you tend to indulge in simple things that bring you any amount of happiness. You’re wise beyond your years & it’s good to see. :)

        Reply
      5. Josephine

        Thank you Andrea, for this insight into mindful eating. It was written so eloquently, I feel I should have this framed on my kitchen wall. I have written out this response so I can refer to it when feeling lost as how to maintain my weight. Since my mid twenties I have yo-yo dieted going through periods of trying to be perfect and not eating any of what I wanted and then eating too much of what I want. Hopefully this help me find balance. I love your writing, your blog is beautiful and so are you.

        Reply
  5. Cait @ Beyond Bananas

    Wow, Andie … Another amazing post in which your poured your heart out – and were truly upfront and honest about everything. Thank you… for being you.. your entire life. Big..small..inbetween.. everything.

    Reply
  6. Johnny

    “Youā€™ll know that who you are was formed in there, and thatā€™s beautiful.”

    Those are the words in this part that struck me. Please,Please,Please write a book!!!:)

    I like the grass being emerald on the other side of the fence part. I’ve always told people that there is always one constant about which side of the fence you’re on..YOU! You can change your environment, looks, personality, but you always bring YOU along. Learning to know and love you is the only really important thing.

    There was an old Indian tale that talked about the good and the bad wolf in us, always at war trying to influence what we did and thought. When a small child asked the wise old Indian woman which one wins the war, the woman replied..”the one you feed”.

    When you chose to change your wieght you made another even more profound choice, you decided to bring you along and not someone else! You stayed beutiful and that is why we all love you and can’t wait to wake up and open your page for what is next! :)

    Reply
  7. Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat

    I wasn’t even expecting a Part 3 but I love it! So beautifully put, and I’m on the same page as you with this one – do I miss some of the things I experienced from when I was heavier? Sure. I certainly don’t miss other parts. But like you said, all of those experiences have made you who your are today, and I wouldn’t change that for the world!

    Reply
  8. Krystina (Organically Me)

    I remember saying recently that fat will follow me wherever I go. It’s not as if this is a bad thing, but it will always follow me. In a way, I look at it as a beautiful thing – I’ve been on both sides, I know how difficult (or easy) each side can be and the pros and cons of both. I’ve been both horrifically teased and revered. I’ve not experienced one whole life, but two halves to a whole.

    Reply
  9. Mila @ loftyappetite

    Thank you for sharing. All 3 parts of the series are beautiful and so well written, I may have teared up a few times… You mentioned on twitter you have a ton more series planned, and I was wondering if you could write about your relationships and friendships and if any of those changed through all of this or are your friends and boyfriend all the same through this journey you’ve been through? I know some people kind of break through and start over like it’s a new life, and as you mentioned in this post it sounds like you don’t have that distinct separation, so I was wondering if anything else besides your body chaned through all of this.

    Reply
  10. Melissa

    I want to crawl into these words and breathe deeply till each of my cells are imprinted with them.

    Reply
  11. ally@girlVfood

    “When youā€™re big for twenty years, the only twenty youā€™ve ever known, youā€™ll kindly not frown upon two decades. Youā€™ll know that who you are was formed in there, and thatā€™s beautiful.”

    Tears are rolling down my face. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I am still struggling to reconcile my current self with my old self, but I know we were one and the same and we still are and always will be linked. I know she’ll always be in side of me, and while that requires me to be extra vigilant sometimes, it also shows me I am stronger than I know. I know what it’s like to crash and burn, and so do you.

    And YES for the ’empathy over ego’ comment! It’s becuase I was overweight for so long that I developed the kind of heart I have.

    Reply
  12. Bianca @ Confessions of a Chocoholic

    “Maybe because my heart has ripped, and lost pieces, and still has visible stretch marks and sewn seams, my character will be ultimately more resilient.”
    These are beautiful words, and this series is so heart-warming. Thanks for sharing your story with us!

    Reply
  13. LG

    Excellent excellent excellent. Thank you for this post! I totally hear you about this: “I will always know thin. Sheā€™s heavier mentally and maybe in presence overall. Sheā€™s effervescent. More willing and able to go toe to toe with life. Small but brawny. Seeking.” I definitely feel this in my life now after having dealt with disordered eating behaviors and, dare I say, come out on the other side happy and healthy. Now I can’t get enough books and can think much more clearly. I feel strong mentally and can sit with my emotions much better. I might be the same size or slightly smaller, but I feel very steady on my feet.

    Reply
  14. Melissa

    I love how you address the ease and the effort of BOTH sides of the scale. You’re so right. It’s all valid and it’s all important. I admire that you know who you are regardless of your weight. Yes, it’s a part of you, but it doesn’t define you. That’s definitely something I still struggle with. I wish I knew myself as well as you know yourself.

    Reply
  15. Barefootcookingirl

    I sigh. Just beautiful. Inside and out. So well spoken. So deeply thought. Thank you.

    Reply
  16. JaNelle

    You already know I love you. But seriously, this spoke to me. This entire series was beautifully written but more important it was a necessary voice. My favorite part: I will always know fat. And love her. And know that fat, in itself, is not a bad word. Iā€™ll own it and respect those two decades. They were hard, but they were sweet too. I grew up in that body, in that time, in that big, and beautiful, mind.”
    I love this because I get it. So many people, after they loose weight, act like they hated their old body. I love that you see the value in that body and how it helped you and nurtured you into the beautiful woman you are now. I love that! Simply love that!

    Reply
  17. kathy...........

    Just want to say…Thank-you! I don’t know if you realize when you open yourself up, share you pains, your joys, your truimphs and tears………That you are having the ripple effect in us, reaching us and touching us with you wisdom and knowledge,,, And that my dear is such true Blessing!!! (HUGS)

    Reply
  18. Brittany (Eating Bird Food)

    I’ve loved reading the 3 part series. Thank you for sharing your honest words. This post brought tears to my eyes.

    The paragraph, “I will always know that the grass, though it seems emerald and glowing in that field on the other side, it isnā€™t. Flowers grow here; they grow over there. As weeds do, too.” spoke to me! I think a lot of times people get wrapped up in the idea that they can’t be happy unless they are are certain size or weight, but happiness isn’t in a number.

    Also, you look so much like my 17 year old niece in your before photos- honestly it’s like you all could be sisters. She’s been trying to lose weight for the past few years and struggling with it immensely. I think I’m going to send her a link to your blog. :)

    Reply
  19. Online Sunshine

    When we are overweight, we think, “If I could just lose the weight, then I’d be happy.” We also think if we had more money or a bigger house or whatever else it is that we think we need to be happy. But in reality, if we aren’t happy now, none of that will make us happy. We’ll just be thinner and miserable. Or rich and miserable. Look at a lot of the celebrities. They are thin and rich…and in rehab and crumbling relationships.
    Anyway, I love reading your blog and look forward to it every day. It’s my guilty pleasure. :)
    I just wish I’d read your blog sooner…I feel like one of those people who is always one step behind all the cool kids. lol!

    Reply
  20. Michelle

    I think some of the other commenters have hit the nail on the head – not only is it your authenticity in writing that I love – it’s the writing itself. Your words are so beautiful and so evocative. You’ve brought tears to my eyes, yet again. Thank you for writing this.

    Reply
  21. Cortney @ Nerd on the Run

    I just found your blog from Keeping up with Katie. Your story is amazing and I give you major props for figuring out all of the emotional stuff that goes with losing weight and feeling better about yourself! How can I follow you so I can read every day? I look forward to hearing more from you! :)

    Reply
  22. Gina

    I could completely identify with Parts 1 and 2, bringing up my own stories and facets of my life that I may miss or not miss. But now with Part 3, I’m getting this overwhelming feeling of excitement and love for myself (and your beautiful writing!) I love that you bring up your love for your “former” self. It’s so true, why would I want to detach myself from myself…it’s all about what has made me the person I am today:) And what is joy and love without some amount of pain and sorrow???

    Reply
  23. Stacy

    I love this on: “it was you all along” We have a hard time remembering that we are on the inside truly, and the outer shell is just that – a shell we carry around along with all our emotional baggage (good and bad).

    Reply
  24. Jamie

    What an incredible 3-part story, so beautiful told and heartfelt. So many of us have those two selves, those two halves of our lives, the before and the after yet always there, together, holding hands. Mine wasn’t a problem of weight, rather it was something much more invisible, but your words touch home, somewhere deep and profound and say it all. Marvelous! You are truly beautiful inside and out and I am so happy to have gotten to know you. xo

    Reply
  25. Katherine

    These posts really have spoken to me. I often wonder if I would be happier at a specific size, if it would make me more beautiful or smart or less worried, etc. In the back of my mind I know that this isn’t true, I would be the exact same person I am today. I just think if there are things about myself (not weight related) that I want to change, its probably easier to work on them before I get to where I think I should be instead of where I am. I believe that I need to lose weight, but my personality and the things I believe in or don’t believe won’t change. But, I think deep down inside most of us want to believe the opposite is true, because it means we don’t have to work as hard to change it (just lose weight). When in actuality its the hardest thing we have to do. Look ourselves in the mirror and just accept the person looking back at us.

    Reply
  26. Dana

    LOVED this series!!! I lost 50 pounds almost 20 years ago (WW too, and in college!) and although I have kept the weight off, I still struggle from time to time. You write beautifully, I am thrilled to have found your blog! However, I am not as accepting of the big me, those old pictures still make me sad for that young girl that missed so much. :)

    –Dana

    Reply
  27. Mandy

    Andie – I just want to give you a big hug and cry. I’m so jealous that you’ve reached the point (physically and emotionally) that you’re at, I’ve got a long way to go (again, physically and emotionally), I’m not excited for the painful lessons along the way but I know you can’t get to that healthy point without them. Thanks for all you do with your powerful words and emotions!

    Reply
  28. Jenny (Fit Girl Foodie)

    Another great post. Eating is all about perspective and convincing yourself that healthy is delicious. I think for me the worst part of the way I eat are the remarks about why I chose the veggies over the fries or burger. Anyone can lose weight, I do think it’s partly a mental disorder but one that you can overcome :)

    Reply
  29. Emma @ La Vie en Ginger

    What you said about the person who you are being formed in your fat years really resonated with me. After my weight loss, I feel like I abandoned a lot of the personality traits that had made me lovable as a big girl. I embraced the fact that I no longer had to be the jovial, people-pleasing chubster. I got a lot meaner and more affected because I could get away with it as a slim person. I’m not proud of that. I loved this series for a lot of reasons, but I’m walking away with a renewed desire to get in touch with the kind, confident person I was 70 pounds ago, who had just as many friends and just as much drive and intelligence to offer the world, but didn’t take the fact that she would be well-received for granted. Because you’re right: anyone I’ve ever been, I have been all along.

    Reply
  30. MelissaNibbles

    “Maybe because my heart has ripped, and lost pieces, and still has visible stretch marks and sewn seams, my character will be ultimately more resilient. ”

    This. I relate to so much in this and with you. I wish I had the guts to tell my entire weight loss and weight gain story. You are a talented and gifted write Andrea. Such a beautiful, strong, woman. I’m lucky to know you.

    Reply
  31. Naomi

    This series was beautiful. You write freely with such honesty and emotion. I am inspired to take a more introspective look at myself.

    Reply
  32. sophia

    I’ve never been overweight, but I can empathize too much with this post(s).

    It’s funny how we think losing/gaining weight is just a purely biological matter, but there are so many intersecting psychological and emotional processes behind it.

    You are so awesome, and I commend you for sharing this honest series.

    Reply
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  34. fittingbackin

    This was such an inspiration. I just love your outlook and honesty. “A sense of humor before a sense of entitlement.” wow. I really loved this. Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  35. Sam

    Tears.I feel your writing in my bones. You say everything that I feel, things I didn’t know that I felt until you put them into words.
    I relate to you in a way that you are a few steps ahead of me, I am halfway through my weightloss journey and I fear and look forward to the finish line.
    Thank you, thank you, thank you for writing and sharing your life.

    Reply
  36. Casey

    I love your writing you truly have a gift and the way you write I feel like we are just talking to each other you seem like a real genuine, beautiful person. Congratulations on much-deserved success!

    Reply
  37. Erin @ Big Girl Feats

    You are truly amazing. It takes such kindness to realize that 135+ you and 135- you are still the same wonderful person. I love this and strive to be this kind towards myself. I’m making strides every day and realizing it has nothing to do with my weight and everything to do with my life, my worth and my future. Thank you for sharing your story.

    Reply
  38. carol

    I found your website ages ago on Boston.com. I enjoyed your writing and recipes and check in every so often after your move West.

    I am moved to tears by your lovely posts. Its an amazing journey and I thank you for sharing it with us. I have never posted comments before but just had to give a quick kudos for your hard working!

    Reply
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  40. Liza

    I am in tears girl!! What an amazing journey. I would never see you on the street and think, I wonder if that beautiful girl ever had the same struggles as I do with my weight? It just goes to show you that you never know what people have been through, never judge a book by it’s cover! Thanks for sharing :)

    Reply
  41. Mnemosyne

    I’m completely in awe of how well-written your three-part success story in your path to goal. I can definitely say that I can relate on so many levels.
    The best part about your story is, it made me cry because what you’re saying and what I’ve gone through, basically what we’ve gone through are almost the same. I can relate on so many levels.
    Thank you for making me realize that I wasn’t alone. And although I’m a 14, I started from at least a 20+, and now I know that what I’m doing I won’t miss those other sizes and nothing is a waste even if I feel like I’m constantly needing to buy new clothes.
    Once again, thank you & God bless :)
    ā˜® & ā™„

    ~Nym

    Reply
  42. Emily

    What an inspiration. Linda from The Orange Bee told me that I should stop by your site. It is so encouraging to see what people can do with healthy eating and exercise. I just started blogging about my weightloss goals. I have 75 pounds to lose but know that I can do it. Thank you, really I thank you for being an inspiration.

    Reply
  43. Sharilee

    I sit here with a huge lump in my throat after reading this. Beautiful girl you are. (Both of you) :o) I can relate to so much you wrote in all three parts. I have struggled with my weight a few times in life. Before my wedding 6 years ago I dropped 10 dress sizes by living at eh gym and eating really healthy…now two little girls later, there isn’t much time for me, after two pregnancies, two misscarriages and my youngest’s brush with death (Born with a malformed kidney) AND COMPLCATIONS AS A RESULT… I am the biggest I have ever been.

    My children are my life, but I need to be there for them. I need to be back in control and I find it so hard to even take time to put make up on my face. I am sick and tired of avoiding the camera, shopping for clothes that never fit right or look good. I hate the heat of the summer, I am red faced and hidieous, I am embarassed and I even avoid people just so they won’t have to look at me. ( I cannot believe I just admitted that…but it is true.)

    I want to be a good role model for my daughters, already my 5 1/2 year old has mentioned that Mommy is Fat a few times. :o( I need to turn this around, thanks for the inpiration.

    Sharilee

    Reply
    1. Dolores

      Sharilee…

      I too have lost 110 lbs reaching my goal in 2005. Like you, I felt out of control. I hated my body everytime I looked in the mirror. Most nights I would dream I’d wake up thin and my weight was all a bad dream. My weight affected my self esteem right down to it’s deepest core. I hear your pain. I feel your pain. I’ve been there. I’m sorry for your troubles. I’m glad you posted your feelings. For a long time I thought the solution was dieting (aka deprivation). I also discovered that perfectionism had ALOT to do with delaying what I needed to do…and that was chip away at the weight one lb at a time. Never mind the huge number of lbs you think you need to take off. This month aim to lose ONE lb…no more. How long have you done nothing now? Most folks think they have to go from irresponsible, mindless, reckless eating without any restraint to PERFECT controlled eating. Small steps, honey…tiny baby steps. 10 minutes of exercise every day is better than none at all. Start slow. Surely, you can manage 10 minutes. Set a timer and find 10 minutes! AS the weight melts off, it will give you confidence to continue, and continue….and continue. It’s slow but it stays off…that’s what you want. And don’t forget that you’re worth the happiness and the freedom. In the end, it will never be the weight that gives you happiness…but that you took control of your life. Unhealthy weight doesn’t mean you’re weak, or bad, or a failure…it means your life is out of balance. Nutrition (eating whole foods as much as possible) helps to keep cravings at bay. Now go for it! And I LOVE you!

      Dolores Neilson

      Reply
  44. Jeniece

    This is incredible. I thought I was the only one. I was always a heavy kid and now I’m a heavy 20-something. I have a happy life for the first time and have noticed that I’m losing weight because of it. It’s quite the phenomenon.

    Reply
  45. Sabrina

    Just wanted to leave a quick comment that I stumbled across your blog when I was looking for a recipe (mashed cauliflower actually :)) and kept reading and reading. This three part series about what you miss is beautifully written and gives me hope – I just joined WW two months, have lost some weight and a lot more to go. Reading your blog made me feel better about this journey and encouraged me to not start seeing the past as so negative (I keep wondering why I didn’t start earlier, etc.). Anyways, long-winded comment just to say THANKS!

    Reply
  46. Lorri

    Your blog is so touching…congrats on your lifstyle change..you are an inspiration!!! Thank you!!! I joined My fitness pal 8 months ago, and have lost 25lbs..felling discourage cause i havnt seen the scale move in 2/3 months…but thanks to your blog i will not give up..cause i dont want to fall back into the “Fat lifestyle” i want to be healthy and run and play with my kids!!

    Reply
  47. Stephanie

    I have been SO inspired by your stories. I stumbled upon your site a few months ago, and was blown away by your story. The way you put the feelings of being heavy and the weight loss process into words makes it feel do-able. The one thing I have taken away, and use daily, is the quote from one of your other posts, “can you do it, just today can you do it?” It really is a day by day thing. I really loved these 3 part post, because I am learning through my own weight loss is that I am mourning my old self-the self I have been for over 20 years…it’s so hard, but so possible! Thanks!!!

    Reply
  48. Beth Luwandi

    I haven’t been here in a while. I love the way you’ve reformatted and I love this series of three.
    Over the past year of my own losses including fat, marriage, job, children, security, housing, church family, pride, reputation, and shame… it has been so important to fully embrace every aspect of who I truly am. Even the me that kept accepting unacceptable treatment from my husband, in particular.
    But also sometimes from myself.
    You were an inspiration when I found you a year ago.. and I’m so glad to be back on the trail! ;D

    Reply
  49. Kristen @ notsodomesticated

    I’m going to sound like a broken record, after seeing everyone else’s comments… but I loved reading your story. You are a beautiful writer. Thank you for being vulnerable and sharing your story so honestly. :)

    Reply
  50. Retromodgirl

    You give me so much hope and insight as a present-day big woman. When I was thin, I used to reject the idea and images of my bigger self, but you have shown how to love and integrate the two, as they both have their uses. You have given me a better You have given me a better perception of the weight loss process. You are wonderful and wise beyond your years.

    Reply
  51. Kate

    Andrea, I found your blog via a Pinterest post on your mini lasagnas — and discovered so much more than recipes! This is just beautiful. You have a new follower.

    Reply
  52. Pingback: let’s get personal. « kristen, sweetly

  53. Beth Jungemann

    I just want you to know after reading “What I miss from 135lbs Ago” (Part 1, 2 and 3), I am a big ball of goo!

    I had gastric bypass 4 years ago. I lost 110 pounds. And just a few weeks ago, I have come to terms with the fact that I’ve gained 30 of those precious pounds back. And I’ve been an emotional mess. The thought that I am allowing myself get back on the road to that place terrifies me. That place of self-hatred, loathing and discomfort makes me cry.

    But then reading your blog, I realize that things weren’t always bad, and yes, living the first 31 years of my life obese (I hate that word) did cultivate a compassion and appreciation for life in me, that I don’t think I would have had otherwise.

    So now I will try to look back on the past with less fear and regret, and with more acceptance.

    Thank you for sharing your story, and for being you. I feel like I know you so well, even though we’ve never met. And I will be a follower as long as you continue to blog.

    Reply
  54. Amanda

    I just discovered your site today thanks to my best friend. I’m no where near as good with words as you are, but I have to tell you I’m hooked already!! You are an amazing writer and have a way of saying everything I never knew I thought or felt. As others have said, yes please write a book! Congratulations on all of your achievements! I look forward to frequenting your site and learning from you.

    Reply
  55. Heather

    Just found your blog and it is truly motivating!! I am also trying to lose 100+ pounds and am so curious as to what your body was like after, like your skin?! I know this is personal, and I’m not used to your blog enough to know if you share this kind of information! So no worries if not! Thanks for sharing your story.

    Reply
  56. Beth

    Good. Lord.

    I briefly met you at IFBC New Orleans, and was struck by very happy and, well, present you seemed to be. Of course, I had no idea about any of this story of yours. I’ve had my own struggles with disordered eating, and weight, and depression, all those horrible things one would never wish on anyone, but that one is ultimately profoundly grateful for. No one else really understands it; you had to have been there.

    Your writing has really touched a nerve with me, in a very deep and secret place that I don’t often show. You’re very brave to put yourself out there so openly, to share your story and hopefully help others. I think I understand your brilliant smile now: it’s because you’ve seen a piece of hell, and pulled yourself back to the light. You can’t help but smile.

    Thank you.

    Reply
  57. Chadae

    Reading this left me with mixed feelings…not about YOU of course but about myself. I’m a year younger than you (actually my 25th is on Sunday) and I am STRUGGLING to lose weight. I am miserable. Seriously miserable. I see no hope in sight…I hate cutting out foods…to be honest I don’t know what to eat. Exercising is a pain because I feel like I get used to it too quickly or I just become frustrated. Like I said…I’m miserable :-( but reading your blog has made me feel a little better. I still go into a panic trying to figure out meals (and honestly trying to fit losing weight into my weird busy schedule) or what foods to pick out. I just don’t know any more…but again I feel a little better. So if you or anyone has any words of advice I would love it. I’m around 172 trying to get to 145 (or 140 at the least). I don’t want to yo-yo anymore…I want to just live my life again!

    Reply
  58. Mary

    Wow, Andrea. This is so entirely what I needed to read today. I’ve put on almost 20 pounds in the past 6 months, after being desperately close to my goal this time last year AND working out every single morning. (I do still LOVE the workouts!) I need and want to regain my focus.

    I’m already planning to start browsing your archives as my kids nap today. Thank you again for the inspiration.

    Reply
  59. Amy

    I have never replied to a blog before but this was one of the most honestly beautiful things I have ever read. Thank you for sharing your journey.

    Reply
  60. Tracy

    You are truly amazing! So much of what you have said resonates with me and like so many other people have said in their comments, I needed to read what you wrote. You are a true inspiration to so many. I find myself craving to read more of your writing… Thank you for sharing :)

    Reply
  61. Michelle

    This was beautiful. You described it all so perfectly. I have lost 76lbs and still have about 60 to lose to get where I want to be, and I have trouble sometimes accepting the thinner me, but this helped me understand that she made me who I am today and it makes me embrace who and am and was with much more ease, love and acceptance. Thank you.

    Reply
  62. Shannon

    I stumbled upon your blog last night and I just wanted to say that you and your writing are so beautiful. Your writing is very poetic and moving. Thank you for sharing your life and your journey with the world, it is truly inspiring!

    Reply
  63. Lindsay

    I cried while reading this. Being overweight since the third grade has made me think and do things to myself that I shouldn’t. I’m always trying to push that part of me to the side, longing for people to not see the fat, but to see me. It wasn’t even until I turned 20 that I thought I was beautiful in any way or had anything to offer…and though I say I cried when I read this, and am still crying now, your words gave me comfort tonight. Thank you.

    Reply
  64. Mari

    I could live and die by what you’ve written. I LOVE the hell out of the fact that you did all of this without becoming obsessed with the gym. You sound real- and that’s better than anything else. I want to say good for you, but that’s not a big enough accolade for what you did, and still do.

    Reply
  65. Courtney

    Were we separated at birth??? Honestly, this is my history coming through your pen..or keyboard. I have never heard anyone describe the journey so honestly as you have, or so close to my own feelings about it. Thank you for sharing this.

    Reply
  66. Emese

    You are a great personality and a great writer. There are many weight loss blogs and stories out there, but yours is truly inspiring and beautiful. This is my favorite post, because you have captured so well the fact, that no matter if fat or skinny, it really is the person who matters at the end…Beautiful and inspiring thought. I truly like you, though I don’t know you. Oh, and you look gorgeous. You were gorgeous 135 lbs bigger too. :)

    Reply
  67. Spenser

    WOW! This. is. me! I am 24 yrs. old and 270 lbs. I have worked hard to lose just 10 lbs so far. It is such a struggle but I agree with every word you just said! I have come to love who I am no matter what! Thank you for this piece of encouragement I so desperately needed!

    Reply
  68. Jenna

    I just found your blog on pinterest and decided to take a look. You are honestly an inspiration to anyone and everyone! Thank you! I have about 10 pounds I need to lose and this just helped me get up, get dressed, and pack my gym back. You are a very strong person and I’m happy that you decided to share your journey through a blog. Thanks again :)

    Reply
  69. Cassia Zoe

    I read your exercise history (I found my exercise love and it is running) and I read this and this one made me weep. I am 39. I have about 45 pounds to lose. I just stopped fighting the battle to feel as if I am “enough” and realized that I already AM. It was a huge relief. Reading this made me feel like there is someone who really understands. I do not think that I was ready to be thin before now. I have lost 10 lbs. already and am proud of that. I have a long way to go internally and externally, but the journey no longer feels like a burden, it feels like a blessing strewn with lessons to make me stronger, just like every part of the journey has until now. Thank you so much for sharing this, for being so real, so touchingly lovely and for showing me a new dimension to loving myself.

    Reply
  70. Traci

    Really, you had to make me cry? My first time on your site? How rude. lol I clicked on a link to your buffalo chicken roll recipe, and the next thing I know, I’m bawling my eyes out, seeing parts of me in your story, and knowing that my journey is just beginning. I was slim growing up, never even thought about my weight until I got married and started having kids. But somewhere along that uphill trail as I gained weight, I actually learned how to make myself be heard and seen for who I am. So I completely get what you mean by not trading it or hiding what you used to look like. Our lives and actions shape us, inside and out! Thanks for giving me some encouragement I really needed today. <3 But next time, warn me before you make me cry. :)

    Reply
  71. Susan

    Part 3 was just a delight to read.

    I would really like to see a Part 4 addressing the differences in the way others interact with you after weight loss.

    I found it insulting that people made such a big deal about how I looked after I reached my goal weight. I would think to myself, “I just lost weight. I haven’t found a cure for cancer. I’m the same person I always was.” And the endless stupid questions. How much did you lose? How did you do it? How does it feel? What does your husband think about having such a sexy looking wife?

    It made me very self conscious. I felt like I was on display. I kind of missed being “invisible”.

    Reply
  72. Tara

    It’s amazing how similar our thoughts are! I have lost 110 pounds over a period of 3 years. I started this journey during my junior year in college. I know what it feels like to be stared at when you walk into a room with all your skinny, beautiful friends. People who act like they’re my best friend now wouldn’t even speak to me back then. I used to always think that everything would be perfect if I could just lose weight. I found out that it isn’t true. Yes, many things have improved. Yes, I do feel a million times better physically and emotionally. But at the same time, I am thankful for my struggle. When you go your whole life not being able to rely on your looks, it allows you to focus on developing a winning personality. And it made me realize that no matter how beautiful you are on the outside, none of that matters if you’re rotten on the inside. Thank you for sharing your journey with the world. You are truly an inspiration.

    Reply
  73. Brianna

    What an inspirational story you have here.. I have a dietician (sp?) currently, due to health issues that came up.. because of my weight gain. I’m borderline diabetic just because of the weight I’ve gained, but anyways my dietician told me about your blog and I’m just insanely inspired. I do however, have a few questions for you. First off, where did the extra skin go? Because I have a bit of it.. and Second, how’d you get rid of the stretch marks, (if you did), because mine are deep and purple. But on a positive note, I’ve been eating better and taking dance classes (as my exercise) for two weeks now and have lost a whole SIX pounds which is crazily motivating!! Thank you for your story!!

    Reply
  74. Laura

    Wow. I’m bawling reading these posts in succession. I am a big girl, and have been for a long time. I have this sad feeling that I’m betraying the big person I have been all these years by losing weight. I’ve felt rejected so much, that I don’t want to tell this self that she is not good enough, and reject her once more. Your story is so empowering, and you are a godsend in your beautiful voice and perspective. Thank you!

    Reply
  75. Heather

    Thank you for this. I work with teenaged girls, and their attitude toward weight and food is often very unhealthy. Thank you for publicly honoring yourself at all weights, for loving your past as much as your present and future, and for focusing, not JUST on the weight loss, but on the unhealthy behaviors that kept you heavier.

    Reply
  76. Andrea

    Your words push me to my truths. You help me live one more day, even better than the last. My perspective has now changed.

    Reply
  77. Hannah

    This has me in tears. It’s just so easy to relate to, but at the same time I don’t see how you look so positively at the past 20 years of your life. I wish I could. I’m 18 years old- I look at pictures of the past 10 years of my life, pictures that used to make me laugh and brought back some of my best memories, and all I see is how over weight I was. I contemplated throwing them away time and time again, but I convince myself that one day I’ll appreciate those memories. For right now, they simply disgust me.

    Reply
  78. HR

    I appreciate this. I am trying to appreciate it more than I am envious of it, more than I wish I could say it all. I felt this way once. Once, I lost around 75 lbs. I felt amazing. And over the past year, I have watched the size of my jeans creep slowly upward. And all I can think most of the time : how did you let this happen again? Knowing what you know, how could you?

    Those who have not been where we have been don’t understand what a difficult psychological battle it is, or how it is so relentless. And I’m trying to find that balance again– where I no longer feel so awful for eating a carb and too stressed out by counting calories. I love that you have found it and you have not let it go. I’ll be coming back regularly, just for the reminders.

    Reply
  79. Jennifer

    Reading your story is so inspiring. I started my journey to shed the extra pounds about 11 months ago. So far I’ve lost 90lbs (out of 130) & I have never looked at my weight loss like I am now after reading everything you’ve written. You’re an amazing writer & I can’t wait to read more :)

    Reply
  80. Jennifer

    I had tears in my eyes reading this – you hit the nail on the head! I am 38 years old, and have struggled with this my entire life – until recently. I have lost 85 pounds, and have 60 more to go to reach my goal. You have successfully written about every emotion that I am feeling now, before I even get to where I want to be. You are an amazing inspiration to so many!

    Reply
  81. Mariah

    What an inspirational person you are. You are truly amazing. Your words are so deep, beautiful, and they touched me to my core. I really hope that I can be as positive as you are one day, and really see all the beauty in myself, fat or not. I especially loved part 3. Thank you for sharing your journey, and story, with the world.

    Reply
  82. Savanna

    I’m 19 years old and in the past year have lost over 60 pounds.. This just brought me to tears. You’ve said everything that I’ve not been able to find the words for, and for that I thank you.

    Reply
  83. Jennifer

    I just found your blog – I am in awe. I lived more than 30 years overweight (with a few attempts at extreme diets), but during the last 15 months, I have lost 99 pounds. Not so much a diet, I have just changed the way I eat – I cut my portions by 1/3, and then, about 35 lbs in, a friend suggested I get moving, and I have. I found your blog because of your running post, and I found it so interesting. I have been so scared to stop running. I am so afraid if I don’t exercise constantly, the weight will come back. It will take me a few days to get through your blog, I’m sure, but as a fellow foodie, I know that I’ve found a place that I can definitely relate to! Thank you so much for sharing your journey!

    Reply
  84. sarah solkema

    what an incredibly articulate and ever so true story. i am struggling to lose over 100 lbs myself and you have put into words what races inside me daily. you are an amazing, beautiful soul. thank you.

    Reply
  85. Joyce Johnston

    Thanks for writing this. It was an awesome read

    Part of it sounded like I had written it LOL

    Keep up the good work
    Enjoy life

    Reply
  86. Lisa

    Congratulations! I was overweight for a long time, and shedding the weight was one of my biggest accomplishments. It’s hard though – every day I have to remember I can’t eat whatever I want. I have to stop myself from reaching for that chocolate bar. It’s been 4 years and I keep track every day, every week, to keep the weight off. But pulling on that size 5 feels good every time.

    Reply
  87. lisa

    “Maybe because my heart has ripped, and lost pieces, and still has visible stretch marks and sewn seams, my character will be ultimately more resilient.”
    This spoke to me.

    I’m looking at 120 lbs to lose and am feeling completely overwhelmed. Thanks for some perspective.

    Reply
  88. Kelly

    You are absolutely wise beyond your years… I believe that God gave you that body and those struggles to mold you into an inspirational leader and a voice to those who may not know, or have forgotten how to get out of that prison. I’m the girl that forgot how to get out. I’ve been out… free as a bird at age 22…trapped again at 30. I’ve loved life and that fearless feeling of being content mind, body and soul. I was still missing something. I had a rough upbringing and I wanted so desperately to find my mate and start my family of my own. I did both and still had more struggles. I found everything i was missing +60lbs… + more pain. I found that girl I had struggled so long to realize was me, and loved both sides… and then in a string of bad circumstances I let her drift away. My marriage was challenged (not by the weight but other life issues) and my God-given dream to be a mom was put to the test. I felt inadequate and worthless, like my daughter deserved someone with less problems and I should give her away to someone who could care for her better. It’s crazy the thoughts we have when we are desperate and struggling… even more when we lose our best self… yet it’s what has kept me holding on… that promise of a life I enjoyed living beyond weight and circumstances. It seems that God uses the paralyzing situations to teach me the most… paralyzed at my highest weight after knowing the life of having those pounds off my body. I know that in life I accomplish so much more without those added pounds of emotional baggage and the physical strains that feel like a prison. Tying your shoes, squeezing into jeans, finding the right outfits and not thinking my feet look like toothpicks in heels with this overwhelming body on top. It’s awful to go back… and it’s even harder to find the way when you let it slip away. I learned the life lesson and kept it all… my marriage is healing and my daughter is the absolute greatest gift I’ve ever been blessed to receive. Four long years of pain and life lessons and I’ve been ready to go back to the girl that loved her body too. I miss the body that could walk a mile in my shoes and not feel the way I feel lately. It’s such a struggle to feel like her on the inside and carry the weight outside. I really just need to make time for her… plan time for my other self. I miss her and she misses me. A friend told me about your site and I’m soooo inspired. Girl, you are amazing!!! I know both sides, just like you do… and I’m happy to say that I love this me, but my clothes don’t… my spirit is screaming for me to get out… and my clothes always speak louder than than any voice! haha I’m looking forward to keeping tabs on this blog and I will share my journey if you wish to see it. Thank you so much for being a voice. Your words are so loud and clear… I know what I need to do, but I’m so grateful that you shared your inspiring story. It motivated me more than anything I’ve seen in years!

    Reply
  89. Laura

    Hi. You’re AWESOME. Awesome, awesome, awesome! Idk how much I weigh (I don’t own a scale, for obvious reasons), but at my heaviest(when I was 9 months pregnant, mind you), I was pushing 260. I’m betting I’m somewhere around 230 now. I am very much like you: I know HOW to lose weight. I know how to eat healthy. I lost 15 lbs. once on Weight Watchers (and working out). But then, like everything, I lost my resolve. Your blog is very inspiring!

    I’m also 5’9″. Unlike you, I don’t have a tiny frame underneath. When I was slimmer, in high school (I say slimmER, I was never skinny or thin), I was 150ish. I can’t expect to look like a 15-year-old again, obviously. If I lost “the weight”, I’d be somewhere between 150-170.

    The blog about maintaining, and not having to jog every day and kill yourself, is very encouraging! I am SOOOOOOOO lazy. I do like walking, love yoga, and swimming, and lots of other activities. But really. So lazy. It would be a BIG change for me to be active every day. But…heart disease, diabetes…not something I want in my near future. Especially b/c I have a child, and plan on having more soon! I want to be a good example, and give them the best start I can, too, so they can be healthy.

    If I shortened this up a bit, I just want to say, Thank you for your amazing weight loss, and this inspiring blog. It touches on ALL the “issues”, not just, this is how I did it, see how amazing I am.

    Reply
  90. Angie

    Wow… I never thought an article about weight loss could make me tear up like this. Well said, Andie!

    I “struggle” with my weight, but have never been obese. As with many women, I gained quite a bit of weight in my pregnancies. I am trying to loose about 20 pounds, which will bring me to my “ideal” healthy weight… at least according to Wii Fit. :-)

    Thank you for the encouraging words — not only in the area of weight loss, but in the area of seeing ourselves and others in a healthy light… about keeping all things in perspective and loving ourselves and others for the right reasons.

    You were an encouragement to me today.

    Angie

    Reply
  91. Megan McCoy

    I think finding your blog is going to be a crucial part in my journey to making myself better. You are my motivation. Thank you for sharing your story and for changing my life.

    Reply
  92. Paula

    This story is truly a great story and inspiration for some of us who have those extra lbs to lose. The exact same thoughts about dresses, high heels etc.. now how to start…thank you for sharing your journey to a healthier life.

    Reply
  93. Lisa Gatz

    Again, you have an amazing outlook. I love that you embrace yourself and recognize that you’re not a different person than you were. You’re beautiful at any weight. I have adapted the way that I communicate with people like any fat person does: I compensate. I have also used it as a barrier so that people, men especially, wouldn’t see me. It was much safer. I want to be ready to take the next step but don’t believe in myself. And I’m going to be 50 in April!
    Bless you.
    Lisa

    Reply
  94. Becca

    This is so beautiful. Your journey is very incredible. I’m wishing for change, but I agree – I don’t want to lose who I have been for as long as I have known. Thank you for helping me see that it is okay to be both. To embrace both.

    Reply
  95. Erika

    My friend and I were talking the other day and I mentioned to her how I recently lost all the weight I gained during depression. She said to me:

    “you weren’t trying to lose the weight, you were trying to lose the hurt.”

    It’s the only thing that’s made sense to me in the past 8 years of gaining and 2 of yoyoing and finally losing (fingers crossed) for good. I thought it might help someone here too.

    Reply
  96. Melly

    Well written, thoughtful and sincere. I was really touched. I sit in my current unhealthy state and think “this isn’t me, this isn’t who I am” but it is me. This has offered me a very fresh perspective. Thank you.

    Reply
  97. Melissa Rodrigues

    Your story is truly inspiring! I had tears filling my eyes while reading this. Thank you for being so open with how you felt, and feel. Also, you recipes sound delicious i just got done copying and pasting a ton! ha Going to plan some meals off of them for sure. Oh, i don’t remember for sure if you said you were from Seattle, Wa? Cause if so thats funny cause i’m from Vancouver, Wa. Anyways.. God Bless. :)

    Reply
  98. Laurel

    This is so beautifully written. I am new to your blog and I can’t stop reading it. It’s wonderful and inspirational. Thank you, Andie. I can’t wait to read your book.

    Reply
  99. Debbie

    I just found this..due to finding a recipe. So I stayed to read…and boy, I really needed to read this today. Thank you for your view!

    I have never heard anyone talk of the value of the ‘life before THIN’! We all hear about the horror stories of being FAT! I love your picture of the whole picture! Why do we always just think we are ‘not good enough’? no thin enough? pretty enough? not ENOUGH?

    I have lost 90+ lbs but I struggle with the thoughts of when have I lost enough?…will I ever be ‘enough’..perfect enough? Will this change make me ‘alright’? So I love your words!

    Thank you! I will stop by again! Your words are powerful!

    Reply
  100. Amanda

    Thanks to pinterst I found your wesbite, and like the other’s can’t stop reading. The part 2 really got to me as I could relate to ever word. However, at this time, I still feel those things and can’t wait not to know what it is not to have chaffing and not to worry about fitting in a booth at a resturant. I’m toward the beginning of my weight loss journey, but for many years I didn’t think I could do it. It took me 29 years to realize I’m worth being healthy and having many more years to live. The good thing is that this time it’s different and I know I will get there one day at a time. I’m happy to read more about your journey to help me stay motivate.
    Thanks

    Amanda

    Reply
  101. megan

    Wow…you are fantastic writer. I stumbled upon your blog while looking at a photo on Pinterest. I started to read tour blog and you just sucked me right in! Your honesty is refreshing. :)

    Megan

    Reply
  102. Rachel

    Thank you so much for your story. I bookmarked it so I can come back again and again to help myself find the strength I need to complete my journey.

    I couldn’t have said it better – “Some of it meant that I developed a personality first.”

    Thank you. Thank you.

    Reply
  103. Laurie

    I too found you thanks to Pinterest and stayed to read your amazing story and now I’m not leaving!! You are so inspiring. What a great person you are for sharing your story and giving hope to all. I have walked for along time and always thought about jogging…weather pending tomorrow I try jogging for the first time :)

    Reply
  104. Colby

    I have to agree with everyone that has already commented.. you are seriously the best blogger I have ever read. I can just feel your sincerity and realness in every word. You are truly an inspiration. You help me realize that this is a battle against weight loss can be won, and does not have to be as hard as I make it out to be. I love your perspective on life, and how you view yourself with or without 135 pounds. Your story is absolutely amazing! I know I don’t know you, but I can tell you are an amazingly beautiful person inside and out! Thanks so much for sharing!!

    Reply
  105. Ashley

    This “Part 3” brought a tear to my eye. I feel the same way about the past, wanting to forget, forget being fat, feel like that part of life was wasted. I love love love your writing, I feel like I am going through the same stuggles that you have/are. Reading your stories makes me feel like someone truly understands what it is like for someone like me who has been overweight most of my life. When I find myself doubting that I will be able to change my life for the better, reading your blog gives me strength. You give me hope that it is possible. Thank You!

    Reply
  106. Judy Jergins

    Thank you sweet angel. I have learned that, although I have never been what you’d call fat, in fact my largest weight has only been 140 lbs, but I do know misery and self defeat. They have been frequent friends of mine for a great deal of my life. Alwas feeling less than, no matter how pretty, sweet or whatever adjectives people consider compliments were said in cunjunction with my name. Big, skinny, not pretty, beautiful, funny, boring, drunk, sober, quiet, the life of the party. What matters is, do I love myself and the answer to that was often times NO! Reading your blog has made me see that our lives are all filled with the good and the bad. We are all of it and it is really o-k. Thank you for holding a mirror up in front of myself. We can be whoever we want to be but the most important thing is to be the best “you” you can be, satisfied with my self no matter what. You deserve a big huge hug for your honesty, unselfishness, the sharing of your journey. I happened upon your blog on Pinterest somehow in persuit of the perfect curly hairstyle for a 59 yearold woman, that would be me! Dear child, you have taught me to love myself no matter what…..today.

    Reply
  107. donkaminor

    I’ve meet you through your thaĆÆ tofu recipe. I made it last sunday and all my family just loved it. It’s now in my recipe book. thanks for that.

    I then thought, let’s see other recipes and there i see that you’re sharing a part of your story.
    I’ve read it and had to tell you how great your writting is, in what a beautifull, simple way you say things.

    Thanks for sharing with me, with us.

    Donkaminor from Mauritius

    Reply
  108. Brit

    I am reading this thinking, this is what I want. Exactly what I want. But like you, I have spent my 25 years on this earth either losing weight or gaining it. I’ve never been anything but fat. I have set forth to reach my goal hundreds of time, and always fail. I can’t see the hole I’m trying to fill with food? Did you always know there was a void you were shoving pizza into? I just really like food and like you said, an abundance. Did the realization of a void come later? I hope one day I can have a story like yours. I’m tired of my story being all “wah wah” and no “YAY!”

    Reply
  109. Nina

    Wow, what an inspiration you are!! Congrats on all your success, hard work truly pays off and you are a great example of that. =)

    PS, you look great!

    Reply
  110. suzanne

    I found you thru Pinterest as well…..wow, you sure know how to write well…and identify so many things that are deep inside. I so admire that about you! I hope you are planning to write a book……just compile the blog and you’d have a best-seller!! Truly!
    Thanks for the inspiration!
    Suzanne

    Reply
  111. suzanne

    okay, just finished reading current posts to see that you are indeed writing a book!! Hooray. I will enjoy reading it!!! Congrats on your progress!

    Reply
  112. Melody Wilkerson

    You write beautifully. You are inspiring. I will encourage my daughters to read your blog. I truly enjoyed your journey. God Bless You, Melody.

    Reply
  113. Lou

    I loved your What i miss from 135 pounds post. I haven’t been able to successfully lose and keep off my weight. I need to lose 70 lbs. Reading this post got me teary eyed, because weight loss IS bittersweet, you do miss some things and definitely do not miss others. Your journey has been lovely. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  114. Benjamin

    What an amazing perspective on the first 20 years of your life as a big girl. Maybe if I had the right perspective with the way I am now as a big guy maybe weight loss would be easier and more rewarding. Thank you.

    Reply
  115. Amanda

    I just wanted to say “Thank you!” for this blog. I just started my weight loss journey. 2 years ago I was diagnosed w/ diabetes. I tried to do the right thing for about 6 months and then I got so fed up that I decided I would eat everything in the world and if I died – then so be it! Then several months ago, I got a call from my doctor in response to an insanely high A1c test result and she said “this is your life…” – that’s it. That simple sentence and I felt the need to not destroy myself. I started out at 312 and have lost 28 lbs to date. I ran on the small weight loss high for a bit, but noticed the last couple days I had started not caring again and wanting more than anything to eat a whole cheesecake…. or alfredo.. yeah – a whole cheesecake w/ a skillet full of fettucini alfredo. Then while searching for somewhat healthy recipes to try to force myself to continue down the path of healthiness – I found your blog via pinterest. It has served as a reminder, as a small subtle push back to being content with making these changes to my life. Again, thank you, for sharing your story that sounds so much like mine. Seeing someone write it out from my side of the roller coaster has helped refuel my motivation.

    Reply
  116. Kimberley

    Wow! I just found your website. “What I Miss…” is so beautifully written and expressed. I’m just learning at 42 what you figured out at 20. Good for you! Thank you for sharing your story and your words.

    Reply
  117. Alyssa

    I have read everything you wrote from your about me to your what i miss from 135LBS.. I am 268LBS right now… My life has never been easy i lived with abuse physical and emotional. I had always been told that i was nothing and will always be nothing, that i was fat and worthless and i would never amount to anything…. I have lived with the mentality for my whole life. I am 21 and have two kids and have been married for 4 year. My husband is in the US Army and currently deployed. He has devoted his life to me and his boys, he tells me how beautiful i am how much he loves me day in and day out!!! But i am unable to see what he sees…. Everything that you said lays so heavily on me because it is how i feel right now…. I wonder if i will ever be truly happy with who i am and what i look like. Or if there is even a possibility that i could ever be 135LBS light…. I know that you hear all the time that you inspire people and help them see the light, but i admire your honesty and braveness to share your life… You have given me something that no one in this life has given me to this day… and that FAITH.. You have inspired me to fight for myself and not worry about the possibility of it being unrealistic… You have filled me with possibilities and optimism, and for that I THANK YOU!!!!!

    Reply
  118. Tracey

    Wow.

    What beautiful writing, what a powerful soul. You are an instrument for change. Thank you for sharing, and sharing.

    Much love to all those struggling to come an understanding with food and exercise. You’ve come to the right place for inspiration! I know I feel it!

    Reply
  119. Raven

    A Rainbow, called by God’s command…
    The painter’s brush, it’s in His hand…
    He makes one stroke, so perfectly…
    Life’s much like that, if we could see…

    Reply
  120. Diana

    I absolutely love, love, love the way you have put all of your life into perspective. I have several friends who lost quite a bit of weight as well & sadly they have become so self absorbed. I am overweight (never felt/feel comfortable calling myself fat) & as most do, I have my ups & downs. But anyway :) the thing I can so relate to are these sentences.

    “Some of it meant that I developed a personality first.

    A sense of humor before a sense of entitlement.

    Empathy before ego.”

    WTG on your weight loss but more so on the ability to not lose sight of who you are!

    Reply
  121. David

    I just discovered this blog and this post and want to say: Thank you for putting my feelings into words. This is exactly how I feel about my fat self. He will always be a part of me.

    Reply
  122. Kaitlin

    Thank you so much for sharing your story. You so eloquently put into words what I have been feeling for so long. I’ve been heavy my entire life and I’m on a weight loss journey myself. Your blog has given me the inspiration whenever I’m feeling like I can’t reach my goal. I just wanted you to know how much your story has inspired me, thank you!!!

    Reply
  123. Dee

    love your recipes and posts, i want to follow them for encouragement and weight loss, thank God for creating you and putting you on this earth to encourage others and thanks for your beautiful transparency, awesome !

    Reply
  124. Priscilla Mcconnell

    So so beautiful… both you and your story. Although I didn’t spend 20 years overweight, I know the feelings you described so perfectly. I always say the same thing as you- I’ve always been me. Seems obvious but a lot of times people (like you said) disregard the before-the-weight-loss life. I gained 100 lbs when I was pregnant and my body was forever changed. I’ve since lost the weight although my body will never be the same. Like you, I gained a new perspective. I know it wasn’t in vain. I learned that no matter how others perceive me I’m always “everything I’ve always been”. Love that quote from you! I’ve learned humility, selflessness and what it truly means to be beautiful. I can tell you have that down as well. Loved reading this. My heart is glad that you didn’t necessarily find yourself, but you intuitively know you’ve always been you and the good, the bad and the ugly are all part of the journey…

    Reply
  125. Yunaleska

    I am crying, and i dont think I can stop. This is the most beautifully written blog I have ever come across in the entire web! So filled with emotion and wisdom. Your words are so powerful, and your thoughts so inspiring and life changing. You are amazing!

    Reply
  126. -S

    Wow! Very inspiring! I had tears reading all three parts of this blog..it is beautiful and very touching.

    Reply
    1. Marcia Keen Townsend

      Andie, congratulations and thank you for sharing your adventures. In the past several years I have lost myself…you are exactly right…If you are not happy and at peace with yourself nothing will make your happy. I am very appreciative for your comments and will continue to follow your blog. I too need to get a grip and lose 80+ pounds and find who I am once again. Take care and God bless you.

      Reply
  127. Noel Brannum

    With tears in my eyes I want to thank for for sharing your life and the perspective you have of it. You have helped me more than you will ever know!!!! Thanks and my God hold you in the palm of his hand!!

    Reply
  128. Amanda

    Thank you. So much. I am embarking on a weight loss journey myself but I am struggling with that because truthfully, I am happy. I know that being 5’4″ and weighting 190 pounds is not healthy, but I am happy. I love the vulnerability you showed in saying that you don’t want to look back on your 20 years with regret. I don’t either. Thank you for being so inspiring, both with you weightloss, but more so with your knowledge that it is not what life is all about.

    Reply
  129. Haley

    I am beginning my quest for a healthier life and came across your blog. I’m very inspired by the way you have been transparent about who you are and how you’ve gotten to where you are. I am about the same size you were when you started your journey and only pray that in 5 years I can look back and reflect as you are doing.

    Reply
  130. Ashley

    I don’t think I’ve ever read something that literally describes every feeling and thought that I have ever had. My story is basically the same, different background no doubt. I’m still fighting it, I know I’ll have to everyday. Just kudos to you! Damn fine job!

    Reply
  131. Jessica

    You hit the nail on the head- it’s you all along. I have struggled with my weight for years, and I know I always will. I’ve recently lost 20 of my 40 lb weight loss goal and I’ve been losing track of my progress focusing instead on what’s to come. “Oh my gosh I’ve still got 20 pounds to go” I need to keep thinking, “Oh my gosh, I’ve lost 20 pounds!!” I too thought losing weight would make everything OK, I’ve been fat and I’ve been thin and I’m still here just the same. I think it’s important for people to realize that nothing is going to get better from the outside just by losing weight- it all comes from within and you have to be happy with yourself 100% of the time!

    Reply
  132. Kristine J. Trudeau

    I found you on Pinterest and am so glad I did. I just turned 60 and I’m tipping the scale at 243#, dropped from 275# about a year ago. I can say that I’ve been thin maybe 4 years (not consecutively) in my entire life. There’s not a day that goes by that I’ve hated my weight and my self. Your blog just woke me up to the fact that I need to come to terms with who I am in this body, so I can get on with what little life I have left. Only then will I be able to release this weight that I’ve been hiding in. Food has been my escape, my friend, and my excuse. But there’s another side of me that “wishes” I could leave this fat jail and see something else besides pity or disgust when people look at me. Thank you for sharing your story. You are an inspiration and the kick in the pants I needed. Kris

    Reply
  133. Carla

    Thank you for writing so eloquently what I know many of us feel. Lacing up my running shoes right now to unleash life again.

    Reply
  134. Becki

    Wow! I stumbled upon this but needed it so badly! Thanks for sharing…it’s wonderful and I felt every single word!

    Reply
  135. Jay

    I couldn’t stop reading your story. It is so beautifully written. It resounds with similarity to my own recovery story. The feeling of freedom is a wonderful thing and is not to be taken lightly. It must be nurtured in deep gratitude, as it comes across in your eloquence. Thank you for the hope you give and for the affirmation that deep self examination helps to bring us to ourselves and and eventually to health. You helped me today.

    Reply
  136. Keke

    OMG this has got to be the best blog I’ve ever read. I’ve gained so much insight and inspiration reading this. Now, I am going enjoy my JOURNEY to healthy and the lessons I learn along the the way. Thanks for sharing.

    Reply
  137. Bobbi Lynn Peters

    You are amazing….so wise beyond your years. Thank you, from the bottom of my being, for writing this blog. It is SO powerful and such a blessing.

    You’re a beautiful spirit and I’m hooked on this blog! lol

    :) <3

    Reply
  138. Lynn

    Wow. I just finished reading all 3 parts and well, I’m bawling my eyes out. So brilliant, so beautifully expressed. I have not been heavy my whole life, but I have been for the past 10 years or so, and reading this is really, really powerful for me today.
    Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and writing this blog. You are an old soul, and I mean that as a strong compliment – wise beyond your young years. I can’t wait to dive deeper in to what you have to say on this blog, and to seek out my own wisdom as I strike out on a more self-loving path. Thank you again!

    Reply
  139. Elaine Morinelli

    I just came across this article and related to it so deeply! I lost 125 pounds over the last eight years and I find myself constantly reminded of it. Now I can sit on the ground or a bench and pull my leg up to tie my shoe; now i can cross my arms across my chest and they will reach all the way around; it was so hard to buy clothes; i finally threw them all away after losing six sizes and me looking like an elephant in baggy pant; people, EVERYONE men and women, treats me differently. Why, I wonder? I truly do wonder. Why do women treat me differently?

    Your article was profound. Thank yo.

    Reply
  140. Lea

    Hi there lady Jane!
    I loved stumbling on your blog, it’s been a long journey for me losing weight, I started like you when I was 20, and 5 years later I’m also down 135 lbs. I look back and I never get unhappy with what I see, I really treasure what happened when that photo was taken, rather than judge myself. I used to escape from my all of my problems with my family with food.
    All in all, thank you for sharing your story, it relates a lot to mine, and darling you have always looked fantastic :)

    Reply
  141. Elaine

    Hello again – I get new comments in my mailbox and I just had to comment myself again.

    I am 62 years old and I was fat my whole life. I weighed as much as 315 pounds and I’m 5’2″. Ten years ago, I had a very light heart attack that scared the you-know-what out of me. Although I was 52, my youngest was still in elementary school as we adopted her as older parents. When I looked into her eyes afterward, I knew I could not leave her. She would be shattered, to lose a mother after having lost a birthmother.

    From that day forward it was like I was “clean and sober.” I went religiously to cardiac rehab. I went to the gym. I was scared to eat anything.

    Ten years later, I am not “skinny” but I am down 125 pounds and now look average for an American woman my age. In other words, no one stares any more and I don’t worry about hiding anything that much.

    As a young woman I had a lot of the thoughts you had in your original post, about developing a personality instead of a sense of entitlement. And I’m happy about that. But now, at 62, I just want a man to stare at my breasts once in a while. LOL

    I. Will. Never. Go. Back. I simply cannot be that person any more. But she’s still here every day.

    Reply
  142. Patsy Hodges

    Wow! I just discovered your blog while searching Pinterest for recipes for my weight loss journey. I have 5 decades to look back on being obese and you have provided a different perspective. You are truly a gifted writer and put into words many of the thoughts that I have about the journey thus far. I wish you well in your continued quest to become you.

    Reply
  143. Joanna

    I was trying on clothes earlier this evening which, anyone who’s ever been 5’6″ and 212 pounds knows, is not fun. As I was trying things on and getting more discouraged and tryng to figure out how I let myself get this fat, something snapped. I’m 29 years old, and I love my life, but I hate my body. 30 by 30 popped in my head, and now I can’t wait to get started on the journey to 30! I have 25 weeks until the big 3-0, and I’ve always had this fear that if I don’t do it by 30, I never will. I know lots of people do, but minds are quirky sometimes. I was trying to decide how to keep myself on track, and I considered blogging about it, but I wanted to figure out exactly how to go about it. I googled “boog about weight loss”ands found your blog immediately. You are just the inspiration I needed. I absolutely love everything in this post. I realized that I truly love Everytging but my weight, and it’s time to make it happen. I’ll be spending lots of time here catching up on everything, and I look forward to your books! Congratulations on all your success!

    Reply
  144. Amy W.

    I just found your site and read these posts about what you miss from 135 lbs ago. And I cried. You are a wonderful writer and perfectly capture the love/hate part I struggle with. And to know that you accept both aspects of yourself and you’ve kept the weight off… You’re just an inspiration, thank you for these posts.

    Reply
  145. Lynsey

    I just read your story and saw myself in every word. I’m a writer myself and admire your way with words. I don’t know how you got into my head and pulled out all my thoughts and fears and struggles when you wrote part 2 of this piece, but it was uncannily me. I’m in the midst of my own journey with weight loss. I’m slowly making progress, but it’s so hard not to fall into my old habits. Thanks for inspiring me to not only continue with what I’m doing, but push harder. In high school I was thin and felt beautiful, but a bad relationship and low self esteem left me with lots of baggage and I stopped caring about myself. I’m 60 lbs from my goal now. I’m a mom now too so excuses are easy to come by for not having “time” or “energy” to get things done. Still, I’m doing this now for my daughter more than anything. I want her to have a healthy relationship with food and not feel like throwing away her life is ok. Thanks again for speaking to me on such a meaningful level. You’re an inspiration.

    Reply
  146. Amanda

    Thank you! I’ve been at a battle tryin
    g to lose weight for years. People making fun of me, telling me i was fat. but, thank you for the encouragement. i see now that it can really be done.

    Reply
  147. Vanesa

    Hi,
    I’ve been reading your blog and I never leave comments like this but your story really moved me and I will make myself and my voice vulnerable because your way of sharing is so beautiful and inspiring. I am 22, I had anorexia and bulimia for years and have just recently learned what you talk about when you say the grass may appear greener on the other side but flowers grow here and there along with the weeds. I started crying because I really did love who I was when I was chubbier and it was a fear of missing out on life because I wasn’t thin enough that sent me too far. And when I got to skeletal I was still empty. I completely relate that happiness doesn’t equal being skinny. I am recovered and weigh a healthy weight and eat healthy (my discovery of your blog) and have a stronger sense of what to love about myself. Thank you. For your personality, your inspiration, and your beauty within.

    Reply
  148. Liz

    Andrea, You are amazing. This made me cry so hard. I lost my dad when I was 12 also(I am 26 now). I turned to bulimia and now know it was never about the food or weight for me. I am better now but have gained 10 pounds ( I know, that is nothing)but it is for me. Your blog is inspiring. I know if I lost 10 pounds and was a size 2 I would still find something wrong with it. I wish I could just be happy like you.

    Reply
  149. Brittany

    This is amazing. You write how I feel, only I am back at the beginning of my journey.
    I come from the same place. I don’t hate my body, or my weight. It’s my past, my scars and my coping mechanism. I appreciate how it got me through tough times, how eating kept me away from doing worse things to my health and how It tells my story. It enabled me to feel everything. I can’t wait to know what the ‘thin’ me is like.

    Reply
  150. Kiersten

    I’m sitting here in tears, screaming in my head.. This is you. Your words are infectious, inspirational, and beautiful. I’ve been trying for so long to get into shape and lose weight, and I always feel as if there’s always an excuse of why I can’t.. I was too busy, or I didn’t feel well, but all it’s doing is hurting me. I feel like I don’t have the willpower to overcome losing weight. I want to love myself for the first time in my life.. but it just continues to be a struggle.

    Reply
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  152. Ashley

    Thank you for giving me hope today. Your story could easily be my story, and i feel like i can actually do something about my weight, I can live the life i’ve always dreamed of.

    Reply
  153. Amanda

    Andie, you are such an inspiration. Thank you for your honesty. Food is such a love and hate relationship for me. I am trying to learn to appreciate it for the fuel it provides my body but, also not to take it to far to where I make myself feel guilty anytime I eat. It is such a thin line to walk. I just wanted to say thank you for your blog and recipes, they are a great help. Thank you Andie. :)

    Reply
  154. Liz

    Thank you for putting into words how I have felt all my life. Reading your story has given me a sense of freedom and validation. Thank you and please keep writing!

    Reply
  155. Jessica

    *tears not of sadness but of joy for you! I send you a great big hug and applaud that the girl you’ve always been will continue on in a brand new skin!!! What a journey and what a blessing that it has been an education! Thank you for sharing!

    Reply
  156. Pam

    You are such a wonderful writer!
    Your words brought me to tears, as I’ve felt the way you do
    so often in my 60+ years of being overweight.
    Thank you for being so honest, and for saying it so well.

    Reply
  157. Kay Marie

    This was a beautiful post. I went from being 232 lbs to 149 lbs (and counting down) over the course of about 4 years. I love the way you remember the time you were bigger with happiness. It’s true – I was big, but it wasn’t all bad – most of those times were happy for me too and I don’t want to forget that or mistreat my memories just because I happened to be in a bigger body at that time. I really want to appreciate every step of my journey because my bigger years helped my cultivate the personality I have now.

    Reply
  158. becky

    thank you so much for writing this it really spoke to me especially this post and what you siad in the previous section about waiting
    best wishes becky x

    Reply
  159. Marz

    It is an amazing thing you’ve done, loosing that much weight and keeping it off so long. But I even more impressed by your writing. I’ve read so many blogs and I have to say yours is one of the most well written, most poetic ones I’ve read. You really have a way with words that really expresses the underlying emotions. I’ll definitely be looking for your books, and if you aren’t already writing for a ‘day job’, I’d recommend looking into it. It’s that good.

    Reply
  160. simone

    I wish i had read this years ago but reading it now has reduced me to tears. Its so beautiful and your words touch my soul because i feel how you used to feel. The constant up and down ride if gaining and loosing. Whenever i feel demotivated i know i will come back here and read your words again because they inspire me so much. Thankyou for shaaring that part of you.

    Reply
  161. Pam

    I love your prosaic way of relating your experiences/feelings around weight your weight issues and the resulting life/health changes. It is such a struggle. I have been a yo-yo dieter for the past 30 years losing 25 on WW, then 35 on Atkins etc. I feel like I have spent every day thinking about food. I am either thinking about how “bad” Im being, or what I need to do, or what to make, or what my next step should be, or Im justifying the latest indiscretion because Im stressed out or I’ll just eat light next meal. I realize recently that it is as much a psychological issue as a physical issue. To that extent I am going to try not to procrastinate any longer and reach out to a counselor for help. My health is at risk with a BMI of 32 so it can’t wait any longer. I will pray on it.

    Reply
  162. Pati

    You are an incredible writer.
    In-credible!!
    And all you did was amazing, and how you feel about it is even more amazing!

    I read several parts of this blog, the exercise parts, all the weight loss and maintenance among others.

    I really relate to how you feel now but also how you used to feel.
    Except that I did the exact opposite that you did: I stopped eating.

    You make me feel like sharing a part of my story here… so if you don’t mind.. :)

    I was a chubby girl from 10 to 14, but not overweight at all. Just normal chubby.

    Instead of ‘abandoning’ myself, I was always so hard on myself, in every aspect of my life, that I never knew what true happiness felt like. Never, not once. And I began being hard on my weight, from 14 to 15 years old, I lost 21 pounds, and went from 123 to 102.

    Although I weighed 102 pounds (I’m 5’6) I would always look in the mirror and think I looked fat, chubby or fatter than the other girls, when actually everyone was so worried about me and my health. I hated everyone for that, but hated myself even more when I ate. So I chose to deal with hating other people, hating my friends who said that I was too skinny, hating my parents for telling me to eat and for watching me while eating, and hating all of my boyfriends from 15 to 21 (there were 3).

    I don’t know exaclty when things changed, but they did. I started to notice that in fact I could eat, and exercise normally, and maintain a healthy weight, still considered thin (which is what I always wanted to be).

    But I started to imagine what I had done to myself by not eating, all the nutrients I was deprived of, and I started fearing an awful disease or some other tragedy, and could no longer live a normal life. I got seriously depressed and anxious about my health.

    I took me 2 years of counseling, a few anti-depressants, discovering healthy vegetables, a better job and getting engaged to overcome that depression.

    And to feel FREE.

    To be able to go on vacation, to gain weight, and then lose it.

    To be able to imagine myself getting pregnant one day, putting on as much weight as I need to, and feel happy, feel pretty and loved. And then lose it later, or not all of it.

    For many of us, food is intimately related to our emotions… for most of us really, since it is such a basic necessity…. But we really have to try and find a balance in this relationship, since it can be so important in other aspects of life too!!

    I am definitely you fan. ;)

    Reply
  163. kimlynn919@gmail.com

    Wow! i heard about your website through myfitnesspal.com, decided to seek it out because it mentioned meal planning. You’re an inspiration!! I started at 263 and am trying to lose at least the 100 and try to go from there…I love that you feel so in tuned with yourself and it reminds me a little of me. I, however, decided to start after realizing my blood pressure was too high and getting scared that I’m 33 and if i don’t get my act together I won’t be around to watch my daughter grow and thrive. i want to be there for her and teach her to be healthy and have a healthy self esteem as well. Thank you for sharing your story!!

    Reply
  164. Bekah

    I just cried. Such a beautiful story! I am 100 lbs overweight. I have just started my journey to losing it.. but honestly I think sometimes the thing that can hold me back, is knowing in the future, I may be complimented more, respected more, desired moreā€¦ and that hurts. It will be the same me, the same heart and mind. I don’t want people to treat me different because of my size. But they will. I do believe that being this way has given me so much more empathy for those around me. I love how you shared that, and celebrated that. So glad I found this blog!

    Reply
  165. Sabra

    Andie, thank you so much for this post. You have put my struggles in the crazy space between the fat me and the thin me into words. I have very similar very cliche story life long big girls turns her life around and find the thin girl she always knew was waiting inside, the girl that played her in her dreams. I will say it took me over 3decades though and I do regret the wait. Now here I am the same person, minus 100lbs, that I have always been but the way I see the world and the way the world sees me are so foreign. People comment on how different I am but I often get the impression that the miss the soft round version and are secretly waiting till this phase is over. I miss her to sometimes I haven’t found my balance yet I only recently let myself share my success with others. I think people underestimate how much bravery it takes to be a success story. It makes it real and puts you right out in front of everyone to praise and judge, I’ve spent 34 years hiding in the back row of pictures so I was never in that spotlight. This post had me in tears because you never think when you make the commitment to lose weight that you will also be losing others parts of you that have protected and comforted you for your whole life. I’m infinitely proud of my journey and I think that the fat part of me that I had to say goodbye to is as well, may she rest in peace!!

    Reply
  166. Willemijn

    Thank you for sharing your story. It honestly made me cry.
    I wish I can live in peace with my fat past once, I’m certainly not there yet.

    Reply
  167. Kaila

    I’m sure you hear this all the time, but I just wanted to second it: I have read many blogs, about everything from travel to parenting, and you are the best writer I’ve had the good fortune to come across. You are absolutely hilarious, and I think you add the perfect mixture of emotion and wit to your stories. Seriously, I am taken aback. I love your story (Also, I can empathize as it shares many similarities with my own), and I adore your writing style. Your personality truly shines through your writing. Keep doing what you’re doing. I can’t wait to read more!

    Reply
  168. Sahra

    Wow, what an inspiring post am in tears and can’t stop crying, I can’t totally relate. I have restarted my weight loss journey after putting on 100 pounds over the last 13 years and have finally found joy in exercising, who knew it felt good to go on a walk or to work up a sweat. Still battling with overeating and was looking for inspiration and trying to avoid the kitchen when I found this blog. I wish I hadn’t wasted last 13 years getting so fat and miserable. Thank you for your beautiful writing that has kept me on track for on more night x

    Reply
  169. Charlene Carr

    What beautiful reflections!

    Your mention about weight allowing you to develop a personality especially made me smile! A while ago a guy I’ve been friends with for over six years found out I used to be quite overweight. His reaction was – ‘that makes so much sense!’ He said he’d often wondered how someone as beautiful as he thought I was managed to also be funny and interesting and sweet and smart (awesome compliments in themselves) but his words also made me appreciate all those fat years in a way I never had before. Those years helped develop the person I’ve become, a person I think is pretty great, and a person who wouldn’t exist quite the way she does if I hadn’t been overweight throughout my formative years!

    Reply
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  171. Melissa

    I stumbled upon your blog after reading about you on the People Mag website. I’ve been binge reading (because apparently I like to binge in all aspects of my life) and I have never been so moved by someone. You and I are the SAME person. I somehow stopped myself from hitting the 200lbs mark, but I got very close. I’m sitting here at work reading all your posts (I’m a great employee, aren’t I?! lol) and I couldn’t help but start to cry. I can relate to EVERY.SINGLE.THING, every struggle you’ve referred to. It makes me sad and happy at the same time because I know there is a light at the end of the tunnel, I’m about half way there and it feels great. I’d like to thank you for being so open and honest with you journey, your life, your emotions – it helps more than you’ll ever know. I just ordered your book and I can’t wait to start reading it.

    Reply
  172. Kerri

    I <3 this article! So much so that my co-worker asked me what I was reading because I couldn't stop smiling at my computer screen.

    Reply
  173. Hanan

    Hi Andie,

    Congratulations on your weight lose.. your journey is so inspiring…

    I’ll keep this as short as possible. I was wondering if there’s a way to contact you, I need your urgent help..

    My email is included, if you don’t mind please send me your contact number.

    Thank you..

    Reply
  174. RK

    I wanted to thank you for the beautiful article. It speaks to the inner struggle that so many other weight-loss stories fail to convey. Your recognition that its okay to love some of what goes along with being heavy. To love your heavier self, because you’re all the same person, is an emotional revelation to me.

    I have been varying degrees of heavy all my life, and finally at (nearly) 33, I seem to have struck a balance and am the healthiest I have been at any time in my life. However, it is a constant struggle, and I will always fear that my unhealthy habits will find there way back into my life, and with those habits all those extra pounds that wandered off. After all, it is who I am.

    I’ve always been jealous of people who have never struggled with their weight. They do not understand what its like to never be comfortable in your own skin. To feel that everyone is judging you because of your weight…something that is “controllable”. I am ashamed to admit that I have even found gratification in watching others I’ve known since childhood, start to pack on some weight as we get older, especially as I continue to lose it. For the first time, I feel that being heavy may have been a good experience for me, and not something to be ashamed of.

    My mother has struggled with her weight for most of her life as well (we share many of the same tendencies), and I have forwarded on your article for her reading. I think we will both benefit a lot from your beautiful words. Many Thanks!

    Reply
  175. Claire

    Thank you so much for this post. I went through a very similar journey to yours, and it has been a constant struggle for me to not only convey to other people, but also myself that I was always a valid person, no matter what the weight. Thanks again.

    Reply
  176. Dani

    This entire 3 part story had me teary eyed… it’s so true. Weight loss is hard, being big is hard, being small is hard. Thank you for these words.

    Reply
  177. Betsey

    Andie, like numerous other people here, I thought you were speaking to me!! I started my weight loss journey about 2 months ago and just started blogging about it. It does feel that along the way we get lost somehow. Other things become more important, and food was/ is there to “help” us along the way. I love how you talk about loving yourself then and yourself now for where you are! I think that is the way to start healing ourselves- by giving ourselves a hug first, knowing that we are doing the best we can! LOVE LOVE your blog! :)

    Reply
  178. Lexys

    This is one of the most insightful, touching and inspiring success stories I’ve ever read. I love the way you think of your fat self as a part of you, and not as a shameful, ugly aspect of your life you can’t wait to put behind. Your story is a great life lesson, and we should all learn it, again and again, whenever we feel unhappy or lose sight of who we truly are. Congratulations for your accomplishment, and for how gracefully you’ve achieved it!

    Reply
  179. rachel

    I so appreciate you sharing this and can relate on many levels (it is interesting to consider how life in our bodies shapes the way we approach life). I had lost 80 pounds a few years ago and I did not look back on my former self with much grace, though. In fact, I looked back on my former self with a great deal of scorn, yet I still was unable to see myself as anything but a fat person. When I started to slack and get burned out on dieting and going to the gym, the weight began to creep back. and I felt myself settling into that identity that I loathed. Now I have regained it all back and am trying to view all of my former selves (and current self) with grace and acceptance. It is so hard. Trying to make lifestyle changes and allowing myself to be fully aware causes anxiety; anxiety that I want to numb out with food. Your perspective has been very grounding and encouraging in the process, though. Thank you so much.

    Reply
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