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Melissa's Dream Life
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6/6/2008 12:09:18 AM
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plusartist
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Before/After
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A/4/6/4
Body Type:
A
Smart Behavior:
Emotional Eater
Start Weight:
272
Current Weight:
140
Goal Weight:
140 and toned
Posts: 953
Joined: 7/8/2007
Status:
offline
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Well, I turned 50 this year, but I don't feel a day over.....IDK... 35. I lead an active life, with part time work as a hairdresser for 30 years, and full time college, majoring in Sculpture and Art Education. I hope to find a part time teaching job at the middle or high school or college level when I am finished. I LOVE college, but I am feeling the pressure to get finished and go to work before it is time for me to retire. lol!!
I am also married for 32 years with two kids, my son is 25 and my daughter is 20. My daughter and I are very close - we even go to the same school, but we both also have our own lives.
I have always been overweight - since childhood. I was never over 200 lbs though until after kids. I lost all the weight when my 20 year old was about 2 on one of those protein shake fasts and kept it off for about 1-1/2 years. Then it started creeping back up until I was heavier than when I was pregnant!!
I pretty much stayed that way until about 5 years ago when I lost about 50 lbs on the high protein/no carb fad. That lasted until the next great trauma in my life - the death of my mother in early 2002.
I haven't tried any other serious eating plans until now, although I considered gastric bypass surgery. I have had hip replacement surgery in 2002 and currently battle with joint pain in my knees and sciatica.
I am hoping that this will be a turning point in my life and that all who read this will be witness to great changes in my life and their own...
. . . . . .The above is what I wrote 10 months ago, when I started 6WBMO at 272 pounds. I proceeded to learn how to POP and have lost 132 pounds in that time. This is the most realistic food lifestyle that I have ever undertaken. Real food, and real results. I love my energy and I feel like I can tackle anything I set my mind to. THAT is a new feeling for me.
Okay, to fill in the gaps in my story: I was born fat, almost 10 pounds, and have remained so most of my life. My father died when I was 8 years old, and after that I was what they called a “latch key” kid. I would come home from school, let myself in the house and settle down in front of the TV with chips or ice cream or both, and eat until mom got home from work. Then she would make us hamburgers almost every night for dinner. There was no activity and I have been a sedentary person ever since. Even though I lead a busy and active life, exercise is still my biggest struggle.
Adolesence was pretty much a nightmare. I was the fat girl, with zero self esteem and was perfect fodder for bullies and mean remarks. The worst part was that I believed it all and continued to have no sense of self worth for many, many years. In 6th grade I was fat, had bad skin and a terrible haircut!! I STILL hate that year’s school picture!! Lol!!
I managed to grow into my weight for a while in high school, and maintained a normal weight of about 130#, but I still had a fat mind. I never felt like I was as good or as pretty as other girls. I finished high school a year early, went to a year of community college and got married a month before my 18th birthday. The greatest miracle in my life is that I am still married to the same man today – 33 years later.
My weight crept up and I would diet it off (Weight Watchers, The Weight Place, Jenny Craig) over the next few years - down to 160, which is what I weighed when I got pregnant for the first time. I gained 55 pounds with the pregnancy and never got below 200 pounds again after that, until after the birth of my second child, when I joined a doctor supervised protein shake fast and lost 90 pounds over 6 months. There was counseling on that program, but I didn’t learn anything about how to eat. After maintaining my weight-loss for a year or so, once again, it began to creep back up. I struggled with keeping it off, eventually lost the battle and after about 3 years was back up to the 220’s.
I used to wish that I would get sick or come down with some disease that would be the definitive reason to finally get real about my food. I was that desperate and in despair. Thankfully, that didn’t happen and I found 6WBMO to help me get to a healthy weight. I have found this program to be simple to follow, and the Provida support threads are an invaluable tool.
I am down to a normal weight for the first time in 21 years, and this time I am not afraid that I will regain the weight because I know how to eat like a thin person, now. The food I must eat to stay healthy is readily available wherever I go. I have become an energetic, active person, and I believe that I have added years of health to my life. Being a fresh college graduate at age 51, I now feel like I will live to enjoy the fruits of my labors for many years to come. The world is at my feet and now I have the confidence and the energy to jump in and do whatever I want to do.
I will post again as inspiration occurs to me. As of today I am floating on a cloud of bliss thanks to Six Week Body Makeover!!
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"I get up, I walk, I fall down ....Meanwhile I keep dancing....."
Start weight - 272
Week one - 262 - WOO HOO!
Week two - 260
Week three - 255 - yay!
Week four - 250.5
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Post #1
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/6/2008 6:31:49 AM
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NewSz14
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Before
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A/5/5/2
Body Type:
A
Start Weight:
273 was 290 in dec 06
Current Weight:
276
Goal Weight:
165
Posts: 42
Joined: 7/30/2003
Status:
offline
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Hi Melissa,
I just wanted to congratulate you on your weight loss and say thank you for sharing your story. You look absolutely marvelous darling and you don't look a day over 20!!!!!!!  I pray for your continued success living lean!!!!!!! You deserve nothing but the best!!!!!!!!
Peace, Love and Healthy Living,
Sharina (NewSz14)
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Post #2
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/6/2008 6:55:13 AM
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BigNTallGuy
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Before/After
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B/4/4/4
Body Type:
B
Start Weight:
328
Current Weight:
205.6
Goal Weight:
215
Posts: 1743
Joined: 11/19/2007
Status:
offline
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Melissa, That was a wonderful story and accounting of your journey to the new you. You have been an inspiration to me and to many others on these forums. Congratulations on your success and I wish you every blessing in your Living Lean phase. I'm right behind you! Peace, Craig
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Post #3
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/6/2008 8:42:47 AM
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plusartist
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Before/After
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A/4/6/4
Body Type:
A
Smart Behavior:
Emotional Eater
Start Weight:
272
Current Weight:
140
Goal Weight:
140 and toned
Posts: 953
Joined: 7/8/2007
Status:
offline
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Hello Craig and Sharina,
Thank you for your kind words. I know that anyone with weight and food issues can relate to a lot of my story. I am not that unique. :-) I feel like it is important to remember the past, so it won't be repeated. I am so grateful for the feedback.
Craig - You inspire ME to continue to succeed. You are so close . . . .
Sharina - I looked at your profile and we really do have some things in common, don't we? I, thankfully, never developed diabetes or heart disease, but they both run in my family, so I have been VERY lucky!! Your pictures and story touched me, and I wish you continued success, as well.
Thank you.
Melissa
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"I get up, I walk, I fall down ....Meanwhile I keep dancing....."
Start weight - 272
Week one - 262 - WOO HOO!
Week two - 260
Week three - 255 - yay!
Week four - 250.5
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Post #4
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/6/2008 12:05:38 PM
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mello33
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Before/After
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D/2/3/3
Body Type:
D
Smart Behavior:
foodaholic
Start Weight:
197/179
Current Weight:
175
Goal Weight:
145 (5-3-08)145 soon!
Posts: 1731
Joined: 9/14/2006
Status:
offline
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Hey Skinny Minnie!!!! Look at you!!! You are gorgeous!! A true inspiration to all of us!!! Congratulations for such an amazing journey you have made. Isnt it great to know we now have everything we need to live the rest of our lives healthy (and HOT) LOL!!! Its just so funny to finally feel sexy & pretty for the first time and I'm 39!!!!! Anyway, thanks for sharing your success, your awesome girl!!!!!
Love ya, Mel
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Post #5
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/6/2008 1:08:01 PM
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hollylewis
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Before/After
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B
Body Type:
B
Start Weight:
164
Current Weight:
148.6
Goal Weight:
130
Posts: 641
Joined: 7/5/2007
Status:
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Melissa,
We're all so proud of you! You are a beautiful person both on the outside and on the inside. You are truly inspiring for all of us Phat Chicks and Guys!
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Post #6
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/6/2008 1:14:47 PM
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Lori M. P.
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B/10/13/03
Body Type:
B
Start Weight:
159
Current Weight:
125
Goal Weight:
120
Posts: 1702
Joined: 3/21/2004
Status:
offline
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Hello, Melissa -
I just have to say what a wonderful story. You have really inspired me all the more. I have done this plan soooo many times, and once I even made my goal weight of 110 lbs. but guess what? Everything was put back on and then more.
I'm doing the NBU, again, and this time is my last time as I am going to make the program work with me and I'm going to work with it.
I also looked at your photo gallery and you look absolutely stunning. You absolutely glow!!!!!!
Have a wonderful day and take care.
Lori M. P.
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Post #7
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/6/2008 1:44:36 PM
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pianomama
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Before/After
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A
Body Type:
A
Start Weight:
243
Current Weight:
205
Goal Weight:
135
Posts: 1049
Joined: 10/13/2007
Status:
offline
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Melissa!
What a great story you've posted! You are right in saying that lots of us can relate to it. I'm so glad you did not give up your dream of being healthy and fit after experiencing the loss/gain cycle a few times. So many of us have been there and done that and it's wonderful to see how this plan was what broke that cycle for you. We are so proud of you, and appreciate the inspiration and motivation that you give us. Thanks so much!
Kathy
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Post #8
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/6/2008 1:44:42 PM
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BMOS Dolores
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Before/After
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A 2/1/3
Body Type:
A
Smart Behavior:
Repeat Offender
Start Weight:
237
Current Weight:
145
Posts: 26996
Joined: 5/3/2002
Status:
offline
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This is truly a SUCCESS story, many congratulations to you!!! Please check your PM box for a message from me. 
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Post #9
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/7/2008 11:34:48 AM
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thatgroovychic
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B
Body Type:
B
Smart Behavior:
Survivor!
Start Weight:
192
Current Weight:
139
Goal Weight:
140
Posts: 2384
Joined: 10/23/2006
Status:
offline
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My dear friend Melissa, I'm so happy that you have reached your goal and want to thank you for always being there for me and everyone else in the forums. I'm glad that we were able to be apart of your journey!
Love
Joanna
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Post #10
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/8/2008 8:08:47 AM
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plusartist
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Before/After
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A/4/6/4
Body Type:
A
Smart Behavior:
Emotional Eater
Start Weight:
272
Current Weight:
140
Goal Weight:
140 and toned
Posts: 953
Joined: 7/8/2007
Status:
offline
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Hey Joanna,
You are an integral part of my support system too, you know. :-)
This is a continuing process for the rest of our lives. I think we will have to be forever vigilant health nuts! Lol!
Thanks to everyone for the lovely feedback.
<3 Melissa
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"I get up, I walk, I fall down ....Meanwhile I keep dancing....."
Start weight - 272
Week one - 262 - WOO HOO!
Week two - 260
Week three - 255 - yay!
Week four - 250.5
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Post #11
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/8/2008 9:24:54 PM
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luvmykitties
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Start Weight:
265-7/8
Current Weight:
138.1/8
Posts: 195
Joined: 11/6/2007
Status:
offline
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Hi, Melissa ...
Thanks so much for sharing your journey - what a tale of trying again and again, and then finding this program which works so well. As you know, you have been a true inspiration for me for many months. It has been a pleasure to read and learn from and be inspired by your experiences. You somehow manage to overcome all obstacles - I will never forget your stories of finals, exhibits and graduation - what an amazing few weeks! I'm still recovering!!!
But, really, tho, thanks again and again for your thoughtfulness and your wise words and example - you have truly set the standard for accomplishing one's goals. You made it!!!! And you are helping the rest of us to make it, too. Take care, dear Melissa, and a thousand thousand thanks. Luv
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Post #12
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/9/2008 11:26:24 AM
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kiakitty
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Before/After
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A 6 6 6, B 2 4 3
Body Type:
A
Start Weight:
310
Current Weight:
199
Goal Weight:
150
Posts: 2447
Joined: 11/19/2007
Status:
offline
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Melissa,
What a wonderful success story! You have really done great with this plan. I am getting there too, except at a slower pace. I seem to have so much problems when I am on vacation. I do my best but it really is hard for me.
When I return from my Maine trip with my mom--watch out the pounds will come off quickly and I will be zooming on down again.
Thank you so much for your support--you are an inspiration!
Pam
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Post #13
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/9/2008 7:14:18 PM
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plusartist
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Before/After
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A/4/6/4
Body Type:
A
Smart Behavior:
Emotional Eater
Start Weight:
272
Current Weight:
140
Goal Weight:
140 and toned
Posts: 953
Joined: 7/8/2007
Status:
offline
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Hi Luv & Pam,
I hope you both realize that you are my inspirations as well. I know you will both get there too on this magical program, because you each have the determination and positive attitude that it takes.
I am here to tell you - IT FEELS GREAT!!!
The energy, and feeling like you fit into the world is amazing!! People (sadly, I think) actually do treat thin people better. That is also one of the reasons that this forum works so well. We get to see the real people inside the not-so-perfect bodies.
Keep it up ladies - the magic is in working the program every meal every day.
Keep POPin'!!
<3 Melissa
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"I get up, I walk, I fall down ....Meanwhile I keep dancing....."
Start weight - 272
Week one - 262 - WOO HOO!
Week two - 260
Week three - 255 - yay!
Week four - 250.5
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Post #14
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/10/2008 4:05:40 PM
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Sarao
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Start Weight:
183
Current Weight:
183
Goal Weight:
140
Posts: 2
Joined: 6/10/2008
Status:
offline
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HI MOM!
I'm gonna do it now, I'm so proud of you and I'm tired of not fitting into my clothes anymore! I'm so proud of you.
Love,
Sara
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Post #15
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/12/2008 4:29:16 PM
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plusartist
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Before/After
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A/4/6/4
Body Type:
A
Smart Behavior:
Emotional Eater
Start Weight:
272
Current Weight:
140
Goal Weight:
140 and toned
Posts: 953
Joined: 7/8/2007
Status:
offline
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Well, imagine having you show up here! I am proud of you, too. You can do this, too, because you are such a strong individual. Use your resources, babe! :-)
Love you - Mom
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"I get up, I walk, I fall down ....Meanwhile I keep dancing....."
Start weight - 272
Week one - 262 - WOO HOO!
Week two - 260
Week three - 255 - yay!
Week four - 250.5
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Post #16
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/12/2008 11:25:40 PM
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p_welch
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Before/After
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C 4/3/3
Body Type:
C
Start Weight:
187.5
Current Weight:
150.5
Goal Weight:
145
Posts: 1366
Joined: 2/12/2008
Status:
offline
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Hi Melissa! I was poking around looking for your success story. WOW! I knew you were a POP star, but I didn't know your story. You are such a motivator to me and the other POPpers on the No Excuses thread. I know you are LL now, but I hope you continue to POP in and share your transition with us. You are definately one to watch! (speaking of which, when they call you for the next informercial, you will let us know, right?!). Oh, and great name for your DD!
Polly
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Post #17
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/13/2008 9:18:43 PM
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Truitti
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Before/After
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A / 6 /
Body Type:
A
Smart Behavior:
1st time Jan 23, 08;2nd time Aug 11,10
Start Weight:
301.4
Current Weight:
272.4
Goal Weight:
155
Posts: 4771
Joined: 1/12/2008
Status:
offline
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WOOOO HOOO love your story and LOVE that you are LL. I come to this forum to get a boost of encouragement and you have done it for me. I am getting excited with the idea of getting to goal, even if I am only half way there. You do inspire and I am excited for your success. Now the hard part comes up, I think. I hope living lean will be easier than POPing on program 24/7 LOL. Congrats and I am so excited to see people succeed !! - Tru
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Post #18
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/14/2008 9:09:17 AM
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carolcon
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a/6
Body Type:
a
Smart Behavior:
Foodaholic
Start Weight:
288
Current Weight:
212
Goal Weight:
150 ??????
Posts: 719
Joined: 10/30/2006
Status:
offline
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good job on your weight loss .. I was reading your post and at this time I need to be encouraged and know I can lose. lol carol
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Post #19
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Re: Melissa's Dream Life
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6/16/2008 7:10:34 PM
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plusartist
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Before/After
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A/4/6/4
Body Type:
A
Smart Behavior:
Emotional Eater
Start Weight:
272
Current Weight:
140
Goal Weight:
140 and toned
Posts: 953
Joined: 7/8/2007
Status:
offline
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Hey there ladies,
It is a daily consideration, this LL, but there is a certain amount of
freedom, up to a point. Those of us especially that have (had) a LOT
to lose must never go back to the old eating habits. But there are so
many inspirational stories here. I love to come to the forums to get a
shot of motivation.
Polly - I love our no excuses thread, I will always be lurking around and posting as much as I can.
Tru & Carol - you both have come so far, you must be in a POP habit by now. Just keep it up each day, each meal, and you will find yourself at goal, too! It sometimes is not easy, but it is just that simple, isn't it?
Thank you all for the comments. It gives me such inspiration to continue.
<3 Melissa
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"I get up, I walk, I fall down ....Meanwhile I keep dancing....."
Start weight - 272
Week one - 262 - WOO HOO!
Week two - 260
Week three - 255 - yay!
Week four - 250.5
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Post #20
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