Well it's still broken, but I managed to avoid a freeze and crash long enough to upload the newest pictures in. I think I may take another set with the same shirt from last time. I retired it to the giveaway pile because it is so loose it makes me look heavier than I am, but it may do better for a comparison shot. I always hate the way I look in pictures, even back when I was genuinely slender all but a few shots drove me crazy, but I felt confident and pretty when we went out that night and Peter and I had SUCH a blast! Here is the first front picture, for comparison.   

This was from May and roughly 27 pounds heavier, at 246.7: 

And here is the new shot, at 219.8!

(for side shots and mindblowingly detailed closeups, see the album in the left sidebar)  

When I look in the mirror I often don't see much of a difference, beyond more waist definition and a less bloated face, but I think it is a little more apparent in pictures.  The next set should show more improvement, but I am pleased with my progress and will continue on my path to better health.  I think I'll do the next set of pictures ten pounds from here, at 210, and then at 200, and I can't wait to see more of the woman I picture myself to be emerging from my chubby cocoon.    

While I do plan on taking an intermission to active weight loss for another pregnancy, when I hit 199, I am so excited to see how I progress down the scale. I cannot express the true peace of mind that comes from succeeding in my weight loss efforts and doing so without it being a constant fight or fear of backsliding.  I really have found the combination that works for me and even throughout all sorts of life changes I know I can keep it up.  This is my new normal, and I LOVE it! Keep an eye out for more comparison shots from the pink shirt and I'll be checking in with my weekly progress as well.    

Food and exercise are going well here, though my losses aren't reflecting as much as I'd like on the scale. But I will NOT be discouraged!  This is a journey, and a slow one at that - not a race.  As long as I am holding steady or trending downward I am a happy, happy girl!