I was on Facebook the other night and saw that my sweet friend Jessica just came out with an e- book called “100 pound loser”. Knowing this sweet girl, I thought “Why on earth is she calling herself a loser? Then, my second thought was “She’s a tiny thing….only 100 pounds?! Wow!” I may need to make her a meal, hehe {j/k}.
Then…I clicked.
Ohhhhh…no, way!
She LOST 100 pounds!!!! Whaaaat???
I would have never. ever. known.
What an amazing testimony.
Actually, a testimony that went straight to my heart… I’ve been there too.
I read the entire e-book that night.
Jessica says: “ I want to encourage you to take the steps toward taking care of your body. I want to cheer for you as you reclaim your health. If you’re married, I want you to wink at your husband, and giggle with confidence when he comes after you, without trying to hide.”
God is truly using Jessica with her book to help other women who are struggling with added pounds and broken hearts. Oh, how I wish I had this book during my time of postpartum! It’s so encouraging, so real, and feels so familiar. So, I asked Jessica if I could give away some copies to my readers….she said , yes!
****Please share YOUR story below to be entered to win 1 of 2 copies!****
To learn more about the book and/or to purchase click here.
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Here’s my story….
I earned every one of those 60-80 pounds during my pregnancies {the see-food diet}. Times that by 3 and make that ~up to 240 pounds that went on and off my body throughout the 5 years of being pregnant and having children. Praise the LORD my body was healthy enough to bear those 3 blessed little ones- but let me be one to say- it was humbling.
It wasn’t so bad during my pregnancies. My large and in-charge bellie adverted the attention away from the rest of my body. It was after I had the babies….
My baby bulge was gone and the rest of me was….well, still there. I refused to go anywhere without my newborn…. as if to say “this is my right to look this way, people”.
The pounds did not naturally shed off and nursing made me swell…a ton. I couldn’t even put my shoes on!
{Me with my mom and firstborn}
“Why didn’t anyone tell me about this stage?! This “postpartum” thing just isn’t right…the woman in the mirror doesn’t even look like me! And why do people keep telling me about “their friend” who got back into her jeans the very day she had her baby? Do they honestly think I am mature enough to handle that story right now?!” UGH!
{Me with my mom and sweet cousins just after I had our 3rd….bridesmaid dress shopping, gulp.}My mom thought it may cheer me up to get some new clothes. We browsed through one of my favorite stores, but my regular size 4 {and at one time, 2} body couldn’t even fit into the largest size they offered. It was such a sad day for me…my heart broke. I experienced humility in a way I had never known. I knew it was time to get active and live a more moderate lifestyle.
So, I did just that!
{My first 5k! This was before I was diagnosed with food allergies
so I had to use an inhaler for asthma.}
I joined a gym, got serious, and never turned back!
Many of you know that I also found out that I have food allergies, so by default it has given me a healthier menu.
I’m currently in a “cross-fit like” class 3 times a week -it’s very challenging, but I love it. I’ve never been accused of being an athlete, but I truly want to make an effort to take care of myself for the sake of giving glory to God, my health, and my family.
{My most recent picture of Geoff and I going to a dear friend’s wedding…that’s our third munchkin to the side of me-Oooo..I just love her! Worth every pound, lol. I currently wear a size 6.}I still have weight loss and fitness goals. Being 5’3 keeps me very watchful.
I’m a fan of moderation…not perfection. As long as I am putting forth an effort, all is well with my soul.
Thank you SO much Jessica! I know your e-book is going to reach many women in need of encouragement!!!
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My story is very similar: I have 4 children ages 6, 4, 2, and 7 months. Over that time I put on a lot of weight. Since #4 was born, I have lost 70 pounds, but I’m really struggling with the last 30. I am stuck and I don’t know what to do. Diet and exercise don’t work any more.
Thank you for sharing, I am 9 months postpartum and 15 pounds overweight so I can relate.
I am in the middle of pregnancy #5. When this baby is born, I’ll have 5 kids under the age of 7! Its hard to find time for myself and after each pregnancy its been harder and harder to get the weight off. I have tried to make changes to the way we eat several times, but its hard to get everyone on board. Any help that I can get to start changing now and then getting the weight off starting in April, I would be so appreciative!
Our 6th baby is two months old today, and I have a strange problem of losing a little weight (10lbs or so) when I’m pregnant, but then I put weight on between babies. Between being exhausted and busy I lack the motivation to workout and eat like I should. I’m really hungry when I’m nursing and I make “convenient” food choices, which usually translates into junk food.
This time of year I usually find a little motivation because of all the great resources available as everyone makes resolutions to live healthier…..this year though I’m just tired, lol. I’m still looking for motivation, and these two stories are inspiring! =)
~ Mara
After 4 kiddos, now ages 12, 9, 4 & 1, I am so ready to lost all the postpartum weight. I’ve had the extra for what, 12 years now! My biggest struggle is motivation & time. We have a YMCA membership but I rarely work out. And I love food! We are done having kids, I’ve got to find the motivation. Somewhere.
I had my first baby 16 years ago, I wasn’t married to his father, and though we discussed marriage very seriously, he lef me when I got pregnant. Fast forward 15 years and I find myself engaged to a wonderful man, and I have my now teenage on. I exercised and dieted for 6 months to lose the last of the baby weight I had been unable to lose from my first pregnancy, and walked down the aisle a slim and beautiful 112 lbs. 3 months after we married, I became pregnant, and gave birth to my second son this past August. Now 4 1/2 months postpartum and I am struggling with baby weight again. My husband ook me out for the first time since the birth last night and I felt so fat. I couldn’t wear any of my dresses or cute clothes, and I really wanted to look special for my husband. I would love to win a copy of this book!
Gaining 13 pounds with baby number 2 wasn’t so bad, especially when she came out weighing 9 pounds – that’s only 4 pounds left on me! Too bad I started my second pregnancy 30 pounds heavier than I ended the first : ( this book would be an incredible blessing. Thank you for your testimonies!
Hello! I am a 25 year old, and not your typical one! I had my nursing license at the age of 20, just two years out of high school! I was always in great shape during high school and even managed not to gain the entire typical freshman 15! However, once I was out of school and working in my career I fell victim to the convenience of food. Working in a busy ER, there really isn’t much time to take any real breaks to eat and there are always plenty of yummy snacks available…. So you eat them. In April 2012 my I had my first children, yes I said children! I have amazing twin boys that keep mommy super busy while daddy works full time. I lost the baby weight within weeks and was amazed, however I have gained it back without being pregnant and it is really a slap in the face. I thought I was so much better, but I think I’m lacking good resources and some motivation. Hopefully i can be chosen for the free e-book and get some help to get back into shape so I can have the active life that I should with my husband and boys. Thanks for reading!
Wow! My story is quite similar with a very different twist. I have 5 children (the first 3 are all 18 months apart) and never really gained that much during pregnancy but did while nursing. My last baby is where it all really fell apart. I actually lost 11 lbs from my pre-pregnancy weight and left the hospital 30 lbs lighter than when I got pregnant! I wore my normal jeans home. I was so excited to have such a jumpstart on the weight loss. This last pregnancy was difficult beyond explanation (pregnancy induce anxiety and a much lowered immune system) and since I had never had a hint of a problem being pregnant, this was all new and really threatened my ability to cope. Fast forward 8 months, my darling daughter is such a joy and the highlight of our home but while she is a wonderful nurser, I have gained every pound back plus! I feel like such a failure that after 21 years of marriage. I am falling apart physically (the weight and the natural consequences of loss of stamina), mentally (I live for sugar and caffeine just to cope with the lack of sleep and demands of 5 kids) and emotionally (I feel out of control and that snowballs into everything else – how could I have possibly blown such an opportunity to jump start weight loss). Quite honestly, with such a busy household and so many things swirling, I lack the focus to homeschool, meet all my children’s needs, plan and cook well-balanced meals, keep my house in order, be a wife and a friend, and deal with issues regarding my parents’ health and grandmother’s health. I have dropped things to the bare minimum and sadly, my weight hasn’t made top priority, mainly because I just don’t know where to start and how to!!
Well, there it is – my story. I really don’t like how it sounds when summarized. Thanks for making me think.
My story isn’t so involved. After having my daughter, which I didn’t gain a lot of weight and always considered myself healthy ~ I had a stroke and lost use of everything on my right side when she was 6 1/2 weeks old. I was devastated! I have since gained the use of everything back; but, the stroke, plus getting laid-off 4 years ago after having a job for 24 years with the economy so bad ~ I kinda put myself last. I was frustrated! But, now, four years after my lay-off, I’m ready to take charge of my life and get back in shape and lose weight to be here for my family! : )
I am working losing weight. Last year I responded to a challenge at our school (I teach preK ). I ran my first 5k in Dec. I loved that feeling. Now I am working on slowly changing habits in our home so that my boys (ages 10 and12) see my husband and I doing a lifestyle…not a diet.
I currently have 3 children with #4 on the way (only 9 weeks along). I know what’s coming and am already beginning to feel bad about the way my body will look, especially since I can already tell I’m gaining weight. I have to eat something every few hours, or I feel very sick. This is NOT the way I want to feel and know I should be happy with the life growing inside me, but it’s hard when I already feel like I look awful. I’m determined to be healthy and a good example for my kids; I just need the help to get there.
I so admire people like Jessica, those that can & do. I have never really done that. I’m flighty that way, last minute. I have generally been heavy, fat. I did lose weight after high school but was still overweight. Gained 5 pounds on Herbalife, lost 10 pounds on birth control. Gained 10 without trying when I got off the pill. Lost 30 pounds in 5 weeks when my now husband & I broke up. Then we married & birth control is not conducive to children. I don’t know that I need Jessica’s book or a support group. I did relate to a lot of what she said. She had children, I have events. Best of luck Jessica & also to Missie.
I just gave birth to my 6th living child. With each pregnancy I have gained anywhere from 30 to 50+ pounds. After my first 4, I lost all my baby weight and actually looked better than I did before I got pregnant down to a size 2 or 4. Then the next pregnancy changed everything. I was 23 weeks pregnant when I delivered our precious baby boy who had died in the womb due to the cord being too tightly wrapped around his neck. Of course, being 5+ months pregnant mean that I had already gained about 30 pounds. Since I was not going to have the opportunity to nurse, this weight did not budge. Then only 8 weeks after delivering, I was pregnant again. Add more pregnancy weight. Once I delivered her, I was able to nurse and lost some of the weight from both pregnancies… but never got back down like before. =0( Maybe it was from both pregnancies so close… maybe it was because I was in my late 30s? Whatever it was, it was depressing. Now I’m 40 with a 6 week old. I still look very pregnant. I plan to start the T-Tap program this week, but I would LOVE to read this story of success. I’ve never had to work at losing weight until the last 4 years… and I didn’t work at it very well. We eat healthy… it is just a matter of needing to “fix” my body so that it will be strong & healthy… I seem to have NO discipline in that area. =0( Thanks for listening! I want to be healthy and “young” for my kiddos ages 11 down to 6 weeks!
You look amazing, well you did already before!!!! Such an encouraging story. Thanks for sharing.
Blessings,
Adrienne
Lol, I didn’t see the part about your giveaway, until I reread it. I have been trying to lose my baby fat for the past 7 years, 15lbs is hard to loose, when you get comfy. I have tried challenges and workout plans, and am still trying. It’s a daily battle, i must love sweets and food . From just coming off the holidays, I know I’ve gained an extra 5lbs. And being 5’1 every lb Looks like alot. 5lbs is a lot for petite people, I’m sure you know that being 5’3. You have encouraged me, put that determination back into me. I’ve been wanting to start exercising again, just lost my motivation honestly got lazy about it. I tried on clothes earlier at a store and was quite dissappointed when I had realized I gained the weight I had lost back. You try so hard and then something comes up and it’s back to square one. I am done with the vicious cycle. I’ve gained my determination back by reading your post. Thank you for posting this perfect time timing, such a blessing.
Blessings,
Adrienne
I was always pretty skinny. Then I got married and had a baby. I bloomed bigger after I had my daughter than while I was pregnant with her. After three years I started to excerise (bike riding) and eat more healthy and i lost some weight. i then became pregnant with baby #2. I hope to get back into bike riding after having this baby.
My 3rd baby turns 1 this month, so it’s time for me to lose the “baby weight” but mostly to get my body back in shape after having 3 kids in 4 1/2 years. Most of my pre-pregnancy clothes fit, but my body is not in the same shape it used to be and my “baby belly” needs some work! Would love to read Jessica’s book for tips on how to make it happen!
8 pregnancies and now 50lbs over weight, most of which came from finding comfort in food after caring for baby #7 through 2 brain surgeries, ptsd and autism. All while trying to continue homeschool, manage drs and therapist, run a household and care for 7 other children. Baby #7 is now 9yrs and finally doing better, but I have realized I need to take care of myself in order to properly take care of my family. I have lost 15lbs since Oct, but sure could use some tips on how to keep it going.
I have been trying to lose my baby weight from my last pregnancy for 4 years. It has been a real struggle for me. I would love to lose 30lbs. My hubby and I are working together to try and lose together. I would love to read this book. I think it would be a great encouragement for us both!
Awesome, thank you for sharing.
I would love to have this book! I have A Lot of weight to lose and get back to me!
Currently pregnant with twins, babies number 6 and 7, my other five all under 7. I have surprisingly gained the least with this pregnancy so far, but am larger than I was with any of my other pregnancies, I’m so grateful for my children closein age but having them close has not allowed me to fully lose pregnancy weight. I would love to read this ebook, I have a long road ahead of me.
After reading all the posts above I feel kind if old to respond. But here I am, so here’s my story. I never really worried about my weight. I knew I was curvy and that I would never be skinny. I started during off and on after my 2nd baby. But that was almost 20 years ago now. I wish I had never dieted in the first place. I am learning to think more healthy about myself and this book intrigues me.
I have always been tall and thin. I had my first two babies when I was young and lost the weight immediately. Travel 20 something years and I my last two babies in my late thirties 13 months apart. I have had a hard time losing this weight and added about 30 pounds on top of that. I have high blood pressure now and wake up with new aches and pains. I am desperately trying to get healthy. This book would be wonderful to win. Thank you so much for this opportunity.
Is there any encouraging Christian women blogging to help encourage fellow women who are 21 years postpartum and 100 lbs over. My husband loves me and enjoys my cooking. He’s not an encourager to get moving or doing something different. He likes the comfortable where we are in life. I suffer daily.
Hi Nancy! Would your husband mind if you did something different on your own if he wasn’t interested? If so, I would highly recommend joining your local gym and/or getting ladies in your neighborhood together for evening walks! If you are suffering I am certain he wants you to be happy? Losing weight is a day to day accomplishment -I also recommend weight watchers in person or online-local YMCA’s have meetings and weigh ins. Much love to you, Janelle