In November 2008, I got serious about becoming healthy. The more fitness and health become priorities in my life, the more this blog is filled with information about running (one of my new favorite hobbies), yoga, working out, eating right, and being at peace with who you are (without being afraid to create the best possible version of yourself). I completed the c25k program in early 2009 and enjoy running the 5k distance.
I had NEVER been healthy. I wasn’t the “obsese” girl in high school, but I was never the “fit” or “healthy” girl either. I had great friends and family who encouraged me to focus on all the good things I had going on for myself, and I allowed my involvement in the arts, to replace an active lifestyle. There were many things I was good at during that time, and it bred in me a resistance to trying challenging activities. I liked doing what was easy. Not what was hard.
That is the primary part of myself that has changed. I’m creating and taking on challenges for myself. THAT has made a huge and lasting difference in who I am.
Until this year, I’d never posted any before/after pictures before… probably because they are obviously embarassing, but… what the hell. I suppose I might as well. It might inspire someone else to get out there and change their life too.
When I topped the scales, my highest weight was 172. I’ve set a temporary goal at 135, but I try very hard to keep my mind focused on being happy and healthy, and not weighing a certain number.
Before: Pant size: 14-16 /171 lbs
June 2009: Pant size: 8-10/151 lbs
I have since crossed the 25 lbs lost mark, and I’m continuing to slim down. I hope I can be an inspiration to the “average girls” who have a bit to lose… but maybe have always had something keeping them from turning the corner.
Race results:
Click race name for the race report.
Jan.09
-Resolution Run :: 5k :: 42:20
Feb.09
-*Freakishly Flexible 5k :: 5k :: 35:27
Mar.09
-Race for Wishes :: 5k :: 38:32
May 09
-Heels and Hills :: 5k :: CANCELLED due to storms
June 09
-Bloomin’ 4 Mile :: 4m :: 48:06
July 09
-Independence Day Fun Run :: 10k :: I BACKED OUT TO SAVE MY SANITY
October 09
- Jack-O-Lantern Jog :: 5k+ :: 38:27
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*denotes unofficial time or virtual race
You look AWESOME!!!!!!!!!
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You look GREAT! =]
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Hi Kelsey! Lovin’ the new blog look! It’s fun to see how it has evolved
Had no idea about your hit song! Very cool. And of course, I am a total sucker for before & after photos 
You look great!
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Twitter: realfitmama
says:
Kelsey: Love the blog! I too turned a corner a few years ago (after my first child was born) and became more interested in fitness and health. In recent years I have become a running ADDICT and am currently in search of a gym to join since quitting my high perk, low paying job at a private health club. Keep up the good work! You look great!
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kelsey
Twitter: kelsnotchels
Reply:
January 8th, 2010 at 9:59 am
@Maria (realfitmama),
Thank you so much!!
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You look AWESOME!!!!!!!!!
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Twitter: kristin_carlson
says:
Wow, awesome transformation!
I noticed you had a Crumpler bag on in one of your pics, are you fellow a photo geek?
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kelsey
Twitter: kelsnotchels
Reply:
January 8th, 2010 at 9:57 am
@Kristin, I wish I was a BETTER photographer, but I do love taking photographs.
Always learning! I’m even attempting a 365 this year!
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Kristin
Twitter: kristin_carlson
Reply:
January 8th, 2010 at 1:02 pm
@kelsey, What camera do you use? I guess I’m kind of doing a 365 too, I’m planning to go pro this year so I’m taking as many photos as possible!
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Twitter: devonmking
says:
We totally have the same body shape….
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