Monday, January 16, 2012

The Proof

I'm not going to call this before and after.  For a couple of reasons.  For one thing, I cannot find a solid "before" picture.  I have been so resistant to ever being in front of a camera that I can count on both hands the pictures there are of me.  The saddest part, is realizing how few pictures there are of me with the boys. Lots and lots of Bob and the boys.   But no mom.  And now that just breaks my heart. There is not a single picture of me with Grant on his first birthday.  These are moments that I remember well, but it kills me that I'm not in them.  I had to enlist the help of my Dad to send me some.  To my horror, some of the ones he sent me I was actually pregnant with Grant.   I'm not sure there's a worse sign then that.

The second reason is that these are not my after.   I am not done.   I've come along way, but I am definitely not done...in a lot of areas.

I can't believe I am posting some of these.

Sorry Bob, take one for the team here!



The few pictures I have of myself over the past 3+ years are head shots.  But you can see it in my face.
The particularly sad part of this one is that we were in Florida.  And I did not once get into a bathing suit and get into the ocean.  I am in desperate need of a do over.



Now some more flattering ones as I began my journey....


On our anniversary trip.  I decided I wanted to do something healthy.  So we went to Lanesboro and rode bikes!


My cousin and his lovely wife!

 I have been told I need to learn how to pose.  But when you flee from the camera posing is completely unnecessary.  I am open to some lessons now!!


Me with my niece Ori.  This is significant because I would have killed Bob for taking it at this angle.  Now I think, "Eh, not too shabby.  It's definitely getting there."


This may as well be my second home.  I am in the gym 4-6 times a week.  I have grown here.  Challenged myself here.  It is my safe spot.  I love it.

 And this is Mike.  I owe this guy so much.  But mostly for teaching me to not say "I can't" and helping me realize my potential.  This is following a Kettlebell work out.  I can't believe I'm smiling after it.


So there you have it.  My journey in pictures.  Although now would be the time to send me any unflattering picture that you have been a good friend and not sent to me before.  I cannot forget where I have been.  I cannot refuse to get on the scale or refuse to look at myself in a picture.

Ever again.

5 comments:

  1. Oh Karen. I love you. Thank you for sharing with us.

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  2. Way to go!!!! I can tell a great difference. Great job. Keep on going!

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  3. The biggest difference in your "before" and "after" photos is the size of your smile...you are beaming now, and I love it. It makes me so happy to see you so happy and to see that you are making such great strides in your life.

    And you ass doesn't look half bad either. ;) Love you!

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  4. Oh Karen, You have gone so, so far and every step has helped you gain strength, confidence and happiness. Keep going. Keep strong. You rock!!

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  5. I think you're gorgeous in every single picture, but wow! Look at all that hard work. While I can see the inches have disappeared, the confidence is what is most striking! Go, lady, go! You are inspiring me!

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