The last 15 pounds

Loosing the baby weight was easy, until I got down to the last 15 pounds.  I've always heard people talk about the freshmen 15 that most people gain when they go away to college, but I had never heard anyone talk about the pregancy 15 that happens after childbirth. When I realized these 15 pounds were not going to melt away like the other 15, I felt somewhat defeated.  I thought I was just going to have to accept the extra weight, but being 15 pounds heavier for me was a big deal and not something I wanted to succomb to.  Some of my friends seemed to loose the weight instantly, but for me it took time and work. So to work I went. I ate as healthy as possible and as often as possible to avoid binging.  I exercised two times a week using the Jillian Michaels 30 day shred DVD and made sure I did something active on the weekends.  I also walked often.  Before the days became excrutiatingly hot, Ella and I took daily morning walks.  I cut out most dairy and I cut back on drinks that contained excess sugar. I didn't expect to be the same size I was or even have the same body I had, I just wanted to stand  in front of the mirror in a bathingsuit and feel good about myself again.  Around the time that Ella was about 15 months I put on one of my old bikinis and was actually happy with what I saw. I felt so accomplished.... It was a great moment for me!  To those who think they will never loose those 15 pounds,  I was there and I totally hear you. One thing I kept reminding myself while going through this process was "I may never look the same as I did pre-pregnancy but it doesn't matter because I am doing the best I can." Be patient with yourself, because being the best you is the only thing you can do.  Holding grudges are never healthy.  Espeically when they are against yourself.