That seemed like an appropriate name for a first post. Now, to introduce myself… My name is Jillian, I’m 24 and was born and raised in Connecticut. Two years ago I moved to Texas to be with a boy who I was supposed to marry. A year later we parted ways in an all too bitter breakup, shortly after I began dating the man of my dreams and we’ve lived together ever since (okay, so it’s only been a year; but when it’s right, you just know).
Anyway we live in a beautiful house with our adorable deaf dog Blue
and our two cats Stoli and Tuaca.
Over the years since high school I have slowly started to pack on the pounds. Having always had body image issues, it has really come to a head the last 6 months. I tried various diets, only to last for a week then weigh myself-get depressed that the number hasn’t changed-binge eat-feel guilty-give up-gain more weight… I repeated this cycle for MONTHS! Until I finally decided to DITCH THE SCALE! Seems pretty simple doesn’t it? I took the batteries out of the scale and haven’t weighted myself in over two months. I started eating more fruits and veggies and COOKING! Cutting down on processed foods, eating more salads and making healthier choices at restaurants (side salad with a light dressing instead of fries please!) and I feel better than ever.
I also made an effort to get more active, for the long haul. I started off running one stop sign at a time. I am NOT a runner… Well I wasn’t, I don’t even know if I would consider myself a runner, but I run. So therefore I’m a runner? Maybe. Three days ago I ran my first mile without stopping. It’s a small victory but a victory nonetheless. And I am freaking PROUD! I rewarded myself with my first (in my adult life) pair of running shoes.
Aren’t they pretty?! I’m still breaking them in, and they seem to work my legs more, maybe since there is actual CUSHIONING in them and I’m not just pounding my legs and joints into the pavement. Who would have thought. haha. I’m taking it slow, but I already love them.
I had to get past my old motivation of “lose weight”… I don’t weigh myself anymore , so now what do I do?? I do it for ME. You would think that would have been an easy thing to grasp. But it’s been a struggle. I take pride when I notice that my legs are getting more toned, they feel stronger, and my pants are fitting differently (they aren’t any bigger, but I’m changing shape). But some days that isn’t enough. So, I go to blogs. Caitlin, Meghann, Jenna, Angela, and Kath have all inspired me to eat better and RUN… When I’m lacking motivation I go to them, and so far it’s worked.
I’m still a work in progress but I hope you’ll join me on my journey to become my best self.
What motivated you to Reshape Your Life??
Reshape Your Life 
You inspired me as well as your sister. Every day I logged on I saw something about changes in your life. It got me to look at myself in the mirror. I didn’t like what I saw. You see I’m the daughter of a military man. I moved all over and was never a school longer then 3 months. Hard to make friends. Hard to have that girlfriend you can count on for support for breakups, weight issues or whatever the case. I found myself getting close to people online because for some reason it was a constant. Didn’t matter where they lived, they were there everyday. I’ve had my share of bad relationships and felt it was me. I don’t feel that way anymore. I’m on a new journey myself and you both inspire me so much. Thank you for that. I envy you having a sister or a sibling for that matter. I see how you all get along and it makes me jealous. So, thank you for sharing a part of your life with me and for inspiring me to be better!
Aw Lori! That is so sweet of you! I’m so glad that we have inspired you. I am so grateful that I have two amazing sisters, but online people can be just as inspiring. Check out the blogs that I read, they are amazing women. They have inspired me to keep with it. I already see a huge difference.
Healthy Tipping Point
OhSheGlows
graduatemeghann
eatliverun
katheats
I like your ending question! My answer is: a bad breakup!! LOL
isn’t that always the way?
but seriously – sometimes when life throws you a bunch of lemons, you realize you have to stop taking it out on yourself and start taking care of the things you can control, like your health and your spirit!! Everything else that is happening around you, is going to happen regardless many times, but YOU can be feeling the best you can while it’s happening and that’s something noone can take away from you!
that’s my answer! (wink)
Lori – having siblings and sisters is wonderful for sure. BUT there are plenty of ways to make connections in peoples lives like the web, like the community! I am glad you are able to get something from us that inspires, that makes me really happy because i get that from so many people too and it’s nice to give back a bit!