My first week of the challenge was quite difficult, although I did lose 8 lbs that week. While I did not consider myself a big caffeine drinker, although Diet Coke was my life line, the withdrawals I had for the first 72 hours has kept me away from any caffeine, sugar substitute, dairy products and any processed foods as of now and I do not plan on going back to those! The next several weeks provided me with some true life challenges, losing my father to lung cancer, which I held strong to the diet the best I could. A few glasses of wine and a few beers here and there were my flaws. After missing 2-3 weeks from the gym, I tried to stay focused on the diet and would get in some exercise as I could. As soon as I was back in town, I was back at the gym. I then began to work diligently, coming in 3-4 times a week and continuing with the eating plan. Initially I had planned on following the elimination diet strictly for 30 days and then adding things back in. I did have a glass of milk one day and some Tostitos Chips one time, but it did really nothing for me, so I figured I really do not need it!

After several weeks of working really hard many tears and talks with Rachel, I never gave up and just kept on listening to what they told me and kept at it. Finally the past couple of weeks, the weight started coming down. While that feels great, I have to say the way my arms and legs have transformed is amazing. I never knew I had muscles!

I have now integrated my new eating habits into the household. The kids all eat the natural peanut butter; we have fresh fruit before bed instead of ice cream and brownies. I have not fried anything in a long time!! This has made not only an impact on me, but on my whole family. We are all more active and making better food choices.

What this challenge has done for me is that going through this process has given me the confidence that I have lacked for many years. I believe in myself more now than ever. Not only do I feel better and look better, but most importantly I know I am healthier and I owe it all to you guys for your encouragement, pushing me to the limit that I did not even know existed, and having the faith in me, knowing I could do it before I knew I could and I thank you for that! This past 12 weeks has been a challenge within it self and I am proud to say that I am extremely happy with the outcome, physically and emotionally! Thank you guys for helping me reach my goals and discover myself once again!