Well.. As sometimes happens, I had this post all typed out and then I lost it. Ain’t that the pits? :-/

I could call these progress shots, or I could call these goal shots as I am 9 lbs away and I am so happy that I feel like I am already a success story, Even though occasionally I still see “Fat Heather” in the mirror, I see her less and less with every passing day. I am only a week and a half away from my surgiversary and I think these are the first “progress pics” I have posted.

Let’s start with the stats.

I started this journey:

Weighing: 302.4 lbs

Wearing: Size 24W pants, 2X shirts

Waist: 50"

I am currently:

Weighing: 164.4 lbs

Wearing: Size 10 pants, M shirts (I think with a tuck I could wear an 8)

Waist: 25"

I have lost 5 ft. total from my bust, waist, and hips alone. I still have a nice, ample 34DD bust and my waist is 25 inches. I am so proud of this, let me tell you.

I also started married and am now divorced. Funny how that happens.

Anyway, enough jabbering before the pictures, but after I will share some NSVs I posted in another thread so maybe stick around to read those?

I guess I should start with those dreaded befores.. The first few in the dark bar are from either late July or early August of 2011 and the last is from September 2nd, 2011 with my sleeve sister on sleeve day.

Before:

Now for the afters (these are WAAAAY more fun!):

August 20th, 2012 (164.4 lbs)

August 4th, 2012 (Idk.. Maybe 170?)

Father's Day 2012 (183 lbs!)

About 25 lbs ago, I was carried around piggy back for the first time since childhood... All around my house. It was the most amazing feeling ever!

21 lbs ago, I got the courage to post the bathing suit picture 2 up on FACEBOOK!!

I can shop for panties and bras at VS..

I think I look my age more now (26), I think.

I wear my 4 and 5" heels with EASE!!

I can sit on my BF's lap and not ever worry about hurting him.

I have freaking defined collarbones! Not the scary kind, but defined and I love them.

I fit into EVERY chair, usually with room to set my purse next to me.. This is sometimes not the case.

I think by the time I hit goal and have my plastics, my measurements will be very, VERY close to 36-25-36.

Men ask for my number in bars and clubs.

I get carded more often.

Doors are opened more often.

I am 110% more confident at work.

Well, (in the words of Forrest, Forrest Gump) That's all I have to say about that! Thank you for reading and viewing and (possibly) commenting.

xxoo

Heather (GemInTheRough, soon to be JustAGem)

OMG!! One of the most stunning transformations I've seen here. I want that! I am so happy for you, congratulations!

Awesome job, you look terrific:). Also it is great how shapely, almost perfect measurements you turned out to be. You inspire me, since your also my height and goal weight. Thanks for sharing.

Wow you look freaking awesome!!!! From the pics doesn't really look like u need plastics, but hey what ever makes you happy..

If you saw my stomach you would know why! LOL. I have had two vertical c-sections though and either way I would like to get rid of the scar that runs from my belly button to my.. you know.. Maybe I will post a picture of my stomach in the plastics forum at some point but I have to wait a year anyway. A lot can change in a year.

WOW!! Congratulations on your weight loss.

You look amazing!

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You are a success. And you give me hope. I soooo looks forward to wearing heels with ease. Andi don't care that I'm already 6 feet tall. I will wear them proudly. Lol. Great job and please keep us updated. You really are a great inspiration!!

Those are great pics! You look fabulous!

You go girl! Wow

Wow want to talk about amazing! You have done a great job!

Amazing Journey! Amazing Story! That's such a success. Congrats to you. Thanks for sharing!

You look wonderful! Hoping I have such great success as well. Thanks for sharing!

holy CRAP those are amazing results!!! if I can look half that good when I'm done losing I'll be thrilled!!! *high five*

You Look AMAZING!! Congrats!!!

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Heather, wow! I hope your foot/leg gets better. You have done so well and are inspirational. I did not realize your resounding success earlier