Beyond the Blubber

[ This post was written in November of 2009 prior to the start of my journey. Update to come! ]

In my twenty-five years on earth, I have been severely overweight for the last seven of them. Over the years, I have limited myself in ways beyond comprehension. My lack of self confidence is evident in my every day life — a life where the simplest things often become giant obstacles. I have been lucky enough to cultivate friendships and relationships throughout my journey thus far, but I am ready to explore life as a fit individual. I want to take advantage of all that life offers instead of tip-toeing around the standard-sized chairs of the world.

I started my weight-loss journey at the beginning of December 2008 weighing a staggering 271 pounds, leaving zero traces of that high school ice hockey and softball athlete I used to be. Rather than gaining fifteen pounds during my freshman year in college, I gained over fifty.

My initial goal is to lose 81lbs by November 3, 2009 (my 26th birthday). My ultimate goal weight is 150lbs — a total loss of 121lbs. Finding the motivation to continually count calories and exercise won’t be easy, but the reward will be endless.

As for who I am beyond the fat: I’m a graphic and web designer living just outside of Boston with my lovely wife. My interests include crayola crayons, Photoshop, constructing blanket tents, camping, vodka, and wearing sandals.