Hello fellow Monsters - I wanted to share some pictures of me that I haven't shared in a LONG time, some of them ever. Two years ago, I was 75 pounds heavier. Through some kind of miracle, I managed to buckle down and work the hardest and longest I ever have to achieve a goal - I went from 195 pounds to 120 and I've managed to keep it off for the last six months. I have always been a comfort eater. When I was sad I sought the comfort of food, but it was a vicious cycle. The more I ate, the bigger I grew, and the more I hated myself. But I would be upset because I hated myself...and I would eat more. In my first two years of college, I managed to gain most of that weight though I had always been a big girl and picked on. It was the first summer that I felt uncomfortable on the beach in my swimsuit that I knew something needed to change. Through a mix of diet and exercise, I managed to change my body over the course of a year and half. It wasn't easy, and there were many times it wasn't fun, but it's paid off for more than just my body. When I started my journey, it was with the notion that I hated who I was and would do anything to escape the big girl I became. But here, standing at the end, I haven't just become a different person physically. Through my achievements I've gained a self-confidence I never thought possible - I still struggle with bouts of depression and anxiety, but I'm more prone to believe I can get through it. I am, in general, a happier person. And instead of hating myself and that girl I used to be, I see her now as the girl who was strong enough to put her foot down and make a change. I love her, and I love me now. I also learned that big is BEAUTIFUL; I made the change in myself because I personally wasn't happy, and I didn't feel healthy. Everyone is beautiful in my eyes, and it's important to make the change for the right reasons. There are still days that I look at myself and wish something was different, but I think maybe all of us - even the MOST gorgeous - have those moments. But a lot of my inspiration and sense of self-esteem came from this community. It's hard to find places so compassionate and full of encouragement, but here you all are to this day. I want to share my story and my pictures with both those of you who've come all this way too, and those of you still working. I am MORE than happy to offer words of encouragement, advice, or even just be a cheering squad. Send me messages privately, comment - whatever any of you need, I am here for you 100%. I believe any one can make this change in their life if they stick to their guns. I want every one to succeed, and I believe in all of you. To 2014 and all the transformations in the years to come - paws up Monsters! <3 #bodyrevolution #BodyRevolution2013 #transformationtuesday #transformations #body #pics #selfie #girl #love #monsters #gaga #BodyRevolution2014