Metamorphosis

My one year raw anniversary was last month. I posted pics in the before/after forum, but wanted to mark the occasion by posting them here and writing about what this year has meant for me.

For starters it has meant releasing 46 lbs, (From 223 to 177). Then there is the improvement in my skin tone and complexion. My eyes are open and bright, instead of hooded and dull. My blood pressure has come down from High-Normal (140's over 80's) to Optimal (100's over 70's). My chloresterol is lower and my pulse is slower. Sleep is more restful, and I don't snore like I did (according to my husband). My ankles don't swell like they used to. They still swell in extra hot weather, but they are fine again by the next morning. Nothing like the crippling, painful swelling I used to suffer from day after day. I don't have pain in my wrists. No more back pains. No more hot flashes (or other menopause symptoms). Have not needed a Tums or a Tylenol. Have not been sick. I am not as shy around new people, and am able to converse better, and look people in the eye. I am much happier.

It is so much easier being raw now than it was in the beginning. I just am, and that's all there is to it. I have no cravings for cooked foods. Have I ended all my issues with food? Don't think so, but at least I'm in control.

Friends and family support my choices without question. They see the difference in me, and know that my food choices are the best thing I have ever done for myself. Does that mean they are ready to go raw? Of course not. It isn't for everyone. But, they do respect me for it.

I don't have a picture at my highest weight. When this before picture was taken I had already been raw for 2 weeks and lost 12 lbs.



As you can see in the before pic taken in May 2008 my Christmas lights were still hanging on the deck. I was so lazy! Don't have that problem anymore either.

I'm looking forward to experiencing even more good changes by this time next year. :)