T-Cake's Story & Photo Progression

[T-Cake]

T-Cake's Story & Photo Progression

So here goes! The story ME, my fitness life (and lack thereof), accompanied by photos, of course.

Unlike every other story you seem to read in fitness magazines, mine will not begin with, "I was always athletic growing up" or "I started gymnastics when I was 3 years old." No -- my story starts like this instead: "I was always a fat kid."

Not just chubby... fat. Obese. Morbidly obese as time went on. I never knew what thin was like or felt like. Shoot, I didn't know what HEALTHY really felt like.

By age 19, at the end of my first year in college, I weighed in at 260.25 lbs. Here are some photos of me when I was 18 and 19 years old.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/pajamas.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/Hcomputer.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/HollyBeforeProm.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/HolSunlight.jpg


At that time, I called my father from college, crying that I was lonely, never had friends/girlfriends to hang out with, and had never even kissed a boy, let alone been asked out or date one. It was a very difficult time of my life. My father bluntly said, "The reason you are unhappy is because of your weight. When are you going to see that?"

I was so infuriated and hurt, I had my butt in a WeightWatchers (WWers) meeting the next morning, April 1, 1999, and I never looked back.

A few years down the road with WWers, I accomplished the following:
* Lost 40 lbs the first summer I was home from college; maintained weight all through sophomore year.
* Lost 30 lbs the next summer I was home from college; maintained weight all through junior year, the following summer, and senior year as well. No big change.
* Got to senior year and I had lost approximately 80#. I was hovering around 180-190# depending on the date. I had my first boyfriend and put some weight back on.

Here are photos from those years. You can see the ups and downs in my face and body:
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/Holly20Making20the20List.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/Holly20in20funny20mood.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/HollyStacisWedding.jpg

After being mentally abused (relationships, portions of home life, friendships) and feeling worthless most of the time, I ended up at age 25 living in a basement level apartment alone, and teaching inner city high school kids. My job was incredibly difficult and I would spend my free time struggling to follow WWers, crying that my weight wasn't budging (it had been 2 years since it had), or going out to eat with my mom/family. No friends (just an ex that was in and out of the picture), no social life really (my best friends had all married or were engaged now or close to it). I was really all alone.

Feb. 1, 2007

Tweak (here on the boards) was a friend of mine who knew of this company called Anafit (AF) and its owner, Ulter. She said she would talk to him and see if he could help with diet and training. He had helped her a bit, and she said it might be the trick for me. I was ready for ANYTHING because I knew I was at rock bottom and needed to find a way out of that body weight.

Ulter taught me about the AFMethod/Diet over the phone and in email. He encouraged me to start a log online and use Fitday.com to log my foods daily. He required that I do 60 minutes of cardio, 6 days a week, eat 1650-1750 calories per day (at 190#, 5'5) and on day 7 each week I would NOT workout and I would get a cheat day instead (2500 calories capped).

I followed the rules diligently; I worked my ass off with cardio.
1 month later, cg met me at my gym in MI and taught me how to lift weights for the first time. I LOVED IT.

Here is me before I met Ulter and about 1 month after I started training:

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/HollySDPier.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/LarrysAngels2HollyAlone.jpg

Here are my photo split screens from when I started training with Ulter and cg's help until I was about to leave MI for FL.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/T-CakeFrontComparison.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/T-CakeSideComparison.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/T-CakeBackComparison.jpg

When I moved to FL I was much slimmer, but had learned that I had excess skin all over place. Here I am when I got to FL. You can see the skin near my abdomen/glutes/hips.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/TCakeProgress122806Front.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/TCakeProgress122806Side.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/Holly409-06.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/HollyBicep09-06.jpg

In June 2007, I elected to have surgery called a Lower Body Lift. This surgery removed 4 lbs of skin from my lower body, removing all the daily reminders of what used to be there. There was no way possible for this skin to ever retreat -- in the near-20 years I was morbidly obese, I had stretched my skin and held it there beyond its limits.

This was a very difficult decision for me because I had worked so hard to lose the weight FAIR AND SQUARE and I did not want anyone to think I was cheating to get to a healthy physique. I had my surgical consultation one year in advance just to make sure it was the only way out. It was -- and even in that one year, as I dropped more weight, the only thing I saw was this skin sagging more and more, wrinkled, like I was 40 years olderand had 8 children or something. Just horrible -- and to have it gone now is an indescribeable feeling.

Here is me after my surgery in June 2007. I origincally retained 25# of water. I went into surgery at 165# and came out of surgery at 189#. Through diet, I dropped to the weight listed below.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/TrackerComparisonJune3007.jpg

Yes, it hurt. I came home after 3 days in the hospital, with 4 drains hanging from my midsection.

Here is me after I had recovered and was allowed to train again.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/HollyDoubleBiAug07.jpg

Now begins the fun part. :elephant:

Here are my before photos when I started circuit training. I write all my training circuits and diet as well. :D My mission is to prove that lean body mass can be put on while losing body fat at the same time.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/tcakefrontdblbi.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/tcakebackdblbi.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/tcakeside.jpg

About 2 months later, I took photos again:

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/12-8T-CakeFront.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/12-8T-CakeBack.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/12-8T-CakeFrontdblbi.jpg

Here are my most recent split screens. The more recent photos are on the LEFT from January. The ones on the RIGHT are from December.

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/frontDEC-JAN.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/backDEC-JAN.jpg

I will keep this updated with new photos as my training continues. I feel like I have finally hit my stride with weight loss, though I will have to have a 2nd surgery to repair my laterally stretched skin. I still have a great deal of that skin that couldn't be removed in the first surgery b/c it requires a vertical incision and complication rates skyrocket. It makes me sad to know I can't have skin-tight abs and back... but hey... that's what morbid obesity really does to you. I'm doing what I can. :)

My diet has now evolved to 40/30/30 6 days a week, calories 1500-1650 per day. Saturday is cheat day. :drool:

I eat following the AFMethod and I clean it up during the work-week by avoiding most dairy, bread, and noodles as best I can.

I train 6 days a week, first thing in the morning (before work) on an empty stomach:
Sunday: 60 minutes Spinning class
Monday: Heavy day for lifting
Tuesday: 60 minutes cardio of choice
Wednesday: OFF
Thursday: Circuit training day for lifting
Friday: 60 minutes cardio of choice
Saturday: Circuit training day for lifting

So far, that is the story of me. This April 1, I will "celebrate" my 9-year anniversary of the very day I decided to become healthy and lose weight.

Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I would be a moderator on a fitness board, studying to become a CSCS, helping people with training plans and diet programs -- never ever did I think I was one of "them" -- the ATHLETES. It boggles my mind, to say the least. :D I am honored.

Thanks for reading :kiss: :wavey:

[RichGenetics]

Freaking amazing. You should be so proud of what you've accomplished.

I give you all the glory and this is a great achievment. AWESOME!

[T-Cake]

Thank YOU for reading all that! :lol: Thank you for the kudos.

[Mrs Croft]

I just love to read your story..it is SUCH an inspiration girl :kiss:

ok the romantic in me was hoping you would say when you and Ulter actually got together :wiggle:..since you mentioned how you first met via e-mail ect with the diet/training :dunno:

[BRINO]

Nice job T

[Tweak]

Your underwear is always effin' adorable, btw. lol

[Big Sky Guy]

Dammit T-Cake...I always get choked up reading your story!


In a good way of course :Rawk:

[T-Cake]

I just love to read your story..it is SUCH an inspiration girl :kiss:

ok the romantic in me was hoping you would say when you and Ulter actually got together :wiggle:..since you mentioned how you first met via e-mail ect with the diet/training :dunno:
Aww, sorry! Well my parents had a place in FL (my dad and stepmom) and I came to see them for Easter that year (about 3 months after Ulter started helping me) so we met then. :) And the rest is history... :) I moved here later that summer after I found a job, etc.


Nice job T
Thank you! :kiss: Been a longggggg-ass haul. Still goin'.


Your underwear is always effin' adorable, btw. lol
Gee, thanks :blush: Dork! I don't wear hot panties like you do... some things I'm just not cute in.


Dammit T-Cake...I always get choked up reading your story!

In a good way of course :Rawk:
Thank you :rose: I get choked up myself remembering those moments, but I'm in a much much happier, very different place now.

[bluetwistedsteel]

if you just showed the first and last pics iI wouldn't believe you. Great progression, even your smile changed! Amazing how great successes can do that.

[TrenAman]

amazing.. just whats hard work and dedication can do, much props to you TC

[MR. BMJ]

This story never gets old. That is a HUGE transformation in just the last year alone!!! I think you are gonna really see a lot more 'molding' over the course of this next year too.

BMJ
:bmj:

[dubdubs]

Look at you tearing it up. WOW, what progression you have made and geez that smile is just simply gorgeous. You can see that the smile is even happier in the last few months.

GREAT WORK. Its incredible what one can do with determination on their side. NEVER ever give up and always keep your head up. You are truly a beautiful gal and are getting better and better, hottie.
:jumpjoy:

That right there is DEDICATION. :elephant:

[Florencia]

Darling I WAS about to ask for pictures!
Beat me to it!
Keep up the good work!

[Scarlett]

Yay, I'm glad this thread is back up.. I've referred tons of women from other spots of the internet who are in similar situations to check out your story. :)

[T-Cake]

if you just showed the first and last pics iI wouldn't believe you. Great progression, even your smile changed! Amazing how great successes can do that.
Ha! :) Well thank you. I get that whole "No way -- that's not you!" a lot. Yes... that is me. :) Thank you for the compliment. :)


amazing.. just whats hard work and dedication can do, much props to you TC
:thankyousign:


Look at you tearing it up. WOW, what progression you have made and geez that smile is just simply gorgeous. You can see that the smile is even happier in the last few months.

GREAT WORK. Its incredible what one can do with determination on their side. NEVER ever give up and always keep your head up. You are truly a beautiful gal and are getting better and better, hottie.
:jumpjoy:

That right there is DEDICATION. :elephant:
Comin' from WonderWoman herself, that feels awesome! Thank you! :rose: I'm goin' and goin' and goin'... can't really do much else, eh? ;)


Darling I WAS about to ask for pictures!
Beat me to it!
Keep up the good work!
Thank you, Flor :kiss: That should tide you over for awhile :D


Yay, I'm glad this thread is back up.. I've referred tons of women from other spots of the internet who are in similar situations to check out your story. :)
Awesome, that's great! Anyone that wants to email me of those folks, too, L, just send them my way, seriously. You know I'll help 'em out as best I can.

I'm a woman on a mission ;)

[Gymintensity56]

Dang i must have missed that pic of you in the blue top all dolled up from the first time i read your story, thats a hot pic by the way! lol, and did i tell you before that you have gorgeous eyes? i think i did but i will again hehe, great work keep it goin!!! u make visible progress every month that is really great.

[T-Cake]

Dang i must have missed that pic of you in the blue top all dolled up from the first time i read your story, thats a hot pic by the way! lol, and did i tell you before that you have gorgeous eyes? i think i did but i will again hehe, great work keep it goin!!! u make visible progress every month that is really great.
Thank you for the compliments :) I don't know if I posted the blue top photos before or not :dunno:

Honestly, I don't take many pictures of myself -- so most of my progress photos here are in progress-photo-attire :lol:

Maybe I should do something about that. :hsugh:

Truly, thank you for the compliments. Always feels nice :)

[Auzzie]

Well done on your progress, Very inspirational read :jumpjoy::jumpjoy::jumpjoy:

[T-Cake]

Well done on your progress, Very inspirational read :jumpjoy::jumpjoy::jumpjoy:
Thank you! Still goin', still goin'... :) I just hope to make the story even better as time goes on.

[warmpain]

Yay!!! I always love revisiting this story! Thanks again for sharing.

[T-Cake]

Yay!!! I always love revisiting this story! Thanks again for sharing.
You're welcome :) Since I had to re-write it anyway, I decided to add a little more detail to it in terms of my emotional stuff that happened as well.

[kook]

I said it in the old thread, but it can't be said enough,

Incredible work Tcake! great motivation for the folks that are going down that road :bowdown::jumpjoy:

[T-Cake]

I said it in the old thread, but it can't be said enough,

Incredible work Tcake! great motivation for the folks that are going down that road :bowdown::jumpjoy:
Thanks, kook! I actually took part in a study/interview yesterday regarding how childhood/adolescent obesity affects young women into adulthood. It's a friend of a friend who is trying to write her doctoral dissertation on the subject and WOWIE WOW, look who fit the criteria! M E :D

It's pretty neat. I really hope that I can help people dig themselves out of that hole and find the light at the end of the tunnel. It's a long slow process but certainly worthwhile.

[Spectre]

I just love transformation stories and I really like this one.. It takes allot of guts to post pics!!

Edit: I notice no matter what you always have a wonderful smile on your face! I think that speaks mountains about your personality!

[NWMUSCLE]

WOW!
Just read the story and must say you have done an amazing job!

KUDOS to you girl!

[IronSlade]

Like everyone said, you have a truly amazing story and I am happy that you choose to share it with us. You are a true inspiration for many, probably many that you will never know. Glad you got this back up.

And thank you again for your help last week. I wish I would have had more free time and could have gotten the chance to meet you. Maybe next time I am down there you could start working out later too, say around 10 am? :)

[SBT]

Like everyone said, you have a truly amazing story and I am happy that you choose to share it with us. You are a true inspiration for many, probably many that you will never know. Glad you got this back up.

And thank you again for your help last week. I wish I would have had more free time and could have gotten the chance to meet you. Maybe next time I am down there you could start working out later too, say around 10 am? :)
Such a wonderful story hun :kiss:

[Parm]

Congratulations on the brilliant transformation!

[T-Cake]

I just love transformation stories and I really like this one.. It takes allot of guts to post pics!!

Edit: I notice no matter what you always have a wonderful smile on your face! I think that speaks mountains about your personality!
I'm glad I appear positive, thank you! It's hard sometimes because by the time I get to you guys and gals here on the board, I've been through a longggggggg non-stop day at work, no rest, burned out... so it's really YOU all who get me to smile and relax and crack me up. Two-way street, man!!! :D Thank you for the compliments.

AND YES, it's really hard to post pics because I'm NOT one of the hottie bodies here (yet) and I've never done a show (yet) or a photoshoot (yet), so it's hard for me to be, like, SUPER PROUD at all times. I am most of the time... but even average lookin' chicks with big arms (like me) need some props now and again :) Just being honest! :)


WOW!
Just read the story and must say you have done an amazing job!

KUDOS to you girl!
Thank you! :flowers: :D I promise not to tease you with boob shots but watch out for my underpants :lol: That's about as risque as I'll get around here!


Like everyone said, you have a truly amazing story and I am happy that you choose to share it with us. You are a true inspiration for many, probably many that you will never know. Glad you got this back up.

And thank you again for your help last week. I wish I would have had more free time and could have gotten the chance to meet you. Maybe next time I am down there you could start working out later too, say around 10 am? :)
You got it! Especially if you visit from June to August, I'll have allllllll damn day free! :) School time, I have to train before work. Once those kids run over me all day, I'm wiped and training is just... ugh... too much to even consider ;) And thank you for the compliments as well :kiss:


Such a wonderful story hun :kiss:
:heart: you too :D TY.


Congratulations on the brilliant transformation!
I love the word "brilliant". It's so refreshing! :) Thank you!!! :D

[BIG SMT]

:hitit: I think you're hot T!!! I don't think you have anything to worry about posting pics.



(Ulter please dont ban me):ohnoes:

[T-Cake]

:hitit: I think you're hot T!!! I don't think you have anything to worry about posting pics.

(Ulter please dont ban me):ohnoes:
Okay, THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU.

Honest to God, I have NEVER gotten the :hitit: and I was startin' to feel bad -- I know that sounds trashy of me, but damn people! I know Ulter's my guy, but you shoulda seen the happy dance I did yesterday when I got "cute butt" rep for the first time EVER.

He was so happy for me, and I was happy and proud of myself. I need that, I totally need to hear that. It's good to know I'm not working toward the unreachable here. :)

So thank you for being brave... he won't hurt you or ban you as long as you make me smile (which you did). I'm flattered and that ROCKS and woohoo, I'm actually, like... almost HOT. :jumpjoy:

[Tweak]

WHAT?

Dude you're TOTALLY hot. You've ALWAYS been gorgeous. I think guys on here have just been shy about saying anything cuz you're Ulter's woman and it's his board/company.

It has nothing to do with you not being hot. Please. Everyone in my life who has EVER met you is like "OMG she is STUNNINGLY beautiful."

Is there a smack-someone icon on here? Cuz Imma smack you, beyotch.

[T-Cake]

WHAT?

Dude you're TOTALLY hot. You've ALWAYS been gorgeous. I think guys on here have just been shy about saying anything cuz you're Ulter's woman and it's his board/company.

It has nothing to do with you not being hot. Please. Everyone in my life who has EVER met you is like "OMG she is STUNNINGLY beautiful."

Is there a smack-someone icon on here? Cuz Imma smack you, beyotch.
Yeah, yeah... smack me. :lol: I know... but I'm being honest here!!! I mean, I cannot even TELL YOU how weird it is to get compliments... and I'm honestly uncomfortable thinking or (heaven help me) SAYING I'm "hot"... *shudders*.

I honestly think you're right; I don't get the hottie comments as much b/c of my relationship... but then again, based on my past... I'm quicker to think I don't get those comments b/c... hmm... I'm just not hot. :dunno: It's easier for my brain to realize that than it is for me to admit I'm not so bad lookin'....

[~peaches~]

Girl, you are hot, take it and run with it!

I have told you before what and inspiration you are, keep on keepin on:)

[Tweak]

Yeah, yeah... smack me. :lol: I know... but I'm being honest here!!! I mean, I cannot even TELL YOU how weird it is to get compliments... and I'm honestly uncomfortable thinking or (heaven help me) SAYING I'm "hot"... *shudders*.

I honestly think you're right; I don't get the hottie comments as much b/c of my relationship... but then again, based on my past... I'm quicker to think I don't get those comments b/c... hmm... I'm just not hot. :dunno: It's easier for my brain to realize that than it is for me to admit I'm not so bad lookin'....

Punkin. I get what you're saying but also keep in mind, hotness is a state of mind.

People compliment me too. I didn't go quite through what you have but I certainly have changed in the last 10 years. I have zero clue how to react to anyone saying I'm hot/beautiful/attractive or whatever. Also, you don't have the right kind of personality to walk around being arrogant about how you look and expecting people to worship you-- there's something to be said about being humble. I'm the same way.

I look in the mirror, I pretty much see a douchebag playing dress-up. I'm still me. I take compliments with grace, but in the end, I know where I came from and I know I'm still a work in progress. I don't really know what to say but "thank you" and to make a joke or to change the subject as quickly as possible.

You're hot, chicky. Now don't let it get to your head! :lol:

[T-Cake]

I don't really know what to say but "thank you" and to make a joke or to change the subject as quickly as possible.

You're hot, chicky. Now don't let it get to your head! :lol:
Good advice. :kiss: TY.

Peaches, you're awesome, gurl! Thanks!!! :rose:

[Tweak]

Good advice. :kiss: TY.

Peaches, you're awesome, gurl! Thanks!!! :rose:


I love you and I don't want you feeling insecure on any level. You're fuckin awesome and gorgeous and :kiss:.

Plus, like, I can ONLY have hot friends soooooooo..... *tosses hair over shoulder* :lol: ;)

[IronSlade]

You got it! Especially if you visit from June to August, I'll have allllllll damn day free! :) School time, I have to train before work. Once those kids run over me all day, I'm wiped and training is just... ugh... too much to even consider ;) And thank you for the compliments as well :kiss:



Um, June to August? In Orlando, in prime tourist season? No thanks. I don't know how you live with those people around all the time, I was there for a week and they drove me nuts.

[T-Cake]

I love you and I don't want you feeling insecure on any level. You're fuckin awesome and gorgeous and :kiss:.

Plus, like, I can ONLY have hot friends soooooooo..... *tosses hair over shoulder* :lol: ;)
Ha! Okay well then good thing I roll like that... ;)


Um, June to August? In Orlando, in prime tourist season? No thanks. I don't know how you live with those people around all the time, I was there for a week and they drove me nuts.
We don't live near the parks for a reason :) Orlando's a big place!

Shoot, at least you didn't tell me 'It's too hot then!' b/c that'd be more like it. :) All I was sayin' was I only train this early right now b/c of work... summertime's different :)

:topic: I need to take some real photos of me for once, like non-progress types. I dunno... I think I'm due for progress shots soon anyway :lol: I can do both. I had a good hair day yesterday and almost took pictures but it seemed kinda silly seeing as I don't do much here at home at the end of the day. :dunno:

[Mickey]

I don't know how many times I have looked at this thread over the past year but each time I am just as amazed as the first. You are truly and inspiration to so many people. I too have referred girls that I know to this thread in the past.

Keep on rockin' T-Cake!!! Less weight in '08!!!! :clap:

[Evidence]

You are one tough cookie. My hat goes off to you. I wish one day in the near future I can give you a hug and say I admire you.

[T-Cake]

I don't know how many times I have looked at this thread over the past year but each time I am just as amazed as the first. You are truly and inspiration to so many people. I too have referred girls that I know to this thread in the past.

Keep on rockin' T-Cake!!! Less weight in '08!!!! :clap:
Thank you, darling. :kiss: You're kind as always :)

And my weight is going UP UP UP... but my size goes DOWN DOWN DOWN... soooo I'm just as cool with that as "less weight". :)


You are one tough cookie. My hat goes off to you. I wish one day in the near future I can give you a hug and say I admire you.
I would like that. I hope I get to meet everyone at some point -- that means a lot, your support; thank you :flowers: :)

And the tough cookie thing... that picture... the reason it's there is because I have it on a t-shirt I found at the store. I wear it to the gym :lol:

[Bmoore535]

Your my hero T

[T-Cake]

Your my hero T
:kiss: Glad I can be someone's! Thank you tons; that just made my day :)

[LanT]

I was feeling kinda crappy and unmotivated today, I had a bad cheat day yesterday, and am feeling the after effects of it this morning.

I read this post from time to time, and it never fails to inspire and motivate me. It worked again today! I'm glad it's back up. Thanks for your courage and generosity to share:)

[T-Cake]

I was feeling kinda crappy and unmotivated today, I had a bad cheat day yesterday, and am feeling the after effects of it this morning.

I read this post from time to time, and it never fails to inspire and motivate me. It worked again today! I'm glad it's back up. Thanks for your courage and generosity to share:)
:woot: Glad it worked like a charm! You are very kind for telling me that. :) I get pumped on my down days too when I read others' logs and see progress or read comments here to remember how far I have come along. Makes a HUGE difference!

You're sweet :hug: Thank you :)

[dubdubs]

Punkin. I get what you're saying but also keep in mind, hotness is a state of mind.

People compliment me too. I didn't go quite through what you have but I certainly have changed in the last 10 years. I have zero clue how to react to anyone saying I'm hot/beautiful/attractive or whatever. Also, you don't have the right kind of personality to walk around being arrogant about how you look and expecting people to worship you-- there's something to be said about being humble. I'm the same way.

don't really know what to say but "thank you" and to make a joke or to change the subject as quickly as possible.

You're hot, chicky. Now don't let it get to your head! :lol:

I suffer some of these too, lol. Especially when one tells me how I have come far. I mean I appreciate all the comments and compliments, but I also say thank you and then say... I still got work to do. The road is endless.. There is so much you can do and so many ways to feel about it. I am still a very humble, but very crazy gal. We feed our egos with what we have accomplished and no better way to reflect it than through feeling so HAPPY and expressing it. It definitely shows with you cakers .. I mean look at your smile alone, its radiant.

You don't need to give up being humble, but girl you do need to walk proud :wiggle:

[T-Cake]

I suffer some of these too, lol. Especially when one tells me how I have come far. I mean I appreciate all the comments and compliments, but I also say thank you and then say... I still got work to do. The road is endless.. There is so much you can do and so many ways to feel about it. I am still a very humble, but very crazy gal. We feed our egos with what we have accomplished and no better way to reflect it than through feeling so HAPPY and expressing it. It definitely shows with you cakers .. I mean look at your smile alone, its radiant.

You don't need to give up being humble, but girl you do need to walk proud :wiggle:
Thanks, WW, and I'm glad you can relate too. :)
I'm very proud of what I've done in the last 2 years especially. Since my surgery last June I've totally transformed my body, so seeing what I did in 1 year has me VERY excited to see what I can do from now until next summer, 2nd surgery or not!

I was just telling Ulter today that I get soooooo many looks at the gym now... I don't know if it's stares or stalkers or critics or admiration or "OMG, that cocky bitch is in here again..." but hey, I'm nice when people talk to me... but I can't help it if I'm in the zone and can't stop to chit-chat til I'm done!

But I'm getting prouder and prouder of those stares.

Walking down the hallway the other day, I had cap sleeves on and my students were like "OMG, here comes T -- she looks pissed, watch out!"

I wasn't... but I think my delts were flared from lifting that morning or something. So I guess I scare them! :elephant: I actually love that ;)

[Polski Byk]

Wow! That is absolutely amazing. You have totally transformed yourself. This is something you rarely see. Motivating.

[T-Cake]

Wow! That is absolutely amazing. You have totally transformed yourself. This is something you rarely see. Motivating.
Thank you :) I'm glad it's cool to see!!! Some days it's kinda hard to remember where I started from ;)

[strawberryriddick]

Just read your story, babe, and except for the surgeries, it sounded like where I was. I just posted a pic of the "old me" in my log. You've made leaps and bounds :)

[cranny]

I think you and Bunny have the best success stories on this board. I never get tired of reading them. They're such inspiration esp. when you don't feel like doing the things you know you should. You get me back on track so easily. As you know we are all so proud of you w/ your hard work, dedication, and determination! Not to mention one of the prettiest smiles I've ever seen. Keep it up T!

[T-Cake]

Just read your story, babe, and except for the surgeries, it sounded like where I was. I just posted a pic of the "old me" in my log. You've made leaps and bounds :)
Read your log, woman! You look GREAT!!! Leaps and bounds yourself! Thank you for the kudos and :greengrin: to you :)


I think you and Bunny have the best success stories on this board. I never get tired of reading them. They're such inspiration esp. when you don't feel like doing the things you know you should. You get me back on track so easily. As you know we are all so proud of you w/ your hard work, dedication, and determination! Not to mention one of the prettiest smiles I've ever seen. Keep it up T!
I soooooo needed to see this today; thank you tons. I'm glad I can motivate you that way and believe me, lookin' at those legs in your avi, YOU motivate me just the same! Holy :tren: man, I want cuts like that! It's a 2-way street, brotha', believe it. Thanks again :kiss:

[T-Cake]

Preview Comparison Pics

Check out the leg difference in the back alone from Jan. 29-ish to March 1st (about 1 month). I took other shots too but too bloated in the tummy so we'll re-do them soon, but I was super proud of this!

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/compbackdblbi03020128.jpg

[BIG SMT]

OMG thats an incredible difference in just one month! You rock T!

[zsteph]

very good progress! you are getting A LOT slimmer. go t-cake go!

[Auzzie]

Well done T-Cake great progression since last shots, especially in the legs :woot:

[T-Cake]

OMG thats an incredible difference in just one month! You rock T!
Slowly but surely. The progress is moving MUCH "faster" than it has in the past, though, which is great. I think my body is finally giving in and releasing the fat. :)


very good progress! you are getting A LOT slimmer. go t-cake go!
I'm goin', I'm goin'! :) My pants fit funny... :lol:


Well done T-Cake great progression since last shots, especially in the legs :woot:
Thank you :) It's apparent in the front too but no way am I putting up the bloated belly pics; too hilarious.

[Tweak]

You are the wind beneath my wiiiiiiiiiiiiiiings.

[dubdubs]

Yeppers... I see the difference. Way to go tasty cakes.. :p

[bluetwistedsteel]

Butt's higher, legs are tighter....... great, great progress!

[T-Cake]

You are the wind beneath my wiiiiiiiiiiiiiiings.
And you mine :D ;)

Yeppers... I see the difference. Way to go tasty cakes.. :p
Well good, I'm glad I'm not nuts! :) Thank you :)


Butt's higher, legs are tighter....... great, great progress!
It's working, it's working!!! Hooray! :) Thanks for the reinforcement.

I'm gonna keep truckin' -- if this is the speed I'm coastin' at now, it's pretty motivating, I'll say that much! :)

[Beverly McD.]

:rose::rose::rose:There is an obvious and positive difference. Whatever you've been doing this past month is working for you. Congratulations!

[bigdamray]

WOW!! I'm speachless!!

[T-Cake]

:rose::rose::rose:There is an obvious and positive difference. Whatever you've been doing this past month is working for you. Congratulations!
Thanks! :) I was thinking that this morning when I was on the Stepmill crankin' away and "only" had 30 minutes to put in instead of the hour. It certainly hasn't hurt me in the last month -- if anything, I just learned in the last month to use the time I have and push even HARDER and move even FASTER.

My legs are mellllllllllltingggggg :coolred: O M F G, it's got me hopeful!


WOW!! I'm speachless!!
Hey babycakes! :) Thanks for the kudos ;) Some day, I'll be as cut as you, my friend ;)

[xrsist]

amazing! congrats tcake

[Biter]

Wow, just wow T... that's freakin incredible! Keep on it :)

[TrenAman]

I cannot believe it has taken me this long to read this, pardon my french but holy f'n crap! Almost hard to believe youa re the same person as those old pictures, apples and oranges. I know you already are but you should be so proud of your accomplishments, my hats off too you.

[T-Cake]

amazing! congrats tcake
Thank you :rose: :)


Wow, just wow T... that's freakin incredible! Keep on it :)
:lol: Yeah, "wow" about sums it up. :) Thank you for the kudos :D


I cannot believe it has taken me this long to read this, pardon my french but holy f'n crap! Almost hard to believe youa re the same person as those old pictures, apples and oranges. I know you already are but you should be so proud of your accomplishments, my hats off too you.
It's okay -- there are lots of people who still think I'm only on this board because I'm Ulter's gf... :rolleyes: Naw, I actually do know a thing or two about training and diet ;)

Thanks for the compliment and, you're allowed to say "holy fuckin' crap" in my logs/threads. No worries ;) :kiss:

[kara]

t-cake what a fantastic transformation! i've read your story a few times now and just think you're amazing! your continuous progress is so motivational. :bowdown:

[T-Cake]

t-cake what a fantastic transformation! i've read your story a few times now and just think you're amazing! your continuous progress is so motivational. :bowdown:
Thanks, Kara!!!

Now come teach me how to bench. :D I'd be awesome then. :D

[T-Cake]

Learning PhotoShop.

My photo-taking in terms of how I stand is inconsistent from October to now... but here is line-ups of what I do have.

Latest photos are this morning. Anything from March 2nd (3 weeks ago, about) were too bloaty -- so I only stuck the side pose in for that (mostly so y'all can see my triceps).

Happy ogling... or lack thereof. :rolleyes:



http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/FrontDoubleBiComparisoncopy.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/DoubleBiBackComparisoncopy.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/RelaxedBackComparisoncopy.jpg
http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/SideComparisoncopy.jpg

[kweenkandykorn]

:drinkbuds: guurrrrlllll.... u b smokin!!!!!:banana:

[kara]

ZOMGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG look at those quads!!!! unbelievable! you look awesome cake!

[Nick]

I know you can't possibly see through your jaded eyes just how amazing those pics are... but you look INCREDIBLE :)

[GTLifter]

very nice progress!

[bigpetefox]

Awesome progress, and Happy Anniversary! ;)

[MR. BMJ]

Wow, big difference from 12/07 to now. Awesome job Holly:kiss:

That is awesome!!!

BMJ
:bmj:

[Beverly McD.]

"Success seems to be largely a matter of hanging on after other have let go." -- William Feather
"If you have no goals you will be bored: you will be unhappy because you are empty." -- Alfred A. Montapert
"The ultimate goal is victory, and if you refuse to work as hard as you possibly can toward that aim, or if you do anything that keeps you from achieving that goal, then you are just cheating yourself." -- Don Shula

:roses:You look Beautiful!

[bigdamray]

Ultra Hawtness!!

[Gettinripped]

what a great story. you are an inspiration to many others.

congrats on the accomplishments and look forward to many more stories and progression pics.

[Elle]

This is my first post EVER to this site. I wandered over here from EF and have tears in my eyes!!! There are so many incredible women here but me an you have so much in common.

Great job! I too have lost a ton of weight and have not yet had my reconstructive work done.

Anyway, great to meet you and thank you for inspiring me and others!

[T-Cake]

:drinkbuds: guurrrrlllll.... u b smokin!!!!!:banana:
Thank you :kiss:


ZOMGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG look at those quads!!!! unbelievable! you look awesome cake!
Thanks, Kara! Carvin' them out... slowwwww but they're in there!


I know you can't possibly see through your jaded eyes just how amazing those pics are... but you look INCREDIBLE :)
Aww. :rose: You're so nice. :) Thank you ;)


very nice progress!
Workin' hard! Thanks for the support and feedback!


Awesome progress, and Happy Anniversary! ;)
Hey, thanks!!! 9 years, man! WOW! :eek3: :lol: ;)


Wow, big difference from 12/07 to now. Awesome job Holly:kiss:

That is awesome!!!

BMJ
:bmj:
Pretty damn cool, yes. Thanks, babes :)


:roses:You look Beautiful![/FONT][/SIZE][/COLOR]
Love ya', Bev. Thanks for supporting my efforts ;)


Ultra Hawtness!!
Am I cuter than you yet?! Dammit, that's hard to do!!! Rawr. ;)


what a great story. you are an inspiration to many others.

congrats on the accomplishments and look forward to many more stories and progression pics.
What a great compliment, thank you! :) I will have to take more pictures soon...


This is my first post EVER to this site. I wandered over here from EF and have tears in my eyes!!! There are so many incredible women here but me an you have so much in common.

Great job! I too have lost a ton of weight and have not yet had my reconstructive work done.

Anyway, great to meet you and thank you for inspiring me and others!
Your first post here, huh?! I am HONORED! And congratulations on your own success and endeavors. I am very open about all I've gone through with my weight loss and the skin surgery. If you ever have questions, just ask!

[T-Cake]

Mega Announcement :D

1. My 2nd follow-up ab skin surgery (2nd to last summer's surgery that did not remove all the skin) is now officially scheduled for June 9th. It is a 4 week recovery (no travel), so I will heal just in time to go see my family for a reunion. I am so excited to get rid of this last batch of tummy skin, and best of all, it's an outpatient procedure so I go in, get it fixed, and come home.

2. I just did my FIRST MEDIA INTERVIEW today regarding my weight loss and training success. :hyper: :D Local newspaper. We are doing the photos sometime in the next two weeks. When it's published, I will somehow post up the portions that I can so you all can see it.

WOW -- that's big recognition! I am nerrrrrrrvousssssss! :ohnoes:

[trivial]

Mega Announcement :D

1. My 2nd follow-up ab skin surgery (2nd to last summer's surgery that did not remove all the skin) is now officially scheduled for June 9th. It is a 4 week recovery (no travel), so I will heal just in time to go see my family for a reunion. I am so excited to get rid of this last batch of tummy skin, and best of all, it's an outpatient procedure so I go in, get it fixed, and come home.

2. I just did my FIRST MEDIA INTERVIEW today regarding my weight loss and training success. :hyper: :D Local newspaper. We are doing the photos sometime in the next two weeks. When it's published, I will somehow post up the portions that I can so you all can see it.

WOW -- that's big recognition! I am nerrrrrrrvousssssss! :ohnoes:

Which paper? I wanna get a copy. (and congrats!)

[bigdamray]

So kewl, I am so happy for you Cakers!! And you are MUCH cuter than I am!!

[dubdubs]

I hate you... because I love those quads..

You look fabulous. I love all the pics you post and yes you have the cutest undies, lol.

Way to go sista. I am rooting for you for June.

Best wishes babes... :coolred:

[T-Cake]

So kewl, I am so happy for you Cakers!! And you are MUCH cuter than I am!!
Thanks, Ray :rose: :)


I hate you... because I love those quads..

You look fabulous. I love all the pics you post and yes you have the cutest undies, lol.

Way to go sista. I am rooting for you for June.

Best wishes babes... :coolred:
:lol: @ the quads. Thanks and I'm getting more comfortable with my legs as time goes on. All I can do is what I'm doing now.

But... there really isn't pressure now because I'm not thinking about a stage... so I'm just trying to have fun with it.

[matt1990]

totally late on this, but that is one amazing and by far inspirational story. I think anyone who has had the same struggles as you could draw inspiration and courage to meet there goals as well as you have. Kudo's by far, and I don't think enough glory can be given to an inspirational individual like yourself.

I applaud you by far.

Matt~

[MR. BMJ]

Hell yeah!!! Congrats Caker:)

I can't wait to see the changes that this surgery can bring. Although, you'll continue to change up until that point as well:D

Yep, not much you can do with excess skin, these surgeries are mandatory!

Keep us updated on the article and interview:)

BMJ
:bmj:

[Ulter]

Which paper? I wanna get a copy. (and congrats!)

Orlando Sun. We'll have a copy for you when you get here.

[gorillaboy55]

WOW -- that's big recognition! I am nerrrrrrrvousssssss!


are you kidding? dont do that to yourself! youve more then earned it. youve helped many, youve gone through hell for yourself, and most of all your achieving your goals and you look awsome! what is that karma?

ps. your quads are awsome! wish i had them it would make hitting a ball so much easier!

[T-Cake]

totally late on this, but that is one amazing and by far inspirational story. I think anyone who has had the same struggles as you could draw inspiration and courage to meet there goals as well as you have. Kudo's by far, and I don't think enough glory can be given to an inspirational individual like yourself.

I applaud you by far.

Matt~
Better late than never! This story's been on and on and ongoing for so damn long, no worries there!

Thank you for all the great words of encouragement. :D I hope I can help some people.


Hell yeah!!! Congrats Caker:)

I can't wait to see the changes that this surgery can bring. Although, you'll continue to change up until that point as well:D

Yep, not much you can do with excess skin, these surgeries are mandatory!

Keep us updated on the article and interview:)

BMJ
:bmj:
Dude, I am so ready for this surgery but I must say that this year, with skin removal #2... I'm much calmer. It's less serious and I'm not feeling the temptation to blow off my training and/or diet or fat loss endeavors like I did last year.

It's motivating me to actually work really hard to slim down a teeny bit more before surgery so he can see the skin better -- bloat makes the skin harder to see (it poofs it back up) so working hard between now and then is important.


WOW -- that's big recognition! I am nerrrrrrrvousssssss!


are you kidding? dont do that to yourself! youve more then earned it. youve helped many, youve gone through hell for yourself, and most of all your achieving your goals and you look awsome! what is that karma?

ps. your quads are awsome! wish i had them it would make hitting a ball so much easier!
:lol: No, I'm not kidding! I really was SUPER nervous! Still kind of am, but i'm feeling better now that I know who my client is for the photo-shoot thing and I have a non-trainer-company-affiliated gym who is going to allow me to do the training there. My gym (and my client's) has in-house trainers so I don't want to cause a stir, so this is a huge relief. :)

Thank you for the kind words, really. :D I think I've earned it too! It's hard for me to RECOGNIZE my achievements; I tend to focus on the shitty things I went through and had to deal with (skin mostly) to get to this point... so a positive story is so refreshing to me.

But attention freaks me out... so we'll see how I fare when the article is printed!!! Ahhh! :ahh:

[sassy69]

Nicely nicely cakers!

[warmpain]

You rock T-Cake! You are the kind of person that makes all the hard work seem so worth it. Ive said it before and I will say it again, you are a true inspiration for anyone looking to better themselves. :)

[*Bunny*]

We need an april update on the pics...

:rose:





YAY


Papers are so fun!!

"a non-trainer-company-affiliated gym" WISH I had that anywhere near me... very very sweet

[Raina]

That's great about the surgery and I sincerely hope that it all works well so you can feel even more confident and beautiful.

Your progress is beyond-words incredible. You went a huge step beyond just hitting the redo button on your own life Miss Cake because you've gone out of your way to help and encourages others to better themselves too.

Also- you have the cutest butt.:rose:

[Killer]

It is the cakers!!!

T-cake you rock!!! Even if you do like deep fried twinkies!!\

The progress is amazing - I cannot believe it everytime I see your pics.

More bling!!! haha :overhead:

[afroman]

Unfrickinreal. I can not believe the difference. Just the side view from March 2 to March 22 looks like two different people. You've come a long way and have so much to be proud of. Your progression pictures should be hanging on refrigerators all over the US.

[T-Cake]

You rock T-Cake! You are the kind of person that makes all the hard work seem so worth it. Ive said it before and I will say it again, you are a true inspiration for anyone looking to better themselves. :)
Wow, thank you!!! :) I personally think it's worth it. I hope I can help others to realize the same thing. If anything, I can bridge the gap of understanding between those who are fit and those who lack fitness. :wiggle:


We need an april update on the pics...

:rose:
Yeah I know I need to do new pics. We took some like 2 weeks ago... Ulter told me not to put them up. The sunlight didn't allow for a lot to show anyway. I don't know -- I don't want to get discouraged. I just want to keep working hard and hope someday it all tightens up for real. Very slow... but happening.


That's great about the surgery and I sincerely hope that it all works well so you can feel even more confident and beautiful.

Your progress is beyond-words incredible. You went a huge step beyond just hitting the redo button on your own life Miss Cake because you've gone out of your way to help and encourages others to better themselves too.

Also- you have the cutest butt.:rose:
:) I hit the "EASY" button!!! :rofl: Yeah, right. :treadmill:


It is the cakers!!!

T-cake you rock!!! Even if you do like deep fried twinkies!!\

The progress is amazing - I cannot believe it everytime I see your pics.

More bling!!! haha :overhead:
Tee-hee, BLING BLING!!! :elephant:
And I never said I liked the deep-fried Twinkies -- I just said I'd had one before -- like wayyyyyyyyyyyyy long ago. I wouldn't do it again.


Unfrickinreal. I can not believe the difference. Just the side view from March 2 to March 22 looks like two different people. You've come a long way and have so much to be proud of. Your progression pictures should be hanging on refrigerators all over the US.
Thank you for the kudos! ME hanging on a fridge?! Maybe ;)

My article came out today... I'll post it below since it's part of my log/experience/photos thingy.

[T-Cake]

Hey, look, I'm in a little paper. :clap:

East Orlando Sun (http://www.eosun.com/catalog/catalog.php?catalog_id=62&start_page=13)

It's on pages 13 and 14 of the e-paper (page B1 and B2, the Lifestyle section) of the real paper.

I think it came out alright. It has the necessary info, but I'm a bit miffed that he didn't put my Before picture in there. :dunno: Isn't that weird? I mean, I'd want to see the before picture of someone who dropped that much weight, but maybe now I'll get emails just because people want to see it!!! :lol:

And there's a LOT of type-o's which drives me crazy... but other than that, it's not too bad.

[~R~F~G~]

Truly inspirational thread..

Congrats to you for not being complacent and settling to just be another fatty.. :D

You are an inspiration and everyone should look in this thread before they go to the gym this week... Or when ever they think it's not a good day to work out..

Keep it up..

[T-Cake]

Truly inspirational thread..

Congrats to you for not being complacent and settling to just be another fatty.. :D

You are an inspiration and everyone should look in this thread before they go to the gym this week... Or when ever they think it's not a good day to work out..

Keep it up..
Thank you for the kind words. :) I'm certainly not complacent, no. I'm a worker!

And I think even *I* need to look at my own thread today. Having joint pains and it's bringin' me down... so I need a refresher in my history. :)

[~R~F~G~]

When was that last time you took a full week off? And are you getting enough EFA's in your diet? Maybe add a TBSP of Fishoil a day...

[T-Cake]

When was that last time you took a full week off? And are you getting enough EFA's in your diet? Maybe add a TBSP of Fishoil a day...
Last time I took a whole week off was in December. I have surgery again on June 9th to remove the LAST of my excess abdominal skin (:hyper:), so as of that day, I'll be off for a whole month.

I know my body needs the rest, believe me!!! I am a little under the gun to lean out (especially my mid-section) as best as I before this surgery so the skin is easier to see for my doc (not that it's hard to see, but if I go in there bloated and watery, my skin looks puffed out like a balloon -- when I'm leaner, it sags much more so he'll be able to see it better -- make sense?)

Anyway, that's less than a month away... so with that I'll have about 3-4 weeks off and out of the gym.

My knees hurt today. I've been running in the mornings again and :heart: it but it brought back my knee pain. Back to Spinning classes I go -- works my lower half just as much (if not more) but no pain... so I am at least listening to my body that way (as much as I LOVE LOVE LOVE being outdoors at 6am... I have to take care of those knees).

I'm imbalanced -- I need to see someone about it or get some help. Foam roller helps a lot for now, as does daily jacuzzi time.

[~R~F~G~]

Get on an elpitical for your knees, although spin is good I prefer an eliptical, next best thing to running..

You really are probably over trained right now so you wont really see any gains, or losses. Your CNS is overloaded and struggling to keep you regular without all the added stress of a workout..

How is your diet? If your one month out I suggest you go low to almost no carb and up the EFA's like natural PB, avacados, almonds. Take is carbs pre workout and only have trace amounts the rest of the day. Maybe asparagus at dinner to help shed some water. Instead of Post work out carbs if your in a carb defecite adding in a TBSP of Natural PB with your PWO shake will do you just fine. Get some dandelion root too, that helps with water retention. Most health food stores have it...

I know all about Abdominoplasty... Trust me.. I'll do a before and after later... :D

Look at the next month as contest prep, NO CHEATING... It all comes down to these four little weeks, compared to the rest of your life it's a short time.. You can drop more than you think and do it right, no starvation dieting..

[Ulter]

You should check out her training log. Pick it up about page 12 unless you have time to read it all. http://www.afboard.com/forum/womens-training-logs/21-t-cakes-diet-exercise-log-version-3-5-a.html

You've got some great ideas Bro. I forgot about asparagus.

[Bluebird]

Ugh, the Sun page link won't open for me. :mad: Regardless, it's always a pleasure reading your updates.:)

[T-Cake]

Ugh, the Sun page link won't open for me. :mad: Regardless, it's always a pleasure reading your updates.:)
http://www.afboard.com/forum/238358-post18.html

Go there! It has the version of the article in .pdf form. Should be easier to read. :) Thanks for checkin' up on me, lulu! :kiss:

[Bluebird]

http://www.afboard.com/forum/238358-post18.html

Go there! It has the version of the article in .pdf form. Should be easier to read. :) Thanks for checkin' up on me, lulu! :kiss:


Dang! I tired to download both files but when I try to access them, I receive a "You are not logged on or do not have permission....". I log back in (because it seems to bounce me off or something) and try again, then the notice pops back up.

[T-Cake]

Dang! I tired to download both files but when I try to access them, I receive a "You are not logged on or do not have permission....". I log back in (because it seems to bounce me off or something) and try again, then the notice pops back up.
WTH, that is so weird! :dunno:

Ulter put those up, soooooo maybe it's in a wrong server or something. Bummer, I gotta get that worked out.

[Big Sky's Bride]

Great job changing your life. You can see the results not only in your body but in your eyes as well!

[Auzzie]

Thats great your article made the paper T-cake,
I'm sure your story will touch and inspire the readers there as you have done so on this board.. :)

[chestrockwell420]

congrats on the prgress....a real inspiration. i just showed my girl your story. thank you for sharing it with us. you look gorgeous! keep up the great work...hey, chics w/bis are pretty hot!!

[RagingBull666]

T-Cake, I just found this thread and WOW!! You are an amazing woman and can be an inspiration to ALL!! Your strength and conviction are amazing!! I hope you continue on and reach your goals.

If I may ask, what is your goal weight or bf%? I don't even know if that is what you have in mind. Also, what took you from Michigan to Florida?? SS, RB

[T-Cake]

Great job changing your life. You can see the results not only in your body but in your eyes as well!
Thank you! :) I am a smidge happier now, yes :lol:

A dab o' deadlift will do ya' :deadlift:


Thats great your article made the paper T-cake,
I'm sure your story will touch and inspire the readers there as you have done so on this board.. :)
Thank you for the kind words! :rose: I got zero emails from the readers of that paper, but I was still pretty excited and anxious for something to be written about me. I am pretty proud of what I've accomplished, but when stuff like that happens (the article) I step back and think, "Wait, is that really a big enough deal?!" ;) *slaps myself into reality* YES, it is!


congrats on the prgress....a real inspiration. i just showed my girl your story. thank you for sharing it with us. you look gorgeous! keep up the great work...hey, chics w/bis are pretty hot!!
:D Wheeeee, chicks with biceps! :) I dig! I :heart: mine! Lord knows I worked my arse off to get 'em (and still grow them... ugh). That's really cool you showed your girl my story! I hope she took something from it as well -- I'm just a goof to me. :)


T-Cake, I just found this thread and WOW!! You are an amazing woman and can be an inspiration to ALL!! Your strength and conviction are amazing!! I hope you continue on and reach your goals.

If I may ask, what is your goal weight or bf%? I don't even know if that is what you have in mind. Also, what took you from Michigan to Florida?? SS, RB
Thank you so much! I'm a determined woman at this point ;) Not going to the gym never crosses my mind (unless I'm, like, sick or injured obviously). Just a part of my life I won't do without -- it makes me too happy :)

My weight goal?! Psssh, I have zero idea! I have my second and final skin correctio surgery on June 9th (to remove excess skin on my abdomen still there from my obese days), so until that skin is gone, I really cannot get an accurate pinch test. That alone is VERY exciting to me to be able to then focus on BF% and not weight :woot:

For now, my body weight goes up and up... and my size stays the same or goes down... sooooo I'm okay with that :D It's a beautiful thing. I usually hover around 170, 175# now at 5'5".

As for my transfer from MI to FL -- in a word, my reason was "Ulter" :heart: In a second word, it'd be "unemployment" :lol: There were zero jobs in the MI economy for me and education was flourishing with desparation for good educators here... so that was the other good deal for me.

[robbb]

Awesome! Great article. Fricken heartbreaking when you speak of being 260 and finding it hard to find a group of friends, shopping, etc. Man, I like to think I'm not a terribly sensitive guy, but that really was tough to read that part. To think of your great personality and drive which I have no doubt you had back then and to go through that emotional pain....really have to hand it to you. Unreal, and congratulations on this outstanding success.

[smoke]

I am one of the guys that thought you were hot but didnt say anything due to respect cuz you were Ulter's woman.

Incredible story!

[T-Cake]

Awesome! Great article. Fricken heartbreaking when you speak of being 260 and finding it hard to find a group of friends, shopping, etc. Man, I like to think I'm not a terribly sensitive guy, but that really was tough to read that part. To think of your great personality and drive which I have no doubt you had back then and to go through that emotional pain....really have to hand it to you. Unreal, and congratulations on this outstanding success.
Aw, thank you :rose: And it's hard for me to read it again, too, believe me.


I am one of the guys that thought you were hot but didnt say anything due to respect cuz you were Ulter's woman.

Incredible story!
Thank you! And :rofl: about Ulter. Seriously, he thinks it's awesome when I get compliments of any sort from people, including other men. He knows I've missed out on that a lot in my life so far, so I'm learning to relish it. No worries ;)

[dyoda]

Hey Lady!


Just got around to reading your article in the paper. It was awesome, and I am still so proud of you and your achievements!

Take care, and see you soon!

D:hi5:

[T-Cake]

Hey Lady!


Just got around to reading your article in the paper. It was awesome, and I am still so proud of you and your achievements!

Take care, and see you soon!

D:hi5:
Awww, wow, THANKS, D!!! :kiss:

[T-Cake]

Re-post from my log. Tomorrow I'm have my final abdominoplasty to remove my leftover skin from my obese days 9 years ago.

All photos taken on Sunday, June 8, 2008.

Weight: Not sure... 170 or so, I'm guessing.

Food: Last 4 days have been a high-fat diet, but good fats. It was close to 25p/30c/45f. Crazy, but that's what I was eating. I wasn't too worried about it, so long as I wasn't carb-binging.

Water weight: I'm lookin' fluffy in my upper body/back, but not in the ab area, which is a good thing. I certainly don't feel bloated, so my goal is to maintain this til tomorrow morning.

Surgery: I have to be at the hospital by 5:30am, which means we have to leave the house by 4:45am. I cannot eat or drink after 11pm tonight, but I know I need to be in bed closer to 9:30 tonight so that I'm well-rested and keep bloat off. If I go in with little to no sleep, my body will hold water immediately.

Pictures: The usual pictures are here, but the difference is I also took one of the skin. When I'm standing, the skin just appears to be a fat roll around my midsection. This is not the case. In the last photo, you will see how if I suck in my gut (as shown) the entire abdominal area wrinkles up and moves around. When I lean forward at the waist to pick up something, it sags. I'll often by in spin class or doing ab work and I feel like a joke because the teacher says "Suck in those abs!" or I see my skin in sit ups just get stuck there.

I'm ready for it to be gone. I'm mentally in a better place than I was last year since this is outpatient surgery and it's far less complicated... and I'm no longer sad that I need surgery to have a normal shape. Just part of my journey. 9 years now I've been on this road to better health. And if I can't shed this skin or tighten it up within 9 years (2.5 of them being really hardcore with diet and training), then this is what I must do.

[Tweak]

Posted in response to this on your log. ;)

[JoeD]

wow you could help out a lot of people that are in the same situation you WERE in! Great story

[T-Cake]

Posted in response to this on your log. ;)
Got it, thank you :flowers:

wow you could help out a lot of people that are in the same situation you WERE in! Great story
Thank you, and I think I can too.

Honestly, I think I can help people WITHIN the fitness world understand the battle as well. I know quite a few people who were quick to judge the overweight and the struggle we (I) went through to get to this place. And now here I am with yet ANOTHER hurdle to jump... but I'm goin'. :)

My story isn't commonplace in the fitness world or the overweight community... I think it's unique, period. I just hope I can help everyone live a quality life, however that may be. :)

[JoeD]

Got it, thank you :flowers:

Thank you, and I think I can too.

Honestly, I think I can help people WITHIN the fitness world understand the battle as well. I know quite a few people who were quick to judge the overweight and the struggle we (I) went through to get to this place. And now here I am with yet ANOTHER hurdle to jump... but I'm goin'. :)

My story isn't commonplace in the fitness world or the overweight community... I think it's unique, period. I just hope I can help everyone live a quality life, however that may be. :)

Yeah I think you could really help some people ESPECIALLY in the mental game. A lot of people that are up in the 260 range and have been large all their life are probably more screwed emotionally and mentally if anything. It must be so mentally defeating being the big person since birth but you definitely showed anyone can over come that.

I think guys and girls like myself who have always been active don't understand the struggles and it's easy for us to say "get up off your lazy ass" but from what i gather from you story it isn't that easy.. I imagine it's even worse if you're a female where a lot of thought each day goes into looks and beauty.

I hope you can reach out to as many other people who are in the situation you were in before because I think you could inspire them much better...you been there, done that you know exactly what they're thinking and going through..

[humble]

Cheers to you. Very inspiring.

[Mike Miller]

I was looking at your old pics whats great is ,that magnificent smile. Proof that positive thinking is very powerful.. Have a great day!

[T-Cake]

Thanks, guys!!!

Surgery was yesterday. Doin' alright today.

Wait til y'all see this scar, man. :lol: O M G, it's wicked, but I know it'll be nothing in a few months. Just crazy as all hell at first to look at.

I look like someone drew football scrimmage plays on my tummy with a Sharpie too. Very interesting... ;)

Thanks for the continued love everyone. I'm hangin' in there.

My new LOVELY no-excess-skin body is, like... WOW, so nice to look at. I am so so so freakin' happy it's finally G O N E!

[T-Cake]

Re-post from my log...

The attached photo is me 2 days after my revision abdominoplasty surgery.

As you can see from the picture, I had a vertical incision and approximately 1.7 L of excess skin/fatty tissue were taken from my abdomen. Last year's incision was circumferential around my waistline; that scar is not visible in the photo, I don't think, but it's very light.

So seeing the new photo, it looks like I'll have some wicked markings, but I rest assured knowing that last year's line is barely there and started out looking the same way.

My overall contouring is finally NORMAL to me. It's puffy because of fat/water I am holding on to due to the healing process and just weight I need to drop, but that permanent muffin-top effect I had goin' on is finally GONE. It's sooooo nice.

Anyway, try not to be too freaked out. If you look at the photos from 2 or 4 posts before this, I think the difference will be easier to see.

[Beverly McD.]

It takes courage to take control of your life. Congratulations both on finding the courage, and on the fantastic results.:flowers:

[bigdamray]

I'm so happy for you Cakers!!

[Ivanko]

Thanks for sharing your experience with us!! Keep up the good wok it is inspiring

[Scooter]

Congrats! I'm glad your surgery went well. :jumpjoy:

You are an inspiration!! :bowdown::bowdown:

[MR. BMJ]

Congrats! Nice to see ya up and movin' around with high energy:)

BMJ
:bmj:

[T-Cake]

It takes courage to take control of your life. Congratulations both on finding the courage, and on the fantastic results.:flowers:
Thanks, Bev. That's really sweet of you. :)


I'm so happy for you Cakers!!
Thanks, Ray. :) Me too, it's pretty darn cool.

Thanks for sharing your experience with us!! Keep up the good wok it is inspiring
You're welcome -- and hey, we're not all the same, so if anything we can learn from each other even when we can't relate :)

Congrats! I'm glad your surgery went well. :jumpjoy:

You are an inspiration!! :bowdown::bowdown:
Thanks, Scooter :kiss:
Feelin' pretty good today so far, probably because I went to bed last night and slept 12 hours. :D Niiiiiiice.


Congrats! Nice to see ya up and movin' around with high energy:)

BMJ
:bmj:
:wavey: Thanks, hun. It's nice to be mobile today and not as sore, that's for sure. Takes time and patience. Time I have... patience... meh ;)

[sittinheavy]

congrats on getting the last bit of excess skin removed. i'm gonna hit you up a little later on about the whole process. i'm battling some of the same issues. hope your healing process is speedy.

[T-Cake]

congrats on getting the last bit of excess skin removed. i'm gonna hit you up a little later on about the whole process. i'm battling some of the same issues. hope your healing process is speedy.
Aw, thank you! And for real, I'm so open about the entire process, so ANYTHING you (or anyone) want to know, just ask! :D

[Raina]

Oh come on....that's not even a nice up close look at the nasty scar pic. lol I was hoping for one. Damn nurses....

You look great and I can't even guess how great you'll look once the swelling is down! Do you know how much was removed? It sounds like it all went even better than you thought it would. I'm so happy for you!!! :rose:

[Big Sky Guy]

Ohhh yeah! Your whole tummy area is going to look sooooo good!

Did they give you 1 drain (not sure if you answered that in your log???)

[T-Cake]

Oh come on....that's not even a nice up close look at the nasty scar pic. lol I was hoping for one. Damn nurses....

You look great and I can't even guess how great you'll look once the swelling is down! Do you know how much was removed? It sounds like it all went even better than you thought it would. I'm so happy for you!!! :rose:
I took the pic and that's as close as I could get w/o dropping my phone in the sink ;) I was surprised it didn't come up so dark in the pic, though. It looks gnarlier in person ... but honestly, it's healing up already and looking even lighter today (the black stuff will start to fall off the incisions within 2 weeks, easily).

It DID go better than I thought it would. The hardest part was just finding a comfy place to sit here at home. First day wasn't bad, but the 2nd day the bruising was annoying me so no matter where I sat, it just was irritated. Yesterday was better -- today is even better, so progress is good. :)

I know 1700cc's was taken off (1.7 L of fat tissue/skin). He took a picture of it, but I haven't gotten that in my email yet. He said he'd email it to me. I'm sure it'll be far less gruesome than last year's photo -- THAT was hard to look at.


Ohhh yeah! Your whole tummy area is going to look sooooo good!

Did they give you 1 drain (not sure if you answered that in your log???)
Thanks! I think my abs are going to be KILLER, I can't even tell ya' how excited I am! I knew I had abs already and now they're RIGHT THERE and I can touch them and feel them... finally seeing what I built is so damn cool.

And there was a CHANCE of 1 drain but I didn't need it. :woot: Always a bonus :)

[J. Adams]

Wow....that is an amazing story/transformation.

[T-Cake]

Wow....that is an amazing story/transformation.
Thank you! :rose: Always a saga, never-ending ;)

[Haltered]

I never bore of reading your story Cakers :partydots:


You have always been beautiful, but now you are just getting Hawt!

[T-Cake]

I never bore of reading your story Cakers :partydots:


You have always been beautiful, but now you are just getting Hawt!
Thank you!!! :o I'm glad you're entertained ;)

Going to start my first serious cut, like, EVER in July. Kinda creepin' in the new foods and trying some stuff out now so my menu is to my liking and something I can rotate and live with (so at least it's not chicken/broccoli EVERY meal, EVERY day).

I'll be fiery once I get started with that stuff.

I'm hoping to get back into the gym this upcoming weekend for some light cardio. We'll see. :)

[Temple]

Damn....just damn.....
Can I ask what it cost to have the skin removed? I know I am going to have some icky skin when this is over...
but then, I am over 40 and I do have a couple kids...

[T-Cake]

Damn....just damn.....
Can I ask what it cost to have the skin removed? I know I am going to have some icky skin when this is over...
but then, I am over 40 and I do have a couple kids...
A lot of loans... :lol: I'll PM you about cost.

Honestly, a great deal of had to do with how long I had the skin for (over 10-15 years). Since you were fit (in your opinion) only 4 years ago, you may not have skin damage from that period of time, though if you had damage back then due to childbirth, then yes, there may be some once your current weight loss is over.

I have 35 lbs to lose now myself, btw, so you and I are going to be in this together once I heal my scar up (about 5 more days and I'll back back at cardio, I think, if not sooner).

[Temple]

Your body type is very similar to mine - amazingly so....
Did they cut any muscle when they did your surgery? I have racked up a pile of doctor bills in the last year. I had gall bladder surgery, then got a hernia in the incision, had it repaired then fell down the hill in front of my house a week after surgery and had to have it redone.....

[drrman]

WOW.........i've never clicked on this post for some reason.............this is truly a great story, you must feel freeking great about yourself right now!! thats some an incredible change!!!

[T-Cake]

Your body type is very similar to mine - amazingly so....
Did they cut any muscle when they did your surgery? I have racked up a pile of doctor bills in the last year. I had gall bladder surgery, then got a hernia in the incision, had it repaired then fell down the hill in front of my house a week after surgery and had to have it redone.....
Dear Lord, that's a lot of injury! :nurshot: Glad that's behind you at least.

As for the muscle, in last summer's skin surgery, they had to tighten my abs because (much like during a pregnancy) my visceral fat had stretched my abs over the years. That was the only time, though, that my muscle has been touched. This summer's incision (the vertical) was all above the muscle, so it's healing much faster and was outpatient (read: MUCH easier!!!). :nod:


WOW.........i've never clicked on this post for some reason.............this is truly a great story, you must feel freeking great about yourself right now!! thats some an incredible change!!!
:D Thank you!!! I am really proud of myself, yes.

I have about 30-35 lbs to lose now until "goal" -- I'm hovering around 180 now as I heal and usually 175 when I'm healed up. I need a setpoint weight of 145, 150 so it's my final (final? :rofl:) big challenge on the road, but now it'll be SUPER FUN to watch the losses come because I don't have all that skin covering it up anymore. :elephant: Just a little excited. ;)

[T-Cake]

Took some pictures yesterday and put them on my log. You can see the changes (maybe?) since 2 weeks ago, the day of last surgery.

Still swollen, still puffy and holding a ton of water all over (my arms are such FLUFF, omg! :lol:), but the scar looks a ton better.

Been back to cardio since Saturday, and I started cleaning diet up last week.

Staying away from the weights for a bit -- I could stand to lose a tad, I'm so big! ;) I'll get to conditioning in a week or two though just to hold on to what I do want.

New goal: Drop 30 lbs of body fat.

"Enjoy"

[sittinheavy]

healing nicely chick. you putting anything on the scar to aid in healing? can't wait to see you cut down. you've got a helluva a build, especially for a woman. i took a double take on the side shot photo, your quads are impressive.

[T-Cake]

healing nicely chick. you putting anything on the scar to aid in healing? can't wait to see you cut down. you've got a helluva a build, especially for a woman. i took a double take on the side shot photo, your quads are impressive.
Thanks -- those quads are mostly genetics... :lol: I think... ;)

Right now I'm putting Aquaphor on the scar until doc tells me to swtich over to Scarguard. That's what I used last year and it worked awesome, so I'm going to follow that plan again.

I just want the darn belly button plug out! :rofl: It keeps falling out and I have to keep putting it back, per doctor's orders. :bash: How silly!!!

[Doggy]

T,
I have finally reviewed your log all the way through; I knew you were damn special but I never realized just how amazingly strong you are!
I commend you on a journey that few would ever undertake...you are an inspiration!
Plus you're a cutey too! Go get em' Cakers!!

[warmpain]

Still amazing, every time I check in here.

[T-Cake]

T,
I have finally reviewed your log all the way through; I knew you were damn special but I never realized just how amazingly strong you are!
I commend you on a journey that few would ever undertake...you are an inspiration!
Plus you're a cutey too! Go get em' Cakers!!

Still amazing, every time I check in here.
Thanks, guys, I'll pay you later! ;) J/K

THANK YOU, for real.

This is my cheesy-ass-face right now: :D :D :D :D :D

:lol: I appreciate the kind words and *gasp* admiration as well. XOXO

[*Bunny*]

Not sure how to say this without it sounding weird, but now when I see you I think of Muffins... not in a bad way.

Thanks alot btw.


I think you look awesome. Button plug, wtf :)

Your arms are Ha-ugeeeeeeeeeeee..

Girl I havent lifted weights like I should since the end of last month... Im sure Ive lost a few lbs LBM. Keep me posted on how you progress with your mini break. Im curious how it will go for you as well.

:rose:

Smile.

;)

[T-Cake]

Not sure how to say this without it sounding weird, but now when I see you I think of Muffins... not in a bad way.

This is what you meant, right?

http://dl5.glitter-graphics.net/pub/276/276215d1n6qbmxck.gif (http://www.glitter-graphics.com)

:D :tongue3: :grouphug:

[itsallgenetics]

amazing amazing amazing.... you are truely an inspiration to everyone

[T-Cake]

amazing amazing amazing.... you are truely an inspiration to everyone
Hey, thank you!!!! :kiss: :grouphug: It feels good to get some recognition. :wiggle: I trained so hard today I almost cried... so good to know it's not wasteful!! :D

[Elle]

Thanks -- those quads are mostly genetics... :lol: I think... ;)

Right now I'm putting Aquaphor on the scar until doc tells me to swtich over to Scarguard. That's what I used last year and it worked awesome, so I'm going to follow that plan again.

I just want the darn belly button plug out! :rofl: It keeps falling out and I have to keep putting it back, per doctor's orders. :bash: How silly!!!

Ok, My abdominal skin went bye-bye on 6/20 and am so happy to be healing along with you! I had the "T" incision Tummy Tuck after losing all the weight and it's such a blessing to have a waist now!!! :clap:

I'm gonna get some of that Scargaurd and give it a try if I can find it.

Anyway, you look like you're healing awesome! Keep wearing that stupid compression garment a little longer. I hate mine too! It's black of all things, oh lordy. It's a joy, lol.

Talk to you later! I lurk here daily!

[navalgazer]

Took some pictures yesterday and put them on my log. You can see the changes (maybe?) since 2 weeks ago, the day of last surgery.


"Enjoy"


I know this isn't what you are looking for but your face in the last picture is absolutely striking.

The results are as well fantasic but all I can see is the shape and expression on your face.

[Elle]

I know this isn't what you are looking for but your face in the last picture is absolutely striking.

The results are as well fantasic but all I can see is the shape and expression on your face.


Yes, I totally agree about the expression on her face. Also, I love how straight her scar is. It will really blend in nicely with her abs when it fades. You do have a great PS, T-Cake!

[T-Cake]

Ok, My abdominal skin went bye-bye on 6/20 and am so happy to be healing along with you! I had the "T" incision Tummy Tuck after losing all the weight and it's such a blessing to have a waist now!!! :clap:

I'm gonna get some of that Scargaurd and give it a try if I can find it.

Anyway, you look like you're healing awesome! Keep wearing that stupid compression garment a little longer. I hate mine too! It's black of all things, oh lordy. It's a joy, lol.

Talk to you later! I lurk here daily!
Hooray!!! Good for you for having that done! I tell ya', I always felt like no one around me understood what it was like having that skin just hang all over me. It was really bad 2 years ago when it was my stomach, my breasts and my rear all at once. I was so sad about it; so self-conscious because I'd worked so hard and THAT was my 'reward'. To have it gone is so freeing, yes?! :)

I hate my girdle too. My girdle makes me love my binder even more! :lol: I wear my girdle/compression garment as long as I can each day but around 8 or 9pm I just give up and put the binder back on. Hey, it's a trade off!!!

You should start a log here, really!!!


I know this isn't what you are looking for but your face in the last picture is absolutely striking.

The results are as well fantasic but all I can see is the shape and expression on your face.
Thanks, NG (dammit, I so want to call you Vel still! :lol:)


Yes, I totally agree about the expression on her face. Also, I love how straight her scar is. It will really blend in nicely with her abs when it fades. You do have a great PS, T-Cake!
I scar really well, thank goodness. And my PS is really the nicest man on Earth. I'm really lucky to have found someone that skilled, and when things didn't go right last year, he was right on board to fix it again and get it right this year.

And lately... he even went from saying I couldn't get my abs that tight... to now he's asking me when I'm going to compete. No joke! I think he's kissin' my ass but it's cute that he thinks I'm that great. :wiggle:

CUT STARTS ON TUESDAY, FOLKS! Pics galore (or at least more than what I do now).

[JoeD]

dont think your arms are "fluffy" i think they look muscular

[T-Cake]

dont think your arms are "fluffy" i think they look muscular
Thanks. :rose: That was a couple weeks ago so I was very swollen and couldn't see ANY cuts in my arms because I hadn't trained in a few weeks... but my cuts are back now so it's easier to see if I flex. I FELT fluffy!!! :lol:

[SBT]

You have some QUALITY muscle there just waiting to shine through!! ;)

[T-Cake]

You have some QUALITY muscle there just waiting to shine through!! ;)
Oh, I soooo know that! It's being dug out already... when I go start up next week -- I can only imagine what I'm going to see. My body is already NOW the best it's ever looked, IMO... and the fact that I've never really truly done a CLEAN CUT before... my body just responds like gang-busters to everything I put it through...

God, I'm so friggin' excited. :wiggle:

Remind me of that when I'm starving! :rofl:

[saiyanjin]

t-cake you are a great inspiration! ill remind you of being starved because i am right now.

[navalgazer]

Thanks, NG (dammit, I so want to call you Vel still! :lol:)

Feel free.
:coolugh:

Looking gorgeous.

[T-Cake]

t-cake you are a great inspiration! ill remind you of being starved because i am right now.
:lol: I've still got a few days.

We can be hotties together -- you're ahead of me, though :cheer:


Feel free.
:coolugh:

Looking gorgeous.
Thank you :rose:

[Iron God]

I dont think I ever posted on your LOG..But I have been reading it and following it.

More than anything what impressed me is your attitude..You really have the right mindset to have gotten this done. You should really write a book about this journey

Your mindset is key and that is why 99% of people who are in your situation cant do what you have done..Kudos

[P Bo]

T-Cake....thank you for posting your very personal journey. You have proven there are always options and being DEFEATED is never one of those options. You are a testament to the saying 'we are the authors of our own fate'. You found your roar and have reminded me to never lose mine. Thank you!

[daddyraph]

signed up to tell u good job :h5:

how much did it cost you for your 2 surgerys, ive been big a long time and ive lost alot of weight(40lbs) and my gut/belly moves on its own:(

[T-Cake]

I dont think I ever posted on your LOG..But I have been reading it and following it.

More than anything what impressed me is your attitude..You really have the right mindset to have gotten this done. You should really write a book about this journey

Your mindset is key and that is why 99% of people who are in your situation cant do what you have done..Kudos
Well, dammit, get over and post in my new log, fool! ;) :flowers:

Thank you for the kind words. :D In all the years, there is one thing that has stayed consistent: I always KNEW and BELIEVED I'd lose the weight and get to where I want to be. Never questioning that was the key to my success and still is.


T-Cake....thank you for posting your very personal journey. You have proven there are always options and being DEFEATED is never one of those options. You are a testament to the saying 'we are the authors of our own fate'. You found your roar and have reminded me to never lose mine. Thank you!
LOL, yes it's personal. And thank you for the appreciation. I have a big mouth, I don't mind telling folks where I came from, so I'm glad you took something from it! :D


signed up to tell u good job :hi5:

how much did it cost you for your 2 surgerys, ive been big a long time and ive lost alot of weight(40lbs) and my gut/belly moves on its own:(
Thank you!!! :angel:
Congratulations on losing 40 lbs!!! That is FABULOUS! Nice work! :hi5:
The first thing I would do is find a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in your area. Mine is double board certified both in surgery and in plastic surgery, and his credentials were outstanding.
After doing your internet research, make an appointment for a consultation to see if surgery really is right for you and/or if it can fix what you are currently seeing or unhappy with. I had my first surgery consultation one full year before I went in for the surgery. I wanted to be sure it was what I wanted. Also, I wanted to give myself that time to lose more fat so more skin could be seen/removed.

The cost of your surgery is going to depend on a few things:
1. where you live
2. who your surgeon is (years of experience will play a part)
3. if your surgery is overnight or out-patient (my first included a 3 night stay and my second skin surgery was out-patient)
4. how much work needs to be done (if there is skin only in the front of the gut or if the skin is on your backside as well)

Expect costs to range from 5k to 10k. I'll just give you that ballpark; obviously, hope you have good credit because it's really the only way (or at least it was in my case). But again, this is why I waited one year -- got my ducks in a row and I think I used my entire tax refund to cover down payments and such. I'm a frugal person and a saver, so that (the money) was the hardest part of the whole experience... but for my mental peace, it was worth it.

New photo thread for my cut (which started this past Tuesday) will start this Saturday! Hope y'all will follow along!!! :rose:

[TrenAman]

damn Cakester, you need to write a book about your journey, truely inspirational. I think everyone has already said it, just wow!

[Smurfy]

WOW.

Admission: I come here every weekend to catch up on your story/progress. You are amazing.

[T-Cake]

damn Cakester, you need to write a book about your journey, truely inspirational. I think everyone has already said it, just wow!
:rose: Thank you. I don't feel like many would read a whole book about my journey, but who knows? I write all the time but don't really see myself as an author. ;) I'd just be another weight-loss story amidst thousands. I think I'd rather put my time into actively helping others rather than collecting profits on a book as I do nothing. Passivity ain't my thing.


WOW.

Admission: I come here every weekend to catch up on your story/progress. You are amazing.
Ha, really?! That's so flattering and cool, thank you!!! :)

I'm going to start a new pictures log here. This one is old and I'm cutting right now so I think I should. :wiggle:

[Bluebird]

:
I'm going to start a new pictures log here. This one is old and I'm cutting right now so I think I should. :wiggle:

Excellent! I look forward to your new thread.:)

[T-Cake]

Excellent! I look forward to your new thread.:)
Yeah, I never started one. *sigh*

I don't think I will either. I'm cutting right now but I just don't think everyone needs pictures of me every week or even every two weeks. I'unno -- I can see the changes but I might as well just finish cutting and then show the end results in November.

[drsketch]

My mission is to prove that lean body mass can be put on while losing body fat at the same time.

This is very much true. See my pictures, I also believe this can be done with more than mediocre results, but exceptional results. I continue to tweak and adjust my diet and training accordingly, ever evolving, always moving forward.

[T-Cake]

This is very much true. See my pictures, I also believe this can be done with more than mediocre results, but exceptional results. I continue to tweak and adjust my diet and training accordingly, ever evolving, always moving forward.
I agree. To me, it's rarely about getting progress in X amount of time. In the past, this has always backfired on me. When I just treat every day as if I need to be conscious of what I eat and how I train, the over the long haul I see results.

Lately, though, I have become very annoyed with how slow my "over the long haul" approach is taking me.

[drsketch]

I feel cutting fat over the long haul is the most realistic and safest way to do it.

[Kano]

you look great all your hard work has been paying off. Never quit never give in. You will go as far as you want to take yourself

[Florencia]

Right ^^ never give in!

[T-Cake]

I feel cutting fat over the long haul is the most realistic and safest way to do it.
I do agree with you on this. I have to say with all I have lost through diet and exercise... none of it has come back. :overhead: That is a feat in and of itself.


you look great all your hard work has been paying off. Never quit never give in. You will go as far as you want to take yourself

Right ^^ never give in!
I don't understand what quitting IS, honestly. :lol:

I am in a relapse/frustration/excuses phase right now of why I'm maintaining my weight and not pushing as hard as I can to lose more. It's pretty stupid, these excuses, but I'm tackling them.

[SBT]

:wavey:

[P4D2A022]

just looked at this again. great dedication girl!

[HAYEZ]

congrats u look great!:banana:

[T-Cake]

congrats u look great!:banana:
Thank you :rose:

I'll have new pics in my HH Challenge Log tomorrow. They're taken, just can't figue out how to post them up without wasting an hour of my time. :wiggle:

[HAYEZ]

Thank you :rose:

I'll have new pics in my HH Challenge Log tomorrow. They're taken, just can't figue out how to post them up without wasting an hour of my time. :wiggle:
TinyPic - Free Image Hosting, Photo Sharing & Video Hosting (http://tinypic.com/)
upload there and paste link in message!
good luck:toss:

[Rustey82]

wow you look great....what a great story!

[any1uno]

Can't wait for the updates Ms T-cake. Keep challenging yourself and follow through. Since you're not a quitter I know you will do well.

[T-Cake]

Thanks, everyone.

You can find my new pics in the my HH Challenge Log, btw. I wasn't having an issue getting them online; it was mostly the editing/resizing/layering process that was driving me nuts.

[*Bunny*]

SO yeah, thanks for making me tear up today with 'scara potentially streaking my face...
I re read the first page of this...


Seriously. WOW.

[T-Cake]

Great job, but one question....what's the story behind the Michigan sweatshirt in the first set of photos? Alumni want to know.
My shirt actually said "Michigan STATE" because I'm an alumni of there.

So BOOOOO BLUE, sorry! :lol: ;)

We can still be friends. :D

I'm originally from the Detroit area, though. I actually have my MSU Alumni shirt on right now. :wiggle:


SO yeah, thanks for making me tear up today with 'scara potentially streaking my face...
I re read the first page of this...

Seriously. WOW.
Dammit, stop reading it!!! That's a waste of good make-up! ;) :rose:

Glad it still inspires. I'm sure you can relate that fear of being a "has-been-success-story". I feel like one day the validity of what I accomplished -- the valore of what I accomplished -- will just POOF, vanish, and won't be impressive anymore. :ohnoes: Weird fear of mine, but very real.

[trivial]

I feel like one day the validity of what I accomplished -- the valore of what I accomplished -- will just POOF, vanish, and won't be impressive anymore. :ohnoes: Weird fear of mine, but very real.


The person you are is more impressive than what you have accomplished. You have accomplished what you did BECAUSE of who you are. You are not going away, so neither will the people who are impressed with you.

:flowers:

[*Bunny*]

Dammit, stop reading it!!! That's a waste of good make-up! ;) :rose:

Glad it still inspires. I'm sure you can relate that fear of being a "has-been-success-story". I feel like one day the validity of what I accomplished -- the valore of what I accomplished -- will just POOF, vanish, and won't be impressive anymore. :ohnoes: Weird fear of mine, but very real.
OK but I HAD to go back and check after I saw your pics from the New Forum, b/c I seriously said "no way" .. but I swear to all that is good and holy, in a very AWESOME 'no way'.

Anyway, good thing for us Caker, is that we are not only architects, but artists as well.

No cutting off you ear though, got it?

[T-Cake]

The person you are is more impressive than what you have accomplished. You have accomplished what you did BECAUSE of who you are. You are not going away, so neither will the people who are impressed with you.

:flowers:
Thanks, Triv. My stash of 'true friends' has been dwindling lately, particularly in 'real-time/real-life', so I appreciate your support and encouragement. :) And aG's too :wiggle: You're right, I am pretty head-strong; a bit crazy but head-strong :D


OK but I HAD to go back and check after I saw your pics from the New Forum, b/c I seriously said "no way" .. but I swear to all that is good and holy, in a very AWESOME 'no way'.

Anyway, good thing for us Caker, is that we are not only architects, but artists as well.

No cutting off you ear though, got it?
Well that makes me really happy that I can knock your socks off. I must be doing SOMETHING right then! ::biggthumpup:

The more I look at pics in the HH forum, the more I'm seeing that, as of late, I really DO look a lot like everyone else, probably because now I have my pics in my head. Until Ulter posted 'em up for me, I had no realistic idea what I really look like now.

[porkchop]

Wow.. Very inspirational..

Freakin awesome progress!

[Beauts]

Wow T-Cake. How great you've done and how far you've come. I remember you from a year or so ago when I used to post and was doing well. Kinda fell off of the wagon so I'm back once again. Wanted to check up on all of you gals and wow, Bunny was right! You are a whole new woman. Way to go. You should be so proud of you!!!!! Now let's see if I can get my fat ass back in gear! Have to re-post and all that. I'll do that this week for sure.
Nice to see you again!:wavey3:

[T-Cake]

Wow T-Cake. How great you've done and how far you've come. I remember you from a year or so ago when I used to post and was doing well. Kinda fell off of the wagon so I'm back once again. Wanted to check up on all of you gals and wow, Bunny was right! You are a whole new woman. Way to go. You should be so proud of you!!!!! Now let's see if I can get my fat ass back in gear! Have to re-post and all that. I'll do that this week for sure.
Nice to see you again!:wavey3:
Thank you for the kind words and support. We have ALL fallen off the wagon at some point, even me, time and time again. Each day is a struggle in some way. I just have to be conscious of how LONG I allow myself to be off the wagon. A day or two doesn't hurt me... day 3 or longer... I get nervous... and longer than that, I swell up with water, get depressed, etc. It's just an awful feeling, so I keep that in mind every time I consider giving up entirely.

I just cannot function HAPPILY without a fit life. I turn into a mess, so I may kick and scream on some days but in the end, I know what's best for me. Took time and you'll get it right as well! Forgiveness of self is huge -- just do what you can that day and move on.

[ricorico]

its almost like reading a 'rags-to-riches' story every time i look at your photo progression.....great job and keep up the good work

[T-Cake]

its almost like reading a 'rags-to-riches' story every time i look at your photo progression.....great job and keep up the good work
:flowers: Thank you! I need to get some new pics in here (and in my AF Challenge Log too, seeing as it's the halfway point and all).

[T-Cake]

Just adding to my pictures thread here.

My AF Challenge "Results" :lol: Hey, progress is progress:

Weight: No change, still 168 @ 5'5". Honestly, my weight has not left the 165-175 range in the last 2 years. I have no idea why, it just doesn't move, even though my body changes.

Physique Changes:
- Smoother lower back; less fatty deposit
- Leaner upper back; scapulae visible, drier appearance.
- Waistline and front hip area leaner (due to loss of fat in mid-section)
- Legs appear smoother around knees and sides but no overall decrease in size is noticeable.

Progress Side-by-Sides:

http://www.afboard.com/images/tcake/backdbbicomp.jpg

http://www.afboard.com/images/tcake/dbbicomp.jpg

http://www.afboard.com/images/tcake/sidecomp.jpg

[Florencia]

WOW!!!!
I think you´re hot!!
Now try and take pics when dressing up right before a date... make up and all OK?? Flirt with the camera!

[G-IRONZ]

How incredible!!!You've done very well T-Cake.Your drive and dedication has paid off for u big time.I wish you continued success with your goals for this year.

[Tweak]

EXCELLENT progress! You can for sure see the changes in your back, woman. This is great progress in a short period of time. :kiss:

[T-Cake]

WOW!!!!
I think you´re hot!!
Now try and take pics when dressing up right before a date... make up and all OK?? Flirt with the camera!
:lol: We'll see... I feel goofy taking pictures of myself... but yeah, I actually do look really good with my make-up on. :whistler:

How incredible!!!You've done very well T-Cake.Your drive and dedication has paid off for u big time.I wish you continued success with your goals for this year.
Thanks! I continue to make changes but I am trying to find MY path for MY body where I can get those changes the fastest -- haven't found that path yet so I need to just keep trying new things, right? :)

EXCELLENT progress! You can for sure see the changes in your back, woman. This is great progress in a short period of time. :kiss:
Thanks, that's what I was thinking too. ;) At least with allllll the traveling and my birthday and the holidays I still made SOME progress, though hard to see with the un-trained eye. :)

[drsketch]

Looks like you put on some muscle everywhere except your arms.. Good job!

[oldlifter50]

Well I finally got around to checking out your board. WOW what a transformation. Your story is amazing and the results show what happens when you have the drive, spirit, and set goals what you can do. What I like is you do not rest on your laurels, you keep getting better.

[T-Cake]

Well I finally got around to checking out your board. WOW what a transformation. Your story is amazing and the results show what happens when you have the drive, spirit, and set goals what you can do. What I like is you do not rest on your laurels, you keep getting better.
Thanks, darling. :kiss:

If I just stopped doing all this, period -- I could live with myself for a week, tops -- but eventually eating crap and not training would leave me in a huge, dark funk. Just not worth going there, so I don't stop. :)

And I look better the longer I do this... :lol:

[warmpain]

Still kicking ass T-Cake!

[T-Cake]

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/100_0588-2.jpg

[sassy69]

Beautiful!

[merckxwannabe]

I am new here--just scrolled through your pics--OMG you should be so proud of what you have accomplished---i know few people with that kind of drive and strength--truly an inspiration for others!!!!

much respect!! .

[T-Cake]

Beautiful!
Thank you! :wiggle: I was floored at that picture -- my friend was like "OMG you're all ka-pow, ka-pow, ka-pow!" :lol: Nice taper, I think. :)


I am new here--just scrolled through your pics--OMG you should be so proud of what you have accomplished---i know few people with that kind of drive and strength--truly an inspiration for others!!!!

much respect!! .
Thank you :) I am really proud of myself, though that doesn't mean I let myself go easy daily. I can't let myself go so I keep pushing.

Thanks for the props! :D

[Tweak]

You are looking TINY!!!!!!!!!!!! :hilarious:

[Suds77]

T-Cake,

This story is very inspirational. You look AMAZINGLY good. WOW. Congrats on your progress.

[claire]

You look beautiful :)

[slimm26]

Hottie!!!! Looking gorgeous!!! :flowers:

[T-Cake]

You are looking TINY!!!!!!!!!!!! :hilarious:
I KNOW! CRAZY, right?! :hyper: I'm pumped.

T-Cake,

This story is very inspirational. You look AMAZINGLY good. WOW. Congrats on your progress.
Thank you, dear! :wavey: Always a woman on a mission! ;)


You look beautiful :)
:D Hey Claire! :rose: Thank you.

Hottie!!!! Looking gorgeous!!! :flowers:
Go me, it's working working working! :coolred:

[warmpain]

Aww,what a great picture, your smile is the best :)

[T-Cake]

Aww,what a great picture, your smile is the best :)
Thank you! :rose: :D :D :D

[Hidngod]

^^^^^^^
Wut they all said.:nod: :woot:

[Bluebird]

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/100_0588-2.jpg

Absolutely stunning!

[sassy69]

That's a beautiful color on you Miss Cakers! Only outdone by your smile!

[bigdamray]

http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i31/troychak/100_0588-2.jpg

Ulter is a lucky man!! :bowdown:

[T-Cake]

That's a beautiful color on you Miss Cakers! Only outdone by your smile!

Ulter is a lucky man!! :bowdown:
Thanks, you two!!! :grouphug:

I think I actually see a V-taper in there somewhere -- :rofl:

[ChopperChick]

Yours is one of the first posts I read when I joined the board...you are such an inspiration!

When my husband was researching on different boards, yours was the post he brought me to. I was so blown away by your story, strength and dedication that I knew this was where I could get the support and advice I need to help me be successful in my journey. THANK YOU!!

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful!!:cheer:

[IliekFude]

^^^^Yup, I did the same for my girl cchick.
Tcakr every time I pop in here I'm lookin at a new person. Congrats on the wedding you guys and yet again congrats you look great. Like you just caught a bit of the fitness spark n poured gas on that sumbitch til it was a 4 alarm blaze. Yep that pretty much sums it up haha.

[StanZa]

T-cake you look amazing.
a classic success story.

[Zoofus]

Just read this now.

External Transformation = Amazing
Internal Transformation = Priceless

Congrats on facing the issues and making such a positive change. Way to take charge and be a winner, that says more about you than any picture (although for what it's worth you have a great smile, the kind where happiness just shines out from the inside).

Very inspirational.

[T-Cake]

Wow, thank you! I'm sorry I didn't see these earlier; haven't been in this forum daily, that's for sure. StanZa and Zoofus for sure, I don't think I repped either of you, so THANK YOU for the really kind words. :) I've been in a health funk lately (not fitness related but certainly affecting that aspect of my life), so to read what you have to say makes me feel really good. :wiggle: