Minn. mom's New Year's resolution comes full circle

Now that Christmas is behind us, one thing on everyone's mind (besides paying credit card bills) is a New Year's resolution.

It's no surprise that the most common resolution is to shape up and lose weight. And if you ask Angie Vesey, that's the best commitment you can make to yourself.

Weight wasn't a problem for Angie until after she gave birth to her two children, and gained 30 pounds during each pregnancy. After that, her metabolism slowed, and her weight gain became a slippery slope.

Angie gradually put on pounds over the years, reaching 156 pounds by December 2006. After a number of failed New Year's resolutions to lose weight, the Minnesota mom decided 2007 would be the year she got serious, and carried out her plan to drop the pounds.

Angie looked into her options, and decided L A Weight Loss would fit perfectly into her life. She joined the Eagan, Minn., L A Weight Loss center in the first week of 2007.

There, Angie was paired with a one-on-one weight loss counselor who helped get her diet in check by adding more fruits, vegetables, and water. Angie also opted for lean meats and protein, instead of fattier red meats. Most importantly, she learned portion control.

It's been nearly a year since Angie joined L A Weight Loss, and she couldn't be happier. She's reached her goal weight of 131 pounds, shaving off a total of 25 pounds!

Since losing weight, Angie's energy has increased. She now enjoys swimming and biking to stay fit. And her new energy motivates her to improve her fitness routine by doing new activities.

Plus, Angie feels good in a two-piece bathing suit. Dressing up is now a treat, not a chore. Best of all, Angie feels great!! Her confidence is high, and she's no longer embarrassed about feeling heavy.

Way to go, Angie! What a difference a year makes!

Here's Angie one year ago at 156 pounds:



And here she is today, looking fantastic at 131 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Angie Vesey
Hometown: Apple Valley, Minn.
Age: 39
Height: 5'5"

Starting weight: 156 pounds
Goal weight: 131 pounds
Current weight: 131 pounds
Program start date: January 2007

Favorite food: Pizza.

Biggest temptation: Homemade chocolate chip cookies.

Biggest motivator: Slimming down for a trip to St. Thomas.

Biggest obstacle: Choosing the right foods when cooking and eating out.

Old eating philosophy: Wanting it, and eating it.

New eating philosophy: Thinking about what she's eating.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better and looking better.

Best weight loss secret learned: Pay attention to how your body reacts to different foods, eat throughout the day, and drink plenty of water.