Mazen is almost one and I am allllmost back to my happy weight. I feel good overall, and I’m comfortable in my skin again. All of my old clothes fit, and clothes shopping is once again something I look forward to. I have a few more vanity pounds I’d like to lose, but overall I’m happy to say I have lost all of my baby weight. But I only give myself partial credit. I’ve been yo-yoing the same few pounds – one step forward two steps back – for a long time. If I just put in a bit more effort I could have gotten here a lot faster. I am really good at maintaining my weight!
My weight loss has been so slow and steady that getting to where I am now was very easy. In fact, it was almost too easy and sometimes I don’t know how I lost a single pound splurging as much as I have. I’m going to credit breastfeeding for this phenomenon? And a good devotion to stroller walking.
How about a little self evaluation to give you more of an idea behind the scenes:
Vegetable Intake | A+
No problem here! Thanks to amazing summertime produce, I’ve been good about eating my veggies. I have a salad for lunch most days and vegetables with dinner too.
Portion Control | B+
I really haven’t been paying much attention to portions, which is partly why I’m surprised I have continued to lose weight. However, I also haven’t been having huuuge portions. I’ve been eating what feels right and natural and not going hungry. I guess intuitive eating is working here. That and the extra calories breastfeeding allows.
Mindless Bites | B
I am already sliding into the mom mentality of “I’ll just finish this baby food so it doesn’t go to waste.” Waste or waist! Throwing out some of M’s food isn’t a big deal, and I don’t need to be a human garbage disposal. Overall though, I’d say I’ve done a pretty good job of getting control over mindless bites over time. For a while I ate the end pieces of loaves of bread while I made French toast and when M was a few months old I ate a whole bag of chocolate chips small handful by small handful in about a week! Once I realized I was not going to lose weight eating “tiny bites” I got my act together and got the desserts out of the house.
Dessert Intake | C
As noted above, dessert intake was a bit out of control for a while. I’ve heard other moms say that while breastfeeding sugar cravings are high, and it makes sense since so many of us are sleep deprived for half a year after the baby is born. (The appetite hormones leptin and ghrelin are connected to sleep – read more here). But I don’t know what I was thinking having a cookie jar in my house for a while! I still do struggle with desserts when I’m out and celebrating, which feels like every day sometimes. I just can’t not have them. I’m a big fan of not bringing sweets into the house in the first place. The only thing I have in my house sweet to eat right now are those local ice cream sandwiches, which I have once a week or so, so I’m doing my best to find the balance between enjoying some dessert and not having it every night.
Alcohol Intake | B-
Isn’t every day a cause for celebration? It seems like it sometimes. I’m debating writing a post about alcohol alone, but I constantly flip flop back and forth between having an adult drink with dinner and keeping the ‘toxin’ out of my body. It doesn’t help to have a home brewer husband. I love to drink (in a responsible adult way) but at the same time I don’t think it’s doing my body much good.
Exercise Motivation | A
Exercise has always been the easy part for me. Mazen and I get out almost everyday on a walk, although lately he hasn’t been as into the stroller. What we’ve done to adapt is go to the gym as soon as childcare opens so he gets to play while I get in a quick workout before naptime. Since our naptime has been around 9-11am for ages, I haven’t really been able to get to the gym much in the past 4-5 months, but now we’re back at it!
Exercise Quality | A-
As I mentioned in this post, I haven’t really wanted to give exercise my all. And I’m OK with that. Research says getting moving just a little each day is enough to get the benefits of exercise in the cardiovascular system, so you don’t have to train for a marathon to be in good shape. I do wish, however, I could get back into some of my gym’s classes. I have been lifting 25 pounds of baby daily, but I haven’t been to Pump in ages (thanks again, naptime). I’m hoping to get some more diversity into my routine more than just walking all the time as both M and I get more comfortable with the kids zone at our gym and figure out good times of the day to go.
Exercise Quantity | A
As for quantity though, I’ve been doing great. I get about an hour (or more) of low intensity exercise per day, and I really do want to exercise every day. We walk downtown all the time, and sometimes I walk downtown and back multiple times per day for different events and appointments. I haven’t had many sedentary days since M was born, and I am proud of that.
Overall, I give myself a B+ for weight loss effort. I have some great healthy habits that almost feel effortless to me, but I also could probably meet my goals much faster if I could get serious with some of my downfalls as well. I’m not sure I really need or want to though. Luckily my weight has dropped bit by bit downfalls included. What’s most important to me at this time is that this year has been incredible, and I’ve had a blast enjoying life to the fullest.
Anna says
Kath, I am a silent reader, but today I just want to say:
You did a great job and you look absolutely amazing!
KathEats says
Thanks Anna
Calie says
Totally agree with Anna on this one – I loved this post!
Grace says
Agree!! You look fabulous and loved this post.
Spice Chicken says
Ditto! I appreciate the honesty here and the healthy, balanced, realistic approach to weight loss and life.
Adrianna says
absolutely! get it girl.
Kinsey says
I love that you have such a balanced approach to healthy living. I totally agree with you that dessert is one of life’s greatest pleasures, but by making sure that I have it only once or twice a week, it seems even more special. If I had an ice cream sundae every night, then it would be too common and mundane!
Britney Johnson says
I agree with you, Kinsey! Actually, it’s the best approach to healthy living. Desserts must be treated like a reward for something you’ve done great in your weight loss struggles. 😀
Anna @ On Anna's Plate says
Sounds like you’re doing great– isn’t that a GREAT moment when shopping becomes fun again?!? Wait until M starts walking (and then RUNNING)– the extra vanity pounds will come off really quickly with all the chasing you do, I promise! 😉
Heather says
At this stage in your life, I think this minds set is wonderful. I have been on a weight loss journey this year and I know I could be losing faster if I tightened up my weekends, but it is more important to me, right now, to enjoy life and my family as much as possible. I am definitely getting adequate exercise and I am healthy, so I don’t really NEED to drop the weight any faster. I won’t say it is easy, but I am not hating or dreading this process at all.
I figure, why make myself miserable?
Julie says
I really like your way of thinking. I just had my son 6 weeks ago, and I had gained almost 30 lbs. The first
20 lbs came off without my trying in the first 3 weeks- I think due to breast feeding. But the last 10 lbs are hanging on, I think due to my eating sweets (unhealthy ones) every day…sometimes more than once. With being sleep deprived, my motivation for exercising has been near non existent. I know what I need to do, and your post has given me inspiration to go back to my pre pregnant healthy ways. Thanks for making me reevaluate what I need to be doing!
KathEats says
Remember 9 months on 9 months off! You have lots of time
Sharon says
My friend had told me 9 months on, 9 months off when I had my first daughter and she was right!! I am pregnant with my second right now, and I know I can’t have unrealistic expectations on losing the weight right away!
So glad you had a healthy approach to loosing the weight and shared this with us 🙂
C says
Don’t rush it. at 6 weeks I could barely walk around the block. Now at 9 months I;m running and back to my pre-preg weight.
Hope says
What a great post!! You have such a healthy attitude about losing weight!
Claire @ Health Nut Claire says
You look awesome, Kath! Congrats!
Ashley @ Saving Money in your Twenties says
you are doing amazingly- give yourself FULL credit! 🙂
Anele @ Success Along the Weigh says
Excellent! And hey a dessert here and there isn’t bad. Besides the stuff you choose to indulge in time to time looks totally worth it! 🙂
Liz says
I did quite well getting the weight off the first year while breastfeeding…and then we started cutting feedings, but I didn’t practice mindfull eating. So by the time she fully weaned at 18m, I had gained 10lbs back. That reality snapped me back into paying attention!
Sophie says
I think you look amazing kath! Since your pregnancy you have such a glow about you, motherhood definitely suits you! I love your sensible and realistic approach to losing those post baby lbs. I love how mother nature is actually aiding a woman to lose those lbs through breastfeeding, if that makes sense!
Farah @ Fabulously Farah says
I agree with the other commenters, you look great! I honestly agree 100% with your mindset about desserts and splurging. I think it’s ok to enjoy things like that from time to time, maybe once a week or so, instead of every night. I think deprivation can be unhealthy!
Christine@ Apple of My Eye says
I think you look fantastic!
Tara says
You look great! I’ve been a silent follower for a long time, and I have a baby girl just a couple weeks younger than Mazen. Sweets are definitely my downfall… I’ve always had a sweet tooth but I admit, it’s been so much stronger since pregnancy and nursing!
Ashley @ My Food N Fitness Diaries says
I think breastfeeding is a HUGE factor in helping me lose my baby weight. I’ve stepped on the scale and wondered how in the world a few pounds came off with all of the snacking and desserts I have eaten. Ha!
Jen D. says
Kath, this is such a great post. I’m not a mom yet (soon I hope!), but I think it is so important to be reminded that there is not a race to “get your body back” after having a child. Thank you for being real, and sharing that it takes time and that is okay. You look great, and you’ve lost weight and maintained a healthy body in a healthy way.
I’d be interested in a post on alcohol! My guy is a homebrewer too and I loooove my craft beer, but I know that is not helping me maintain the weight I want!
Abby says
I know some women’s bodies hang on to a few extra lbs while breastfeeding “emergency fat stores” if you will, so maybe once you eventually wean those last few lbs will come off more easily. Either way, you look great!
KathEats says
I am hoping for a magic few to disappear : )
Megan (The Lyons' Share) says
You look amazing! I admire your honesty and “real” outlook on this. I am very similar – I have no problem getting in my veggies, and love my exercise as well, but the desserts + mindless bites are pretty hard to give up!
Emily @ Life on Food says
I thought this post was really interesting way to break up overall health and wellness. I often struggle with alcohol. I do enjoy it in the evenings when visiting with friends or at a nice meal but I know it doesn’t make me feel the best the next day.
Jeri says
I think this post is good for all of us. Sadly I gained 20 pounds in the year since I met you. Medical issues and then I got lazy. But I realized that trying to walk 5 miles a day with no prior exercise was what hurt me. No longer trying to do 100 pound weight loss in a year. My new goal is 100 pounds by 50. That’s 4 years. 25 a year to make realistic healthy lifestyle changes.
You made me a foodie more than what I was.
No fast food since July 1. Still no sodas or candy (next lent season will be 3 years). But I have to find a balance to make it all work. My grade? C-/D+. I’m making
Better choices but can’t put them all together.
It didn’t take me a year to gain 100, gained it
Over 20 years in the Navy. And it won’t take me a year to lose it. I know this now.
KathEats says
Keep your chin up Jeri – you will get there. You have already made incredible changes.
Hope says
You’ve got this, Jeri!!
I can relate because I still have about 65 pounds to lose. It’s taking me a long while but I’m not giving up. You CAN do this! Best of luck!!
Katie says
You are such an inspiration! I have a 15 month old, and while I’m only 3-4 lbs from my pre baby weight, my clothes are just not fitting the way they used to and I’m just slightly uncomfortable with my body. Chasing after my boy and devoting so much mental energy to him throughout the day wipes the mental dedication it takes to tighten up my exercise intensity and slow my sweets-eating! It’s not out of control – I still workout, just not as intensely, and I still limit my dessert intake, but it’s more like 2 pieces of chocolate instead of limiting myself to just one. I feel like I’m giving all I can this point, so I’m just going to have to hang tough until I get my mojo back!
Carolyn says
Congratulations, Kath! You look soooo skinny! I think it’s great that you’ve been able to lose weight so easily this time. I’m a loooooooong time reader (back when you were still counting calories) and I remember that you used to struggle to not eat a whole cookie or to turn down a tempting drink. This time around you’re able to enjoy those things and the weight still falls off! Jealous!
I’m still trying to lose about 20 pounds and it’s tough! Maybe I should stop counting calories and going to the gym and try just walking and eating a salad for lunch instead. Maybe I’ll be lucky and the weight will magically disappear too! lol
You’re doing an amazing job with Mazen! He’s so lucky to have you as a mom 🙂
Caitlin says
I love your view on losing weight post-baby: it doesn’t seem as though you put pressure on yourself or only ate raw vegetables and did 2 hour sweat sessions every day. Not only is this admirable for the average woman, but for society as a whole to see that women post-baby shouldn’t be pressured to immediately return back to the size that they were.
Kim says
I love that you say that you are proud of yourself! Way to give yourself credit where credit is due.
maggie @ say yes to salad says
You look fantastic! This was a really good post for me to read right now 🙂 I think you should get at least an A!
Karen says
Super terrific work on this post, Kath! And, huge congrats on achieving a weight at which you feel comfortable. (Oh, and that last photo is one of my all time favorites of you.)
Happy weekend:)
Racheal @ Running with Racheal says
Good for you! I loved to read this. My daughter is 8 months old and I have 4 more pounds to go until I get to my pre-baby weight. Like you, I have been exercising and trying to eat healthy food choices, but I haven’t been obsessed with counting calories and watching portions. I am hoping that I reach my goal weight by the time she turns 1! 🙂
We only get this baby time for so long before it is gone forever, and I would hate to think I wasted it by looking up the calories of something!
EM says
You look amazing! I’d also love to hear your thoughts on moderate, healthy alcohol intake while maintaining a balance diet and striving for optimum health. I am a healthy eater and regular exerciser, but also struggle with personally justifying a glass of wine or beer given it’s “toxin” status.
Kori says
During my internship, I learned about the link between lack of sleep and the development of insulin and resistance. I appreciate you linking an article to this post to provide greater explanation on the subject. I realize that research is mostly focused on chronic sleep deprivation, but would you say that new mothers are more susceptible to developing insulin resistance or would lack of sleep have to occur for a much longer period before experiencing this metabolic change? A couple of sleepless nights here and there or even a few days of poor sleep wouldn’t be enough to induce permanent changes, I imagine, but I just wonder how this research can be applicable to mothers or college students. Thanks, Kath!
KathEats says
I think there is something about being a new mom that turns on and makes the sleep deprivation not nearly as intolerable as it would be if you were getting the same amount and not caring for a baby. Some kind of adrenaline perhaps? So I don’t really know if I would say it causes insulin resistance – that would seem to go against nature to put moms in danger. But I would definitely believe it keeps the hunger hormones going, especially combined with breastfeeding.
Kate says
I would guess it has to do with getting the sleep in one long stretch versus broken into shorter stretches. When waking multiple times a night to care for a newborn, you aren’t ever getting into a good sleep cycle with REM sleep. I know that before baby I felt crappy but functional on 6 hours of sleep. Now with a newborn I feel like a total zombie even though I might get 7 hours of broken sleep per night – but never more than 1.5 hours at a time. Just a theory!
Michelle @ Sojourn of Grace says
I don’t comment much but I love reading your blog. I’ve got a “baby” boy too, at 16 months old. Anyways, I think you look great and wanted to say great job! I like your approach to weight loss, which is similar to how I’ve done things and it’s encouraging to me that I’m not the only one who has taken her time to lose the baby weight. After all, it took me 9 months to gain the weight, I knew it would take that long and then some to lose it. I’m about 5 lbs to my pre-baby weight but I’m actually glad I’m where I’m at – and hope to maintain it while training for a half and my first full marathon.
Kori says
Oh and fantastic job on your weight loss!! You make having a baby seem much more enjoyable and healthy than a lot of others who gripe about never losing the weight, etc. I have hopes to experience something similar to you one day when I’m ready to have children. 🙂
Philippa says
Partial credit? I think full credit to you Kath! It sounds like you’re really enjoying life right now, and it shows. Good on you, you look fabulous 🙂 x
Amy W says
I agree!! Love this post too!! You look beautiful and happy and it certainly shows. The alcohol/weight battle (even a reasonable amount) becomes even harder to shred in terms of weight as you get older…I agre with you too- there are times I think…”why bother?” but a glass a wine a night or a cold beer is just so nice:)
Beautiful post and a beautiful YOU (and baby too!)
Kristilyn (Reading in Winter) says
Kath, you look beautiful! I can only hope that my weight loss journey will be just as good after baby comes. I like that you approach it as still having a life and enjoying things AND that slow and steady is the best. I will definitely have you for inspiration come January! 🙂
Liz says
I think you look amazing! I hope to look that good when I get my babies
char eats greens says
I love how you made this into a report card haha!! I think my alcohol intake would be a B- because wine as just been tasting too good lately. I would like to do more exercise, mainly running, but I need to get my body into ‘non-hurting’ shape. I don’t know what I’ve done, but my hip flexor isn’t having it. I don’t know if it’s from caring Nia unilaterally or it would have happened regardless. Either way, hope to make it up to an ‘A’ in the next few months 😉
Amelia says
This is why you are awesome and why I have read your blog for so long. Real life, real food, real mama, real truth. I love ya Kath! 🙂
Tami @Nutmeg Notebook says
Congratulations Kath! Living a healthy life does wonder for the mind and body.
Katie Brigstock says
You look absolutely lovely and you both seem very happy:) xx
Elise @ Expeditions of Elise says
Kath, these are my favorite posts from you…real life snapshots! Thanks for sharing this. I like your musings about weight loss for health vs. appearance, and whether or not its worth your trouble to worry about it. I think that’s a reality a lot of people face.
I’d love to read a post about your thoughts on alcohol, so if you’re considering that, definitely write one!
Katie @ Talk Less, Say More says
It’s crazy to think Mazen is almost a year old but you look incredible! It’s got to be a nice feeling to be back to your old clothes and starting to feel like yourself again. 🙂
Amy says
I love that you’re honest about alcohol. So many people can be so fake and pretend like they never indulge. You look great and M is so precious. Congrats!
Edamommy says
Definitely full credit to you! You seem like you’re on the right track and it’s fun to hear other mom’s stories about this issue.
Where I fell short was AFTER breastfeeding was all done. I nursed my son like a champ for two years and got back to my pre-pregnancy weight effortlessly. However, once he was done with the boob, I was too overwhelmed with full-time work and child rearing to get serious about exercise again. While I ate healthily, I was not working out enough and now I’ve gained 25 lbs that for some reason (my older age?), I can’t seem to shake no matter how hard I try or how much I’m chasing my son around the house!
So I do not underestimate the calorie-burning miracle that is breastfeeding, and caution nursing moms to be ready to make up for it after weaning if you want to keep that weight off! 🙂
Kim says
This was a great post!!!! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and most of all your honesty! You look amazing! I would love to read a post on alcohol intake and how it effects diet! Thanks for a great read kath
Katie says
I would be taking full credit! You look awesome 🙂 I agree with the dessert and breastfeeding… I feel like my sweet tooth is out of control lately (I have a 4 month old) I do have a question about alcohol though.. Do you pump before drinking and then after? Or doesn’t much of the alcohol get into the milk? I’m a newbie on this subject and just need some information!
KathEats says
I’ve just stuck to oneish drink at a time and saved seconds for after bedtime (something I couldn’t do until after sleep training).
Katie @ Peace Love & Oats says
I think that’s the way to go about it – loose weight slowly so that it doesn’t interfere with enjoying your life and your new baby! And I had the same rocking horse when I was little!
Ella P says
Healthy food + portion control + walking walking walking make wonders!
Bravissima Kath, you set the example.
Jen says
You should also give credit to Lightroom.
KathEats says
Thank you so much for the compliment, but I have never digitally altered any part of my body. And thanks for assuming I am that talented at photo editing… because I assure you I am not!
Shaina says
I am sorry you have to even acknowledge such mean-spirited comments; I admire your humor and grace. You look wonderful and seems like you are feeling just as great. Hang on to that contentment and positivity, that’s what your readers enjoy!
Jennifer says
You are a class act Kath. Awesome response to snark.
jen says
You aren’t good at it, and that’s how I can tell that you’re whittling off your waist, your upper arms, etc. I work with Lightroom and Photoshop every single day for my ACTUAL career. There’s no shame in not bouncing back so quickly, and I think you are doing new moms everywhere a serious disservice by these lies.
(There are filters you can run photos through that show where they’ve been Photoshopped or Lightroomed.)
KathEats says
Well then you can’t be that good at your ACTUAL job because I haven’t ever done this!
Mary Anne says
This is absolutely RIDICULOUS! You really think the mom of a one year old has time to photoshop her jaw line, her waist, her arms and legs to the detail it would take to look natural to 99% of us? I am well versed in PS and LR and these filters you speak of pick up on all editing like tone curves and have a high margin of error. There is no way you have proof of specific editing details. Go find another person to bully.
Kath, keep it up. You look fantastic.
Sara says
Jen….you need a life. I doubt you ran her photos through a filter to check their legitimacy, but if you did….my God, you need a hobby. Who would go that far to judge someone?! Wow. Kath, you look amazing and please brush off that ridiculous comment.
orjoeg says
Jen:
If Kath did indeed alter her photos, that would imply she also photoshops every.single.picture other bloggers post (ie HTP, Larbs, etc). because she looks exactly the same in all of them. And I seriously doubt that.
Sincerely,
Someone that would never hire you to edit my pictures.
Laura says
Wow. Who says such a rude thing?!
jillian says
LOVE kath’s response! GO KATH! 🙂
Amy says
I can’t believe someone actually wrote that! I guess jealously gets the best of those that hide behind a computer screen. Also, I totally get what you mean about the alcohol consumption. I reall want to rid my body of that, but sometimes I just want a glass of wine and a bath… You have to find the balance right? Can’t wait to see Mazen as a toddler!
Lisa C. says
I can only imagine what comes through in your comments section on a daily basis, Kath. I’m glad you can laugh it off. 😉
Dez says
I know Kath in person and I can assure you that she does in fact look that good.
How stupid are people to insinuate you doctor your photos? It’s nothing but a huge compliment, and if they’re wrong it’s a double slap in their face. I like to imagine them sadly pinching their fat in the mirror while they fume with jealousy about how great you look. How are these stupid people even able to operate a computer to leave a comment?
Ella P says
When I read that comment I thought she was referring to a new yoga studio called Lightroom (same name as the program)…. Could not believe my eyes.
Kath would never alter the pics. Why should she? no need indeed.
Ah, people, why be so nasty?
Peace&Love and good manners, please. We. are. guests. here!
Maggie says
And you should take your comments elsewhere. PLENTY of people have seen Kath in person and we all know she looks exactly as she does in the photos AKA stunning 🙂
Julie @ RDelicious Kitchen says
i like how you broke it up into different categories .. helps focus on certain areas that need improvement.. but it looks like you are doing a great job!
Ashley @ Hudson on the Potomac says
I was hoping you would talk about your weight loss. I was curious if you had gone on a strict diet because you look wonderful!! I’m happy to hear you haven’t had to deprive yourself and have been able to lose the weight through mindful eating and daily exercise. It gives me hope for a while from now when I need to deal with post baby weight!
Alison @ Daily Moves and Grooves says
I love how you formatted this post! So organized and comprehensive 🙂
You look fantastic, Kath!
Kim says
It’s all about finding balance and it sounds like you are doing a good job with that!
Anne says
You look great, Kath! I love your realistic approach to being healthy – it’s the same approach I teach to my clients! 100% perfect healthy eating isn’t sustainable – you need to make room for indulgence and enjoy your food, too. Everything in moderation! 🙂
Marina says
I love this post! — And agree with others that you look great! I would loooove a post on alcohol, too!!!
cathy says
I think you look awesome first of all and I LOVE your approach to eating. It’s incredibly balanced. 🙂 Getting back in to vigourous exercise will come I’m sure, but the fact that you made it a consistent priority with an infant at all is awesome.
Samantha @ Sweetly Striving says
You look amazing! It must be nice to be feeling back to your “normal” self again. You should do a timeline picture post of Mazen. I think that would be awfully cute to see how big he’s grown.
Shel@PeachyPalate says
Yes and you also look super healthy, glowing clear skin, strong hair…..etc etc….you’re approach is so much more ideal, if there is such a thing and much more easy for real women to relate to. Seeing women drop back to their pre baby weight and mindset within literally two weeks of giving birth can’t be healthy – for their mind or body for that matter! Power to you and thanks for the awesome post!
jodea @ chillichocolatelove.com says
I’m enjoying this post while enjoying a cider which I debated over having this evening… Thank you for being a voice of moderation in a mixed up world when it comes to food and fitness. I’m not a mother and have no plans to become one soon but this makes your weight loss journey no less relevant to me. We have to live in the now, balancing healthy choices with the things that make us happy and keep us sane. Thank you for reminding me of this.
Alex @ Kenzie Life says
I think you look absolutely fantastic!! And I also really love how level-headed you are about fitness, food, and balancing that with just enjoying being a mom. I think you’re a great role model for balance! I also really love the idea of a “report card” to just check in and evaluate yourself. Every day is different for every body and I know that sometimes I have more motivation on certain days than others. Last week I rocked my workouts but this week I was feeling it (not to mention that whole PMS gig) so I’m just proud of the 3 days of workouts I’ve done so far. There’s areas I could improve in but there’s also things I’m doing well. Thanks for (inadvertently maybe?) reminding me of that! Have a great weekend, Kath! Oh and by the way, I’ve been meaning to ask, does Matt ever home brew hard cider? I’m a huge hard cider fan and I’ve always wondered if that’s possible.
KathEats says
Thanks : )
He hasn’t done cider before, but we have some great local ones here in town
Alex @ Kenzie Life says
I so wish we had some good ones here in Denver!
Matt says
Actually, I have lazily made some cider before but I didn’t really use high quality juice to start. Big surprise that crap in = crap out.
I occasionally like cider but don’t drink it too regularly – too many are too sweet. I like ’em dry, effervescent, fruity, and refreshing… almost champagne-like. But on the other end of the spectrum I’ve had several very dry ones that are too yeasty in flavor and not fruity enough.
Mom says
I’m already a very happy mother-in-law, but if you learned how to make champagne (or cider that was like champagne) wow, that would take the cake!
Megan says
I love this. I had a similar experience of slow weight loss post-baby & love that you have gotten to a happy weight, peacefully and realistically, without losing sight of what’s really important. Another reminder that health is interconnected to so many other aspects of life. Thanks for posting.
Jeanie says
You look fabulous and are so motivated!
Megan says
Good for you Kath, you look wonderful! My sweet P is a few days behind M so I always enjoy your posts – your pictures of him I should be taking of her too. I would welcome an alcohol post. Though I only have about 2 beers after bedtime, I enjoy them sooo much and know it’s to blame for my extra 10-15 lbs! I sleep trained at 6 months too, and didn’t really have any alcohol until then, so it had been a really long time. I wish I could say that once summer is over I’ll lose the thirst for cold beer, but who that seems unlikely since pumpkin beer is starting to come out. Unfortunately my fave 😉
Dana B says
You look beautiful anf SO happy!
Chrissy says
Hi Kath, I know I’m a little behind on this one. I love jam! I try to buy local products, but end up getting off-the-shelf stuff, like Smuckers, from the grocery store about half the time. I also love Bonne Maman and even the Ikea jams. A couple so questions, if you have time…
1. What does “natural” technically mean? Is it a regulated term or does it have a broader meaning?
2. It’s no secret you love peanut/nut butters. Have you ever tried the Smuckers Natural peanut butter?
(My hubs eats the crunchy version like there’s no tomorrow.)
Thanks!
KathEats says
natural is a vague term but it generally means all ingredients are from natural sources.
Yes, love Smuckers natural peanut butter. Need to get some more.
Shannon says
Just FYI, but the term “natural” is not regulated by the FDA so basically any product can put it on its label. If you’re concerned about it, always make sure to actually read the ingredients list instead of relying on buzzwords chosen specifically to sell product.
Teri [a foodie stays fit] says
you look great Kath! Healthy, fit & beautiful!
Chrissy says
Oh crap! I think I posted my jam comment under the wrong post. Kindly disregard both of these comments.:-)
Lisa C. says
I would say you get more like an A plus! Your meals are an inspiration to me- especially with loading up on the veggies.
And didn’t I say that when you have healthy habits (and didn’t gain too much weight during pg) that the weight comes off by a year? 😉
emma says
Kath!
1. You look perfect. Honestly- you look toned and thin and just…perfect.
2. I like that you and Matt appreciate wine and beer. i come from an Italian family so aperitifs or wine with a meal are not things that people think twice about and also things that people work into their “total day.” so i appreciate seeing that mentioned on a blog!
3. Mazen is absolutely adorable and such a good little walker and eater. Congratulations, again!
Ttrockwood says
Great post!
This is really the kind of post that your readers respond to-obviously it has sparked a dialogue within the comments and i must say i enjoy it much more than some of the more recent sponsored posts.
I love trying new wines and having a glass on the weekends or with friends. And since Matt is such a craftsman with his beers i think it would be tragic to cut that out from your diet. I am sure that once you take a few classes at the gym to mix up the excersize routine the last few pounds will fall away.
Elyse says
Awesome post! You look stunning and Mazen looks like such a sweet, happy baby. I love your balanced approach to food, fun and life! Keep it up 🙂
Marie says
You mentioned that new moms are sleep deprived for 6 months. We are well past 6 months and I think the sleep deprivation now is even worse than it was in the beginning. Is something magical happening that I’m missing out on at 6 months or is it just because you have an easy baby and lots if help? What’s your secret?
KathEats says
Once we sleep trained at 6 months Mazen started sleeping through the night and things got WAY better. he was waking hourly prior to sleep training so he was definitely not an easy infant.Not to say that I don’t sometimes still get up at night. I am sorry if you are still up all night 🙁
Steph M. says
I’d love to see an alcohol post too. Sounds really interesting!
You look great, Kath!
Emily says
Loved this post! And you look fantastic, go girl!
I just wanted to make a small point about sugar, only because as a pediatric nurse it is a topic near and dear to my heart. You mentioned that the “only” sugar you keep around are ice cream sandwiches. Actually, things like fruit, jam, alcohol, bread, etc. are all sugars. It is a common misperception that your body treats all these sugar sources differently. And it’s why Americans consume so much sugar! All that sugar can really sabotage weight loss and lead to health issues down the road. I know you know all thus but wanted to point it out for readers who may not.
Keep up the good work!
Erin says
Hi Kath,
I read your posts every day but this one about your food habits really resonated with me. I feel like I have some of the same struggles with desserts and portion control but exercising and eating fruits and veggies come easily. I don’t have kids yet, but I can imagine how having a baby can throw everything off even more. Good for you for working hard to reach your goal!
Laura says
You look amazing, great job!! I’m on my third (and last) kiddo, who’s almost two and I STILL have the last 10 pounds to lose. I am definitely guilty of some of these infractions (finishing kids meals, hello!). I’m going to try some of your techniques – like you, exercise is easy for me, it’s definitely sweets and portion control. Again, you look great!
Amelia says
I’ve never heard the phrase “waste or waist” and I love it! I also love your report-card-style evaluation – so many great points in this post.
Debbie @ Deb Runs says
I love your report card categories. What a great idea!
C says
Do you feel like your body shape is back to the same? I definitely feel like my abdominal muscles are still stretched out and flabby – I’m 9 months postpartum. Do you feel like the ab work you have done has really helped this?
KathEats says
I do feel 100 percent back to my old self but I could just be lucky. I’ve heard others say their hips, feet, stomachs were forever changed
Angelica says
You definitely look different to me, but I’ve never met you in person. As for me, I now weigh less than my pre-pregnancy weight, but my body is very different! And I’m quite proud of it! 🙂
KathEats says
Really how so? You mean structurally?
Angelica says
Yup, my chest was way bigger for over a year. I’m still nursing, but they’re back to being nice and small, yet their shape is different. My tummy is flat, which is how I can tell my hips are wider. I’m lighter than I was when I got pregnant, but some clothes (jeans, mostly) still seem too snug! Then again, as a SAHM, I’m in a lot better shape than before I got pregnant and was working 50+ hours a week!
KathEats says
Oh meant in me. ..since you said you thought I looked different. Although if you just mean chest then I get it. I’m hoping that gets better when we’re finished nursing.
Kori says
I believe you look the same, Kath. Muscular but lean as well. You seriously look amazing. Hope you three had a wonderful weekend!
Lisa Langenfeld says
Kath – you are absolutely stunning! And baby Mazen (how is he almost one already??!!) is seriously adorable! 🙂
Barca Mama says
What a great post! I am 3.5 months postpartum and sometimes need a reminder to be patient. I also love your report card approach. It is a good reminder of all the things that contribute to weight loss/ maintenance.
Thanks,
M.
Lara L says
Wow. That’s a very dedicated approach and analysis. Good for you. Been reading for a while and gotta say well done 🙂
Kristi says
First off, you look really nice and I’m glad you’re in a happy place with your body! That matters more than numbers on a scale.
I enjoyed this post b/c it had a bit more self-reflection than usual. I hope next time you won’t be afraid to be a little more candid. Your readers are here to support you (as evidenced by over 100 compliments on this post alone) and many found you from your original weight loss story so they might appreciate more details on the not so easy parts. Also a comparison to losing traditional weight vs. baby weight might be an interesting discussion since you have experience in both.
Wren says
You look beautiful!! I always fluctuated but never gave too much thought to my weight before I was pregnant/gave birth. I used to be, at my best, 115lbs — now after birth I am stuck at 125, on the best days 123. I’m not necessarily complaining but I know it is my own fault with the portion control and too many carbs and not enough exercise. My breasts have changed since I’m still breastfeeding and my hips have just seemed bigger overall as well — so I can’t say I fit into all of my old clothes—but I am happy with where I am now and just eager to get myself motivated and stay motivated to be healthy for me and my family–I don’t know if getting back to 115 is realistic but I would love it!! I should mention, I am 5’3” only.
Enjoying your blog! Wren.
Nessy says
All I have to say is that you are AMAZING and an absolute inspiration. Thank you for being you and for sharing your life with us. It is a real privelege to be able to read your blog. I love it!
Pearly says
I just want to say that you are GORGEOUS!
by the way I love that necklace which you have in the last photo, where I can buy something similar?
KathEats says
Thanks, I got it at the BlogHer conference a few years ago, but the designer slips my mind
Amy @ www.funfoodiefamily.wordpress.com says
Great post! Congrats! You look great! I have had 3 kids and pushing 40, so the older you get the harder it is to keep your figure. I think once you get to your mid-thirties, you look around, see happy kids, yummy food, and a successful career and those last 5-10 pounds don’t seem that bad. You sound very happy about your body, and that is a very big step. Love the pictures of Mazen…he is one cute baby!
KathEats says
I love your perspective!
Lee says
You look like you are doing great!
Ashley says
You look amazing! 🙂
When you say that you’ve “lost weight”? Do you weigh yourself to know or is it just knowing how comfortable your pants fit? I’m just wondering about myself because I eat healthy and work out and I’ve been comfortable at a weight for a couple years (120ish) but lately the scale says I weigh more but I feel like my jeans still fit so I guess I don’t know if I should worry or not. haha.
KathEats says
My mom gave my scale back so I have weighed myself. I’ve stuck to once a week or 2 weeks so as not to put too much pressure on
K says
I’m speaking in general terms here, but I’ve always wondered what’s so wrong with a woman looking like she’s had a baby?! I’m ten months post partum and the fact is that my body has been permanently altered by carrying my beautiful baby girl and breastfeeding. We constantly talk about bouncing back and losing the baby weight, the media is constantly critiquing new mothers and promoting this ideal that pregnancy shouldn’t have any lasting effects despite the huuuge changes that the body grows through.
It’s ok to change, it’s ok to be heavier, thinner, wider, stretchmarked, as long as I’m healthy I don’t care!
Liz says
I agree, K!! I think it is great for a woman to be proud of herself for losing the baby weight, but I think the whole “bouncing back” talk places unnecessary pressure on new moms and women in general, who have greater concerns, like work, family, health and their new baby.
Kayla says
i love this post kath! this is one of the reasons why you are in my top 3 favorite bloggers of all time: because you have that balanced state-of-mind and are never at the extreme end of any spectrum when it comes to health, wellness and nutrition. thank you for being so even-keel and being such a great role model!
julie says
Thank you Kath! This is why i enjoy reading your blog 🙂
4 years ago i had just given birth to my 2nd daughter and our 1st was only 1 year old. Needless to say, reading about women who instantly lost the weight and had started training for their next half or full marathon did nothing for my self-esteem. So i stopped reading those types of blogs, continued to breastfeed, pushed that double stroller as much as possible and took it easy on myself. (That’s not to say i gave myself a free pass, but let’s just say that if the opportunity came up to either nap or workout, i chose the nap!)
It took at least 2 full years to lose the weight and get my fitness level up to where it was pre-babies, but i think that i’m in a much better place now because of taking my time. I had a lot of soul-searching to do and i realized that my goals are very different now that i have kids. Sure, i’d love to look good, but it’s more important to be a healthy role model for my girls.
Chelsea @BigBitesLittleBudget says
Kath, you look fantastic! This is a lifestyle and while we can’t always be perfect, I think you have done a wonderful job of showing how to live a healthy life but still have that balance and be able to enjoy the foods you love in moderation. You are inspiring!
Anna @ Fitness à la Anna says
I just want to echo what everyone has said above – you look absolutely great!! Seriously, seriously great. I really loved your report card that you did, such a great way to look at what can be improved. I will def do a similar exercise for myself 🙂
Lauren @ Focused To Be Fit says
I love the idea of this post! It’s so hard to balance everything and make cut backs. I’ve been trying to lose just 5 pounds to get back to my happy weight and it’s so hard because I feel like I already do so much – but it definitely is the ‘tiny bites’ that add up. I’d love to read a post of your views on alcohol and how to fit it into a healthy lifestyle. This too, is soething I struggle with.
Kelly says
You look great! Totally off subject – those sandals are super cute! Any idea where you got them?
KathEats says
Marshalls! Modabella brand
MelanieF says
You look fantastic! I really do like your approach to weight loss. I have lost 25 pounds in the past year using Weight Watchers, but I just got so tired of counting everything that I decided to stop and focus on what I eat and why. I haven’t gained anything back but I haven’t lost either. So, it’s a slow process. You’re an inspiration Kath, ever since I started reading your blog back in 2008.