I've always been active yet not quite fit. Playing sports throughout school, mainly soccer. How was I not in better shape with all that running!?! Over the years I slowly gained weight and it got worse when I went to Culinary School. I LOVE FOOD!!! Eating it, learning about it, cooking it. I just love it.

Being a chef has definitely been a big factor in my weight gain as well as many years of depression and other medical problems. I was ashamed and embarrassed for years that I was depressed and the weight gain made me feel that much worse.

In 2011 I hit 245 on the scale and wanted to cry. From that point on its been an all out war with my body to get in shape and lose weight. Striving for that body I have always imagined having. Its been two years now and I am learning so much about what I can do and just how strong I truly am; mentally and physically!!

I still struggle daily with what I chose to eat. The working part comes easily, I am a motivated and dedicated person. But like many... food is truly an addiction that is hard to break. It's not really an addiction that many focus on or even count as an addiction but for me, it's a constant battle. After 2 years I feel stronger every day with my choices as I continue to eat cleaner and cleaner. If you are reading this and you struggle too, know that it is possible to stop craving all the "bad foods".

So to end this jumble of thoughts, I began working out to feel better and look better and have come to find it is a way of life, and I love it! :) Yall keep working hard and never give up on your goals and dreams.

For me working out is a release and an escape from the stressful world we live in. Some days i dread waking up so early just to make time for the gym but I NEVER regret dragging myself into the gym. It makes me happier and I am so much healthier than before. I'd say I'm in the best shape of my life!