March 9th, 2010
Today’s post is written by YLF forum member and recessionista blogger, Khris (“chewyspaghetti”) who lives in the California desert with hubby and two fab kids. Khris impresses me with her fabulous and effortlessly casual, Mum on the go style. Her outfits always show personality, verve and just the right amount of edge. But what impresses me even more is Khris’s commitment to losing 100 pounds, AND keeping it off. Every time Khris posts an outfit on the forum she looks smaller than she did before. So without further ado, here is rapidly shrinking Khris and her story.
About a year and a half ago I began to be concerned with my health. I have been heavy my entire life, and my body was starting to show the strain. I decided that I was not prepared to live with an illness that my weight had caused, and I set about to make changes in my life. I had lost weight before. Five years ago, I lost about 25 pounds. I did it by eating a low carb diet and exercising, but I was not able to maintain the loss.
But I started trying again. The first thing was to have a goal in mind, and that needed to be a big one. At that point (according to every chart or calculator that I could find on the internet) I was Medically Obese – meaning 100 pounds overweight. I figured that if I were 100 pounds overweight, then I should lose that 100 pounds and not be overweight for the first time in my adult life. I didn’t have any experience with normal weight ranges, so I did some investigation on the internet and spoke to my doctor to make sure that was an attainable goal. With assurances in hand, I set about my journey. I set a goal of losing only 1 pound per week, knowing that it would take me two years to reach my goal. I wanted to make slow lifestyle changes and build upon them. I knew that whatever I did to lose the weight, I would have to continue to do in order to maintain it- and maintenance was my ultimate goal.
Weight loss has changed me in ways that I would never have imagined. I have discovered that I have reservoirs of perseverance previously untapped. It has not been an easy journey, and it has not been smooth; but it has been deeply rewarding. I am creating a whole new relationship with food and exercise, and my body as well. I can only hope that when I reach my goal (*when*- not if), these changes will have solidified. I am currently 61 pounds into my weight loss, with 39 more pounds to go. I’ve dropped 6 pants sizes, and about a size and two widths in shoes.
I had always been interested in fashion and clothing, but my weight loss (which was rapid at the beginning) required me to replace my entire wardrobe from season to season. I decided that this was a good opportunity to be a little more adventurous with my choices, knowing that things would only fit for a limited amount of time. I discovered You Look Fab, and began reading it daily. In no time at all, the forum at You Look Fab became not only a source of inspiration, but a sounding board for my changing body. Often, my eyes and brain needed time to catch up with my body. I was not always able to recognize in the mirror what others could see more plainly- be it shape, fit, or change.
I did not just lose weight, but my shape changed dramatically. I had to learn how to dress a completely new body, and discover my style as a normal sized person. The struggle has been as much mental and emotional as it was physical. The wonderful ladies on the You Look Fab forum have been a huge source of encouragement and support through this process, and I continue to cherish their input and feedback on fashion and weight loss as well as other subjects.
Remember that you can read more about Khris on her blog: Chewy Spaghetti.
Posted on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010 at 7:12 am
Awesome. Khris you are such a (stylish!) inspiration. Thank you for sharing that. You are the epitome of the fab mom-on-the-go!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 7:19 am
WOW! Khris, who is the other lady in the first picture?
Seriously, you look totally different now. I know how much energy and willpower it takes to start a journey like this – chapeau!!
The boyfriend blazer, the leggings with the dress – delicious.
I´m sure you´ll finish your journey successfully. Your determination sets an example.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 7:24 am
What an inspiration you are Khris. I marvel at your determination and perseverance. You look amazing… but more importantly I’m sure you FEEL amazing and healthy.
I just love you in that boyfriend blazer! Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 7:51 am
Your style, weight loss and all round attitude are an inspiration. You are a treasure!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 7:57 am
This is FANTASTIC! I want to be the next success story. 
You inspire me, Khris!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:01 am
Congratulations on your successful journey! You look healthy, happy, and hip!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:02 am
*standing ovation* You are a marvelous human being and enormous inspiration Khris. Thank you for being you and for being a part of the YLF community. (Hugs)
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:03 am
Fabulous Khris! Weight loss is indeed a journey, and the most important thing is that you were concenred with HEALTH first. A more stylish fashion look is the bonus. Congrats. girl!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:03 am
I am very impressed, Khris!! Thank you for sharing your journey.
I really enjoyed seeing you evolve and how you interpreted fashion every step of the way. I hope that we will see a follow up blog in another year!
Big hugs to you!!
m!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:03 am
Thank you for sharing your incredible weight loss journey with us! I am so inspired by your determination and perseverance. It has been amazing to watch your transformation over the past year, and to see how your style and confidence has grown! Kudos to you, Khris!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:07 am
Thank you for sharing your story, you are such an inspiration! I’m struggling to lose 40lbs more (I’ve lost 37 already!) and it’s so nice to see others going through the same thing. You look stunning!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:07 am
Congrats Khris on your weight loss! I’ve loved watching your style evolve in the past few months and I know you’ll reach your goal weight!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:08 am
You have no idea how motivating and inspiring it is to see such a story not just in the pages of a magazine, but from someone that you have some level of correspondence with. You look fantastic, I can only imagine how amazing you must feel…so beautiful all around!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:11 am
I love this story!! Thank you so much Khris for sharing your journey with us. You have always been such a thoughtful and valuable commenter at the YLF forum, and now that I know the story behind the moniker (chewy spaghetti?) your insight and thoughtfulness will mean even more to me from now on. Thanks again!!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:22 am
You look amazing!! Wow, what a difference you have made, both inside and out. Best of luck to you in your journey.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:31 am
What a fabulous and inspiring write-up from our, Khris. I’m sitting behind my computer, thoroughly enjoying the heartfelt comments that are coming your way. That in itself is inspiring.
Khris, you know that your incredible casual style tickles my toes. You are a superb style example on top of your moving weight loss journey. Thank you for showing us that you *can* look and feel wonderful each day as a very busy Mum on the go. My hat off to you.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:49 am
Bravo, Khris! It has been amazing to watch your transformation. You are a role model for perserverence and self discipline as well as fabulous style and a huge part of this site.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:49 am
I haven’t participated on the forum in quite a while but I still follow it. I always find inspiration in your outfits but now I am impressed by your commitment to achieve this goal.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 9:05 am
Khris,
A brave and beautiful tale- You look terrific in all your fab outfits- an inspiration to all!!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 9:15 am
Khris, we all marvel at how amazing and stylish you are!!! I love to see you try new things to dress you everchanging body!! Looking fab:)
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 9:16 am
Congratulations, Khris, on embarking on a journey to a healthier body and self. Very inspiring post. And you have an awesome sense of style. Love your outfits, you especially rock the dress over leggings look!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 9:24 am
Good for you! You look absolutely wonderful.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 9:49 am
Khris,
Way to go, and keep going! You are a great writer, as well as, stylish dresser. I admire you from the health standpoint- that you have the courage to investigate and fix issues that too much weight brings on us.
Dressing the healthier body is …icing on the cake!
I hope you will post again.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:01 am
I’ve got tears in my eyes! I am so happy for you and you are such an inspiration. You were stylish before you lost the weight but now -your family must feel like they are living with a whole new and improved person.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:03 am
Congratulations on success, Khris! You are such an inspiration.
What a wonderful role model for your children you are, as well. Even if they never struggle with weight, your perseverance, determination, and success is a lesson they are watching in their very own home.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:07 am
Girl, you *do* look fabulous!!! Congratulations to you for committing to such an important, life-changing goal. And double congratulations for making it so far already! You are such an inspiration, and the cute outfits you are rocking look fantastic on your changing body. I’m sure that being able to buy and put together such great looks are a wonderful motivator to keep up the hard work. I am just so so impressed. Much admiration from me to you!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:08 am
Kris, awesome job. You are an inspiration!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:08 am
You look great Khris! You’re so stylish and an inspiration to all of us!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:13 am
I’ve been reading your blog, Khris, since I “met” you on Angie’s blog – some of the things you’ve said in the past made me want to follow you, as, I too, have been struggling with losing weight – again like you, for mostly for health, but also, a yearning to just look better too! Thanks for the continuing inspiration! And, baby, you’re looking better and better every day – good health and good fortune to you! Keep up the “chewy” goodness, and inspire more ladies in your styling good ways.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:17 am
An amazing journey. The transformation as shown in the pictures is not just style but confidence. You are an inspiration.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:25 am
Khris,
You look awesome and very stylish. Kudos to you for pulling off the difficult feat of losing weight and keeping it off !
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:27 am
Khris what an inspiring post. It’s been amazing watching your weight losss in your outfit pictures x
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:29 am
Congratulations Chris, you are indeed an inspiration to many many people, women, men and kids everywhere. You look fantastic! And let me thank you for going about this in such a thoughtful and smart way.Your goals were great, and you were careful not to abuse your body with crazy diets or dangerous medications along the way. Here’s to your success and continued success towards your goal!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:34 am
I just wanted to say think you for all of the comments and support. I appreciate each and every one of them- thank you all for taking the time to leave a comment.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:51 am
Khris, you are an inspiration to all who have any type of challenge in their lives. Thanks for sharing your success with us.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 11:05 am
Thank you for being courageous in sharing your story with us. Your fashion sense is fun and enjoyable to see! Kudos to you!!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 11:15 am
khris! this is fantastic. you look great and so fashionable. keep up the hard work and you will reach your goal. what a good thing you are doing for yourself and for your family. congratulations on your progress thus far…
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 12:02 pm
Unbelievable! I love seeing those rows of photos, showing your wonderful transformation. You have a stellar attitude about the journey and I thank you for sharing it with us.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 12:14 pm
Khris, you are amazing! You look SO wonderful and the best is knowing how you are enjoying it. They say 40 days makes a habit. I really have no doubt that there is no looking back for you. Thank you for sharing your fantastic story.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 12:57 pm
Inspiring – thank you for sharing your story and for continuing to be a supporter of all us trying to get healthier.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 1:08 pm
Way to go Khris! You look great, thank you for sharing your inspiring story
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 1:12 pm
Khris, you are amazing, inspiring, stylish and gorgeous!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 2:10 pm
Khris what a fantastic story – and how amazing do you look!!!!
You are one very strong gal and I have no doubt that the remaining weight will be lost and gone forever.
I barely know you, but I am SO proud of you 
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 2:11 pm
I am in awe of you! What a great achievement!! Thank you so much for sharing!!!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 2:45 pm
Yay Khris! Amazing transformation, and your great style just finishes the total appearance!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 3:35 pm
Wow Khris we have had the priveledge of witnessing part of your journey on the forum but this article is brilliant. I’m sure this lifestyle change has made such an amazing difference to your health. You’re gorgeous!!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 3:45 pm
Congrats, Khris! You’ve been doing a fantastic job keeping your eye on the goal and steadily making your way toward it. The change in you has been amazing to watch!
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 5:33 pm
That is so impressive. Such a sensible way to lose weight and such a great attitude to fashion, diet, and life.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 7:24 pm
I love to read about people like you. Enjoy your new life to the fullest!
Coach Lou Ettore
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 8:32 pm
Khris, thanks for the article. It has been a pleasure to watch your body and style transformation on the forum.
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 9:19 pm
I loved your write up and the story of your endurance through this. You look amazing and it’s been wonderful to see you get here over the last couple of months. Good luck with the rest of it. I’m looking forward to your final WLS post when you’re there and see you get even more fab outfits at a steady weight. 
Posted on March 9th, 2010 at 10:01 pm
Khris, we are lucky to have been a witness on this incredible journey of transformation. What a wonderful example to your children of the rewards of perseverance and hard work!
Posted on March 10th, 2010 at 6:21 am
What an amazing and inspiring story Khris ! Thank you so much for sharing it with us. It is such an honor to have you here on YLF with us.
Posted on March 10th, 2010 at 6:00 pm
Thank you for sharing your truly inspiring story and your pictures, Khris! I also really enjoy your super FAB casual style. You look terrific!
Congrats on steadily and surely working towards your weight loss goal. I wish you continued success, in both losing the rest and keeping it off (maybe the toughest part of the process). Cheers and good luck, Khris!
Posted on March 10th, 2010 at 7:55 pm
You go girl:-), all the best wishes from Norway.
Posted on March 11th, 2010 at 3:46 pm
Wow, what an inspiring story! Good for you Khris; it’s wonderful that you’re fixed on the goal of losing all 100 pounds and will not settle for anything less. What a great thing to do for your body and yourself!
Posted on March 12th, 2010 at 10:13 am
You look amazing!! Way to go!
Posted on March 12th, 2010 at 9:20 pm
I’ve been trying to reduce weight for years. It is at all times an up and down battle. I take 2 steps forward and four backwards. I by no means seem to make a lot progress. I am going to start a weight loss program, do effectively for awhile, then go back to my previous habits. I do over and over again. Nicely, I am happy to say that because of sites like yours I been able to lose 47 pounds thus far! You articles preserve me motivated. Everyday I attempt to read on something new to keep my excitement and keep going onward. Thank you so much for you help!
Posted on May 13th, 2010 at 7:48 pm
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