09/02/2025
The photo that changed everything…
I sat on my blue velveteen sofa, the envelope of freshly developed pictures in my hands. I was excited to relive my 30th birthday.
I smiled as I shuffled through the first few photos—until I saw it.
The picture of me standing next to my brother on his balcony that night.
I remember ordering the wine-colored lace shirt because I wanted to feel sexy. Special.
But instead of feeling beautiful, I remember tugging at the lace, trying to hide the fat rolls I felt pressing underneath.
I remember the button of my pants digging into me as I tried to stand taller, straighter—hoping it would all flatten out.
And holding that picture, it was like I could feel it all over again.
The shame. The sadness. The sense that I didn’t recognize the woman staring back at me.
That photo stung me awake.
I knew something had to change.
So I did what I knew—dieting. Programs. Numbers on the scale.
Over the next 48 months I lost 65 pounds. I hit the “magic number.” But it was exhausting, living in fear of it all creeping back.
Becoming a health coach helped me inspire other women, but deep down I knew the real change wasn’t about shrinking.
The shift came when I found CrossFit.
It taught me health isn’t about a smaller number—it’s about strength.
It’s about fueling my body instead of fearing food.
And in the kitchen, something new was born: my sweet potato waffles.
They were simple, nourishing, joyful. They reminded me that food could be healing—not a battle.
The waffles became more than a recipe.
They became proof that the woman on the couch, who once felt so small, could rise into someone strong, confident, and free.
I share this because I know so many women have their own “couch moment.” And I want you to know—you’re not alone. Healing is possible, and food can be part of that.
Follow along if you’ve ever wanted food to feel simple, healing, and guilt-free.
