It only took 16 months!!!! (plus pics, hair extensions, and excercise questions)

I am a firm believer in transparency as far as my mistakes, failures, hardships, etc to help other people who may be going through the same thing.  Well, I have a confession. I didn't excercise a single time for the first 16 months after my surgery. I have a whole slew of reasons (excuses) I could give you as to why I didn't but the bottom line is that it doesn't matter. What matters is that I am now excercising.  Honestly, it wasn't a new years resolution, it just so happens that I went to LA in November and realized I was one of the heavier girls that I would see that were my age. (Well I was staying in Beverly Hills seeing a specialist with my mom so I am sure that had something to do with it). But that trip changed my mindset.

I knew I wanted to lose more weight but that really kicked my booty into gear!  So January 2 came and I joined our local YMCA along with my kids.  I am now doing the C25K plan and have begun strength training.  I am very welcome to suggestions from others as I honestly have not a great idea of what I am doing. I have been watching youtube videos on women's fitness, but I am very much a beginner.  Please share with me how you got started.

I have been stuck at this weight for approximately 7 months or so.  I am writing this post to encourage others and say it's never too late to start.  I cannot wait to tone up this flab that I have going on.  I took before pics (only for me), so hopefully can visually track my progress too.  

I am mostly looking for tips on strength, weight and resistance training. I have the cardio stuff down for the most part.  Also, what are your routines, etc?

Also! I got tape in hair extensions and LOVE them. If you are considering them, I would say GO FOR IT!! I have gained almost as much confidence from them as I did from having this surgery. Also, I know it's a big reason that i am now exercising. I have had them in for four months (redone in there too). 

Thanks!!!!! 

Can't get my images to post so check out my 15-18 month post op album if you like. 

Your hair looks awesome.  Love the color!

Thank you! 

Your hair is great and you look beautiful!   Did you do the extensions to add length or were you having hair loss issues?  

Thank you! I got them for both reasons, Tracy. My hair was already thin before surgery and now it's still very thin and doesn't want to grow for me :(. I used to be able to grow my hair out no problem. These have been so nice to have as an option. 

You look great! You can have a trainer at the gym design a program for you. Also google 'exercise finder' and you'll find websites that will give you exercises for the body parts you want to tone.