bran before and after

I waited a whole year for this picture. 

When I saw the picture of my sister and me together last Christmas, I was heartbroken.  I was so big.  How did I get that large and not notice?  I’m sure I was in denial, sure I could ignore it until things in my life changed for the better so I could focus on bettering myself.  But nothing changed and when I saw the photo, I knew I had to be that change.

I told myself I would not repeat that Christmas picture looking the way I did.  Long time readers will know I’ve been dieting and exercising all year.  I’ve lost approximately 50 pounds.  I’ve probably gained at least 10 of them back in the past 2 months (I’ve been too ashamed to weigh myself lately so I don’t know the exact number) due to birthday bingeing but that’s another entry for another time.  For now, I want to focus on the positive.  Yes, I actually can do that sometimes.

I was excited to take this year’s Christmas picture, anxious to see the changes.  It wasn’t as big of a transformation as I was hoping.  Sure, clothing and lighting and angles play a significant role in revealing the body but I thought 50 pounds would show a more dramatic change. That’s not to say I’m not happy with the difference.  I definitely look better and I’m happier where I am right now.  I can mostly tell in my face, which is good.  But I still have a belly.

I’m working on it, though.  I didn’t put the weight on in a year and it will take more than a year to lose it.

I’m cool with that as long as I’m always making progress.

Starting January 1st, I’m going to begin my diet and exercise anew and at the end of the year, I’ll take another Christmas picture and hopefully I’ll see more positive changes.  And no man boobs.

Left: Christmas 2011 with my sister.  Right: Christmas 2012 with my sister.

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December 27, 2012

There is a difference–you look significantly older in the second picture and it looks like your whole body type has changed. Think of how it will look next Christmas – amazing!

December 27, 2012

good looking picture (on the right)!

December 27, 2012

Goddamn, boy. You look amazing. I like you in both, though. No lie.

December 27, 2012

Well you know I think you are cute regardless. Good job kiddo. I’m proud of you. Beard still looks kick ass on you.

you’re attractive in both pictures, though you look happier in the second. you look good 🙂

December 27, 2012

you look amazing!! and definitely there is a difference. although, i know it’s sometimes difficult to see it in ourselves. take it from a completely unbiased point of view- you look really good 🙂 also, i want your sweater. grey-accented ANYTHING=i love. xx.

December 27, 2012

I think you look great! It is definitely a noticeable change.

December 27, 2012

You definitely CAN see a big difference! Especially in your face! Hope you don’t mind me saying so, but you are one handsome fella!

There is a difference and I think you look great. You’re adorable BTW! 🙂 You have an awesome smile.

December 27, 2012

Dude, are you kidding? The difference is literally day and night. I do agree with the other noters, you’re good looking in both pics, but you’re noticeably hotter and thinner in the second pic.

December 28, 2012

There’s definitely a difference! You look great and you should be really proud of your progress!! And I definitely don’t see any man boobs 😉

December 28, 2012

There is a difference…. your face became more angular for one… and you did change… Look more mature… So just keep it up and don’t feel bad…

December 28, 2012

Not a long time reader or anything, but I can definitely see a difference in the two pictures. Your whole body does look slimmer in the 2012 pic. Just saying 🙂 Nice work!

December 28, 2012

I think the difference is very obvious. Particularly in your face and neck. You’ve done very well Brannon! And I know you will get back on the wagon before too long. It’s so hard to stay focused during the holidays!

December 28, 2012

I see a big difference between the two pictures. Especially in your face. You are looking great. Don’t be so hard on yourself.

It’s a big difference! You look great, and I know you must feel better, too. You are an attractive guy at either size, though. Yep….I’ve fallen off course lately too. Ugh.

December 28, 2012

*HUGS*

December 29, 2012

[R] 😀 <3 You’re the best.

December 29, 2012

I see a great difference 🙂 Building muscle is the hardest part for me :/ But I’m sure its easier for guys? I bet you’ll be just how you want next Christmas!