How many moms with babies or toddlers do you know who have lost all their baby weight?  Doesn't it seem more common to find moms who have kept a few extra pounds after each pregnancy? 

Well, my old neighbor and friend has defied the odds and discovered secrets to losing weight after baby.  One of them is power walking with a double stroller!  Mother of two, Reina Lin, looks fabulous and approaches everything in life with energy and enthusiasm.  I recently interviewed her on my podcast to find out what advice she would give to new moms. 

Arlene:  How did you lose your baby weight?

Reina:  I tried to eat more nutritious foods, and not get into my old habits of soda or fast food.  It was really easy to go that route, but I made a conscious effort to eat healthy just like I did when I was pregnant.  I started stroller walking and post natal aerobics.  I had made friends with other moms and suggested we get together for stroller dates.  Other than the diet and exercise, breastfeeding and chasing a 2-year-old!

A:  What helped you stay motivated?

R:  Being able to fit into my favorite jeans!  (laughs) 

A:  When you were able to zip up those jeans, how did you feel? 

R: I felt rejuvenated, like wow!  It was surprising because I didn't think it could happen so fast.  It felt good and encouraged me to continue.  I didn't have to spend money on clothes.  I could use what I already had. 

A:  What frustrations did you experience? 

R:  Finding the time to exercise and figuring out what kind of exercise to do to keep me motivated.  I hit a plateau after a few months and I wanted to keep seeing the weight come off quickly as it did in the first months.  That was frustrating. 

A:  I understand you turn to the Bible for encouragement.

R: Yes, I like to refer to these verses when I'm in need of motivation:  "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me," Philippians 4:13 and "That you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other's faith," from Romans 1:12.  We can accomplish anything when it's according to God's will and I love to encourage my friends in their faith.

For the complete interview, listen to the podcast titled, "A Success Story." Just click on the podcast button above, then click on archives or iTunes.