“A lot of that is simply because of the nutritional instruction and being more active,” she said.

It’s important not to focus on the numbers, Parks said, because the journey to a healthy lifestyle is about more than a number on a scale.

Parks defines her goals in terms of what she wants to do, but, she says, explaining those goals to “someone who isn’t inside (her) head” is a challenge.

As is usual for Parks, art fills the void.

A simple sketch drawn during therapy of the life Parks envisions for the future includes her own storefront design business. It would be a combined design business and studio where there would be a gallery for new artists who aren’t quite ready for a full show of their own.

Next to an obviously slimmer version of Parks, there’s a pair of roller skates. It’s evidence of her fascination with roller derby though Parks said she’s not entirely sure it’s a sport she’d take up.

And, there’s the outline of a car just outside the window of the business, a symbol of Parks’ desire to have and drive a car. Things like getting a drivers license that most consider average for a 34-year-old have been impossible for her.