Three weeks ago, I took the trash bins to the curb for the first time in months (my husband usually does it). My physical activity had dwindled down to near nothing, and just the act of taking the bins out had my lower back so tight and painful I had to stop partway through and lean on the car for some relief.
I've been doing some very basic core exercises since then, and I'm happy to say that when I took out the bins today, I had some tightness in my lower back, but no pain! And the tightness went away within ten minutes. I haven't weighed myself, I haven't measured my waist or anything to see if I've lost any inches. But just being able to do a normal household task without pain is going to keep me going!
I've started working in some wall push-ups, rows, and squats every day, as well. My goal is to get strong again, and the tips and posts I've seen on here have been a big help! Thanks all!