Word Cloud #HAWMC

Here's my Word Cloud....

Enjoy!

Keep focused!!

Six Sentence Story #HAWMC

She was a woman who had no confidence or faith in herself.
She had visions and dreams.
She also had fear!
But she found her strength, her voice, her joy!!!
She pushed through her fear!
And she triumphed and reach her goals!!

Keep focused!

The First Time......#HAWMC

The very first time I walked a 5k was so monumental for me. You see, I was barely into my health and fitness plan by six months and had, by this time, already suffered a couple of exercise over use injuries and was not really too anxious to over do the race. Even though I had fear, I was determined to get this done.

I remember it was a beautiful Oregon July day, the sun was shining, conditions were perfect, I was sort of rested and fueled (as much as my limited knowledge allowed). My Hubby, Daughter and Grand Baby were with me. I pushed my Grand Baby in the stroller.

We started out and within a minute, I experience pain in my legs. WITHIN MINUTES!!!

I panicked of course and had to do a bunch of self talk to keep going. With the support of my family and my own grit to get this done, I found the courage and worked through the pain and got it done!!

I walked a 5k in 1 hour and 7 minutes!!!

SLOW!?!?!?!

Oh yeah!.

Did I care?

Nope!! It was like I had run a marathon. Felt like I did something that was so monumental and amazing.

I felt so proud of myself!!


The very first time I ran a 5k was so monumental for me. It was last year. Had just gotten over more injuries and even though I had fear, I was determined to get this done!

I remember it was another beautiful Oregon July day, the sun was shining, conditions were perfect. I was rested and fueled (as I am learning to train like an athlete). I ran it with my Daughter and Margene from Believing It's Possible is Half the Battle and my Hubby showed up, just in time to surprise me.

We started out with the same first mile aches and pains, but this time, I knew what was in store.

I did not panic, but I still talked to myself about keeping my pace, reminding myself to breath and to enjoy the run! With the support of my awesome family and friend and my own grit to get this done.


I ran the entire 5k in 45.2 Minutes!!!


STILL SLOW!!!

Oh yeah!!

Did I care?

Nope! I did do something that was so monumental and amazing for me.

I felt so proud of myself!!!

Same race....different ways to get it done....but an amazing thing, to do, for a person like me.

Next up......Now I'm training for my first 1/2 Marathon.

Lesson here.....

Take baby steps toward your goals...Just get started...you never know where it will lead you....

Future goal...

Shhhhhh!!

Maybe 1/2 Triathlon?!?!?!?

Anything can happen!!!

Are you ready to try your first?

Keep focused!!

5 Challenges & 5 Small Victories #HAWMC

See my 5 Challenges and 5 Small Victories for this weight loss and fitness journey...

Challenge #1 ~ Breaking my belief barrier
Prior to my starting my journey my head was full of a lot of reasons why I can't lose weight and get fit.

• Doctors told me ~ Once you are fat, you will always be fat...you can lose the weight but you will just gain it right back.....Well with that kind of encouragement, my thought were...why even try?
• Random people told me ~ You're getting too old.....it harder to lose weight and keep it off.
• Me talking ~ You've tried so many things and nothings worked....You are a failure!

Victory #1

With support of my family and friends and belief in myself and people like Dr Laura who says...."There's no magic pill!! It just takes grit....", to movies like Julie and Julia of a young woman who decided she could do anything for a year and set out to cook every recipe in Julia Child's cookbook and completed her goals, to the Biggest Loser where I saw really heavy people make changes in their lives. (Extreme way to do it, but I saw that it was possible), to me finally trusting the Lord and relying on Him to help me. After all that I started to see some success!

Challenge #2 ~ Support

When you want to lose weight and get fit, sometimes you don't get the support you need. It changes the whole house, so people will resist, because they don't want to change. Hubby's can get stressed out, because of fears of losing you when you get your new body. Kids can just rebel and bring goodies into the house to tempt you. Friends....well friends don't want you to look better than they do....So getting support can be difficult.

Victory #2

I experienced some of the above. With my hubby...instead of excluding him in my journey, I included him ~ asking for help, exercising together, strategizing our food together and most importantly being attentive to him and his needs and fears. I guess that is what I've done with everyone in my life.....I have drawn them into my team and we are all working toward this goal together. We are all having a lot of fun with this!!!

Challenge #3 ~ Food

The challenge for me is trying to figure this whole thing out. I've tried a lot of diets and had some success. Yes, you can lose weight on the grapefruit diet, but it's not long lasting success!! Can't eat grapefruit for the rest of my life. With the use of the Internet there is a ton of information out there, so much so, that for me, I get too overwhelmed with it all. 

Victory #3

I surrounded myself with a team of people to help me. One of them was a nutritionist. With her help, I was able to get my food under control. I learned what calories "I" needed to lose weight, I learned tips, like using my small plates and bowls, how much veggies versus carbs versus protein I should eat and on and on. She taught me things that I can do the rest of my life. 

Challenge #4 ~ Exercise

Used to be an athlete......but for the last 20-25 years I was sedentary. When I decided to get this weight off, I knew I needed to move this body. So I did......maybe a little too much, too hard, because a few weeks into my journey I got an exercise over use injury. Then I got another one a few weeks after the first injury. Also, I tend to fall into ruts, so I was doing the same things over and over. It got really boring!!!

Victory #4 

I got a trainer! So helpful. I've been exercising 3-6 days per week for almost 2 1/2 years!! And I love it!! I have a lot of variety and for the most part, I'm injury free. (Still get em, but don't most athletes?)

Challenge #5 ~ Clothes

When I started my journey, I was in size 26-28 for some things. XXL in others. Now I'm in a 14-16, large to XL!! So keeping my body clothed has been a challenge.

Victory #5

I get to shop in regular clothes stores. So that means sometimes, I can buy a shirt for $15 instead of  the $45 to $50 I would pay at my specialty shop. Sales help me be able to get a little more. So much fun!!

How about you....What have been your challenges and victories?

Keep Focused!!!

Health Tag Line #HAWMC

My assignment today is to create a Health Tag Line. Too easy! I already have one and have used it for years! If you've read this blog for any amount of time or if you've received a comment from me....You know what it is....

Come on!!!

You know it.....

Yep that's right.....

KEEP FOCUSED!!!

For me, it's such a great thing to keep in mind because that's what I have to do.....EVERY DAY to stay on track on my health and fitness journey. No other way to get this done. And the minute I lose my focus....I'm done!! I can't let that happen!

So that's why this tag line is so important to me.

Do you have a health tag line?

OK everybody....

Keep focused!!!!

Third Person Post #HAWMC

She remembered breaking a chair just like this one. It was a beautiful summer day, skies were blue the air was crisp and fresh. Donning on the best outfit she could find, she felt that she looked as good as she could considering the bulk of her body. Even though her body was quite large, there was just something about the day that helped her forget her struggles with her weight, the pains in her body and the frustration with herself that she can't get the weight under control.

This day was magical. A new family was forming before her eyes. She felt excitement and joy for the young couple. It was if she felt light enough to walk on air.

She got more comfortable in her chair. Feeling like she fit in...she's just like everyone else. When all of a sudden there was this tremendous "CRACK"!!! 


Her chair shifted and she knew that something had gone terribly wrong. As all of a sudden she realized that she had lost her support of the chair. She had broken the chair with her weight.

With the crowd looming all around her, she most certainly could not let on that it was her....her chair that was destroyed!!!

She played her part perfectly and acted as if nothing had happened at all. The reality was, she was in a sitting position with nothing under her supporting her huge body.

Never to let anyone catch on, she sat there with a smile on her face, sweating profusely and straining every muscle in her body to keep the charade up.

The entire ceremony went on...in a painful blur as she smiled on the outside but was crying on the inside.

Yes she knows what this chair means and it spoke to her about her condition.

When she was ready, she began her health and fitness journey.

Never forgetting that chair.

Changing her life forever!!

Never going back!!

Keep focused!

Health Mascot #HAWMC

Today I get to create a Health Mascot for myself. At first I thought this was a stupid assignment. I mean who cares if I have a mascot or not? What does it mean, how would it benefit me, what’s the purpose? Still don’t know, but I am determined to do this assignment.

Well….my mind just can’t get to creative here, but I’m trying. First thought…I should choose an animal. Of course, I wanted it to be a Lion or Leopard…you know something proud…beautiful...strong…

And of course, even if there were redeeming qualities to some “Larger” animals I would never choose…Elephants, Hippos, or Whales….Just can’t do that at this time.

So I needed some help and I went to the web and selected Stereotype of Animals – Wikipedia…and after reading all the options, I finally made my decision….I decided that I wanted my Health Mascot to be…..

An Ant!

After reading all of the descriptions of the animals, I chose the ant because it is DILIGENT!!!

That’s how I’ve felt about myself during this process of getting healthy and fit. Of all things….I’ve been diligent. And diligence and perseverance is what it’s going to take for me to reach my goals!!!

Do you have a Health Mascot?

Keep focused!

Writer's Choice #HAWMC

Today I get to write about whatever I want. So here goes....

Why it's important to me to lose this weight and keep it off...

• Love being able to spend 7 hours at the zoo with my Grand Baby Girls, walking the whole time and not get tired!!
• Love that I can run.....run without stopping and I even run up hills!!!
• Love that I can clean my house without stopping!!
• Love that when I eat something that is not good for me, that I feel sick! Great incentive to stop!
• Love that I can buy clothes from regular clothe stores ~ Way cheaper than my specialty store!!
• Love when I do eat chocolate, that I really enjoy it!
• Love that I've been able to set goals and reach them!
• Love it now...when I'm exhausted it's usually because I am really busy and living my life...instead of being exhausted because I'm carrying around so much fat!!!
• Love that every day....I am moving forward to great health and fitness!!

How about you....What do you love?

Keep focused!

The Things We Forget....#HAWMC

Today I get to create a Post It Note reminder of something that I frequently forget. You see a lot of times....OK most of the time, I forget, that I don't have to do this life on my own.

I have help - lots of it....if I just surrender my life and commit everything that I'm doing to the Lord.

I have this little note in many places... at my home, office and Bible.

It helps me remember....

Keep focused!!

Health Madlib Poem #HAWMC

Today I was supposed to go to http://languageisavirus.com/cgi-bin/madlibs.pl and I was to fill in the parts of speech and the site would generate a poem.

It is now 10:00pm and I'm on my deadline to get this post done and I still can't go to that website!

You know why?

It's a stupid reason.....

But if you know me, it will make sense.

I'll give you a little hint...

Check out my "About Me".....look to your right of the screen.....it says...."I want to say that I'm a risk taker...but that is not quite true. However, I am stretching everyday to be that person!! This blog is a huge stretch for me, the first of many to come....."

Well....once again, this risk taker is just not willing to take a chance..... 

"Why" you might ask?

Well, I won't go there because the address, I'm supposed to go to, has the word "VIRUS" in it.......(Scroll up and check it out!!)

Just because of that I refuse to try it.

Too AFRAID that I will get a computer virus if I go to it.

Told you dumb reason!!

Just like yesterdays post did not get done because I was supposed to write about a "Miracle Cure"  of course I wanted to write something about the amazing cure of obesity....

But once again, I was too scared.....

Well mostly because the Writer's Challenge people suggested I include a disclaimer with my post.....

Whoa....too scary!

HOW MANY REALLY COOL AND INTERESTING THINGS HAVE I MISSED OUT ON BECAUSE...

I'M TOO SCARED?

How about you?

Are you too scared to do what you want and need to do?

How about starting your health and fitness program?

How about RESTARTING your health and fitness program?

What about trying out for the team, joining that group, taking that job, asking that person, doing that thing.....WHATEVER IT IS THAT YOU NEED TO DO!!

How about we stop being afraid.......and instead....lets be RISK TAKERS?

Just a thought!!

Keep focused!!

5 Dinner Guests #HAWMC

If I could invite 5 guests to dinner who would they be?

First one would be Bethany Hamilton. I would love to talk with her about her grit and determination. She is the surfer gal who survived a shark attack, lost her arm and is now a champion surfer. Not only do I want to talk about what she's up to now, but what I really want, is to tap into her knowledge about perseverance, no matter the obstacles and achieving goals. She's one feisty person and sets her mind to achieve her goals. I love that!

Another guest would be Lance Armstrong. I would love to talk to him about fitness, nutrition and endurance. He's quite a champion and I would love to learn how to train for events like he does.

Another guest would be a real genuine Grandmother. (I personally did not have one) She would be someone who can share her life, her struggles, her triumphs with me. Someone who really is about love, humility, and grace. Someone who can show me how I can leave a legacy for my family.

Another guest would be Mother Teresa. I would love to talk with her about her compassion, giving heart, passion, humbleness, and love for people. I so want to be like her!

And the guest of honor would be my Jesus! I would love to sit at a table with him and just listen...listen to His stories, His wisdom, His advise. I would most love a hug from him. That would be AWESOME!!!!

This is just a small sampling of people who I would love to invite. I want to surround myself with people, real genuine people who can share their lives and teach me to be the woman I want to be.

What 5 dinner guests would you invite?

Keep focused!!!

Open a Book #HAWMC

Today I choose a book and opened it to a random page, then I pointed to a phrase and now I am going to write about it.

Support or Sabotage? The Powerful Influence of Family and Friends (From The Biggest Loser ~ Success Secrets)

It could be your spouse, your mother, your best friend. They know you're on a plan to eat right and exercise regularly.....


And yet, every time you turn around they are bringing in tempting foods into the house or taking you to restaurants that are not good for you.....or here's my biggest sabotage......They bring you gifts of food.

What do you do? I mean they are just trying to show their love ~ right!?!

Part of it may be that they like the way you are....When I was 274 pounds I was no threat. I wasn't going to leave my Hubby....I wasn't going to have an affair (well I probably still could have, but chances were lower)....I wasn't going to leave a good thing to be all alone, because who would want me at that weight? So at 274 pounds I was safe. Did not have to worry or think about any of this stuff.

Well when the pounds started to shed off...then the worry began. That's when the sabotage could have begun for me. But instead, you know what I did for my Hubby? I encouraged him. I became more flirtatious with him, more loving, more assuring, more stable in myself, more focused on the marriage. When that all happened, he calmed down and started coming along with me on the journey.

Now he's looking really good and I'm getting there and instead of wanting to look outside my marriage, I'm more happy now than I've ever been. We are more in love and really having a lot of fun. We've found some things we like to do together like running and biking. We have date night. We do a lot more together and we are having a blast on this journey!!!!

The other sabotage that I do....Yeah me, I sabotage too!! Is I give gifts of food. Candy, homemade special sugar cookies, etc. I found I was getting some type of candy or goodies for my Grand Baby Girls every time I went to the store. Do they need that? NO!! I realized that I needed to find a different love language and show them, that I love them, in other ways. Like instead of a $1 candy, I would find those $1 craft kits and we'd do them together. Or they'd get a box of band-aids. Boy they freak when they get these. Geez, it's the simple things huh? The other things I'd get are chap stick, colorng books, pens, balloons, street chalk etc. Some of these things cost the same as the candy I would buy. It just took a little extra planning. Same with everyone else, I just have to plan a little better to get them non-food items for their little love gifts.

The other thing is. Food is just available everywhere. You can't avoid it. I mean if you go to church, what does everyone want to do? EAT! Either there's a potluck, someone is asking you over or to go out to a restaurant or there's some event with food. You can't avoid it.

But I have the power to be ready for all eating events. What I do is, I'm always prepared. If I'm going out somewhere, I usually eat before I go. I eat my healthy food, then maybe have a salad or veggies while I'm out. If I get stuck at a restaurant, I'm getting good at suggesting places where I know I can order good food. If it's a potluck again, I'm fueled with my good food way before I even get to the event. That way I'm not tempted. Should I get a gift of food. I graciously except it and and I will put it in the freezer (the locked vault as I call it ~ if it's in there, I forget about it) and once in a while for a treat I will have a little.

You know after some time, my sabotagers have become my greatest supporters. It seems that everyone in my circle are trying to get healthy as well. Maybe my enthusiasm for a healthy life style has rubbed off a little and they are getting healthy too!! How cool is that?

What do you do with the sabotagers in your life?

Keep focused!

The Lesson I Learned the Hard Way #HAWMC

The biggest lesson I have learned, the hard way, during this health and fitness journey is.....I have learned to LISTEN to my body!!!! The other thing is I can't do this journey alone!

When I first started I was really enthusiastic about doing everything right.....and doing it all right now. I went from a sedentary person, to someone who was going to the gym 3-4 days per week, walking stairs on my lunch and trying new exercises that I've never tried before ~ always moving!

About 3 weeks into my journey I got an exercise over use injury - I hurt my knee from too much stair climbing. Then a couple of weeks later I got a chest wall contusion from lifting too much weight.  Then later, I got tennis elbow, hurt my knee again, hurt my hip and back and other assorted ouchies! Mostly from not listening to my body and resting when I needed to. I did not take the time to stop to ice the injury, take an Advil or just do something else until the injury was healed. I just kept pushing through even though I was in pain.

After the first couple of injuries I realized that I needed some help and got my trainer, which was the best thing I've done for myself! Then to help with food, I got a nutritionist. I have learned that I cannot do this journey on my own, I needed some help.

Now I'm really starting to listen to my body.

I have a goal to run a 1/2 Marathon on May 12th & June 9th. (The first one will be a trial run...mostly walking and some running). The real race for me, is June 9th! So I have a goal. And I have a training plan that I'm following. I've been on track for over 6 weeks and have not missed a day. However, today is supposed to be a 5k run, but I did not get it done. And it's because I have exerted so much energy this past week, that I am spent and I have nothing to give today. I feel like if I try, I will push myself toward an injury. My hole body is sore, my feet hurt and I'm exhausted.

So today is a rest day. Already after making this decision, my attitude is better and I'm happy to face the day. Before I made the decision, I was cranky!!

Finally I'm listening to my body. I will rest today, but watch out tomorrow, because I will be rested and ready to tackle my goals!

How about you, what have you learned the hard way?

Keep focused!

Pinboard #HAWMC

Today's post was fun! I got to create a Pinterest account and pin 3 things. Here you go!

Love this one.....When I weighed 274 pounds....this is what I looked like, but the woman in the middle is how I wanted to be!!! I am getting closer to being that athletic woman I've always wanted to be!

She is racing to get out!

I pinned this one, because my daughter pinned a recipe like this for Quinoa muffins and they were delicious! Well let me say, they are delicious if you have not had sugar in a long while! If you are used to a sugary diet, they would be too bland. Anyway, I LOVED THEM. They are kind of a dense muffin, very moist and yummy!

I pinned this image because.....always in the back of my mind, I keep thinking, that I only have so many more years before I'm too old to do what I'm doing. (Really regret not getting healthy in my 30's....) Anyway...I like this one because it helps me keep focused on today and for me to enjoy what I can do TODAY!!





Have a successful day today. Do something you've never thought you'd do. Stretch yourself and surprise yourself. THIS IS YOUR DAY!

Keep focused!

Writing with Style #HAWMC

Ack - Here's my post from yesterday. I guess you need to push Publish to finish it. Geez!

Today I get to write about my writing style. I think most of my posts are God inspired. You see, I usually sit down with an idea and then I start writing. when I'm finished I usually end up far from where I thought I'd go. Some times I look back on my writing and I don't even remember writing something. A couple of times I've read someone's blog and they've taken something I've written and I'm like reading away, and thinking, "Hey, this is good!" and I get to the end and I find it was mine. I just love sitting here and watching my fingers fly and the words start to flow. SO cool!

I used to journal with a notebook, but found that I hated my handwriting so bad. So messy! I would slow down so my writing would be readable, but then lose my train of thought because my brain would be filled with ideas and I could not write fast enough to get them out. So glad, I have my laptop now, it make things a lot easier. And boy do I love love love Spell Check!!

Morning time is my best time to write. I always feel fresh and my mind is not so cluttered with the days activities. When I get started with my post, I usually have something in mind before I start and the title comes to me after I've written for a while.

The reason why I write? To share, educate and inspire!

That's my style.,,What's yours?

Keep focused!

My Dream Day #HAWMC

Remember when you were a kid, a long summers day just went on forever. You filled it with many fun things, you relished the sun and enjoyed being outside. You ran all through the neighborhood and played to exhaustion.

Well when I became an adult those long summer days disappeared. Instead, time feels like it's flying so fast~ my hair is blowing in the wind! Seems the minute I get up, it a fast paced go...go...go until I fall into bed and I'm asleep before my head hits the pillow.

My dream day is to have that same long summer day, where you wake up with the birds chirping and the sun brilliantly shining. The kind of day where the air is crisp, smelling sweet with fragrance from your flower garden. Ummmm.....This dream day would have things to do, but not too important that a little spontaneity can come in and change things up a bit.

I can see myself lying in my bed, fully rested and ready for the day, thinking of my sweet Lord and praising Him for all He's given me. I would then go down and make a simple healthy breakfast with my wonderful Hubby. Us sitting at our breakfast table reading the word together and praying for our day. Then it's off for a bike ride together, taking a picnic lunch to share on a road side getaway. After the bike ride, we're off to see our kids and grand girls...for a trip to the zoo, or on the lake together playing. Then it's back at our place, where we would play games and BBQ and end up watching movies.

Just a relaxing day with my family ~ Enjoying each other ~ Loving each other. Perfect Dream Day!

I'm starting to feel that same long summer day feeling. It's happened a couple days this month. It's so cool. It's like you live 3 days in 1. Just enjoying every moment of the day. I love that!!!

How about you. What is your dream day?

Keep focused!

10 Things I Couldn't Live WIhtout #HAWMC

10 Things I need and love most!!

Jesus

My Family

My Friends

My Bible

My Blankie (Always have to have my blanket!)

Really that's all I need. I've always said to my Hubby, that no matter what happens in this life....No Matter what, as long as I have these things I can be happy!

We've often talked about what would happen if we lost.....whatever it is....jobs, health, our home, money, etc. and we always come up with this list!

The Things I love most.....

Same list

What are your 10 Things you need (or love)

Keep focused!

Stream of Consciousness #HAWMC

Today I look in the mirror and I see a new face! Not only is it a face that is slimmer and younger looking, but it is also a face that has weathered a lot in this lifetime! I was reminded, recently, about being ridiculed as a child because of my weight. You know that day, well maybe some of you don't know, but back in the day, when you had to walk to school in 12 feet of snow, up hill both ways....back then.... when I was a kid, they used to weigh and measure us in school. I was in 6th grade and I was fully developed. I mean fully and I did not look like any of the other girls in my class. They were ALL thin with no boobs. Me, not the case...I already had my woman's body. And when I stepped on the scale, everyone knew that I weighed in at 125 pounds. You should have heard the gasps from the health aide and the kids in my class. So humiliating!

Then all through grade school, I was one of  the two fattest girls in the whole school. The funny thing is....I was a tough Tom Boy so I did not get ribbed too bad for being heavy. I mean I was known to kick some kids butts now and then...when necessary!

Fortunately I was athletic so I was always picked first when it came to picking teams. So having a dense muscular body was not so bad then. But it was the other times that were really difficult!

School dances.....augh!!! Mortifying to be left in my chair, the perfect wallflower...waiting...waiting waiting for someone to ask me to dance. Or the other times when boys were interested in me....well...they were only interested in my boobs. I hated it when they would talk to my boobs!! Pigs! I know...not nice, but geez that was embarrassing.

Have you ever been told....Fatty fatty two-by-four...YOU'RE so fat you can't fit through the door. Augh!

How about my grandma, who just did not like me because I was heavy. So sad!

Growing up....what about the jobs I did not get, the opportunities that were lost, the people who were not interested, and the things that I missed out doing.....all because I was fat!

OH my GOODNESS!!

And I see kids EVERY DAY who are over weight. Some so big they have a hard time moving! Just the other day I saw a kid get stuck in the park jungle jim thing. He was just too big. And he was little kid, he should have been able to fit just fine. So sad.

My goal it to help where I can with the issue of obesity. I would love to help young girls and women who are struggling just like I did. I know how it feels. I'm am currently looking for someone to mentor and help with their journey of health and fitness!

I want to make a difference in this world....can you help me? Together we can change the world. Seek out someone today, to help them on their journey. If each of us, just had one, it would make a huge difference.

Will you join me?

Keep focused!!

My Theme Song #HAWMC

If I had a theme song for my weight loss journey it would be Proud by Heather Small. This song was used for a while as The Biggest Losers theme song. (So sad they are not using it anymore.) Anyway, every time I hear this song it PROPELS me forward and pushes me through my journey. It also, helps me through many other things, not just weight loss. It is very inspirational!!!! Check it out here!

Proud

by Heather Small

I look into the window of my mind
Reflections of the fears I know I've left behind
I step out of the ordinary
I can feel my soul ascending
I am on my way
Can't stop me now
And you can do the same

What have you done today to make you feel proud?
It's never too late to try
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
You could be so many people
If you make that break for freedom
What have you done today to make you feel proud?

Still so many answers I don't know
Realise that to question is how we grow
So I step out of the ordinary
I can feel my soul ascending
I am on my way
Can't stop me now
And you can do the same

What have you done today to make you feel proud?
It's never too late to try
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
You could be so many people
If you make that break for freedom
What have you done today to make you feel proud?

We need a change
Do it today
I can feel my spirit rising
We need a change
So do it today
'Cause I can see a clear horizon

What have you done today to make you feel proud?
So what have you done today to make you feel proud?
'Cause you could be so many people
If you make that break for freedom
So what have you done today to make you feel proud?
What have you done today to make you feel proud?
What have you done today
You could be so many people?
Just make that break for freedom
So what have you done today to make you feel proud?

I don't often think of doing things to make myself feel proud. But just like the song says, when I do step out of the ordinary, and do something extrodinary I do feel my shoulder square and I hold my head high. That is a great feeling!

Do something today to make you feel proud!!
Keep focused!

Dear 16-year-old-me #HAWMC

Dearest one....

The whole world is out there for you to explore and there are many things for you to do. But girl, your time will come. You are at the beginning of your journey....RELAX! You don't have to have it all today. Enjoy getting your drivers license, hanging out with your friends and looking forward to graduation. Be a kid, you will be an adult soon enough!

You asked me if you should get involved in the church down the street or if you should date. My thought is maybe you should work on a firm foundation for your life first...dating will always be there. So yes, join the church, get involved and learn all you can about the Lord. He will guide your life.

Remember there is a time for every thing.  Get your basics out of the way first, finish high school, get involved with your church and the community, learn all you can about food and fitness ~ keep yourself healthy, and then go to college. Then when these things are done, you can think about marriage and children.

Yes plan for your future, but also be sure to add a little fun....travel a little, read, do hobbies, and explore the world. Don't be so future focused that you forget to live each day!

You will have a great future!

Much Love!

Your 50 year-old-me

Keep focused!

Keep Calm & Carry On #HAWMC

This morning is my weigh in day. I always approach this day with excitement and trepidation. I know I had a great food and exercise week. I was focused and did all I could. OK except for the little bits of chocolate I had. I call it a binge....it was only a serving, but for me, it felt like more. I laugh about this, because a binge for me in the old days would be about 3 servings or more!!

Anyway, when I jumped on, the scale, I was wanting a loss...At first I'm like Lord, just let it be less. When the numbers finally settled I found that I had a 1 pound loss! Down to my lowest weight yet ~ 202 pounds!

Part of me was elated. I got what I prayed for....I got a loss. But for the efforts I put in this week, I have to admit, that I was a little...OK a lot disappointed that it was not more.

For just a second, my mind jumps in to figure out what more I can do. How much less I should eat. How much more I should work out....looking for anything I can do to make a difference, when I got a gentle nudge from the Lord to calm down and pray.

It was at this gentle moment that the Lord spoke to my heart to CALM DOWN and RELAX! He's got this, we've got this and I will reach my goals. Slow and steady, but I will make it. No need to panic...no need to do more....no need to finagle...He's got this!!

This moment also reminded me that I need to pray continually for my journey. I always pray for everyone else, but I usually neglect to lift up a prayer for me. I need His strength and wisdom too!

Just like today....not feeling the best - still fighting this cold, and so sore from the Yoga class and the 11 mile bike ride I did yesterday. However, I needed to push through, because this is my training day, for the  1/2 Marathon, and I needed to run 2.5 miles today. So I got on the treadmill and got started and just floundered. Finally I remembered to pray and the Lord gave me the energy to get it done. So glad I did not give up because ~ I FEEL GREAT!!

Do you need to calm yourself from the stresses of the journey? If so, Keep Calm and Pray Continually!

Keep focused!!!!

Best Conversation of the Week #HAWMC

Today I get to write about the best conversation I had this week. This conversation happened while I was at the running shoe store.

Me: "I am sooo sorry for having your drag out every pair of shoes you have. I'm probably the worse customer you've ever had."

Shoe Guy: "Oh no, you're a dream compared to some of my customers. I have some stories to tell."

Me: "Whew, I'm glad, because I really hate to be a pain. I am so sorry I just have not found the "perfect" pair of shoes yet."

Me again: "I am so surprised that I'm putting you through this. When I used to buy shoes....well any sports equipment, I would always just pick the cheapest pair or the cutest color. No matter if they fit or felt good. I'm always worried about things costing too much or looking just right...then I make the wrong decision and sacrifice myself and experience pain because I've made a bad choice and did not get what was best for me."

Shoe Guy: "Well shoes are not an area where you want to skimp."

After a few more boxes and try on's and a couple quick runs on their running track. I found the perfect shoes. They are white and lime green....not the perfect color and they were definitely not the cheapest, but they were the perfect fit!!

Brooks Defyance 5

Today made me realize HOW MANY times I've put me on the back burner to save money or to look a certain way. I also know the number of things I did not do because I was not outfitted properly. I am so glad that I'm taking the time and spending the money, so I can get the perfect fit!!

How about you, do you sacrifice yourself to save some money?

Keep focused!

Health Activist Choice #HAWMC

I am really enjoying the The health Activist Writer's Month Challenge. Today I get to write about whatever I want! So here goes!!

I want to write about something that has been on my mind for a while! Way way back when I was kinda thinking about losing weight and getting healthy, I went to a personal trainer. Before we even got started, I let her know my limitations......I was sedentary, I had knee and feet problems and I reminded her that I was old.....She was a skinny 20ish woman, so I was quite sure she had no idea with what she was dealing with. So I wanted to set her straight!

After my speech, we set out and she had me doing all these weird things and pushed me in the areas of my weakness. Kind of ticked me off, because I had told her that I was not capable.

So guess what? I never went back......

Since then, and I think the Lord made sure that He put the right people in my path, I've been able to do things I thought I would never be able to do. These people have breathed faith and encouragement into me to help me see that I AM capable! I'm doing stuff I wasn't able to do when I was a kid.

Never thought it possible!!!

I am daily reaching to new levels of fitness and putting my body to the test each day. I can lift more, balance better and run faster each day. I can also, put down things that aren't healthy for me, without a blink. My eyes always looking at the end result of fitness!!

Example:

Yesterday was a run day....well Thursday was supposed to be, but I've been dealing with a chest cold and haven't been able to train for the 1/2 Marathon like I've wanted. Anyway, I felt great yesterday and my focus was to run 5 miles...without stopping!

I was property rested, fueled and ready to go and I got started. That first mile is a killer!! Runners....is this typical ~ Geez!! Anyway, after that I just put my head down and focused. I got to 3.1 (5k) with my best time ever ~ 44 minutes!! That is a record for me....so that fueled me on.

Mile 4 was a breeze and I'm like, I've got this...Mile 5 felt pretty good and I'm thinking....body, how much more do you got...mile 6 ~ done.....all the way up to 7.5 miles!!!! Took me 1 hour and 55 minutes to do it. I HAVE NEVER RUN THAT LONG IN MY LIFE!!!!! EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Picture #1 ~ My treadmill stopped at this point and I kept going to 7.5 miles~ Check out picture #2.

 I burned over 1015 calories with that run! Amazing!

I can push this body!! It's capable!! Now my mind knows it!!

Today, I have no residule pains from yesterday. None. I feel great. Got up first thing this morning and went to a Yoga class. You know what? I can do that too!! OH MY GOODNESS!!

So.....for those of you who think you can't. I'm challenging you today to try! Not only try, but do it and then do a little more. If you keep it up, you will increase your momentum and before you know it your fitness level will increase and you can do ANYTHING YOU WANT TO DO!!!

YOU CAN DO THIS!!!


PUSH YOURSELF TODAY!!!

and

KEEP FOCUSED!!!!!!

Health Haiku #HAWMC

Sad and broken woman

Finds new health and life

Running toward freedom!!

Ekphrasis Post #HAWMC

Before I started my weight loss and fitness journey I used to love, I mean LOVE, going to McDonald's to eat. I would go every week and of course, each time I went I Super Sized EVERYTHING!! I at least had a Diet Coke so I'm sure that helped a lot! Whew!!

We went to Mickey D's so often, that my young son said one time. "Ahhhhh Mom!!...McDonald's again? Can't we have some vegetable or salad instead?" I was soooo confused by that....I was thinking..."Hey, who are you and where is my kid!!" Obviously he couldn't possibly be mine, because he would  have to be addicted to fast food just like me, right?

Anyway that did not stop me from dragging my kids there. Makes me so sad to think about it today. You see I took something fun....something that was meant to be a treat and I abused it for them and myself. When we went, it was never a treat. It was just so ordinary. I'm sure my kids were bored out of their minds. What was I thinking?

Then along comes my Grand Baby girls. Because I know what I know, about fast food, I have refused to take them to any place that offers this type of food. So far, after 4 years, I have not gone with them. I made a vow that I would not be that kind of Grandma.

So my little creative mind gets revved up and I'm thinking....Instead of going to a fast food establishment, maybe I could create my own Happy Meal that would include healthy and fun foods!!

 I found this picture to kind of show what I was thinking....

Cute huh?  I don't know what the ingredients really are by looking at the picture, but in my world, they would all be healthy foods ~ Whole wheat roll, turkey, lettuce, Jicama, tomatoes, cucumbers, and fat free cheese. I'm not sure my Grand Baby girls would fall for this, but I think it's pretty cute!

Glad I'm changing my family tree and making smarter and healthier choices for my entire family!!

How about you ~ Are you making life changes?

Keep Focused!!

I write about my health because....

I've kept a diary or journal of my weight loss journey for years. I do this to help me keep focused on my progress and always in the back of my mind, I've hoped that my experience would someday help someone on their journey to health and fitness!!!

When I started my blog. I just thought it would be an interesting thing to do. I did not expect or really even know that people would want to follow my progress. To my delight, I've made some pretty awesome Friends here, which I am grateful!!!

I have noticed that all the while going through this journey, I've had stuff happen to me that I cannot explain. Like....I've had many injuries along the way, I've had long periods of no weight loss, I've had frustrations and situations with people that do not pertain to weight loss that have caused me a lot of stress and frustration. The great thing about all of this is I've gained these stories and situations to help myself learn and grow and to help my Friends on their health and weight loss journey.

It seems, just after a hard patch happens and I will write about it....then almost always, someone writes and tells me that it was something they needed to hear, or the information helped them, or it inspired them. Most of the time, when I'm struggling through something, I'm complaining to God and asking "Why Lord, why? Why are you allowing this" or "Why me?" Of course I will share the situation on my blog and most times it will help someone else. I guess that's why I don't get too excited anymore when adversity happens. In the back of my mind, I think.....someone needs to know about this or this will need help someone else. This little bit of knowledge helps me at least get through the situation, knowing that it WILL be purposeful and not just a waste of time or a punishment to me! 

I write for me first....I need to diary this journey, well first off, because I have a horrible memory for things and this helps keep a time line for me, but secondly, I write about my journey because it helps me see the progress I've made through the years. When I get discouraged and boy do I, I will sometimes look back and see the progress that has been made and it helps me get back on track. The other reason I write about my journey is to help and inspire others. I know when I read other blogs I get inspired and find help just when I need it and I love that!! This community is amazing!

So that's it....nope not it...I write, because I really do love to write!! It's an amazing thing and I love it!!

Now that's it!

How about you....why do you write about your health?

Keep focused!

Superpower Day

If I had a Superpower ~ what would it be? I would want incredible vision and wisdom....

I would love to be able to see to the core of someone and find out what's really going on with them. Then, once I see it, I would want to have the wisdom to help them overcome the issues that keep them for achieving what they were created to do.

The other day, I was at the pool with my daughter and grand daughters. We were having a wonderful time, when all of sudden, the noise in the room diminished and everything became surreal. As I was trying to get myself together, I noticed a women on the bleachers watching the pool. She was a very large women, I would say around 400 pounds. I remember feeling so sad that she was an outsider looking in on the fun and that she was stuck on that bench instead of playing in the pool with her kids.

I so wanted to be able to help her. If I could only see what's REALLY going on with her and then provide the proper wisdom...then maybe she could do something about her health and change her life. Wouldn't it be great if she too were in the pool, frolicking and having fun with her kids?

Now I am judging her....her sitting on the bench, may not have had anything to do with her weight...could be that she can't swim, or was having her period, or she just got her hair done...whatever... But if I had my Superpowers I would have been able to see what's going on and would have been able to offer some support....whatever that may be.

I know I've struggled for a lot of years and was always trying to figure out why I chose food to console myself....I was always looking for the reason why I wanted to be fat and stay fat. I would have loved it if someone could have come along and told me the source of the problem and then offered some solutions.

I know, I know....you are probably thinking that it's better that we find our own way, but here's the deal. All the while I was struggling with finding my "why", I do what I do, and being fat for so many years, I wasted so much time. I could have been a better wife and mother, impacted more people, lived life more, and maybe had a little more fun......Instead I was trapped in a body that was too fat to do much of anything...What kind of life is that? How did that benefit anyone?

Now, I'm 50....Finally healthy, getting this weight off and finally, finally living my life. I'm glad I was able to find out my core problems and overcome them and now I'm starting to really live my life....which I am grateful....but I'm really sad that I wasted so much time!!

Wish someone with Superpowers would have shown up about 30 years ago, to help speed up the process!!

I would love to have this gift today, to help others on their journey. Wouldn't that be awesome!?!

If you could have a Superpower....What would it be?

Keep focused!

Quotation Inspiration

"A dream is an incredible thing.

It motivates and sustains you.

It gives you direction and helps you

know your priorities.

But it ultimately doesn’t mean a

thing if it remains only an idea.

Whatever your dream is, pick

yourself up and do your best to

make it come true!"

Becoming a Person of Influence

And all the while, while you are focusing on your dream….people are watching! Did you know that?

Do you think it’s true?

No?

Well I experienced something yesterday, that confirms that people are watching us reach for our dreams!

I was determined….to make contact with someone at the gym. Every time I go there, I want to encourage someone just like me, fighting their way through the journey! Seems lately, that I’ve been pretty preoccupied with myself and have not made an effort to pour out to anyone else. I’m like, come on, how hard is it to give an encouraging word? Not too hard! Anyway, it usually hits me when I’m in my car on the way home that I negelected to spread some cheer.

So last night I was really determined….I was going to seek out someone and give them an encouraging word.

As usual the gym was packed (which for me, personally, even though it's harder to get on the equipment, it fills my heart with joy to see some many people there changing their life and getting healthy). Anyway, I got on the treadmill and the one next to me was empty. I was determined that whoever occupied that machine was going to get an encouraging word.

Then she walks in. Dun dun dunnnnn.....This woman, who I’ve seen in the gym for months now....someone I've wanted to meet! She has a number of pounds to lose and she is quite focused and determined to get the weight off. I’ve seen her sweating and pushing toward her goals. I have many times wanted to go introduce myself, but either chickened out or got distracted and did not get it done. But last night, she walks through the door and I immediately sent up a simple prayer asking the Lord to send her my way.

Guess what….next thing I know, she’s on the treadmill right next to me. Before she could plug in her headphones, I introduced myself.

I said, “I’ve been meaning to introduce myself to you. I have noticed you in the gym a lot and I want to let you know that you so inspired me with your hard work and dedication. You are really making things happen!!” She got the biggest smile on her face and that just opened the door for conversation.

We had a great time until my trainer entered the gym and was wanting to get started on my training. While I was finishing my time on the Treadmill, my trainer got to talking to my new friend. And almost like it was planned, my trainer says to my Friend, “ You know, I’ve seen you in the gym a lot, you are doing fantastic!!”

You should have seen my new friends face! She did not say so, but I am quite sure she was pleased that we noticed her dedication.

Double encouragement!! It was almost like it was an orchestrated encounter of encouragement. How awesome is that?

After my trainer and I went away from my Friend we were talking about the goose bumpy moment we just had. We both agreed that we should be doing that for each other more often. It could be life changing!!

So keep following your dreams. Keep pushing through..it will help you reach your dream and also help encourage others to reach for their dreams!! People are watching!

Do other people inspire you? Are you an inspiration?

Keep focused!!!!