Before

Like so many of us, I have struggled with my weight since I was 10 years old. At times I will ooze self-discipline and determination. I develop exercise habits that would impress even the most draconian of personal trainers. My food journal never leaves my side and every morsel is logged. The inches disappear and I can fit into the smallest of the three wardrobes I have in my closet. But, before you know it, life gets in the way, time for me becomes scarce, and the pounds creep back on.

Right now I am somewhere in between. I can’t fit in my skinny jeans but my fat pants aren’t quite tight. I have been exercising fairly consistently but not as often as is necessary to keep me in single digit sizes. When I was younger diet and exercise were primarily vanity related. I wanted to be thin and stylish. I wanted to be fit and feel strong. While vanity still plays a role, I am now beginning to focus on the importance of diet, exercise and overall health. Between my sedentary job and my two hour commute flexibility is becoming an issue. My muffin top is making it difficult to polish my own toenails. As a nail tech this issue alone could be career suicide! It is time to take action!

When I am fit I enjoy running. I have never been able to run the entire distance but I have completed at least a dozen half-marathons. When I am fit I enjoy horseback riding and took saddle seat lessons for years. One year I showed Saddlebreds as a member of the riding team. I love feeling strong and having the energy that comes with regular exercise.

The past years have been exciting yet challenging! I finally finished my degree, we flipped our house and moved to a new city, hosted two weddings at the farm and welcomed three grandchildren! All this activity has left little time in my schedule for me.

When I look around I realize that I have a lot to live for. Now that things are a little calmer I am ready to make myself a priority. I need to take care of myself if I want to be around to enjoy all the things I have worked so hard for. I am going to lose a few pounds. I am going to lose a few inches. I am going to work toward running an entire half-marathon! My Fitbit is charged. I dusted off my treadmill. I am also hoping that my that decision to make this declaration in this very public venue will hold me accountable and help me to achieve my goals!