When I first started this Fat to Fit journey just over 9 months ago I wasn’t planning on blogging. Blogging has helped me learn so much about myself. When I blog, I stay accountable, not only to others, but to myself. I force myself to think about my “problems”, to analyze why I am the way I am, and help me to improve and better myself.
I never would have thought when I started this whole thing that it would have such a dramatic effect on my life. There have been so many ups and downs, and I love sharing them with anyone that is even slightly interested. This weight loss journey has been the catalyst to so many positive things in my life. I’ve reconnected with some old friends, I have strengthened many of my relationships, and I have a better relationship with my husband and son. Feeling better about yourself changes every aspect of your life. But one thing I didn’t expect, and am still not fully comfortable with, even though I am so public with my blog, is the accolades I have been getting, some from complete strangers.
I hear the word inspire a lot. It surprises me when I hear that I have inspired others. Sure, people read my blog posts and feel all warm and fuzzy, because weight loss stories are inspiring. Everyone loves a good fat girl that got thin story; it’s what got me off the couch a good 13,247 times before. But to know that I have been the impetus for others is truly humbling. I am so incredibly thankful for all the motivating comments I’ve gotten since I’ve started this blog. I am even appreciative for the angry ones I got after I called “my diabetes” a “fat disease.” All of these comments have pushed me, inspired me and have brought me back when I’ve wanted to end this journey.
Inspired me. My mind races when I think about what has inspired me. You have. My family and friends have. All of you who have faith in me when I don’t believe in myself. I am truly blessed to be surrounded by such amazing, inspiring, motivating, encouraging people. The things you do leave me in awe every day.
I have been extremely fortunate along this journey to find a fitness partner who in such a short time has become like a sister to me. Kelly and I share many miles together and every one with her inspires me to do another. I would have given up many times without her. She is a marathon runner. She is a true, every day athlete. Sh pushes me harder and inspires me to be more adventurous and venture beyond my comfort zone.
My college roommate did a Sprint Triathlon this summer. My friend Chloe ran her first half marathon the other day. Last week, Lauren walked up to the wall at MCCF, flipped over and did a hand stand push up for the first time. She didn’t let fear get the best of her. Sam runs fast and lifts heavy. She is so consistent and solid every time. These women and others I watch struggle with a heavy weight or throw the bar over their head like it weighs nothing, run 10 miles, do muscle ups, inspire me.
Fun Michelle has spent the past 2 years losing over 60 lbs and training. She’s following her dream and joining the army at 35. My Uncle Jim found his passion for running after turning 55. He finished the NYC Marathon. My blind father that does 4 miles on the treadmill every day and lifts weights. They inspire me.
My family doesn’t care how much I weigh. They care that I am accomplishing so many new things, that I am happy and that I am living the life I was meant to live. My mother and sister each called me their hero the other day but really, they inspire me. My husband and son make me want to work harder, love better and dream bigger. They are my inspiration. Knowing that my family and friends want me to achieve so many new milestones motivates me and inspires me every day.
I am inspired as I look at these pictures and the full transformations in my family. These pictures are from an event a year ago, almost to the day. We have all taken this journey together.
I never would have thought when I started this whole thing that it would have such a dramatic effect on my life. There have been so many ups and downs, and I love sharing them with anyone that is even slightly interested. This weight loss journey has been the catalyst to so many positive things in my life. I’ve reconnected with some old friends, I have strengthened many of my relationships, and I have a better relationship with my husband and son. Feeling better about yourself changes every aspect of your life. But one thing I didn’t expect, and am still not fully comfortable with, even though I am so public with my blog, is the accolades I have been getting, some from complete strangers.
I hear the word inspire a lot. It surprises me when I hear that I have inspired others. Sure, people read my blog posts and feel all warm and fuzzy, because weight loss stories are inspiring. Everyone loves a good fat girl that got thin story; it’s what got me off the couch a good 13,247 times before. But to know that I have been the impetus for others is truly humbling. I am so incredibly thankful for all the motivating comments I’ve gotten since I’ve started this blog. I am even appreciative for the angry ones I got after I called “my diabetes” a “fat disease.” All of these comments have pushed me, inspired me and have brought me back when I’ve wanted to end this journey.
Inspired me. My mind races when I think about what has inspired me. You have. My family and friends have. All of you who have faith in me when I don’t believe in myself. I am truly blessed to be surrounded by such amazing, inspiring, motivating, encouraging people. The things you do leave me in awe every day.
I have been extremely fortunate along this journey to find a fitness partner who in such a short time has become like a sister to me. Kelly and I share many miles together and every one with her inspires me to do another. I would have given up many times without her. She is a marathon runner. She is a true, every day athlete. Sh pushes me harder and inspires me to be more adventurous and venture beyond my comfort zone.
My college roommate did a Sprint Triathlon this summer. My friend Chloe ran her first half marathon the other day. Last week, Lauren walked up to the wall at MCCF, flipped over and did a hand stand push up for the first time. She didn’t let fear get the best of her. Sam runs fast and lifts heavy. She is so consistent and solid every time. These women and others I watch struggle with a heavy weight or throw the bar over their head like it weighs nothing, run 10 miles, do muscle ups, inspire me.
Fun Michelle has spent the past 2 years losing over 60 lbs and training. She’s following her dream and joining the army at 35. My Uncle Jim found his passion for running after turning 55. He finished the NYC Marathon. My blind father that does 4 miles on the treadmill every day and lifts weights. They inspire me.
My family doesn’t care how much I weigh. They care that I am accomplishing so many new things, that I am happy and that I am living the life I was meant to live. My mother and sister each called me their hero the other day but really, they inspire me. My husband and son make me want to work harder, love better and dream bigger. They are my inspiration. Knowing that my family and friends want me to achieve so many new milestones motivates me and inspires me every day.
I am inspired as I look at these pictures and the full transformations in my family. These pictures are from an event a year ago, almost to the day. We have all taken this journey together.
Dave has lost over 30 lbs!
Weebles Wobbel but they don't fall down!
(Tim, Me, Gail & Russ)
Lost over 100 lbs together!
Lost over 80 lbs together!
Don't we all look a lot happier? This is our Fat to Fit journey. We inspire each other. We give each other strength. I couldn't do it without all of you who inspire me.
