Being overweight has always been a struggle of mine and there are specific comments and moments in my past that stick out as defining me as the "the fat one." I've always tried to combat it and strive to be ok in my own skin, but it can be hard when a woman looks in the mirror and doesn't admire or feel good about what's looking back at her.
Over the years I have really wanted to feel better and look better. And not until this past month have a felt like, "Carolyn you can do this!!" James has been that changed mindset. He is my cheerleader, coach, chef, trainer, tracker and love. He is the one who always says I'm beautiful and MEANS it. He is the one who pushes me to go a little farther on a jog, or a little longer on a bike ride. He supports and is by my side in everything I do. It is still though, especially when you stay the same weight and you're working SO hard to eat really well (even passing desserts up at special occasions) and exercise lots.
That is the challenge; remembering it takes time and that it's better to think of becoming a healthier you than a drop dead gorgeous you. Because that is the whole goal: gaining long term healthy habits that will keep me strong for my children and grandchildren. And so that is why when I feel like throwing in the towel or just sitting down to a whole container of really chocolatey ice-cream I have to kick in the "long term perspective."
There are those moments of "Wahh" when I see a post pregnant woman already a stick figure, or when those exercise-health nuts are wearing their short shorts (cause those obviously help you exercise better ;), right) at the gluten free grocery isle...when I feel like this is totally not worth it. But again the long term goal and loving a healthier me is what kicks my feet back in gear. I won't ever be the "perfect" image of what a "fit" woman in today's culture "should" look like, but I am going to become my healthiest and happiest self and that's what matters.
My Mister James and I have been gathering tools to help us succeed. First came a new scale that connects to our smart phones and tracks our weight. It's really neat and knows who is standing on it, smart little contraption. And then came running shoes. This was fun cause James has never had a new pair of running shoes, his whole life! He was adorable the first time he took them for a run! Then we got a bike trailer for Miss Jane, a new bike seat for my cheap bike, a helmet and a bike rack. All these tools have gotten us active and out more!
Then a friend, Kristi, invited us on a 5 Day Clean Eating group on Facebook. We took the challenge and have loved it. We've gotten some great ideas for recipes and have learned again the great inportance of well balanced meal planning. How grateful I am for a man that loves to do things with me, without his support none of this would be happening!
I want to be able to tell my children, "You can do hard things, stick to your goals!" Because that is a very important lesson to learn in this life. If you make a goal be committed to it, fulfill it, surpass it. And when you screw up, dust yourself off, get back up, smile and start again. No one is stopping you but yourself. And so, this journey of health and fitness continues and I seek inspiration and tips from others I admire greatly in their personal wellness goals as well. There are so many strong and courageous souls out there! Encourage them, cheer them on and support them in their struggles and causes!!!
Love,
Carolyn
**photos included are some motivational pieces I made of food we've grown or made, and then meals from our 5 Day journey! I made a goal poster as well so Mister James and I could check things off once we accomplished them! If you'd want one made for you or your family I can make you a customized version for $5!
