Never did a sigh feel so great!

Tied up in knots - that's what I've been for a couple of weeks. Being a mom is not easy but it is THE BEST job in the world. Our Annie took on the responsibility of serving as presiding officer of her Rainbow assembly. And that means memorizing the ritual to conduct the meetings and initiations - a task that would be formidable for me. While she had all summer to undertake that task, somehow it was left until almost the last minute and that is exactly what tied me up in knots. But last night she proved herself well. She ROCKED that initiation, conducting the work well.

I have been so stressed about this and have tried so hard not to return to my old unworkable methods of handling the stress. Let's just say that Annie was more successful than I have been, yet, here I am, pressing on in the knowledge that the old way doesn't work for me. Medicating with food is just so defeating. My new way of handling stress is to open my serotonin tool box to find something else that brings that "ahhhh." Sometimes all I need is a revved up work-out or a walk with my dog. Shopping for new, smaller clothes is always a plus. Even digging in and cleaning and organizing Annie's room as a surprise for her was what worked for me this week. I just need to remember to open the tool box and not the refrigerator door.

Down, but not out!

While the bouncing scale continues to stupify me, I am yet shouting VICTORY. Last night was the academic showcase at Annie's high school - an event that Tim and I look forward to each fall. This is simply a chance to walk through Annie's schedule in one evening, with 10 minutes for every class period - a wonderful opportunity to see her learning environment, meet her teachers and learn what is expected from each of her teachers and classes.

As you may be aware, the high school campus is sprawling - seven main academic buildings on two floors. Last year this little adventure about killed me - I was huffing and puffing, looking for elevators and shortcuts at every turn since there were eight periods with only five minutes between classes. This year, however, it was a different story. I ran up and down the stairs, going from building to building and floor to floor very easily...never once was I winded or found huffing and puffing. And, I fit in each and every student desk in every classroom!

While this event last year proved to be quite a challenge as well as embarrassment for me, I found it easy and enjoyable this year. And that, my friends, is only one of the many reasons I am on this ultimate adventure!

Here we go 'round again

Really. The scale is driving me absolutely crazy; I've been up and down with the same two pounds for the past two weeks. It's enough to drive me straight to Dairy Queen...or at least it used to be enough. Now, I'm learning I need to sit down and really listen to what my body is telling me. Am I retaining water, keeping my food logs and putting my all into my workouts? If I am, I must stay the course. But, if I'm not and I am indulging because I'm feeling blue or angry and I'm responding with food, then I need to take a look at my life. Is something frustrating me, do I need to communicate my needs to others better? I must remember that others cannot read my mind; if I need help I need to ask for help, rather than sulk with a handful or two of chips or a dish of ice cream (with Hersheys and salted nuts, of course). This is a new way for me; takes me a few rounds to get it. But, get it, I will. Check back with me in another couple of weeks.

Feeling great!

The ramifications of stuffing myself with unhealthy food were so far-reaching. I've been on my healthful journey since February and I am amazed at how good I feel - about life and about myself. And, it is such a turn from my state of health last year.

I'm feeling stronger (Thanks to my trainer, Karyn! She is perfect for me - she pushes me when I need it and takes care of all my creaking parts when they are crying out!) and I'm beginning to look better as well. I've started to buy just a few things to wear - some even that didn't come from the plus-size department, which is just so encouraging to me. My Ultimate U coach has been strengthening my mindset as well. Zoe has made me understand that serotonin needs MUST be satisfied - one way or the other. With her guidance, I'm starting to fill up my serotonin tool box with healthful ways to meet those needs.

And as for my heart - my heavenly father continues to heal and nurture me in ways I never expected. A special thank you to Leslie for all of her guidance, wisdom and encouragement.

I am a new creation; and today that creation weighs 62.6 pounds less than she did last year!