I’ve talked before about the efforts I’m making to get in better shape. It’s a difficult topic for me to discuss so publicly, but if I can inspire even one other person in the world to take steps to improve their health, then it’s worth it. I’ve been taking a multi-pronged approach to my success:

1. I’m changing what I eat. No trans fats, period. No high fructose corn syrup. More veggies, salads with my meals. I’m watching how many calories I eat and also how much fat and sodium is in everything I consume.
2. I’m exercising, even when I’d rather not. I put Anika in charge of my exercise, because she loves to do it and loves having mommy time, so she motivates me every day.
3. I am not eating fast food. At all. Really.

I’ve lost, since July, about 35 pounds – but let’s face it, when you have as much weight to lose as I do, that’s just a drop in the bucket. BUT, there are some pretty amazing things that have happened even from these small changes:

• I no longer have to take blood pressure meds. My blood pressure is staying around 116/65 without any intervention at all.
• I have more energy, all the time, mental and physical.
• My clothes are too big. All of them. The shirts fall off my shoulders. The pants won’t stay up. Even the bras (sorry Dave) are looser.

I have a long way to go, and I am eternally grateful to my husband and kids for being supportive and encouraging without being judgmental or bossy. I’ll never be Barbie…but I’m going to be the best me I can be!