in - spi - ra - tion

Recently, I shared my [once] secret blog to the world, making myself extremely vulnerable and exposed.  Being open about my progress has made me realize that instead of being judged [which was my fear], by being open and honest, it has inspired and motivated others.  I'm assuming people are judging me [when they aren't] because I'm too critical of myself.

To be called an inspiration is such an honor.  Thank you to each and everyone one of you.  I plan to continue to be an inspiration and motivator!  In the last week I have re-read through my blogs and realized how far I have come.  One year ago, I was struggling, falling off the wagon [yet again].  This year, I jumped in with two feet [I'm never going back] and asked for accountability and support from my husband and close friends. 

How are you doing it!?

I started out in January with counting calories.  In February, I added walking and did the 30 day shred by Jillian Michaels.  In March, after I recovered from Pneumonia, I bumped it up and started a Couch to 5k running program [3 days per week of running]. I'm starting week 8!  Patrick and I also walk 3 miles 4 days per week [or at least as much as we can].  I try to squeeze in zumba and swimming when I can.  After my first [running] 5K in June, I'm going to add another day of running per week. 

The biggest help has been counting my calories using My Fitness Pal [also an app on my iPhone].  We don't eat any fast food, I never go over my calories and only sometimes eat back my allotted exercise calories [especially when I exercise more than once per day].  MFP [myfitnesspal] has a 'community' with message boards which has been an endless source of knowledge and support as well!  If you join, please ADD me: amo13

In short: 
I started slow, kept adding more....and here I am!
As of today, I am down 25 pounds, 25 inches and can run for 25 minutes!  [wow...this week is all about 25!]