What a year!

I can't hardly believe the New Year is upon us. As I look back at the past 12 months I realize how far I have come and all of the things I have done. I am so thankful to have found my health this past year and so happy to have such an amazing support system around me to cheer me on as I reach for my goals. I never in a million years thought I would become an athlete. Up until August I had never even ran a whole mile at once. Ever, never..seriously, not in my entire life. Now I can..plus a few more :o) Up until August of 2008 I hadn't been on a bike in 12 years. Now I ride 40 miles for a couple of hours of fast fun. I swim, take yoga, shake my ass in Zumba and love life. I have worked for this. I have worked hard but I also have people around me that make it a little easier.
When I started this journey I figured if you were not in my corner than you didn't need to be in my life and I am still happy with that choice. I can't say everyone has been there but the people that have are the ones that matter. Most of all my husband has been there every step of the way. He amazes me with his support and love and ability to push me harder than I ever could imagine. I have taught him nutrition but he has taught me what it is like to be athletic. He is an amazing athlete. Whether it is cycling, swimming or running he is always in the top of the pack. His physical abilities amaze me and push me to catch him. As I crossed my very first finish line on August 8th he was all I looked for. I remember the last turn of the run. I wanted to give up but then I saw this other woman's family. They were cheering and her husband had a huge sign. At that point all I wanted was my husband. My family didn't show up, as usual, but he was there competing, sweating and pushing just like me.
I also have a good friend, Aimee, that has struggled with weight just like me. We have known each other since high school and have both taken control of our lives. We both have a low tolerance for bull shit and can share many of the emotional mood swings that have come with losing weight and gaining a life. We can share things most people wouldn't understand.
Now everyone in this little town recognizes my work and weight loss. I am often seen running down a back country road or riding my bike. The gossip gangsters around here have been sure to keep track of my progress and even the greeter at Meijer has spoken up. Today the teller at the credit union asked me if my plan was to melt away to nothing. At my gym I have Al, Gloria, Deb, Dave, Carmen, Delores and Kristine. They make it comfortable for me to be there and always have. Kelli was my favorite gym employee. Liberal, artistic, open minded and outspoken. She let off this happy vibe and on a plus side works for WW. She left us..boooo. She "trained" me on my very first day. I was scared and embarrassed of my weight. So Kelli..(I know you will read this). Thank you for making me feel not so horrible that first day and making me want to come back for more.
Those are the people that have changed my life this year. I <3 them all.