This weekend was a special weekend of sorts for me. It was Blueberry Festival weekend, which ALWAYS equates SPECIAL. In years past, the BBF meant one thing to me, and one thing alone - DEEEEEELICIOUS FOOD!!!! I would go to the festival all four days and literally stuff myself silly. I had no other interest than eating. I didn't really care to see people because I was too embarassed of them to see me! I recall on race day sitting alongside Michigan Road, watching the runners for the Blueberry Stomp. I remember shakin' my head in amazement - wondering what it would be like to be like them. I wondered what it would be like to actually care enough about my body that I would say NO to myself instead of a continual YES regarding the food I ate. I wondered what it would be like to be strong and muscular - to be proud of myself and confident in my abilities. I've wondered for the past 10+ years; unfortunately the wonder never propelled me into action. Year after year I would get up from my seat and head straight to the blueberry donuts and then smoothie booth, and then and then and then.........
THIS YEAR, was different! THIS YEAR I didn't wonder anymore. THIS YEAR, I made it happen. Yes... I still enjoy my favorite foods at the festival.... but not in near the quantity and I made sure to burn off every last calorie of it! THIS YEAR, I looked forward to seeing others and was not embarassed if anyone should happen to see me. THIS YEAR, I ran that 5K for the first time in my life and I loved every second of it!
I loved my strength,
my confidence,
my ability,
and mostly my freedom.
I loved the friends and family cheering me on because they know the difficult journey I have been on. I loved that my husband ran the 5K to support me... but ended up finding a newfound passion and confidence in his own abilities. I am still amazed that he earned 2nd place in his age group! SO PROUD!!
Today was a memorable day, one that I will forever cherish.
I encourage anyone reading this..... TODAY could be your day! It is never ever too late to gain back your life again. It doesn't matter if your 30 lbs overweight or 100 lbs overweight - I want to shout it from the rooftops that it's never too late!!!
You don't have to wonder anymore!!!
