She Got Goals

Live a life that makes you happy. I remember a time where I was NOT the happiest person. I was so good at hiding it though. Then one day I looked in the mirror and ( to me) I was big as HELL. This could not be my life. 

Slowly be surely, I began to take control. I changed my eating habits, I started working out and I began to walk. I cut out anything that was not water or a smoothie. I did this for 3 months straight. I had a few cheat days here and there but I did not wallow in them. 

Soon my walking became running and I found myself going harder to beat my daily pace records. My new lifestyle has become everything to me. 

When we arrived in Florida for our family reunion 2 weeks ago, I was greeted with the wows you look great, wow you lost a lot of weight and then I was asked well why did you do it? 

I responded with," I want to be healthy and I want to be around for my children". A particular family member did not agree with me saying that BUT until you've lived in my shoes with my children and in our home, no answer is a wrong answer. For me, the benefits of weight loss and a new healthier lifestyle have been amazing. 

I love clothes. I've always battled with size 14 ( and tipped the size chart at 16 sometimes). Although they say that's the typical size of American women, I've never been content with being that size. And let's not talk about legs rubbing together.. Ughhhh

 I can happily say depending on the maker, I can easily fit into a few size 8s, these days. I'm MOST comfortable in a 10/12 though. 

Did I have a goal? Yes. Have I met that goal? I'm 6 lbs shy of my ideal weight. Will I stop once I reach that goal? I will NOT. Getting up and being active daily is my new best friend. I find peace when I'm out running. My motto has become, as long as I'm moving I'm making progress. 

Today my loves, I challenge you to look and feel your best at all times. Find it in yourself to make lifelong changes for you. Our family and friends can be our motivators but WE have to do the work. I live for me, my children and friends are added benefits. 

I'm always looking for someone to join me as I hit the pavement, will it be you? 

Signed, 

I Like to Move IT!! 

( This pic was taken this morning after my 3 mile run/ walk and 2 mins of jump rope)

It's in the Water

Last weekend, my little people and I spent some much needed time at a few beaches in Florida. It was so refreshing and relaxing... 

So here goes. Anyone who knows my son #boychild, knows he has an extreme fear of the pool. It's so bad that I had to purchase a kiddie pool for our back yard because he's afraid of the pool in our complex. 

When we arrived at our hotel Friday, he made it clear that he knows his fear and he was not getting in the pool. We were able to get him to get in but it was a struggle. He had goggles, a ring and arm floaties but he still chose to stay on the steps. 

Saturday after spending time at our reunion, we went over to Destin Beach. I was a bit apprehensive because I knew he probably wouldn't go far. So much for me thinking!! When I tell you this little boy stayed in the water.. Lol

It was a struggle to get him out. He kept saying, "Mommy I love the beach". It made my entire heart smile. As parents, we try our best to protect our children but there comes a time where we have to just sit back and watch. I watched in absolute amazement at my son enjoying the water. 

My loves, I challenge you to release your fears. You have the power within to overcome anything. You'll never know until you try. Try a new meal, skydive, kiss someone new. Just get out and do it. We cannot let our fears hold us hostage. It's not worth it. 

Now that I know my son likes the beach vs the pool, I guess we'll have to have more trips to the beach. Anyone willing to put us up for the weekend? Lol

I Kid.. Make your Friday GREAT~ 

Signed, 

Fearless Days ahead 

I have a reason to Smile...

I absolutely love my daughter. I'm not perfect but the way she admires me, trusts me and believes in me, pushes me to be greater. 

Yesterday, a neighbor was faced with a very unfortunate circumstance. Like us( when we 1st relocated here), she's here alone. My children and I helped her as much as we could. Between handling KISS business and being Mommy, my assistance was limited.  

When it became to overwhelming and business required more of my attention, my daughter continued to help with that beautiful dimpled smiley face. She said, "Mommy thank you for being so strong and taking great care of me and my brother". To watch her help without complaining was proof that I'm doing something right. 

As I watched her lift boxes, I noticed she has some serious muscles. I appreciate my daughter so much and yesterday was a glimpse into her future. She will be blessed. Although I'm not always the easiest person to understand, I have a compassionate heart( sometimes more compassionate than it should be) and I've somehow shared that trait with my daughter. 

Today loves, let's be the reason our children will chose to be kind to someone. Let's continue to be models of humility and greatness in front of them. It starts at home. Today and everyday, our home will be filled with so much love

 that each person will feel it!! 

Signed, 

Because of Love