Wow - It Has Been A While

It has been over a year since I have been here. To say that the past few years have been a struggle is an understatement.

I just returned home after a week's vacation across the country. I had a fabulous time with my children and grandchildren. It has been 2 1/2 years since I had been home to see them and it was long overdue. While we enjoyed each other's company and I got to meet my newest grandchildren, one theme was blaring... at least from my point of view.

I have gained all of my weight back.... plus about 30 pound for insurance!


To say I had a very high level of anxiety about the plane ride was an understatement. Some think I am afraid of flying... that could not be the furthest from the truth. I love to fly. I love takeoff, landing, and even the turbulence. No, my friends... I am not afraid of flying. I am terrified of the reactions and words of those around me when they see me walking down the aisle looking for my seat. I am afraid of the comments my neighbor will make when I am not exactly successful at staying our of their space no matter how hard I try to keep my arms crossed and my shoulders "in" during the 5 hour flight. I am terrified of the condescending look that I sometimes get when I ask for the seat belt extension.

Well.... I am here to say this,

I WILL NOT BE AFRAID ANYMORE!!! THIS IS THE LAST TRIP WHERE I LET MY WEIGHT AND PHYSICAL CONDITION OVER SHADOW MY JOY!!!!

My oldest daughter is extremely supportive and has encouraged me to read the book "It Starts With Food". We are doing the Whole30 together.... Well, in all honesty, she got a couple of days' head start on me.

Saturday is my Birthday.... I have no doubt that there will be a festive celebration with cake, etc at work. You know how it is.. anyone's birthday is an excuse for the office potluck. With that said... with the exception of the office celebration, I am starting tomorrow. I have my grocery list made out, my daughter's number on speed dial, and my husband on notice. I threw away all of my artificial sweeteners, processed convenience meals, and bread today.

Oh.. you may know my daughter... her username is LILBLKDRESS09. Feel free to stop by and say hello.

Let's do this! I refuse to die before I am 50!