Having the best things is no substitute for having the best life.

I was reading the March issue of O and I thought I would share with you some of her thoughts on her weight loss. She has decided it is not about how her jeans fit or how she looks. It is most about optimal health and optimal living.

Here is what she says, " Only now do I get, get, get it! The connection is about loving, honoring, and protecting yourself. Many times we insist on having all the best things because that is the only way we can ensure "quality of life" for ourselves. I can neglect myself in every other way, but if I have the best watch, purse, car, or square footage, I get to tell myself that I am the best and how much more I deserve.This is what I know for sure: Having the best things is no substitute for having the best life. Spring is nearly upon us. New life awakens. Allow it to awaken in you and not just around you. Whatever the challenge- overeating, overindulging in any substance or activity, the loss of a relationship, money, position - let it be an open door to your holiest revelations about yourself, an invitation to your best life."

I could not agree with her more. Whatever is holding you back...let it go. Life is too short and we need to start living the best part of it now!

Hi Everyone. It is about time that I get on here and tell you a little about myself. I am 35 years old. I am a mother of three and a full-time third grade teacher. When I was in highschool I was active every season and all of the time. I could eat whatever I wanted and it never mattered. Then I started college and the pounds creeped on a little. I was still pretty active. Then marriage and three kids later and I had found myself over 100 lobs heavier and feeling miserable. I was taking medication for high bloodpressure, diabetes, and depression. My blood tests were terrible and my liver was not doing well at all. I started to meet with a Dr. to discuss Gastric Bypass. I was the perfect candidate. Not only did I need to lose the weight...I needed to change my health status and quick. The surgery was a success and the detoriation of my liver was stopped and over time it will repair itself.

With every pound that I lose I become more sure of myself and the life that I want to lead. I love to cook, and eat. I want to learn to do both of those with great will power and resposibility. I love excercising and will tell you more about that soon! :) Most of all I love that I am a more active mother to my three boys. I am now IN THE GAME with them... the game of life. When they ask me to play kickball, the answer is "YES!" I year ago that would not have been the case. I want to teach them how important it is to lead a healthy life and to make well informed choices about what we do to our bodies.

We all have things that are battles for us. This is one battle that I am determined to overcome everyday. I feel better. I sleep better. I have so much more energy. All of these things make me a better person, wife, mom, teacher...

I hope that as I continue on with this blog that you will join me in the quest to GET IN THE GAME... the game of LIFE!