Five Years since "the day that changed my life"

I can't believe it has been 5 years since I made the decision to change my life for health and fitness. July 16, 2009 was the "day that changed my life." It is true that in one day, or for that matter, one moment, you can change your life forever. The work had yet to be done but the decision was made. I still get asked all the time what prompted me to change my life. There is a simple answer. I decided. Of course, there were reasons that I decided. The main one was that I wanted to live. Interestingly enough, this was before I had grandchildren. I want to live even more now to see them grow and to be able to play with them through the years. Another reason that I decided was that I was SICK of being obese. It is not fun. I was miserable all the time. I couldn't bend over to tie my shoes without giving out of breath. I am so glad that on July 16, 2009, I decided to change my life.

Another question I am asked is "I bet that was hard to do, wasn't it?" My answer is always "no!" Once I made the decision, it was easy for me. There was no cheating and no second thoughts about the decision I made. I had "broken through the barrier."

I have learned so much more about healthy living on this journey. I have learned that what we eat can kill us or heal us. We just have to be educated as to which foods and drinks to consume. It takes research to know about these things because the food industry doesn't give 2 flips about your health and won't tell you about it. When it comes to fitness, there are people who will discourage you with all of the reasons that running or working out will hurt your body. They tell you this while they are out of shape and obese. I DO NOT listen to such nonsense. It is only an excuse for them to feel better about living the lifestyle they live. It is really sad.

In 5 years, I have run over 60 races in 22 states with 3 more states scheduled this year giving me half of the states by age 60. I never would have believed it had you told me 5 years ago. I didn't know what a 5k was 5 years ago. I love to run as most of you know. It is so rewarding to cross the finish line! It is fun to be in a running atmosphere. There is a culture among runners that I now associate. I love it!

On this 5th anniversary of the "day that changed my life," I am thankful to God, my friends and family for all of the encouraging words. I am thankful for all of the messages sent to me telling me that I had somehow motivated them to change their lives. That is why I tell the story. It is why I wrote a book. I want to help others to know that if I can do it, they can to. What about you?