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I lost 103 pounds without surgery, and there was great rejoicing! However - over the last year and a half, life got in the way. Between serious bouts of fibromyalgia and debilitating migraines, I gained some weight, and found myself feeling dumpy, frumpy, and most definately in a slump. 2012 is over and the time has come to dump that frump slump, release the excess weight, change my attitude, and be and feel fabulous! This journey is about more than just weight loss. It is about facing and releasing all things that hold us back from living life to the fullest each and every day. Make the most of what you have, and live a "seize the moment" lifestyle. Join me on my journey, and dump your own slumps - whatever they may be. Welcome to Fabulous!

Friday, April 15, 2011

April 2010 - April 2011 Part One

Last April, I had an interesting experience at a store in Cocoa, Florida.  The proprietor had me select a card from a deck - and the card had a picture of a stone called Moldavite.  She told me I was soon to be going through a period of enormous change and tranformation.  I thanked her for the assessment and went on my way.

Four days later I was layed off from my job. 

And then - I went out and got a piece of moldavite....

Moldavite has been reported to help release all that is no longer needed for personal growth: old ideas: leftover emotional habits, whatever you know on a deep level needs to go.  It helps a person to appreciate the gift that they have.  People may find themselves finding more and more things to be unnecessary - like toxic relationships, anger, and irritations.  One may find themselves being more authentic and honest with themselves and others. 

The lesson however is not that one needs a stone, but sometimes one needs a wake-up call of some sort to begin to create a new and wonderful reality. 

What a difference a year makes...

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Runneth Over?

This morning, I was feeling a bit adventurous so I decided to switch it up and have a hot cereal called Abundance instead of the usual plain sugar free oatmeal (woo hoo - big adventure).  While it cooks in the microwave, I mindlessly fill up the creamer, sugar, and coffee cups – not because it is my job, but because it is the right thing to do. 


Despite using the exact preparation process I have done a hundred times before, as I reach into the microwave, the Abundance cereal has overflowed the cup and is all over the microwave. I giggle and think even though the events of the past few days have been overwhelming to say the least, I am amazed that no matter what, I have so much abundance that my cup literally runneth over. 


Coincidence?


In my humble opinion, coincidences are God’s way of remaining anonymous.


A sign? 


I'm thinking yes...


Although I have come to know in my core that I am richly blessed with it already, I wonder what today will bring and how abundance may present itself to me. I also intend to be open to receiving it…(whatever it is).


Fast forward through the day:
  • Calls from old friends asking for support and advice - and I have the "right" words for them
  • Conversations at work and I have the "right" words for them
  • Some amazing opportunities present themselves, and I have the "right" words for them
Coincidence?  No.  Grace?  Yes.  Abundance?  Absolutely.


May your cup of abundance, whether in cereal or blessing form, runneth over and may you be open to receiving it all and then some.


Carpe Diem...and so it is...

Monday, April 11, 2011

Sharing Intention...

I intend to pay a visit to the Oprah Show - as they are seeking guests who have lost more than one hundred pounds without surgery.  Below is the entry I submitted.  Please intend with me...I wish to inspire others to live a healthier life full of the possibilities of Carpe Diem...

My 101 pound weight loss has been a long journey, but finally a successful one. Beginning in 2001, I weighed 248 pounds. I found myself literally unable to move with severe joint pain and swelling, due to a recent diagnosis of fibromyalgia and possible rheumatoid arthritis. Quickly losing 50 pounds, I completed a half marathon six months later. Then I promptly returned to my previous high weight. Struggling throughout the years, I would lose ten pounds and gain back fifteen. No fad diets worked, and basically miserable, I quit trying.



In May 2006, after tripping in an intersection and not being able to be lifted by a strong friend and my own power, I decided my girth was epic, and enough was really enough. Shortly after that embarrassing moment, Dr. Oz appeared on the Oprah show, discussing the effects of white food and sugar on the body. His gentle but firm demeanor and his reasonable approach to a healthy lifestyle somehow touched me and motivated me to start again. I began with small changes, and those lead to the inclusion of whole wheat pasta, vegetables and fruits, and smaller portion sizes. I once again returned to exercise, but this time embraced it instead of thinking of it as a curse.


I now weigh 147 pounds. Despite ongoing and occasionally debilitating fibromyalgia, I lost weight and gained fitness the old fashioned way – don’t eat so much and move your body regularly. After being told I would not be able to walk much, I am currently a veteran of eight half marathons, three Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure events, and four marathons (three of which were completed in 71 days in late 2009). Not being a runner, I walk and go as quickly as possible with my mantra that I think I can. Every finish line I greet with joy and gratitude. I have sustained my weight loss for a year (give or take a few pounds) and am delighted to pay forward any inspiration to others who may need some assistance to move forward toward better health.

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Authenticity

Be authentic - always...

Pretending to be anything other than who you really are prevents you from reaching your personal potential.

In being yourself - you can accept and embody the miraculous circumstances and gifts that have come together to create YOU...

And then - well, imagine what can be...