...numbers...

Today, two very important adventures came to a close.

Back on October 17, 2013, I joined Club Fitness and started a boot camp with trainer, Nora, and a few other ladies. Today was my last day.

Boot camp was such a blast! Nora is firm, but fun, and her exercises always kept us on our toes and left our bodies aching in the best way. And it was such a pleasure to spend Tuesday and Thursday afternoons with my classmates. So silly, hardworking, encouraging, commiserating, and thoughtful. As an example: They set aside their pride and came out into the main workout area to sing Happy Birthday to Andy. They are a special crew and I'll miss them!

Because of boot camp, I can now do 15 regular pushups three times in a row and can hold a plank for 2 minutes. I am much stronger, and I have that ever elusive bicep bump. (I've always longed for bicep bumps!)

Today also brings my 10 day detox to a close!

After an unsuccessful start, I buckled down and committed to the program, and I don't regret it. While the first few days were the most difficult, it has gotten progressively easier to not crave cheese, ice cream, milk, sugary treats, and bread (okay, I sort of miss bread.) When my students gave me Easter candy this week, I brought it all home to Andy, and I don't feel like I'm missing out. That's pretty impressive for me, the sugar addict.

Through time and research, I've learned tons of new recipes for new dishes that I absolutely love! I'm no longer tired in the middle of the day and my mind isn't bored and restless. But most importantly, my body learned the difference between a craving and real hunger. It's been a fascinating ride.

While I begin a transition stage tomorrow, I'm not sure that I want to go back. I love how I feel right now. I'll keep you posted as to where I go from here.

So, drumroll please...

In the past 6 months, I've lost 12.4 pounds and 8.5 inches. (Only 3.4 pounds of that was from the detox. The rest was hard work.) My body fat percentage is down 4.4 points and my BMI is down 2.2 points. I'm not sure where it all came off because when I look in the mirror I look the same, but I'm delighted the numbers say otherwise.

There are adventures that will seem daunting in the beginning. You won't believe that you'll make it through the week much less to your goal. Don't let that deter you. Just begin. Then take each day as it comes. I guarantee you'll find that you are stronger and more capable than you know.

ps. Thank you for all the encouragement along the way. You kept me strong! I hope I can do the same for you someday.