Moving the Finish Line

Well, what can I say? It’s been a while since I’ve taken the time to put pen to paper. And, it’s been a while since I slowed down to take care of me. I have not been on Weight Watcher’s program since July fourth. I’ve been trying my darndest, given our summer of travel, to grab something healthy on the run, and to exercise in between activities.

Last week, I decided to go to Weight Watcher’s to face the dastardly scale, just to check in and see how much damage I managed to put on--- and much to my delight, I only gained .5 pounds. Given my recent love affair with Bakers of Buffington graduation cake and the fact that we’ve had to eat out a lot and make the best of it, I’ll take that half pound gain.

When life gets too busy or overwhelming, the first thing that goes out the door for me is my eating. I would usually say “the heck with it”! What was different for me this time around, is awareness.

I am aware that I am 21 pounds thinner and that no matter what--- I want to finish what I started! I am aware that I feel healthier than I have in years. I am aware that when I put good foods in my body, I feel friggin’ fantastic! I am aware that when I exercise, I sleep better at night and am more mentally sharp the next day. I am aware that I am a fighter, not a quitter, and that getting side tracked doesn’t end the journey.

Think about this, endurance and long distance runners cannot see the finish line, even though they know it’s ahead. And as they venture on, their bodies might start to give out, muscles screaming, but their minds are clearly focused on that finish line. And that mental focus is what keeps them moving toward their goal.

I like to view life as a constantly moving finish line. There’s tons of room on the open road for growth, yet we’ll hit plenty of road blocks along the way. The key is to not let that road block end your journey. It may delay you by a week, or maybe a couple of years. It may re-route your plans altogether. I like to look at road blocks as opportunities and ask myself, what does God want me to take from this?

Our summer of travels may have side tracked me from my weight loss, but I had a wonderful time with my kids, husband, family and friends.

Whatever obstacle you’re facing right now, know that it came into your life at this time for a reason. God is very intentional. Ask yourself what new opportunity can grow from this burden? Maybe you’re elbow deep in it and it’s not evident right now.  Just keep on marching toward your finish line, and as it moves, take a deep breath, reflect and refocus, adjust your pace and know that you are exactly where you are meant to be! 

Make the choice, commit to the choice and continue with courage.

Hugs and friendship,

Tara