In January of this year, I started a weight loss program at my [now former] gym. I must say that I stuck with it 100% and emerged from it stronger and more focused, slightly trimmer, but not thinner. The program itself was poorly run and full of drama. I was fortunate enough to end up with a very nice trainer.

I recently joined a large gym in our area under a corporate plan with my company. It is like going from middle school directly to college. I love it. I hired a personal trainer there, who coaches a women’s marathon group, and he will help me train for my first half marathon (actually a little longer, a 14 mile trail run in western New York State next fall).

I am stepping out of my comfort zone in many ways, and for the first time in my life am embracing change. I actually got up early Sunday morning, went to 9:00 a.m. service, worked out with my trainer after service and had all day left to cram in a myriad of chores and activities, which included time in the park with Rocco.

I'm being a bit self-centered... and it's okay!