Hard to believe it's been a year since I stepped on my treadmill for the first time. 1.01 miles in 22:46. It has been an amazing journey, but I feel like I'm only through writing Chapter 1.
To New York, and Back
Looking back over the year of walking, "jalking" and running, I estimate that my feet have traveled about 405 "exercise" miles. That is about the distance from my town to NYC and back.
The Numbers Game
The most startling of the changes have been my clothes. A year ago, I struggled to button my size 58 pants. Last week, I tried on, then purchased size 42. A drop of 16 inches. Shirts are down from 6X to 2X, or even some XL. In any case, no more "fat-man" stores for this former fat guy.
Then, of course, there is the scale. Up until now, I've hit just about every major goal that I've set. I missed some monthly goals earlier this year, but I'm back on track. While there is certainly nothing wrong with a mere 148 pounds lost, as I wrote yesterday, 150 is such a nice round number.
Between yesterday's weigh-in and today's, I ran two miles and drank at least a gallon and a half of water. Meals consisted of a South Beach breakfast bar for breakfast, a huge salad for lunch, replacing the usual 2-3 oz of tuna salad with grilled chicken, a huge bowl of broccoli and cauliflower for dinner. I just couldn't pass up the freshly made pudding with a dollop of Cool Whip after.
Nervously, I stepped up on the scale and watched the numbers change, seemingly just like they do on the biggest loser. There it was: 267. After one year, I have lost one hundred fifty pounds! 36% of my former body weight -- GONE! I actually got a bit of a chill down my spine and a goose bump or two as the numbers on the scale blinked at me. I looked at that moment like the lights blinking in Time Square. Just an incredible accomplishment.
More to Come
There is much more to say, but I've got to get off to work.
For now, I'll just finish with a THANK YOU to Deb, mom and dad, Neil and Sherri, Dave and Jill, and everyone that has offered support and encouragement that have helped me get to this point. I sincerely believe that I could not have done it alone.
As chapter 2 begins, there is still much to do, and with your help I know I will get there!
L'Chaim! -- To Life
8 comments:
A true accomplishment. I know you really wanted that number. I'm sure you are flyin' high today. You are an inspiration to us all. Congratulations Jeff. UDAMAN
You have come so far Jeff, not just in body, but in spirit. Congrats, and thanks for all of the inspiration. Jen Burton
You're my hero!!! Mazel Tov!!!!!!
Hey Jeff!
CONGRATULATIONS!!What a great feeling! You are truly an inspiration to others who are fighting that health/weight battle!
From a fellow fighter!
CONGRATULATIONS JEFF! Please accept my virutal high five on this day - not just your average day huh? What an awesome milestone for you to hit on your Health-a-versary! It definitely brought a tear to my eye and I've never met you - I'm sure you are a huge inspiration to the people in your life.
Way to go!
Ditto on "UDAMAN"
Jeff
Well done. Well done. Now for the next year. You now know you can do anything you set your mind to.
Well done, well done! We are very proud. Keep it going.
Dad
Jim Valvano once said you should laugh everyday, spend time in thought everyday and cry joyously everday.
both of your posts brought a tear of joy to my eyes.
Thanks for sharing, it inspires all who read.
Pat
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