Today is Ash Wednesday. A season to reflect. A season to hunger. A season in which it is difficult to begin, but near the end, it is rewarding.

I woke up and went to the gym this morning. I decided that while I was at the gym, it would be my time to reflect, to plan, to encourage myself, and to find acceptance and peace.

My husband and I have given up sweets. . . it will be difficult at first, but after 4 weeks, it will be fine. I gathered up all of the sweets in the house and took them took work. I emptied my candy dish in my office to the one in the reception area. The dish is empty and I think I will keep it that way to remind myself that it is more important to fill my soul than my stomach.

Since August, I have gained 15 pounds back. While my wieght is 220 (a number that I had longed to get to), it now is a wake up call for getting back on track. Today is a beginning for me. I will enjoy today for all it brings.