Good morning everyone. I did it! One of my motivators was my inability to walk up and down stairs with out knee pain or fear of falling; especially for when I'm caring for my 7 month old grandson DJ. This was also one of my top 5 goals. I've been working hard at the gym, riding the stationary bike to strengthen the muscles around my knees and legs, working hard with the trainer and recording every calorie consumed for a mere two weeks. All my hard work has paid off...yesterday, I ran out of diapers, the spare pack was upstairs (my house is almost 200 yrs old, the stairs are very steep); we were home alone and I had packed up the pack n play so I had to take him up with me to get the diapers. I was really nervous but with each step I gained a little confidence, and made it all the way back down taking one step at a time just to be safe. I couldn't believe it, these stairs have been an issue for me for years, incredibly painful especially coming down and I did it carrying an extra 20 lbs! I've only been at this for two weeks and already I've accomplished one of my most important goals and motivators.

My doctor once told me every pound lost relieves 4 pounds of pressure on the knees so I lost 2lbs 7oz thus far, that equates to almost 12 pounds of pressure off my knees. What a difference!

Meeting this goal just reinforces how the discipline and hard work pays off, motivates me to continue, all things are possible now...I have no doubt I CAN reach ALL of my goals. And how amazing that I was able to share it with my grandson...even though he had no clue but we clapped and did the happy dance for me just the same.

For anyone struggling, hang in there...the possibilities, potential and results will come, just keep at it.

"Nothing can stop the man with the right mental attitude from achieving his goal; nothing on earth can help the man with the wrong mental atttude." ~ ~ Thomas Jefferson

It's such a beautiful day, I may take DJ for a walk in stroller on the trail...I'm feeling particularly inspired today and grateful for all things I can now imagine doing with him as he gets older and I get stronger.

Healthy wishes to all, enjoy this beautiful day.

Cindy P. (A.k.a. The Fat Chick)