One Month Sleevaversary

Today is my offical One Month Sleevaversary and I have so much to celebrate.

• 1st and foremost I feel so good--physically & mentally. Sure I'm still adjusting to this new life of mine, but dang it I am happy. I don't hurt everywhere all the time, I can climb the stairs to my office without sounding like I'm dying when I reach the top landing, I don't feel ashamed or guilty about my eating. I am actually starting to like me a lot more than I have in a very long time.
• My company began a focus on wellness about a year and 1/2 ago and every time they had a wellness function, somehow I was always "too busy" to participate. Well, today I not only attended, but participated in the "Walk In the 80's". Granted I still am not at the point where I could complete the full mile, I did complete a 1/2 mile and increased my daily exercise duration by a full 5 minutes. In addition, I was completely overwhelmed by the positive feedback and encouragement I received from all of my coworkers. Next event, I plan on leading the pack! lol
• Earlier this week, I had an extremely stressful moment and, since I quit smoking the day before my sleeve, I didn't have cigarettes or food to deal with the issue, momentarily I was at a complete loss as to what to do to deal with the stress and anxiety. I made the decision to get dressed (I was in my PJ's), put on my sneakers, and pound the stress into the pavement. And don't you know it, after lapping my block a few times, not only was the stress and anxiety gone, but I felt stronger and more empowered than I have in years.
• I saved the best for last. Last night as my family and I made our evening walk (yes, I'm dragging the whole lot of them into this healthy lifestyle!), my 12 year old daughter looked at me and said, "Mom, I am so proud of you for everything you have ever done. Especially how good you are doing with eating and exercising. You don't know how happy I am for you." And yes, the tears flowed again even as I typed this.

Can't wait to see what other gems await me as I continue on this journey. I feel truly blessed today.