Shannon's Story - 2 weeks down!

If you had told me a year ago I would be taking the Pound for Pound Challenge and sharing my journey so publicly, I would have said you were crazy. Not that I mind being in the spotlight. I have a strong theatre background and continue to participate in community performances on and off the stage. It's just so much easier to play the role of a character other than myself. And so much easier to have fun and deny that it's time to make a change. It is no accident that Jerry and Estella Hayes are now part of our lives at NIFB.....and part of my life. The time to make a change and live a healthier life is now. Thanks to the inspiration of Jerry and Estella, I have pledged to take the Pound for Pound Challenge. They are an amazing example of how much fuller life can be when you feel good and know that you've done something beneficial not only for yourself but for your family, as well. I want to be around a long time so I don't miss a single moment of my 5-year old's life. I want to be an active part of it, too! Gaining a better quality of life is the most important lesson I've learned from Jerry and Estella since I met them about 2 months ago.

I watched The Biggest Loser this week. Unfortunately, I have many evening commitments on Tuesdays and do not often get the opportunity. Dr. H. was talking to each team about how their lifestyle of not exercising and unhealthy eating habits has aged them in astounding ways. The internal age of one of the contestants is 57....she's only 27! That spoke to me. She's lost 30 years lost because she likes to eat fast food instead of taking the time to prepare a meal, and sit on the couch instead of getting up and moving. How many years have I lost? It's not worth it. Why do I think I have another day and can make a change tomorrow? The truth is none of us really don't know how much time we have left so we need to do something today!

I started eating more carefully and planning my meals and snacks a few weeks ago before the January 5th kick-off date. It's been amazingly easy for some reason. Very few cravings and I don't feel like I'm missing anything because I'm eating lots of vegetables and fruits....and of course, I've been drinking lots of water! Yesterday, I had a challenge. I spoke at a luncheon meeting at Maggiano's. Family style lunch with large bowls and platters of lasagna, ravioli, potatoes, and the largest piece of tiramasu I've ever seen. I am proud to say I made better choices today than I would have made a few weeks ago. I guess you could say I chose ME instead of food. The chicken, salmon, steamed broccoli, and salad were delicious and satisfying. Amazingly enough I was able to pass the crusty bread and butter to my left and turn it down again when the very nice man next to asked if I wanted some more. I don't know about you but bread and butter are my favorite....THIS was an achievement for me.

WHAT I LEARNED TODAY: Small steps can make a BIG difference in your success.

Good luck on your personal journey! Remember that you're worth it. And know that your pledge is helping so provide food to so many people who desperately need it in your community.

Shannon :)

Promotions Manager, NIFB