making {strides}

i just finished practicing a mini flow session.  it's after midnight.  and i'm at the beach.  

i am a new person.

the old me would use a vacation as an excuse to put whatever current stride i was in on hold.  i would eat a candy bar on the way to wherever i was going just because i could and had always done it, among other things.

this time, we bought healthy groceries, we've planned most of our meals, and we are going to MOVE.  

the beach is amazing.  and it will be amazing on our walks and bike ride.  and in the meantime, we will make amazing memories.

this is the new me, and i am looking forward to my future.

-until later, 
j

i am thirsty

my journey thus far has been incredible.  if even just to me.

i FEEL better, i have lost weight (13 pounds and counting), i am stronger, i found a love in yoga, i have made great strides in my personal life (perhaps i will share one day)...and i am thirsty.

i thirst for more of God's Word, i thirst for yoga, i thirst for happiness, i thirst for continuous self-improvement...

a girl in my 40-day group posted the following picture onto our facebook group.  i found it on pinterest:



for most of my life, i have not actually 'lived'.  i have used the way i look as an excuse.  an excuse not to go shopping (why stand around while others try on clothes that don't fit me?), to go out in college (who would want to look at me?), to go to the gym (with everyone else looking hot while they sweat... while i just looked sweaty), etc. etc..

so, even SHOWING UP at the yoga studio was a HUGE step for me. :)  and i am so glad i had the courage to do so.

because while i was missing out on EXPERIENCES in my life, i was minimizing my own determination.  my own strength. 

i have every right to live life and experience, just like everyone else who i used to think deserved it more than me.

i am MORE than the way i look.  i am beginning to realize that now.  i have a lot to offer to the people around me.

i am so THIRSTY to continue to improve myself - spiritually, mentally, physically... and i thank you for supporting me in my journey.

-j