Happy Friday!

As we head into the weekend, let's talk about something that's fundamental to any goal we set, whether it's weight loss, career aspirations, or just personal growth. Vince Lombardi famously said, "The only place success comes before work is in the dictionary."

We often get caught up in the idea of instant gratification, especially in today's world of quick fixes and viral moments. But Lombardi's quote reminds us that true success is built on a foundation of consistent effort. It's about the daily choices, the small sacrifices, and the unwavering commitment to our goals.

It's the meal prepping instead of ordering takeout.
It's the extra hour of study after a long day.
It's pushing through a workout when you'd rather stay in bed.

This isn't to say that success is always grueling or without its rewards along the way. But it does mean we need to be realistic about the required effort. It's about embracing the process, even when it's challenging.

Lombardi's words are a call to action. They remind us that we can shape our own outcomes through hard work and dedication. So, let's escape the illusion of effortless success and embrace the reality: the work we put in today will determine the success we see tomorrow.

Let's put in the work and prove Lombardi right! What's one thing you'll do today to move closer to your goal?

Happy Monday!

Let's inspire each other with healthy eats!

Share a photo of or tell us about a delicious and nutritious meal or snack you're enjoying. Let's discover new healthy recipes together!

What are some of your favorites that leave you feeling great?

Four months ago, I was 340 pounds.
I smoked a pack a day and drank double digits nightly.
I didn’t exercise, didn’t care and didn’t really believe I could change.

Today, I walked a 5K.

This isn’t just a celebration post.
It’s an obituary.

THE OLD ME DIED TODAY

I took his cigarettes first.
He coughed through withdrawal, wheezing like a haunted accordion.
He begged. I didn’t listen.

I ripped the booze from his hands after that.
No more stupors.
No more blackout blessings.
Just long nights with no sedation—only memory, and the noise in his head.

I controlled his mouth.
He begged for cake.
I gave him discipline.
He clawed at the fridge like it owed him something.
But the kitchen stopped answering.

Then I made him move.
He panicked.
Ramped up the anxiety, tried to drown me in it.
Tight chest. Fast heart.
"You're dying", he whispered.
"Sit down. Stop."
But I didn’t.

He shrieked from the knees.
He gasped for air.
And I kept going.

He got smaller.
Quieter.
Sickly.

He followed me to the starting line,
gaunt and gray,
barely upright.
He staggered behind me with every step,
knees buckling,
lungs failing.
But he still begged.

"You’ve made your point,
This is far enough,
You don’t have to prove anything."

But I kept moving.

Mile by mile,
his voice got smaller.
His shadow grew thinner.
By the final stretch,
he was barely there—
a silhouette on life support.

When I crossed the finish line,
I didn’t raise my arms.
I didn’t look at him.
I pulled the plug.

And I’m just getting started.

Week 1 down! Way to go!

Any plans for the weekend? Going out? Staying in? Both are fun! If you'd like to share please do!

Also, any weekend tips out there? Life changes on the weekends and sometimes it's hard to pass up a few extra treats. Do you have any tips you'd like to share that have helped your keep your eye on the prize?

I hope you all have a fun and healthy weekend!

Happy Wednesday!

Just a little nudge to remember to drink your water today! It's truly wonderful how water helps us. It can give you more energy, support your weight loss, help your body feel clean, make your skin glow, and keep your brain working its best!

To drink more water, carry a reusable bottle, set reminders, and add hydrating foods like fruits and vegetables to your diet. Infuse water with flavors like lemon or cucumber!

Do you enjoy plain or flavored water? How about flat or fizzy? Do you have a dedicated container or bottle that works for you? What's been working for me is to have a 30 oz container with a straw and I pick it up and make sure I take 10 to 12 sips each time. I was surprised to see that I can go through 3 refills a day this way!

Please share your tips and tricks!