This is me... at almost 42

Those of my friends that have met me in the past 18 years have known that I have struggled with weight and food/carb addiction. Last year's diagnosis of Type 1 diabetes and kidney damage really put things in perspective for me health and weight wise. It's not an easy road. I'm a recovering alcoholic and a Bipolar survivor, I also deal with diabetes, heart disease and carb addiction. This year is a new year for me and a new lease on life. I am eating better, feeling better, striving to get more exercise, and take care of myself physically and mentally. I am blessed with an awesome support system with my David and friends and family. I want my old 'Navy body' back, I have noticed that people treat me differently since they have seen that I've either put on weight, or lost weight. (I've lost 21 lbs since my kidney diagnosis last November). What matters is how I feel about myself, and I know I haven't taken care of myself. I CAN change that, and that is key.

This was me... a year ago. 

This was me at 23... Hence the Project 23. When I was at my most fit after just getting sober and spending six months in mandatory Navy physical fitness training.

This is where I want to be next year. I want to be healthy, able to skate again without passing out, and feeling good in my own skin. I want to be consistently taking care of myself, not just a one time shot of 'get skinny and then forget all my good habits'. This is a LIFE CHANGER.  Friends and family, I ask for your patience and prayers. I may be a little testy at times, especially when it comes to food. I also ask that my friends not become the 'diet police'. This is my journey, not yours, while it may seem the best intentions, it does more harm than good. Thank you to my friends out there who have inspired me, prayed for me, and have become my cheerleaders. You know who you are. So today, January 29th, I start my new life, eat my last bag of Kettle Chips and start fresh tomorrow.