Moving Forward

Since March 2012, I've lost 60lbs and have arrived at my target weight range (though I still have those adorable love handles and my abs remain a bit shy). I lost my first 30lbs by walking approx 3 miles fives days a week and eating well but never giving up any one thing. In August 2012, I started lifting using a Marcy Pro System and as of the end of 2012 I maxed out my 255lb weight set for Squats, deads, pull downs, calves and bench press using a Stronglifts-like routine. I am now in the middle of a 3 x 10 routine working my way to maxxing out my set and look forward to trying figure what to do next.

I'd like to transition from walking to running more. I'd like to find other creative ways to build strength without hours in the gym but by using the existing equipment and my own body weight.

I have a job that can require exceedingly long hours and often is highly stressful. Though not without its rewards, it's not what I want my life to be defined by but it has allowed me to provide for my family such that they can follow their passions and work toward their goals.

I walk, I lift, I hit the heavy bag and do anything else I can especially if it's with my kids.

Currently playing single dad and working hard on more important things than fitness but know I've got to stay healthy for those I dearly love.

On Oct 17th I deactivated due to a particularly personal and devastating event in my and my family's life. Over the course of three weeks I lost the last 12lbs ... and not in a healthy way. I realized I had to get back in control of myself and have begun the very slow and difficult challenge of rebuilding emotionally and have used my faith and my fitness goals and a tremendous set of "real world" friend to help keep me centered in order to be here for my family. I rejoined MFP because it still offered the best resources for managing my fitness goals but I have remained private. I have thought about getting back into the public side several times but just was not ready.

I am now at a point where I'd like to get more engaged with folks on MFP. Despite some unpleasant memories, I still have many good ones from the people I met and the support I received here. It is time for me to move forward, and step out and re-engage. Meet people with similar philosophies of life, goals of balance and faith... I want to re-engage with people who don't take themselves too seriously but do take their commitments seriously. I want to re-engage with people who work hard, persevere, enjoy the good things in life and like to laugh loudly.

If you are welcoming friends, I'd certainly welcome the support.