Getting Caught Up: An Update

So it has been a while since I posted in the blog here. A lot has been going on with family and such that I hadn't updated on my progress.

My mental/emotional wellness took a dip in March, when I learned that my dad had a stroke that was caused by a malignant brain tumor. Although my dad and I never really had a relationship, his health condition still concerned me so I did what I could do given the circumstance (e.g., hospital visits, texting, etc.) This did put a damper on my progress as I felt tension among other relatives toward me, making me have feelings of being unwanted. Worse, it made me put a hold on business activities and my mother (God Bless her) had to snap me back to reality. Feelings leveled off until recently, that my dad was sick again and I felt this time I really needed to let go, forgive, etc., so that I can start feeling better again and focus on my health and helping others achieve better health.

With that said, I joined the gym last week! It is the YMCA and is walking distance from my job. I joined for two reasons. One, there have been times where I struggle working out at home. If I go to the Y on the days I work after I get off work, it will push me to go work out. Two, I would be helping my mom get some motivation as she likes going to the gym, but doesn't like going alone. We last went together a few years ago (as her guest) and we did the weight machines, and let me tell you we both felt the burn! My plan now is to tone using those machines and do cardio using a treadmill, stepper, elliptical, etc. 

Prior to joining the gym, the cardio I was incorporating included weekly walks to Target and playing Michael Jackson: The Experience on my Wii. I would do some toning that focused on arms and abs in-between. My weight prior to all of what was going on was 228. During my stressful period it hung around 233, but now that I have taken control back on my health it has gone down to 231.5. I am on my way toward bigger progress. I still want to hit below 200 as my first major goal. The picture you see was a workout selfie from my walk to Target about a week ago. I noticed even in this picture my face getting smaller, so I know I am doing something right!

I will keep you guys (and girls) posted more on my progress. One day at a time! 

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