Summer Jump-Start

My "365 Days of Corpulent Compulsions" blog didn't last even 3 months. And I'm still nearly as fat as I was at the beginning of the year...maybe a few pounds less, but nothing close to where I could have been had I continued on the path.

I've gotten a got kick in the pants though, from someone who is one of the most motivating and encouraging people I know. She is an expert in her field, she looks amazing and is incredibly strong, but best of all, she's been exactly where I am, so she knows.

I discovered her through "Google" as she is a heavy hitter in her field, I became "virtual friends" with her through interactions on Facebook and email, and this past weekend, I was able to spend some real "face time" with her and I can now say that I consider her a dear friend and mentor. With her instruction, advice and support, I know that I can succeed in finally getting full control of my health and my fitness.

Have you guessed who she is yet? She is the great and powerful Tracy Reifkind! The last blog I posted, on March 1st, was about Tracy! If you know nothing of her, then google her!

Better yet, check out her blog: Tracy Reifkind's Training Food and Thought

Or find her on Facebook!

We had a totally amazing day (and half the night) together, first exploring the Farmer's Market in my town, then doing a swing workshop, then drinking wine and eating clams and laughing til our bellies hurt.

Unfortunately the heavens literally opened up before we could really get into the more advanced portion of the workshop, but everyone who was there absolutely loved it and can't wait until she comes back. She lit a whole bunch of fires in her time here, and it's only the beginning!

We hope to bring her back in late summer or early fall for another workshop...one that we can market and promote much better. Everyone who came wants to do it again, plus bring friends. And Tracy also is giving those who wanted the advanced training a "Rain Check". No pun intended in spite of the deluge that absolutely SOAKED them while they were trying to train.

I am freakishly afraid of being hit by lightening and I was watching from the porch - wimp that I am! They didn't let the rain stop them, but when the thunder and lightening cracked directly overhead, they ran for cover! It was seriously one of the most spectacular thunderstorms I can remember in my 53 years here in Washington!

So, as a summary, I've got a new shot of motivation, I quit Weight Watchers and am now tracking on "My Fitness Pal" (free!) and the money I was sending to Weight Watchers will be going to Pilates classes to complement my kettlebell workouts. When Tracy comes back here in a couple months, she is going to be GOBSMACKED (I LOVE that word!) when she sees the progress I will have made by then. BELIEVE IT.