Today is THE Day - Finally!

As I write this, I am very emotional. I'm sure the folks at the gym are wondering what is wrong with me. Any tears I have at this moment are tears of joy.

Today I weigh 198 lbs!

You have no idea what this means to me. I feel almost speechless - almost.

This is the day I have waited for. It took my 41 years to reach 300 lbs. That was a lot of eating and depression which led me to that sad milestone. It has taken me about 2 1/2 years to lose 102 lbs! Oh my GOD!!! 102 lbs!!!

I was a size 54 waist. Wearing 3 XL shirts. Today I am a 38 waist, wearing large/XL shirts.

There are a lot of people I wish I could thank for their support while I was losing this weight. Sadly, I can't name them all, but there are a few I want to mention.

My sister Anne has been so supportive. When I've needed new clothes, she was the first to send me a gift certificate to buy something. She got me my subscription to Runner's World Magazine. I love that magazine, and find it inspiring.

My friends Marshall, Sarah, Mark, Stacie, George, Matt, Kelly and Krys who have given me encouraging words every step of the way.

To my Irish friends Fiona, Steven and Conaill, who have passed on notes of encouragement.

My dad has also chimed in on how happy he is for me.

My trainer Josh, who not only encourages me, but teaches me new things.

Of course I need to thank my wonderful partner Q. His love and support during this have meant the world to me. He was the one who got me to the gym, and has been behind me in my attempts to better my health.

There are other people, but I am so afraid any list I attempt will leave someone out. Just know I am thanking you as well.

So now what does this mean? Well I still feel I have some weight to lose, so it does not end here. The lessons I have learned about myself are invaluable, and I will keep them with me.

I keep plugging away. I have races to run, and life to live.

I'm so happy.

:-)Charlie