One year of exercise in the books....

Today is the one year anniversary of Echelon.  I still think about that day in Costco and Merinda and I both thinking about the bike at the same time.   Yes, I did ask about the hot tub, but that's because I didn't think she would use it and I think I was right.  It was a tough year for her so we'll see how this year goes. 

I made a post on the Echelon groups and it was surprisingly difficult for me.   I'm feeling pretty emotional about this anniversary because of what a remarkable year it was.   I made a lot of positive changes for myself and exceeded every goal I could have imagined this past year, and I feel grateful to the Echelon community for helping me achieve them.   It's so much more than a piece of exercise equipment and I struggled to verbalize my feelings about that.  I didn't want to mention anyone by name there because I didn't want to skip anyone, but there was some irony in this falling on a tuesday.   My very first live ride was Sam's cadence 20 and I still take that class every week, so it felt right to ride that this morning.  

Since I've been metric driven all year let me share what I've accomplished this year:

• 761 rides
• 4706.21 miles
• 107 pounds lost

This doesn't even describe the changes in my health this past year or that I've had to buy all new clothes since all my old clothes don't fit, yes my waist went from a 44+ to a 36.  The last bit is the impact it's made on me.  I've had self image issues for so long that it's just been a part of my life, but for the first time I can remember, I feel good about myself.   I'm pleased with the way I look and feel and that is a welcome change.  

This year I have a few things to look forward to...  I'm going to start taking scuba lessons at some point.   That was one of the things I wanted to do if I lost weight.  Second, I'm going to get my cube for 1000 rides.   I expect that sometime in March.   Merinda and I have a few trips planned, and being healthier makes them so much more enjoyable.  

With that it's into year 2 of my fitness journey...  Thanks and talk soon!