DAY 152 - Eighty days to reach my goals!

"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles." Isaiah 40:31

I have sloughed-off long enough. Depression held me in its grips too long! It’s time to get up a go again; which means getting on the scale, recording my food intake, and walk or workout every day.

Since losing and maintain weight has been a forty-year struggle, goals like backpacking 62 miles in 9 days are great motivators. Last time, my first time, hiking with a pack on my back, I know that every pound – no, every ounce matters! My husband and I plan to cut all our weight – from our bodies and our backpacks.

The weight of my body will only come off by me diligently being mindful of what I put into my mouth. Recording it in a notebook or by using internet programs tells me the truth. Using measuring cups, spoons, and scales eliminates any guess work.

Walking, with and without my pack, helps with the weight loss as well as builds strength to the body. On weekends my husband and I will hoist our packs onto our backs and extend our daily 2-4 mile-walks to 6-8 mile-treks. The longer weekend treks challenges our mental stamina, especially as the heat and humidity rises with

summer.

Why do I do it? Because its there! Why not?
Actually, I love challenges, physical and mental ones. The Appalachian Trail pushes me in both, plus emotionally. I don’t really like the emotional challenge but the combination stretches me in all areas of my life. It really is the epitome of life’s ups and downs!

When I return from this journey, life’s difficult days will seem easier. I’ll be able to push through my mental breakdowns, complain less, and accomplish more. My body, spirit, and soul will be strengthened.

My strength will be renewed; and I will soar in life above the fray like as on eagle’s wings.