When I saw this Groupon, I knew I had no excuse - I had to try what so many had told me worked so well - even though the mere thought of showing up, let alone trying to do any of the difficult exercises, would be one of the greatest challenges of my life. … [Read More...]
Hi, I’m Shelly – Welcome to my blog!
I am on a physical, emotional, and spiritual journey that I hope will inspire you to love and believe in yourself, and see how that can be the catalyst to transform your life and achieve your dreams!
I have lost nearly 100 pounds since 2011, overcoming many years of disappointment from the negative effects of hypothyroidism, three pregnancies, yo-yo dieting, being out of shape, and other emotional and physical challenges.
This blog chronicles my weight loss efforts and also my training in preparing for races and epic trekking adventures. I started with boot camp classes, then running, hiking, and yoga, and finally a quest for inner peace; all of which have transformed every aspect of my life.
I have successfully completed dozens of half marathons, two ultra marathons, and the LA Marathon. In 2017, celebrating my 50th birthday, I realized my lifelong dream of visiting Mt. Everest and completing the trek to base camp.
“Everest for me, and I believe for the world, is the physical and symbolic manifestation of overcoming odds to achieve a dream.” Tom Whittaker
I am likely never to win a race, but for me winning is overcoming the odds against me to finish what I started!
My journey in self-discovery and inner peace has been pivotal in developing the confidence and mental stamina I needed to be successful. Some of what I have accomplished took everything I had inside me to finish and not give up!
At first I was embarrassed to share all of my challenges publicly, but had a change of heart after so many have asked me for details about how I did it. Friends and family encouraged me to put the diaries and posts all together in one place as an example to others.
Honestly, if I can do this, anyone can – and experiencing it right along with me will give you realistic expectations for progress and show how it all was a daily crawl forward to where I am today!
I am sharing my story to inspire others who have struggled with the humiliation and despair of being severely overweight, and the disappointments from multiple unsuccessful attempts at losing it; to to see that success is possible if you never give up hope!
Yoga
Yoga From Michael’s Perspective
I asked Michael to write me some notes to describe how he felt going to hot yoga class with me on Saturday, and this is what he posted on Facebook: Turns out it isn't always about me. … [Read More...]
Self Discovery
Relationship problems
I have been misunderstood for so long that I am terrified of it. That fear causes me to second guess every minor detail of any social interaction. … [Read More...]
Running
Seattle Rock n Roll Half Marathon 6/21/14
This is the first time I have prepared for a race and to leave town from the airport on the same day. Michael's 30th high school reunion in Southern California just happens to be the same day as the race. … [Read More...]
Everything Else
Ten Years Ago This Weekend …
Ten years ago Michael replied to my profile on Match.com - and the rest is history! I simply cannot believe it has been ten years - I remember that day so clearly, like it was yesterday! … [Read More...]
Machu Picchu
Ticket to enter Machu Picchu and climb Huayna Picchu
I will be trekking on the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The trek begins on May 4 and we arrive at Machu Picchu on May 7. The Inca Trail permit includes entry to Machu Picchu for May 7, so that is already taken care of. … [Read More...]
Everest
My story is featured on the UW Whole U website!
The Whole U program at the University of Washington has featured my weight loss and fitness story on their blog website! I am so honored to be part of that program and grateful they have published what I wrote so that it can give other people hope who are struggling with hypothyroid and weight problems. … [Read More...]
About Me
My name is Shelly. Since May 2011 I have lost 85 pounds, and I am still working hard to make it at least an even 100 pounds! I hope that by reading my blog, people struggling with similar issues will be inspired - because if I can do this, anyone can! I struggled with my weight for … [read more ...]
