"Things Can Only Get Better!" (Long Post)

While driving to work this morning, I was listening to XM First Wave station (XM 33) and Howard Jones' "Things Can Only Get Better" boldly streamed into my car.  The sound was filled with memories of my 80s childhood paired with a positive message that truly, things are seemingly getting better!

Over the course of the last two years, I have gained 12-15 pounds.  It was seven years ago this month I began my weight loss journey.  When I reached my goal weight in early 2006 (lost 33 pounds), I felt amazing.  I promised never to be unhealthy again.  Yet, in June of this year, there I was standing in front of a mirror, unable to fit into a skirt I bought a year ago.  I broke the once-heralded promise I made to myself and I felt like crap.

In July, I decided "enough was enough" and after a little self-inventory, I began to keep a food journal again and I cut out all alcohol for 4 weeks.  I hit the gym more often and instead of eating McDonald's Fish Filet on the weekends, I make low-calorie falafel pitas paired with carrot sticks and tons of water.  Instead of eating three slices of Papa John's pizza, I eat one piece and have a big salad.  After a month of solid progress, I tried on that pesky skirt and it fit!  Hell, it fit better than when I first bought it last year!  I was so excited! (After two + months, the skirt is even looser now!!)

I am now back to my "good" weight of 127 or 9 stone.  I would like to lose 5 more pounds but I will continue to do so in a healthy way.  If I do not make it to 122, I will not beat myself up.  I just want to focus on eating healthy and staying active.  Let me tell you, losing weight is hard but keeping it off is even harder!  It is all about balanced living and learning to make the right choices and stay motivated.  (Some days I just want a cupcake and a martini!)

Another positive element going on right now is that my dad seems to be doing really well with his early-onset Alzheimers.  He is active, takes daily walks with my mom, keeps busy around the house and garden, and he is on a better CPAP (sleep apnea) machine.  I feel like the old Dad is back!  Now, I know my dad will never be the same but each day is a small achievement which is a BIG step in helping to maintain his mental state.

Moreover, after four years of not having any tattoos done, I have decided to take the plunge and get a new piece done.  Some of you may know that my artist and friend, Kauri Tiyme, was killed almost four years ago.  I once told her that she would be the only artist to touch me.  I stated this with the intention Kauri would be alive but after she was gone, I took that sentiment to mean "never ever again."

After much soul-searching, I feel I am ready to get tattooed again.  I cannot say for sure if Kauri would mind.  I think she would understand but I am not certain.  I know that I am ready and the process of getting tattooed will be the closure that I need.  I will always miss Kauri and I will forever treasure the art she gave me.

Nevertheless, on the 16th of October at 3pm, I am going to Cirque Du Rouge in Washington, D.C. for my tattoo session with Liaa Walter.  I am excited and nervous!

I am having a few Alpine Forget-Me-Not flowers along with a few mid-century starburts done on my inner left wrist.  I had my right wrist done in 2006 and then re-done (so much better) by Kauri in September 2008.  Anyone who has a tattoo done on the wrist knows how icky the sensation can be! That is what's making me nervous!  After my tattoo is done, I will be sure to post pictures!

I am looking forward to life for sure these days and it feels good.  I know some days are going to be better than others but I really feel "things can only get better!"