Sometimes it takes a real life moment to make you realize you haven't been living...
My grandfather passed recently. He was a truly incredible man. He found an amazing woman to share his life with, was blessed to raise three loving daughters, and spoiled the hell out of his grandchildren (like any grandparent would). My papa (as we called him) was an avid runner. In his last few months of life, his memories of running often came up in conversation, and you could tell how passionate he truly was about the sport. I credit his love of running to his healthy 84 years of life, and what a beautiful life it was.
Now that he is gone, I can't help but dwell on the memories we shared. One of which included traveling down to St. George to support papa and my mom in running the St. George Marathon. This is probably one of the most vivid memories I will always have of him.
I have been trying to think of ways to celebrate his life, and then it hit me...I need to start living my life! I need to get healthy, and find something that gives me the same satisfaction that my papa once had with running. I have dwelled too much on the negative in the past. At this point, I just want to be around to enjoy the little wonders that life has to offer. I want to get married to my best friend (T.J.), I want to make beautiful children with him, I want to make a home with my family, and then I want to be around to see my grandbabies grow and live. I want to always be remembered as an active person who worked hard to stay healthy and live.
My challenge begins today. I have found an incredible meal plan on the "Blogilates" website that I feel will help fuel and cleanse my body, I have found some great workout routines to help me get strong and lean, and I have the spirit of my papa to guide me on my journey. This is MY recipe for success, and I dedicate it to my papa. You will always be an inspiration to me, and I know I will see you one day soon.
