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Introduction Text It used to be fairly easy for me to stay at a comfortable weight or to lose extra weight after pregnancies. I didn't think much about what my body looked like when my kids were younger. But several years and way too much loss and trauma later, I'm grateful to say that I feel content and even HAPPY again! I've learned what's truly important in my day-to-day life. My kids, my pets, my job—and some of the little things are important too. Now in my mid-40's keeping my weight stable takes real effort, requiring both watching what I eat, as well as daily exercise. Effective stress-management is key, and scheduling time to exercise and have fun are important parts of that. Staying involved with my kids and enjoying them while I still get to see them regularly is a top priority. In 2002, when my youngest son died, one of the things that helped me process my grief for him (and truly, I think it kept me sane), was planting a memorial garden for him. Each year it grew—I added new plants and flowers that I felt were significant to his short life and innocence and my love for him. I made new graveled garden paths and added a couple benches to sit on. Maintaining his garden is still an important part of my day-to-day life. Every year, on the anniversary of his death (October 23rd) Liam’s maple tree—the first thing we planted in his garden, with some of his ashes—is a beautiful vibrant red! It’s one of the special things that helps me get through that difficult time of year. More recently, I've found that I enjoy making creative changes to my home when I can, one room at a time. From painting, installing new light fixtures and laying laminate wood flooring, to adding or replacing a piece of furniture here and there. I've got this new idea to make collages out of some of my kids' artwork from their growing-up years and frame it this summer. Doing all of these things has gradually made our home into a special and comforting environment, and each time I finish a project it feels like a great accomplishment! Being a single mom and "on my own" doesn't scare me anymore, and in fact I think it's been good for me—but staying healthy and managing stress are a big challenge sometimes. I can see how Sparkpeople could be a great tool to help me with these things. The better I feel about myself, the more I have to give to the important people and things in my life!

Lose 25 pounds. Enjoy my kids! Do my job well. Stay in touch with good friends and family. Laugh several times a day. Steer clear of trauma and drama. Be happy!

Daily stretching. Cardio exercises 4-5x/week. Strength exersises daily. Paying attention to the important stuff and not sweating the small stuff. Really LISTENING to the people I care about. Scheduling time for exercise and fun!

Long-time resident in the mountains of AZ. Single parent. Mom to three awsome kids -- 20 y.o., 16 y.o., and 2 months forever.

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." ~ Margaret Mead

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