The (sort of) end of an era

Yesterday marked my last scheduled shift at Curves. It was a big decision for me to leave, in more ways than one. Financially, it means that I am going to have be very disciplined with myself and that I won't have the money to go travelling right away after I graduate. I've been so overwhelmed with everything going on in this last month though, that I know this is the best decision. I was able to keep up exercising, eating healthy, school, work, and social life (mostly) in September, but the cost was my sleep and my me time. As school assignments start piling up, it's only going to get harder to keep up my pace. Being healthy isn't an option for me anymore, and neither is school.. so unfortunately this meant work had to go. I will miss the staff and members at Curves tremendously, they have been a great support to me. It's only "sort of" because I'll still be sticking around - showing up to some of the events, working out there when I can, and probably picking up a few shifts in December. It sure felt like the end yesterday though. A few of my favourite members (whoever said you can't pick favourites is an over achiever) stopped in to say goodbye to me and it was so heart warming! One of the women who I coached with Curves Complete brought in a folder full of some of my favourite quotes, all fancied up with neat fonts... we both share a love of quotes so I was incredibly touched. Marie, my wonderfully creative coworker, also made a frame for me and put out a card for all the members to sign. It made me feel very loved. I'm so fortunate to have the opportunities that I've had.

It feels like the end of an era because Curves has been my safe haven along this journey. Joining BDHQ in the summer was another step towards lifelong health and fitness, and I feel like things are changing for me. I don't feel like the fat girl trying to lose weight anymore. I'm just a "normal" person, who recognizes how crucial exercise and nutrition are for a happy, healthy life.

As time goes on and I learn more about health and fitness, the more I think that there's no way I could go back to how I was. Will I always put the same amount of time and energy into healthy living as I do now? Maybe not, but it will always be a part of my life. There's no turning back for me.

Good bye to my days of 3,000+ calories meals all the time.
Good bye to sitting on the couch all night watching TV.
Good bye to all the excuses of why I don't have time for exercise.
Good bye to all the excuses of why I don't have time for myself.
Good bye to the people who didn't think I could do this (including myself).
Good bye to feeling unhappy all the time.
Good bye to the fake smiles I'd give the camera, knowing I'd hate the picture.
Good bye to taking pictures with my friends and feeling like I'm ruining the picture.

My favourite pair of sisters! <3 (Who will hit me for once thinking I "ruined" a picture)

Hello to my muscles burning as I push the limits of my physical abilities.
Hello to the blissful post workout endorphins.
Hello to nutritious and delicious meals that I enjoy - both while eating and after!
Hello to feeling proud of myself and my body, regardless of the number on the scale.
Hello to all my new friends that have inspired me throughout this journey.
Hello to the endless support from my friends and family as we become happier and healthier together.
Hello to looking forward to all the challenges and pleasure life will bring.
Hello to looking at pictures of me and smiling from ear to ear!!

Kelly and I.. man we look good!