Day 19 Gratitude Challenge

It’s hard to believe that four years ago, I took and posted a picture that changed everything. It was during my first gratitude challenge.

I remember being in my backyard and taking the picture. It was an unseasonably warm November day similar to yesterday. I decided to post the picture with some clever words related to my teaching in a hoodie. Early in my teaching career, I was strictly a suit and tie person. So to teach class in a hoodie was out of character. But this was also at the height of the pandemic, and I was teaching online, so everything seemed out of character. Attached to the post where the following words:

I’m teaching class today in my @augievolleyball hoodie Why?

1. Because I love the coaches and players
2. Because I can!
3. It’s a great day!
4. My @augieutennis hoodie is worn out
5. It’s the only Augie hoodie I have
6. My mom will probably appreciate a picture of me.

What followed was unexpected. As I looked at the picture, I barely recognized the person in it. I knew something needed to change. It is amazing how motivating a picture can be.

I decided to lose weight and take control of my health. I began the process alone, I told no one what I was doing. I set a goal weight which I thought was ridiculous. Over the next five months, I lost approximately 60 pounds. Though I have gained a few pounds back, I am still 50 pounds lighter than this picture (interestingly I am at the original goal weight). I am healthier. I feel better. I have less pain. I sleep better. For all these things I am grateful.

The challenge today is to give thanks for unknown blessings already in their way. Bonus challenge is to pay it forward. By a stranger coffee or a meal. Have a great day!