It’s happened a few times. I run into someone I know who hasn’t seen me in a while and they do a double-take. I’ve actually had some people not recognize me. It’s an interesting thing to experience. Once they realize who they’re seeing, they usually gush and are very complimentary. I’ve finally reached the point where, most of the time, I can easily smile and thank them for their kind words. I have no problem telling them that I had weight loss surgery. There was a time when I thought that admitting that would make me uncomfortable.
Clearly it doesn’t or I’d never have started this blog, let alone kept going with it for more than 330 posts!
Next week I’m going on vacation to a fun-filled convention for writers and readers. I’ve gone to almost all of them since 1999. My favorite thing about it is that many dear friends also fly in from various places around the country. We don’t get to see each other nearly often enough and it’s always wonderful to reunite and spend so much time together for a few days. Most of these friends have seen pictures here and there on Facebook, but I know from having seen some people in person that the photographs really aren’t completely accurate.
So, next week I will be seeing a lot of people who last saw me this time a year ago when I was down about 60 pounds. Sure, that weight loss was already an improvement but I’ve lost 95 additional pounds since. Zumba, Tai Chi, walking, and water aerobics have shaped, toned, and streamlined parts of me too. Suffice it to say that a year’s time has brought about huge change. It ought to be fun.
Remember last month when I tried on a dress that I thought was in the smaller size that I could wear and it was too big? The replacement dress arrived today. I was a little worried about trying it on because it’s a 16/18. I don’t even know if I wore a 16 in college. I can no longer remember. Well, I slipped on the dress and it is a perfect fit! I ran to two different mirrors just to get different views. I really love this dress and can’t wait to wear it next week at one of the evening events. Yes, I will get a photo taken and post it. I promise. Pinky swear.
After trying on the dress I changed into exercise clothes and headed out to Zumba. I don’t know where I found the extra energy, but I killed it this evening in that class! Every move had that much more power and “oomph” in it. My abs were tight and my arm movements strong. I even managed more crunches than ever before. Doing those crunches while dancing isn’t easy. Depending on the dance, I can’t always coordinate the move and do them correctly. It amazes me to watch the instructors. Their moves are so fluid. I swear they can do 10 crunches to my one! I said tonight that within two years I want to be able to move my ab muscles and crunch with that same speed and fluidity. One of the instructors told me that two years was too long and I’d get there sooner. I’m not so sure, but we’ll see.
In the meantime, I’m not coasting through any of the moves. I give them my all, building my strength and burning as many calories as possible in that hour of dance. It sounds gross, but I even enjoy working up a sweat and having to blot it off my face. At least I know that I’m producing that sweat and ramping up my heart beat through genuine, effective, hard exercise. It’s a whole different feeling than when I struggled and gasped from the simple effort of walking in my enormous, out of shape body.
This is just another body change that I love. I sure as heck plan to keep building on it in the future.
Weighty Matters 
Your post has inspired me to look up times when they offer Zumba at the Y. It looks like they offer aqua zumba, which I find intriguing.
Let me know if you try Aqua Zumba! This year I definitely want to make it to a Zumba class in Bourne.
Everyone will be so happily amazed at the new changes in you at the convention! It’s so great to read about all the cool things you are doing and the effects they have had on you. And you’ll be able to get around the convention even more easily than you did last year! I’m glad for you.
Thanks, everyone for your positive feedback!
Skye, I’m looking forward to the easier mobility too. I also just had a thought. I’m packing my workout sneaks so I can get some time in on the treadmill in the hotel fitness center. I could very well be working out with very fit, goodlooking male cover models. Inspiration! 🙂
Wonderful for you! Love hearing about how well things are going!
I love hearing your story, and your progress. I’m thinking about starting Zumba. The owner of the Curves I belong to is putting in a small dance floor and will offer classes there. With one bad knee, and another creaky one, I’m hoping I’ll be able to adapt without causing more harm. ; )
Robena, for the sake of your knees, look into Zumba Gold classes. They are lower impact. If your Curves doesn’t offer them, the instructors can show you how to adapt any higher impact moves. Trust me. My right knee is weaker so there are some moves that I adapt. I wish we still had a local Curves!