2005 started with much ambition and determination.  I quit drinking, joined the gym, and prescribed to a better lifestyle.  I was determined to get myself in shape and in better health.  I knew that once I committed myself to these goals, I was bound to succeed.

During the first month, I lost 14 pounds and 14 inches – a great success!  I was happy to see them go and began to feel better physically as well as mentally.  I found that much of the battle was mentally committing myself to the task and not allowing myself to come up with excuses or rationalizations. 

In February, I was able to show off my new and improved self at our client conference in Las Vegas – my first time there!  It was an exciting trip, although I wish I could have shared it with Paul.  He sacrificed the trip because Knuckles (our baby) had to have surgery the week before the trip.  I did get to share some of the experience with Mom and Dad, as we hit up the shopping, poker tables, and went to see Ka! by Cirque De Sole.  I can’t wait to go back to do it all again J

Over the next few months, I lost another 17 pounds and 9 or so inches.  I started looking like myself again!  Paul and I began riding our mountain bikes more and more, and really had an opportunity to experience the beauty of Colorado.  Both of us decided to make the switch to clipless pedals which was a nightmare for me at first, but my skills have gotten much better since then, and I’ve stopped toppling over when I slow down. 

Since Paul and I were both in better health, I guess that opened up the “opportunity” for me to get pregnant.   I tested at home on July 26^th, and confirmed the positive pregnancy at the doctor’s 3 days later.  It took some time getting used to the idea, but after serious contemplation and conversation, we are both elated about it.  The pregnancy so far has been without complications other than the typical aches and pains. 

It took quite some time, but on November 11^th I quit smoking for good!  I can’t say I really notice much of a change in how I feel, but I’m sure the baby does.  I have noticed that the smell of cigarettes is much less appealing to me now.  The cravings have virtually stopped, and it will be my goal for 2007 to remain smoke-free. 

That’s the big news for ’05.  There is a lot in between, but I’d prefer to look at the highlights rather than the “lowlights”.  I had to overcome some serious adversities in ’05 and learned that as you get older, it gets harder and harder to learn from (and pay for) your mistakes.  I hope that I can continue to mature and become more responsible in ’06.  I know that I will make mistakes along the way, but hopefully not the same ones!