I have done a lot of thinking about how this new lifestyle and weight loss journey will affect me... but the best part is that it will (and has already begun to) affect others in my life.

The energy and drive that I have will allow me to get the kids outside, doing active things, instead of wanting to stay in the house and sit on the couch watching TV. From a young age Gianna will be used to physical activity.

My home will be much neater and well kept - if I have a light day on my pedometer, in the evenings I really enjoy going room to room, straightening up or tackling a small cleaning project, to ensure I hit my steps target. I used to be too lazy to make the bed when I got up for Andrew (he works all night) - but now I do it and it gives me a good 20-30 extra steps... and he sure appreciates getting into a nice cleanly made bed!

Cooking used to be a hassle - now, it is what I prefer - because if I made it, I know whats in it, how to track it, etc. Before I'd prefer ordering in pizza or subs - now that is really only a once in a while thing and I am happy to say that I am nourishing my family with healthy meals on a regular basis. It also saves us money on restaurant bills, and even lunches since there are always leftovers around now.

I can lead by example for my extended family - we have several overweight people who may feel just a spark of motivation by seeing my progress and I have already referred several friends to Spark People, which I think is the best first step someone can take in this life changing journey!