I’m 28. I’m a girl. I’m a little on the tall side, a little on the skinny side. I’m a mother of two. I am an accountant. I am also a Buddhist, in that, I believe it’s what’s on the inside that counts.
For the last year, I’ve spent almost every day trying to recover my pre-baby bod. Turns out, some things are easier said than done. And sure, I’ve come close. I mean, the homeless people of Seattle are big fans of me. On Monday, a guy at the homeless shelter even touched my arm. He did! I know! I’m kind of a big deal.
On certain days, I even merit a “Wow, you look great (for having two kids)” here and there. But is that REALLY a compliment, anyway? Regardless, compared to most people, I would say I’m in pretty good shape.
But the only hitch there is… I’m not comparing myself to most people. I’m comparing myself to my personal hero: 18-year-old Shamema. What happened to her? She lived off Doritos, Double-stuffed Oreos, Mt Dew, Biggie Sweet Teas, and french fries…. AND she also sported a six-pack that should have been in an 8x10 glossy. When I was 17, my best friend, Amanda “the Force” Forcey, and I ran in the Lynchburg 10 Miler. Without one day of training. And I’m willing to bet that I went to McDonalds and ate two cheeseburgers and a large order of french fries (extra salt, please) right afterwards. And then I probably did 1,000 sit-ups, guzzled a gallon of Mt Dew, and conquered the world before dinner time.
Shortly thereafter, I joined the Marine Corps. 18-Year-Old Shamema maintained her physique there, too. Eight beers tonight? Sure, no problem. And an 8 mile run as soon as the sun comes up? Sure, no problem.
So, why can’t this 28-year-old Shamema who eats nothing but carrots and spinach, walks everywhere, and spends at least an hour a day hitting either the weights or the pavement look like some semblance of that Shamema? Well, there in lies the dilemma. And also, my two goals for this year:
1) Run a marathon.
And
2) Look like a swimsuit model.
If I remember correctly it was the Olive Garden that became our feast after the 10 miler! You were faster then me and actually ran ahead, finished the race (but didn't let the timers tear off your number), and then ran back and let me finish first! How I do love thee! :)
ReplyDeleteHa! See? Nothing is new under the sun! I was crazy then, too! ;)
ReplyDeleteMmmM.... I do miss those breadsticks. Let's go there next week! ;)
AND... I just wanted us to finish TOGETHER. We got into that together, we get out together. That's in the Shamema Code of Conduct. No man left behind. Bros before hoes. Etc. :)
ReplyDeleteAhhh. That's why I know you'll always have my back! That IS friendship, despite what some lesser people I won't name think! hehe Few people in this world are blessed with TRUE friendship, and I've had some horrid friends. You are one of the golden ones! I love you!!!!!
ReplyDeletei used to eat cheesecake & ice-cream for dinner.... those were the days!!! =D
ReplyDeleteA little on the skinny side? You are by far the skinniest person I know who has pushed out two bowling balls. Although I've never seen you naked so I'll shut my trap now.
ReplyDeleteI used to eat a small bag of Cheddar and Sour Cream chips with Sunny D for lunch in high school. At least I got my vitamin C.
I agree with Miko. I don't think you could be in BETTER shape. You are at the top girl!
ReplyDeleteIn high school we would often consume massive amounts of food, usually anything processed and frozen from Costco. My favorite were hot cheetos and anything with a lot of caffiene (Jolt??), like I needed it :)