Note:  I’m using a different computer and couldn’t upload the photos I wanted to add.  Sigh.  I’ll come back and edit for photos later, but I am particular about getting things like this out on the designated day.

When I hear the word “July” I instantly think of all things red, white and blue because it is the month we celebrate our nation’s birthday – July 4th.

This year we began our celebrations early with our city’s parade.  My son walked in it with the high school football team and he had had a blast.  Our twins are away in their college hometowns, so it was the first time just my husband and I watched a parade together.  We had a good time!

Then we came home to pick up our coolers and grill and join our church friends at a local park for a BBQ cookout.  It was hot and sticky, but a steady breeze and a good spot under some large trees made for a good time.

Throughout the day my mind would wander to past Independence Day celebrations.

There was 2009 when I had only lost 10 pounds so far and felt so huge, because of an awful, short haircut.

And then there was 2013 when my husband was deployed and I was training for my first half marathon.  I bet I went for a run that morning before taking my kids to the beach to meet up with friends; but if I didn’t I know I had ran the day before and most likly the day after so a break was well earned.

Along with remembering specific holidays my mind wandered to thoughts of independence, freedom and liberty, with both “freedom” and “free” repeating themselves.

Because freedom is something I felt when I was at my lowest weight.

I remember feeling free and in charge.  I no longer felt bound to my past failures and things I may or may not have learned over the years.  I was free from feeling bound to bad habits and like I had no control.

While I still felt like I needed to lose another 20 pounds I remember also feeling very strong and free from the constant need to snack and overeat.  I maintained a weight of 160-165 and enjoyed life;  staying active and eating all things in moderation.

So, even now as I prepare myself for bed, and have so many thoughts rolling around about what must be done in the coming days, one thing remains towards the top of my list:  I know what it’s like to feel free with regards to my health.  It took work to get there, but it was so worth it.  It motivates me to get back on track and works towards achieving that sense of freedom and strength once again.