Day 1

Wow!!!! What a crazy day.... But it really was fantastic. Today I.....

Went to a stretch class at 6am
Hiked for 2 1/5 hours - 7  miles!!!
Was in the pool twice (45 minutes each) for intervals/strength training
Did a 45 minute circuit training class
Did a 45 minute core training class
Attended 2 lectures

......and I survived! Actually I did more than that, I really really enjoyed it. I had a smile on my face all day and was just amazed at what I was able to do. I've always known I was physically strong, but I convinced myself that I was a weak person I think, incapable or unworthy of pushing my boundaries. I was out of my comfort zone so many times today I can't even count and even had a little cry after SPRINTING for 2 30 second intervals. I don't remember the last time I sprinted. I've aways felt SO uncomfortable running and have been afraid of the physical impact it would have being so overweight, but today it really was fantastic. It was only for 60 seconds mind you, but just doing that while the instructor yelled *you will be amazed at what your body can do - push yourself!*, felt like a real breakthrough for me.

I know my body wants to lose weight - I could feel it today as I pushed it to walk 7 MILES up and down about 4 canyons, and I could feel it when I was able to keep going during a killer core training class when I kept thinking *I cant - it hurts too much!* A lot of people here say *don't think about it - just do it.... if you think, you only think about how you can't do it* - and that worked for me today!

I've met tons of great people - each with their own story and reasons for being here - last night at our first supper, everyone introduced themselves and the stayover guests gave advice... it was really inspirational to hear what they said. Everyone is here to change, and it's neat to hear and see it actually happening to real people!

I know the hike tomorrow will be a LOT harder after everything I put my body through today, but I'm still looking forward to it and hope I'll be able to push even further.

I've included a few pictures tomorrow from today's hike and of my little cabin..... it goes fast, so pause it and click on arrows manually, and if you click on the slideshow itself it will take you to my web album where the pictures will be bigger and easier to see.

Thank you all SO much for all your emails and messages - I was hoping to get to them today, but well, it's 8:30pm and time for bed - imagine!!!

Leslie