When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves. ~Victor Frankl

Before I begin this blog, I want to thank Mom, Kenyon, Heather and whoever else stopped my loving family members from leaving a sarcastic or silly comment on my last blog. Good to know my in laws (and my mom!) can take me seriously! :)

It is amazing to me how much I have been noticing change that is taking place. For one, realizing that most of my nieces and nephews are now in school and there really aren't any little babies in the family anymore (Sorry Er, she is not that little anymore). For another, I have been noticing the changes that were made for me this school year. I moved my classroom downstairs due to all the complications with my knee. Also, I am not sure when my next (and hopefully last!) surgery will be so it is best I am on the first floor. It is different to be on the first floor. I don't mind it though. Most importantly, I am noticing changes in who I am.

I began this blog as a motivation to stay on track with my weight loss as a fundraiser for Camp. Clearly, it has strayed from that goal. As have I. I wish I could say that I have continued success in that area but it is quite the opposite. I have hit a point of frustration with my physical health. I am trying to eat healthy again. But, the lack of cardio exercises I am allowed to do is making me feel very defeated. I remember feeling this way after my initial knee surgery 8 years ago. After swearing I would not get to this point, I am left wondering...what changed? I feel like people around me are excelling and succeeding in so many of their goals and I am just stuck. I miss feeling that pride and that sense of accomplishment.

I recently learned that making promises to yourself and sticking to them will drastically improve your self image. I am going to try that. I think I need to also remind myself that things don't happen overnight. I let myself get to this point. Truthfully, I let it happen all summer. So, now is the time for change in me (again). A new school year. A new classroom. A new me? Well, I will give it a try.

Enjoy some pics from my new classroom...