My doctor called to see if I’d had a stroke yet.

This was a great post. I recently found my rock bottom and I am working my way towards better health.

Carly, What do you mean by rock bottom? Are you fighting a disease or more "general" health? What kinds of things are you going to do to work you way back to health? I'd love to hear what you have going on! By the way, when I started running, I couldn't run to the corner! The best way start is just to start!! Let me know!
John from the Poi

John, that's a serious wake up call! Congrats on giving up the cigarettes- one of the hardest addictions to get away from- and losing the weight!

My Aha was not so dramatic- after years of focused healthy habits, never smoking, etc., I found myself gaining weight and having to buy a larger size pants. That was it for me! I knew if I kept going in that direction, I'd be facing another size increase in the future. I'm back into my original size with increased exercise, decreased food portions, and cutting out snacks (though I do loosen up around the holidays).

John, when you started running, was it easier to make other changes to your lifestyle?

Hiker - Thanks! And congrats to you on getting back into your original size! It's so easy to put on some lbs as time goes on!
Catherine, actually I started running in hopes it would help me quit smoking, but it didn't. That said, I when you run or do anything "good" for you it helps you think about other aspects of you life. When you burn off 500 calories you think twice (most of the time!) about eating a big mac! Most important is just living a healthier lifestyle and making little choices and changes that all add up. Also, when you indulge, enjoy it. Like you said, at the holidays - just don't ruin it with guilt! Happy New Year to all!

Oooops, I should have hit "reply" but posted a new comment instead. Posting this so you'll know there's a response! Sorry!