The last link

When one door closes another door opens; but we so often look so long and so regretfully upon the closed door, that we do not see the ones which open for us.” – Alexander Graham Bell

The last link in my milestone bracelet completes and begins the cycle. A key to match the last charm I received from Weight Watchers. It reminds me that that though one chapter of my life is ending, another begins. May I never forget the door that brought me here or fail to recognize the doors ahead.

Charms: 60lbs and 65lbs

Mr. Trim is getting even fancier with his shots! Here's a pic of my newest charms. (The blue background is my new SIGG bottle, btw.)



And here are the meanings:

• Panda (60 lbs): Bears are a symbol for reflection as well as relaxation. The journey is hard, but it's important to relax and have fun.
  
• Elephant (65 lbs): Strength and patience in all things. And never forgetting where you've come from and where you aim to be.
  

There's just one more blank link left in my bracelet. I don't think I need to say what it's reserved for :)

Charms: 50lbs and 55lbs

My new charms are in! Mr. Trim is getting fancy with the photography; I just love this photo.



Here are the meanings of my new charms:

• Airplane (50 lbs): I'm amazed at just how far this journey of mine has taken me. I've traveled so far. Not just in clothing sizes, but in self-esteem, confidence and a desire to see and try new things.
  
• Umbrella (55 lbs): We can weather anything if we have the right tools and support. Persistence, patience, and forgiveness – rain or shine!
  

I'm now down to three blank links left. Two links for the next ten pounds and one link for goal. I don't think it could've worked out any more perfectly!

Charms: 40lbs, 45lbs, and Half Marathon

My latest charms arrived in the mail faster than I expected! The replacement "BMI" butterfly is there along with a few more:



As usual, these have meanings, too:

• Turtle (40 lbs): Slow and steady wins the race. Though it might seem like it's taking forever, I'm still moving forward!
• Ribbon (half-marathon): A special charm for accomplishing this momentous feat.
• Yin and Yang (45 lbs): Balance in all things. There are times when it's easy, but there's also times when it's hard. Both are needed to learn from the other.

My bracelet is getting close to being full. There's only five blank links left!

Charms: BMI and 35lbs

Sorry it's taken so long to post this, but better late than never! Here's a photo of two charms I earned a couple of months ago:



As with my other charms, these have meanings as well:

• Butterfly (BMI of 29.9): With this BMI, I'm no longer classified as "clinically obese." Therefore, the butterfly is a fitting symbol of transformation. I'm emerging again, healthier than before.
  
• Watering Can (35 lbs): Tending your body is like tending a garden. With water (lots of water), the proper nutrients, and love, it will flourish.

I owe myself a few more charms for other achievements and have gone ahead and ordered them. I'm actually replacing the butterfly charm pictured above because I really don't like it. It's too big and doesn't really go with the other charms. I think maybe it's part of the reason why I haven't been ordering charms or even wearing my bracelet. So, out it goes! I'll be replacing it with another butterfly – one that isn't so big!

Charms: 25lb and 30lb

My 25 lb charm finally arrived in the mail today. I also received a very special charm from my husband which has become my 30 lb charm. I've already added them to my milestone bracelet and my husband was kind enough to take a photo:


As with my other charms, these have meanings, too:

• Starfish (25 lbs): The starfish is a symbol of rebirth and regeneration. We can regrow what was once missing, make new what was once incomplete. Starfish are also said to be reflections of the stars in the sky. By our actions today, we reflect what we are becoming. Stronger, prouder, and healthier. A true rebirth.
  
• Heart (30 lbs): A special charm that reminds me that though I have fought hard, I still wouldn't be where I am today without the love and support of my husband. He has been with me every step of the way. Who praises me, loves me, and supports me without complaint or condition? That would be my very dear husband. Thank you, my love. You truly are my strength.

I have an idea of what my next charm will be, but first I've got to lose that next 5 lbs!

Go girl!

Well, well, look at what came in the mail today! My Italian charm bracelet! The charms are even prettier than I could have hoped for. I'm so happy!



From left to right, here's a list of the charms and their meanings:

• Blue star (5 lbs): For the first star on my bookmark.
  
• Train (10 lbs): I'm the little engine that could...and did!
• Bike (15 lbs): What's loss without sweating to an exercise video, working the machines at Curves, or pushing the pedals on my exercise bike?
  
• Emerald flower (20 lbs): Celebrating my birth month and being alive to appreciate the here and now.
• Go Girl! (10%): A special charm to commemorate losing 10% of my starting weight. Look at me go!

I haven't decided on the next charm yet; I'll cross that bridge when the scales say I can cross. In the meantime, I'm wearing my new bracelet with pride. Woot!