Fabulous, Fit, & almost Forty

sarah-pomegranate1Earlier this year I announced my quest to be Fabulous, Fit and Forty.  My stated goal was “to have a toned, healthy body weight that supports my desired active lifestyle rather than limits it.”  With my 40th birthday only 5 weeks away, it is time for an update.

I look back at the past eight years since my first pregnancy and can see so clearly how much of my life energy has been going towards feeling miserable in my body.  I have always loved being tall and big-boned and I do fully appreciate having curves.

Years ago my husband wrote a love poem with the line

“I dance your broad expanse,” and I loved him for it.

In recent years, however, instead of celebrating my broad bum,  I have felt tired, heavy and stuck.

Five months into the quest, a new body is emerging, and the changes go far beyond how my clothing fits.  It has become increasingly clear that this isn’t just about weight loss.

In addition to being 20 pounds lighter (joy!) I am enjoying an abundance of energy and clarity.   I feel strong.  I love movement again – and no longer dread something as simple as going up and down a staircase.  I look in the mirror and I recognize myself.  As this new healthier and stronger body emerges, so is a more alive, joyful & connected spirit.

My 40th birthday is in five weeks and  I will be celebrating with a photo shoot by my dear friend Nancy George.  I look forward to sharing them with you all!

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What are you seeking in body and spirit?

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This entry was posted on Monday, June 8th, 2009 at 4:26 PM and is filed under Healthy Mama. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

13 Responses to “Fabulous, Fit, & almost Forty”

  1. [...] and renew. We’ve all seen friends who successfully make extraordinary changes in their lifestyle, fitness, relationships, and more. We know that resolutions can be met with success, but also require time, [...]

  2. [...] and renew. We’ve all seen friends who successfully make extraordinary changes in their lifestyle, fitness, relationships, and more. We know that resolutions can be met with success, but also require time, [...]

  3. [...] had some momentous birthdays around here lately.  Both co-founders of Mama Renew, Sarah and Jennifer-Lee, have turned 40 within the past month.  We have enjoyed a unique journey of [...]

  4. [...] for 2009.  Well, mine was Fabulous, Fit and Forty, a resolution that resonated deeply for both Sarah and [...]

  5. Bonnie says:

    Yay!!!

    To second Callie, I think the “I look in the mirror and recognize myself” is the most powerful statement of all.

    Much love, respect, and admiration from me to you.

    xoxoBonnie

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  6. Ilene says:

    Congratulations Honey!
    You are an inspiration. I’m so happy for you as you metamorphose into the wonderful world of the 40’s! Yo go Mamma! Can’t wait to see you soon and celebrate with you in person!

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  7. Melanie Solbach says:

    Oh yeah, I so know… Hitting the gym now at 5.30 till 7am since nothing else worked out. Isaac’s needs and my needs were never cooperating. I feel so much more myself, although there are still 11 pds hanging around here. My body feels like MY body and my spirit is singing to me again. I believe that our bodies are made to work and that our spirit, too needs that work. It keeps body and spirit in balance. I am so happy for you and so know what you are talking about. The recognition in the mirror is such a relief filled with so much joy. Happy Birthday to the “new” Sarah. Your spirit always shone through. YOU ARE a beautiful person inside-out. xoxo

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  8. Congratulations! I’ve been on a similar journey this past year, as a way to reposition after a car accident that made my life pretty miserable before, during and after my second pregnancy. And I’m thrilled with the results and the state of my new life (although that car accident seems like it’s always going to haunt me). But I’m choosing to take action and move ahead in my journey and it’s been fantastic. I am also obligated here to put in a plug for the fabulous folks at Fit 4 Two, especially Melanie! :)

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  9. Beth says:

    I honestly can say that I didn’t ever notice 20 lbs on you that you had to lose. When I met you, it was through the wonderful Dancing Star birthing classes and I think that your personality and spirit shone through so strongly that I couldn’t see much past that and your warm smile.
    I’m really glad that you’re loving movement and finding new ways to enjoy all that your body can help you achieve.
    As for what I do for my body and spirit: swim, bike, run. More than a sport, triathlon is a lifestyle and a celebration of being active at all ages and all abilities!

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  10. Bridgitte says:

    You are radiating from this wonderful journey. You are beautiful in so many ways. Just know that where you are at right now, is right for you and we love you for it. We will celebrate this wonderful year!

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  11. Callie says:

    I love this.

    “I look in the mirror and I recognize myself.”

    Seeing your body radiate energy, vitality… you are a dynamo! Much more than weight loss, much more than strong biceps. Truly, the reason I love what I do for a living :) Congratulations to you for entering your fourth decade on a major high!

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  12. Anne-Marie says:

    Hey Sarah – funny you posted this today, when I saw you on the weekend, I thought you looked great! There was something about you that just glowed! Happy early birthday!

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  13. penny says:

    Congrats on your loss! You’re a true inspiration in so many ways! Island life is clearly working well for you :o ) I love that you share so honestly your life experiences. Hope to catch up with you one day soon…

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