The end of 2006 is almost here. Hard to believe that is has been almost 3
years since I started my journey. I have grown and learned a lot in that
time.
This time of year people reflect on the past year and think about
resolutions or aspirations for the coming year. Many are made in
half-hearted or good intentioned, but never last because there is no
commitment.

This year, when making a resolution - be committed to following it through
no matter what. Falling off track is normal, getting back on track takes
commitment.

On a slightly down-note, my weight for the end of the year came in at
256lbs, a 5lbs gain over last month. Although I honestly don't see it as
that much of a down-note.
Average estimates come in that people gain 5-6lbs over the holidays so I
guess I am an average kind of guy.

But look at what I have accomplished over the past year:

* lost a total of 226lbs without surgery (over almost a 3 year period)
* was featured in the local papers 4 separate times for my efforts
* learned how to ride a bike (again)
* started jogging (can jog almost 3mi without stopping)
* earned my Competent Communicator designation from Toastmasters
International
* launched a successful internet web-show ("The Fattening of America" on
YouTube.com)
* spoke to Dave Ramsey live on the air (author of "The Total Money Makeover"
& host of "The Dave Ramsey Show")
* spoke to Richard Simmons live on the air
* started/taught a Financial Peace University class @ church
* wrote/directed my first play for the public

That is a lot to be thankful for. This next year is going to be just as
exciting:

* get my public speaking off the ground (2 engagements booked so far...)
* write a book to inspire/help others
* launch my own informational/support website
* increase my daily exercise to 45min
* run my first 5k (Run for Habitat, 05/05/07)
* train/enter my first triathalon (Macatawa Triathalon, 07/07)
* earn my Advanced Toastmaster - Bronze designation from Toastmasters
International

Above all, I was listening to a Lynyrd Skynyrd song this morning that pretty
much sums up what I want to accomplish this coming year:

"Mama told me when I was young
Come sit beside me, my only son
And listen closely to what I say.
And if you do this
It will help you some sunny day.

Take your time... don't live too fast,
Troubles will come and they will pass.
Go find a woman and youll find love,
And don't forget son,
There is someone up above.

(chorus)
And be a simple kind of man.
Be something you love and understand.
Be a simple kind of man.
Wont you do this for me son,
If you can?

Forget your lust for the rich man's gold
All that you need is in your soul,
And you can do this if you try.
All that I want for you my son,
Is to be satisfied.

(chorus)

Boy, don't you worry... youll find yourself.
Follow you heart and nothing else.
And you can do this if you try.
All I want for you my son,
Is to be satisfied.

(chorus)" - Lynyrd Skynyrd, "Simple Man"

"Be something you love and understand..." That's it right there...

I've said it before, I thank the Lord for all of your support and
encouragement during this journey.
I honestly could not have accomplished what I have if I did not have such a
great support system like I have.
I am truly blessed.

Good luck and may God bless you in 2007!

Matty (I weighed more than Jared from Subway)
481/256/225
(starting weight/current weight/goal weight)

First mini goal achieved - 104lbs lost 10/26/04
Second mini goal achieved - 137lbs lost 01/28/05
Third mini goal achieved - 183lbs lost 09/30/05
Fourth mini goal achieved - 204lbs total lost 01/30/06
Fifth mini goal achieved - 233lbs total lost by 08/31/06
Sixth mini goal - 256lbs total lost by 02/24/2007