Over Two Years, Things Change…
As luck would have it, it rained this afternoon. One daughter had a soccer game and the other had a softball game. Both were postponed. Now, you’re probably thinking why I said “as luck would have it.” Don’t I want to see my kids play? Of course I do! But selfish on my part, it allowed me to get a run in. I didn’t exercise the day before because of another soccer game. Tomorrow, there is a good chance I’ll miss my exercise class due to a softball game.
Over the previous year and a half, I have lost 45 lbs. I started out on my weight loss plan because I wanted to play soccer again. I now play soccer 2 days per week (indoor on Monday, outdoor on Sunday). I run 5K’s. I go to a boot camp class 2 nights per week when the schedule allows. The benefits have been awesome. I used to be on blood pressure medication, but I no longer need it (per the doctor). I have gone from bordering on a 42″ waist down to a 36″ waist. I can shop at any clothes store I want (I’m partial to Banana Republic).
Here’s the thing. I realize if I want maintain this weight and my new found level of fitness and health, I have to continue my current regiment of exercise. There is no way around it and that takes time. My wife and three kids would like to see me every now and then. And then there is work. My place of employment is in Boston which entails a one way commute of 1.5 hours door to door.
Two years ago, I ran for state representative. I walked 99% of the district and I know the work and time commitment it would take to campaign once again. And it was on today’s run that I realized I cannot make that commitment. I wouldn’t be able to come home and sneak in a run before dinner. I’d have to be out the door to knock on other doors as soon as I got home. I would miss my daughters’ soccer and softball games. I would miss my son’s band performances. And I enjoy watching them too much. I would miss going to boot camp classes with my wife.
There is only one way to run a campaign and that is a full-time commitment at full-speed. And this time around, I cannot do it. Therefore, I am announcing that I will not run for State Rep. in District 16. It is my hope that it is not too late to find another Republican candidate to run and I apologize to those that planned on supporting me.
