Everything I need to know I learn from Spark Friends

After 11 years as a sparker, the last 3 mostly MIA, I appreciate the information, resources, trackers and philosophy of the program. Still, it’s the spark friends, old and new, that make it real for me.

It’s not like listening to a famous celebrity day after day or some marketing exec out to sell me a product, but so many real people with real lives, facing ups and downs while trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle in different environments in all parts of the world.

I appreciate the diversity of their experience. Some are senior citizens like me. Most seem to be middle aged like my children and others could be my grandchildren.

Just like in real life it is valuable to listen to the perspective of all generations. Some are starting their journey toward a healthy lifestyle, some lamenting yet another plateau, some have achieved amazing success, some describe overcoming challenges, hardship and loss. Others have been in maintenance for years. I love the variety of my Spark World.

Together the threads of all our individual lives are creating a beautiful tapestry as we bloom where we are planted.



COVID stopped our world travels. I moped about that for months, but the world is still there. I read about it and see your photos, every day, right here.

OneKidsMom reminds me to make every day count

When I need a laugh there are many, especially One-Day-at-a time

At age 73 I am very inspired by those in my age group (and older) still determined to get out there and enjoy every day. TCANNO inspires me to increase my daily distance and take time to appreciate the sights around me.

Just last night we were watching a documentary about the Indian Pacific Railroad across Australia and learned that Doveseyes lives near the western end of the route.

Then there are old friends who introduce us to new experiences.
When I returned to Spark, Kaliswalker invited me to join a 5% challenge.
OH I don’t need that. I know how to be successful and I have been.
Yet, I am enjoying the camaraderie and shared experience of teammates working toward a goal. I’ve even discovered the benefits of Pilates! How about that!

And finally from a new member who really “gets it”
She wrote a perfect explanation of the difference between diet and healthy living including the reaction of those who would stop us in our tracks. I think this is her first blog.

www.sparkpeople.com/mypa
ge_public_journal_individu
al.asp?blog_id=6711727

I am so happy to reconnect with old members and thrilled to learn from and share the experiences of new sparkers as well.

As a teacher for 30 years (retired since 2007), I wanted my students to become life-long learners and try to model that behavior myself. I had a sign in my classroom

“In times of change learners inherit the earth while the learned are perfectly prepared for a world that no longer exists” (Eric Hoffer)

Thank you for reading and enjoy your day.
As OneKidsMom would say - “This is the only October 26, 2020 we will ever get”