Hi team!! I've been a little MIA this week because I've been crazy busy and haven't made it to my computer. I do get my emails on my phone, so I've been keeping up with those of you who have sent out emails!!! It's just too time consuming to try to blog from my phone, so I only get around to it occasionally!

I know almost all of you, but for those of you who I don't know, my name is Valerie and I am married to Justin. Kevin is my brother, Kali is my sister in law, I know Stacy, Lindsay and Suzanne from either book club or the 4th ward and Dianne is my friend, "neighbor" and work out buddy!!! I'm so excited to be doing this challenge and am looking forward to getting to know the rest of you!!!

I have been doing these challenges now for over a year and had finally made it down to my goal weight when I got pregnant. I am due in 5 weeks and have been so grateful that I have continued to exercise and eat (mostly) healthy during this pregnancy. I definitely feel better than I ever did when I was pregnant with my other children! These challenges are the best motivator for me. It helps me drag my rear out of bed at 6 am to exercise because I need the points for my team, and it helps me say "no" to treats that I would normally consume (in large quantities!). Basically, I'm saying I have no self control or will power unless I'm participating in a challenge!!! Oh well, whatever works, right?

I also want to throw my name into the "sugar addict" club. I love candy, cake, cookies, brownies, etc, etc, etc. I did notice that the first three days of the week, I felt incredibly lethargic, sick and fuzzy headed. I know it was because I went cold turkey off the sugar. Luckily, I have been feeling much better the last few days, and have had LOTS more energy!!! I still don't understand why I hate to exercise and eat healthy when I feel so good when I do!

Anyway, enough blabbing!!! Just wanted to let you all know that I'm here and working hard for the team. Justin's actually doing a great job too (but I can pretty much guarantee you'll never see him here on the blog)!

GO BLUE!!!!