Why "Debber Than Ever"

I've spent the better part of my life disliking myself--my body, my personality, and many of my choices. I tried many things over the years to change that, but nothing worked--until I discovered running and, shortly thereafter, yoga.

I started to believe I could do anything I put my mind to, and I did. From running marathons to travel to becoming certified as a yoga teacher to saying "no" to things that were not right for me (and "yes" to things that were), I found myself doing things I never even dared to dream.

One morning while running I thought to myself, "You're healthier and stronger in your 50s than you were in your 20s. You're better than ever--no, you're 'Debber than ever.'" Of course, this notion applies whether or not your name is Deb (although I find that the convention is easier to apply when you have a one-syllable name that ends in a consonant : ). It's really the idea of loving yourself and wanting to be better because you love yourself.

I've always felt called to write about my experiences and to try and build a community of like-minded people, but I thought people would think it was silly. Maybe some will, but maybe some won't. I am daring to dream it.