Natalie's journal - week 4: The encouragement was overwhelming

I'm a bit anxious about returning to work, which happens in a few days. I'm sure once I get there I'll be okay. I'm also anxious about what will replace the workout groove that I have found.

When change is inevitable, the best thing to do is to embrace it and move on. I know I really shouldn't be worried, as exercise has always been integral to my life and my husband is fully supportive. Together we will just find a way to keep it up. To be the best mom I can be, I have to do a little for myself too. And my family knows that all too well.

I am getting a surprising level of feedback from various persons on the series. Random people are recognising me in random places and offering words of encouragement to me. I am not someone who is usually in the limelight, so this caught me off-guard. I'm talking about words of encouragement like from a man driving his car as I walked on the sidewalk; a lady in the pharmacy as I stood in line; and in business meetings with persons I am meeting for the first time. Not to mention the emails, texts, BBMs and Facebook messages.

Health goals are personal

I think what is important to take away is that health goals are personal. Each one of us has a different goal specific to our experience and our desired look and feel. I, for example, have no desire to be waif. I prefer to be trim and toned, but not skinny. Someone in an elevator commented to me that she would be very happy if she were my size. We all have different goals.

It also will take us different lengths of time and effort to get there. Some are lucky enough to attain their pre-pregnancy weight within a month. Others, such as me, have to work really hard at it over a period of many months. With this being my third time pregnant, I know I can attain my goal. It's just a matter of hard work and determination.

Email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com

Natalie Murray

Age: 36 years old

Height: 5ft 8 inches

Post-pregnancy weight: 173 pounds

Target: 150 pounds over three months