2018 hiking the Zion Narrows with my daughter to this week in 2025. More photos below.

I am genuinely grateful that when I needed to lose a significant amount of weight, Ozempic wasn’t available. Not because it’s “bad” or because anyone who uses it is wrong — but because I know I would still be yo-yo’ing with my diet all these years later.

And honestly? If Ozempic had existed during my lowest point, I would have grabbed it with both hands. I was exhausted, uncomfortable, discouraged, and willing to try anything that promised relief. A shortcut would have sounded like hope.

But for me, personally, the quick fix would have robbed me of the long-term tools that keep me healthy today.

I did it the old-fashioned way — slowly, steadily, and honestly pretty imperfectly. It took a full year before the results really showed, and back then it felt painfully slow.

But long-term? I’m so much better off. I learned how to nourish myself, how to fuel my running, how to stabilize my energy, and how to build habits that would carry me forward for years… not months.

I needed to feel strong enough to do the adventures I love. Nutrition is my fuel. I need to eat to run long distances, train consistently, chase big goals, and handle the daily tasks of a full, active life.

And now, when my weight starts to creep up — because yes, I’m human and that absolutely happens — I have tools that actually work. I’ve learned to course-correct without panic. Good nutrition works, even if the process feels slow at times. What once felt impossible finally made sense once I had the right guidance.

I also don’t have the time or desire to deal with potential side effects of medications like Ozempic — and again, I truly understand why people want that option. Wanting weight loss desperately makes anything feel worth it. But for my life, I’m incredibly grateful that my only option at the time was the slow, sustainable path. Three years after taking control of my nutrition, I’m thriving — not tired all the time, and not frustrated every morning when nothing in my closet fits.

A few things that helped me most:

Daily food logging
Simple nutrition rules I could actually follow
Blood work to understand what my body needed
Weighing myself regularly to stay aware, not obsessed

As I look toward the new year, I feel excited. Energized. Hopeful. I have races I want to run, events I want to host, adventures I want to take, and family moments I want to cherish. My paper planner is already filling up because I know structure keeps me grounded.

And for nutrition?

I'm thrilled about my friend Irene from GetUFit and her new app. It’s the perfect space for me to log my food, stay on track, find recipes, and grab inspiration when I need it.

Plus— Glam. Glitter. Grow. retreat is going to be a great chance to learn more from Irene. LINK TO LEARN MORE

I feel so much better than I did five years ago, and I want that same peace for everyone — peace with your body, your nutrition, and your life.

Side Effects of Ozempic That Remind Me How Grateful I Am for My Path
While Ozempic can be helpful for some, the most common side effects include:

Nausea and vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Constipation
Fatigue or drowsiness
Cost a lot of money & that is never ending
Headache
Indigestion, heartburn, or burping

For me — with my schedule, my races, my energy needs, and my lifestyle — I simply don’t have time for these. And I’m thankful I never had to face them.

Wishing everyone a lifetime of successes! Love, Michele

The Fast Fix I Wanted vs. the Lasting Change I Needed

And for nutrition?

Why are we so hard on ourselves?