“Hello World” was the sample title that the blog company chose for the first blog, so I thought that I would keep it, as those 2 words sum up what this first post will do…allow me to say hello to the world and begin sharing my journey with everyone. So, thank you for taking the time to join me in this, as I feel in my heart that this journey is going to become something amazing, spectacular and extraordinary!
I wasn’t sure how I would begin my first post, but I think the best way is to share with all of you how my story has led to this point. So, I will take the “About Me” post and place it here so that you can join me in this incredible journey that I am on….
Have you ever been inspired by someone in such a way that you couldn’t wait to share those words, thoughts, ideas with every other person you know and care about? That has always been my greatest joy….to pass on the amazing wisdom that others have shared with me, to everyone I know, and many times, even to strangers.
For me, it is pure excitement and joy to learn from others, things that truly make a difference in each and every moment and “season of life”, try to put it into practice in my own life, and then share the wisdom with everyone I can. I have always kept notebooks filled with my favorite sayings, ideas, teaching moments, etc.. I have even started writing a book of everything that I would want to pass on to someone (but that’s another thing I have to finish)..
For me, the joy of being inspired and then inspiring others is something that I can barely put into words. It literally takes my breath away.
The one area, however, where I have never felt that I had the ability to inspire others, is in the area of weight loss. I have battled weight my entire life. The last time I was happy with my fitness and weight was in high school. I have gone on many diets, lost and gained it back, over and over again. Now, at a time where my children are a bit older, and I am now in my late 40’s, the time when everyone says you start to become wiser and learn that you have to come first in order to live your best life, Well, I guess that’s where I am now….and for the first time in my life, I BELIEVE I CAN DO IT!
By now you’re wondering….How did you get to this point?…
Every season, I watch The Biggest Loser. I sit and get inspired each time, and then I start with a strict diet and exercise, and I last a while. But then each week as they shed pounds in the double digits, I get frustrated that my weight doesn’t come off as fast, I then give up.. and just continue to watch, wishing that I could be one of them. Then…Season 11 came. This season was going to be different for me, (or so I thought), because we sort of knew someone on the show. You see, Olivia Ward’s husband, Ben, lead worship at our church, and so now we were watching every week praying for her and checking in with Ben each week if he had heard anything. I even kept a notebook of all the “behind the scenes” questions I had while watching the show. In my mind, I was going to lose the weight along with Olivia this time. A few weeks into it, I hadn’t even started. Then, she was sent home for a few weeks at Christmas. I remember her walking into Church on Christmas Eve, she had already lost sooo much weight. She looked stunning. I was so happy for her, and again told myself, “ Wendy, just start after Christmas”. Well, the only one who really did it along with her was her husband, Ben. Every week at church, we watched him lose the weight. It was so exciting when they saw each other on the show during makeover week. The two of them looked amazing! Again, all I could do was beat myself up for not starting and sticking with it. So…in my mind at this point I thought, maybe Olivia would be willing to give me a few tips when she got back.
As most people know by now, Olivia won the entire season. It was so exciting to see her win, especially as we all followed her journey and prayed for her. I was so happy for her, yet so disgusted with myself for not losing even a pound since the show started that season. I wrote to her to let her know what an inspiration she was, and shared with her from my heart how desperate and defeated I felt in the weight loss journey.
It was only a few days after the last show had aired, she was already a superstar in the eyes of everyone, people were stopping her wherever she went, and yet she took time to write an email to me. Right in the midst of all of her fame, Olivia wrote this email that changed my life that day… and started me on this journey of BELIEVING that I could be the “Million Dollar Me” I was meant to be, and win Dr. Oz’s Transformation Nation….
Hi Wendy!
I’m so glad you are enjoying the blog!! It has been a joy to work on. I would love to get together to chat about all of this and working with you to help you achieve your goals. I know you can do it….believe me if I can you can. Like me you just don’t have the knowledge…it’s as simple as that. It’s not because you have failed…you just need some instruction. Start to look at it that way…mentally it will make the BIGGEST difference in how you view weight loss. What are your plans Sunday after church? Would you like to go to lunch with Ben and I? I’m going to write down some instructions for you and we can go over them then. You will start on Monday. 🙂 Let me know if that works for you, if not we can find another time…no worries. I look forward to hearing from you!
When I read her words, “I know you can do it…believe me if I can you can…..you just don’t have the knowledge…It’s not because you have failed….” The fact that she took time to write to me, and believed that I could do it, meant the world to me.
Olivia and Ben took the time out of their new crazy schedules that next week and had breakfast with me and began to share their greatest tips and wisdom regarding weight loss. When I got home, I wrote down everything they said so that I wouldn’t forget. The fact that they won the battle with weight loss and believed in me..they believed that I could do the same, was a moment that I will never forget. As I started to put the knowledge together and try and make a plan of how to accomplish this goal, I found myself watching Dr. Oz one day (as I tape him every day). This was the day that he launched Dr. Oz’s Transformation Nation, Million Dollar You” Challenge. As I watched the show, a renewed hope and an indescribable belief came upon me. I took notes during the entire show (as I always do), and I proceeded to the computer and took all of the steps to join the challenge.
This journey has been incredible so far, and for some reason I have kept a journal since the first day I signed up on October 2, 2011. I now realize, through many amazing circumstances, that the journal was kept so that I could share it with everyone through this blog. Everything that has happened so far, has led to this exact moment, where I am writing this “about me” section.
I am sooo excited to see where this journey and blog leads me. I am praying that through it all, great wisdom will be shared and lives will be inspired!
Wendy Weighs In... 
Hey Wendy!! You’re officially a “blogger!” My first “blogger buddy!” Very exciting. What’s more exciting is that you are going strong. You’re already winning!! You’re looking amazing, and your energy is contagious. Keep going and don’t look back. Love ya! xo
Wtg Wendy, you look great Keep up the good work!!!
Way to go Wendy! Keep it up.
I have already been inspired by you, my dear friend. You have enthusiasm and passion on this new journey of yours! I continue to be blessed by your words, your tremendous faith, and now by your new walk to weight loss. I look forward to reading your blog everyday, learning from you, and joining you on your weight loss journey. Over these last few months you have been an inspiration and have helped me get off the couch and moving again! Let’s go Team Wendy!!!!!!!!
i just went through an entire box of tissues. i am so dearly proud/inspired/overjoyed/happy/ecstatic and love you to pieces. i miss you so much and love that i get to share in your journey.
The journey is most definitely worth it, and in my eyes, an opportunity to look at areas of our lives that need to change alongside the food we eat. The journey is most definitely worth it, and in my eyes, an opportunity to look at areas of our lives that need to change alongside the food we eat (I’ve found diet and lifestyle are closely interlinked!). I don’t mean just doing more exercise; the better we feel, the more we can evaluate and begin to change outmoded patterns of behaviour. This in turn results in personal growth, or from another perspective, it brings us closer to becoming our ‘authentic selves’; who God really wants us to be. And it’s all such an adventure 🙂 A wonderful adventure that changes us forever. Go Wendy!
Very brave of you to make this blog Wendy, you will lose the weight! A gym trainer I used to have once told me, “Results equals consistency over a long period of time.” Not the most nicely phrased sentence, but it helps to hear it in your head when you are try to lose weight.
To my dear dear friend and tennis partner, we shall not be defeated! I have always told you and will continue to tell you that you are a truly amazing, wonderful person. With your tenacity, you will achieve and surpass any goals you set. You look fabulous and you sound incredible. I am pulling for you all the way. Love Amy & Gus
Now YOU are the inspiration! I know it’s hard to believe that you are beautiful big or small and that only what is in the inside counts when society and ourselves are constantly judging. You ARE beautiful no matter what- but what you are doing now is getting healthy which is much more important. I myself am thin but I am in no means whatsoever healthy and you are inspiring me to change that! The inside is what counts and we are working to change that for the better- because when we are happy and healthy, everything else seems to fall into place naturally and THAT is what makes it all worth it in the end! 🙂 xoxo
WENDY TRUNZ> COME ON RIGHT NOW> GIVE IT TO ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1 I AM SO EXCITED AND OVERWHELMED WHICH IS WHY I’m WRITING IN CAPS. You are going to rock it you athlete and when you’re ready , you come right over here and run a half with me and i am DEAD SERIOUS> i love you SOOOOOOOOO MUCH. bring it
Wendy:
We are so proud of you Wendy. You inspire us all with your story and beautiful spirit. We are cheering you on with love and joy– all the way. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. We love you.
Ev, Scott &l Lilly
Wendy, you have always been one to try to encourage others in many areas of life and here you are encouraging us in another area! My prayers are with you – as I know how tough the healthy lifestyle is – been trying it myself. I start with a personal trainer tomorrow!
Hey I just came across a book by Lysa TerKeurst called Made to Crave – Satisfying your deepest desire with God not food. Looks really good. You can sign up for daily emails too.
Much love and prayers and encouragement to you! Remember the strength you have in Christ – Greater is He who is in YOU, than he (and all the tempting foods) who is in the world.
Love, Cheryl
Wendy,
All of my life you have been someone that I admire and respect. Your heart, love and caring for EVERYONE that you know is your strongest asset. In everything that I have ever even tried (let alone accomplished) you have always been a number one fan (and talking me up to everyone) being on your favorite things list has been a huge accomplishment of mine. And I am honored now to support you reach your own goals. Sending lots of love and prayers! KICK BUTT GIRL!!
Dear Wendy,
I am a long time friend of Scott’s. I know that there is a winner in all of us. I all ready know you have what it takes because of the person you are in side. Its true sometimes all we need is to find that person that has been through a difficult time and to share it, to make a difference for us. I believe you have found it. You will do it and you will inspire others. Have a great journey.
Ana La Bella
I do believe if anyone can do it you can. You have been such a comfort for me especially these last couple of years. I am on TEAM WENDY – cheering and praying for you every step of the way. Whatever you need for support, you let me know. Lots of love, Laurie
Wendy, keep up the spirit! Weight loss isn’t about denial and sacrifice … it’s about a pattern … smattered with rewards for sticking to the pattern. Good luck to you! I’m routing for you!
Love,
Nancy Dover
You are an inspration Wendy!!! You look amazing!!! We are here supporting you through this journey and I will ready yuour blog everyday!!! Go Team Wendy!!!
Georgine, Eric, Tyler & Connor
So proud of you and to do it out in the open for all to see. What a gift you are giving. I too am working on a goal. Much love and hugs. Aunt K
Rats! I wanted to be the first to leave a comment…but now I’m glad it wasn’t me–it is great to see how many people BELIEVE in you too! YOu are doing a great Job!! I BELIEVE IN YOU!!!
WOW WENDY WONDERFUL!!
Wendy, you are awesome! So excited to keep up with you on your journey! Keep up the great work!
Wendy – You rock Mama! I believe that as you begin to refine and define this journey, remember to live in today. Everyday it is a choice you make. I believe in you. You inspire me and encourage me. Here’s to April and beyond. Love you, C
So happy for you and I believe in you. You can do it!!!!
Love,
Darlene
You gotta Believe and you do! I believe in you and you will make it! I remember our first church retreat and how special you were to me and how you made me feel and now I want you to know how special you are!
You have inspired me always in our ministry!
Love
Annette
PS Remember the boat, Cranky????
Wendy, thank you for sharing this wonderful journey with all of us. I know you can do it! I’ll be praying for you all the way.
Love,
Amy
Thank-you so much for sharing your journey
I truely believe u can do anything u put your mind to it
I’m so proud of you and will be followong your journey and cheering you along
Wendy, you are amazing. I am pulling for you and praying for you. You are an inspiration to all of us. Thank you for taking us along on your journey. i am so proud of you. You go girl!!!!
Love and blessings,
joanne
OMG Wendy – AWESOME! – I’m gonna have to knock on your door and give you a hug or something!! Way to go!
Way to go Wendy! You CAN do it! You have the faith and confidence in yourself to move mountains. Go for it! Cheers! Kristen
Wendy, I am so happy for you in beginning this new journey. I too know VERY WELL the struggles every day with weight issues and I give you credit for making this committment and be so public about it. You and Warren have inspired me in the past (more than you know). Years ago the two of you introduced me to a book that I read OVER and OVER again and it reminds me that I am worthy of LOVE and that one day the RIGHT MAN will come into my life and when that day comes AGAIN I will be a better person and open to that love. I have always admired you both, your relationship, faith and family and this is JUST ONE MORE reason to follow in your path …… THANK YOU FOR INCLUDING me and I look forward to reading and following your progress. Love Santina
Loved your story Wendy, with all the support around you, and your beautiful spirit, you will definately succeed in your goal. As others have written I’m sure you will be an inspiration and encouragement to others. Enjoy your journey and your beautiful transformation. Love always, Cousin Gail xxoo
WENDY – I have always had trouble choosing the right words to describe you and your amazing family. You have been there for my family since the day we all met, you saw me finish high school, go on to college and get married (in spirit). I have worked with your family and you have stood by mine, you all are family! I can wish nothing more for a person as incredible and strong as you than to accomplish something for YOU! We are all cheering you on and will cheer you on forever. So much love, the Florida Graham/Jackson
Dear Wendy,
It is so thriling to see that you are starting the process of believing in yourself as we all do! You are a truely beautiful person inside and out…and as our very dear friend always says….YOU gO GIRL!!! xoxo
Diana
Taking care of me and losing all that weight? Yes, dad and I are proud of you. You come in every day with a smile on your lips and pleasant thoughts
which is a tremendous lift to both of us. Having you, your AMAZING huaband,
and two such beautiful children has been a great blessing to us all. We want to wish you all the luck in the world on your new journey.
All our love
Your Mom and Dad
Hi Wendy,
Your cousin Scott passed your blog along and I feel it is ironic in a couple of ways. One my childhood name was Wendy, and I am also at a point where I feel successful in many areas of my life except this one specific area and your words… “at a time where my children are a bit older, and I am now in my late 40’s, the time when everyone says you start to become wiser and learn that you have to come first in order to live your best life, Well, I guess that’s where I am now” is exactly where my head has been at. it is so easy to put oneself on the back burner and it really hurts everyone and not just oneself. I look forward to watching and hearing about your journey and making adjustments in mine as well!
Sincerely,
Gwenn
Goo Wendy!!! You can do it!! You have so much support and love coming your way!!! We are praying for you. “you can do ALL things through Christ who gives you strength”.
Soo excited for you and for what’s to come!!
Wendy:
You have always been sooo beautiful in my eyes, but now you’re going forward to becoming the person I used to see in photographs and time and consistency will be in your key. You’ve had the discipline all these years with your writing; you are a dedicated and religious and spiritual person and healer. It’s your turn and I’m so very proud of you! Just another reason why I love you so much.
Always,
Vic.
Wendy – Great to see you at the gym this morning – your enthusiasm is contagious. Can’t wait to see you achieve the winning weigh-in!
Very encouraging Wendy let me know if I can help coach you along with exercise or the aches and pains that can come with it. Praying for you!
Hi Wendy,
How exciting!!! I will be praying for you, you can do this!
Much love,
Thank you Wendy for including me on the list of people you sent the blog to. I feel very privileged! I wish you the best of luck. I know you can do it because you have such a strong support group! One little piece of advice that worked for me…start every day with a 16oz. glass of lemon water, before eating or drinking anything else. It has to have lemon (or lime) in it, for the acidity. This will increase your metabolism for the entire day.
Hi Wendy,
Words can’t express how greatful I feel that you have included me in your journey!! You are such an inspiration!! Thank you! I’m having so much fun. Thank you also for your words of wisdom and helping me to accept me. I’ll be right beside you every step of the way.
Meg
This is like my 5th try.. so i am not going to get all smushy on you here cause I did that on the phone because I CANNOT post anything here for some reason.. butttttt.. anyways.. I love you and I am soo proud of you… You have inspired all of us Wendy, not even in weight loss but in lifes lessons… your a gem.. xoxoxxo love anne
IT WORKEDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD weeeeeeeeeeeeeeee…
OH my sweet Friend!!!
The power of the Holy spirit is guiding you. There is no other way and by saying no to you you, you are finding the freedom. So exitted and so much in prayers for you. I have no questions about this. YOU CAN DO IT. I love you so much. Step at a time, day by day fithing the good fight.
Go Wendy Go! Go Wendy Go! I am so inspired by you! The outcome will be astounding.
Wendy,
I have throughly enjoyed reading this! I BELIEVE you definitely will reach your goals and freedom and teach many along the journey and later how also to do this! You are so wise. I loved learning from you and always wished we had more time together. Many Blessings,
Cari
I’m leaving New York just for a short time, but let me tell you Partner, we will achieve because we do believe! I’ll speak with you several times a week as we do now and I just know that you will be the one to reach and surpass the goals that we have both set. YOU GO GIRL! See you on the courts in the spring 🙂
Wendy, you are a true inspiration to me and to so many!!!!!!
I will be praying for you.
Much love.
Fran
Dear Wendy,
You are a very special godly woman. You have been there for me when I needed love and support. I want to give back the encouragement and compassion you have given me. My prayer for you is that God will give you wisdom and strength for every step in your journey. May you feel His presence (even in Zumba class).
“Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because of you, have refreshed the hearts of the saints.” Philemon 1:7
Love in Christ,
Judy
Oh my partner my partner, you are the best! You look perfect because you are perfect. Whoever told you to forget about the perfection and just go forward was 100% correct. You put your heart and soul into everything you do and that’s what shows. Not the purple eyeshadow, not your nervousness, not anything but the genuine loving, caring person you are. You keep going Girl! Meet you on the courts in June:)
Love ya always, Amy Beauty and Gus
You are such an inspiration!! I am so happy for you, so proud of you!
Team Wendy!!!!!!!!! The Nevilles love you!
Wendy,
I probably hadn’t seen you in a year or longer. When I saw you walk into the gym today I said to myself, “I think that’s Wendy, but she looks so much thinner.” Then you told me your story and I couldn’t wait to read your blog. I felt your passion for this challenge. It is a race for life. Keep up the passion because it will carry you to the end. Best of luck!
Mary Beth Harris
This is a topic that is near to my heart… Cheers!
Exactly where are your contact details though?