Over the years I have not been kind to myself. My story is not unique, there are so many people out there who have and still struggle with their own health and weight. Living a rollercoaster ride of weight loss and gain. I was a childhood athlete who grew up to be an adult obesity statistic.
At my highest I was 325lbs. That was the first time being overweight scared me. Having developed high blood pressure and Acid Reflux, the Dr and Nutritionist were straight up, LOSE WEIGHT! This was 2010. During the last 10 years I have been down to 247 lbs and up to as high as 290 recently.
In August of 2007 a move to LA weight management become uneasy. Despite gaining back 10 lbs I was confident I could continue the good health path. FAILED Again. An emotional eater, in 2008 my father passed away, I was living unhappily with a woman who was also overweight and I ate away the pain. We visited in Toronto in October 2010 to attend my best friends wedding. When looking at the picture it became strikingly clear that the problem had returned, BIG TIME. This is when I weighed in at over 325lbs. It was absolutely horrifying.
Returning to LA, determined to find a trainer and lick my obesity problem. I met Billie in November 2011 and honestly she was the perfect fit. With Billie’s guidance I was again on my quest to lose weight and be fit. Soon I became a beast in the gym and worked my way down to 255 lbs This was end of summer 2012. During that period I never gained any weight back, despite the heartache of now losing my mother.
December 2012 I returned again to Toronto for the holidays. I threw discipline out the window and… When my TN1 Visa was denied and the woman I was in love with seemed ok with me staying in Toronto for a bit, I settled in, back in the T Dot, back, seemingly happy, but not caring about myself again. I replaced workouts with binge eating, finally realized the great loss I had experienced plus, as much as I loved my friends here, I missed LA and this amazing woman I had fallen in love with. I blew all that happiness on Chips, dips and candy.
Soon everything and everyone was to blame for my misery. When the relationship started to go south, when the cold was unbearable, everything was an excuse to be unhappy and soon I found myself slowly gaining it back. Pants that were loose when I returned were now skin tight. T-Shirts not long enough to cover my huge belly and an HR woman who was frankly rude in her delivery but correct in how unkempt I looked. I did not care. I was depressed and for 2 more years I would suffer silently each night or every weekend with this… my comfort foods. Pure sugars and toxins.
The pattern dragged on bringing me back up to 287 by September 2014. Pretending I still loved my job, pretending I was happy in my life when the truth was I was completely unhealthy and a sedentary pile of processed junk food. (They say you are what you eat) It is no wonder I had gained all that weight back.
All that unhappiness took me to therapy. Like finding a trainer I did my research met a few people and found the person I felt I could share and be vulnerable enough to help heal the broken Sam. In a couple of months I was confident enough in myself to leave behind the job I was extremely unhappy at and start my own business. By the spring of 2015, the only issue I had not conquered was my weight. Finally happy again it was time to begin the arduous task of motivating myself to take action.
The Change Occured
July 1st 2015 I set a 3 month goal to see how I could do on my own, the only motivation… MY LIFE! I had to commit myself to the work necessary to change old habits into new. Adopt a healthy active lifestyle and treat my body like the temple it is. The first step to being completely happy with myself was in my own ability to love myself enough to take care of myself. As an overweight person I was not living the life authentic to to who I truly felt I was from the inside out.
The first 3 months were fantastic, I was confident I had made the important lifestyle changes necessary to achieve my goals. The trick about health is it is so easy to be overweight. Without even realizing it we are eating food that our bodies were not designed to process. I know McDonalds tastes good, I know a sweet sugary dessert will delight me in ways my endorphins can’t handle, I also know each time I choose to put that stuff into my body I am slowly killing myself. And I want to live.
Not only do I want to live, I want to pay it forward. I want to share with as many people as I can the importance of clean healthy living. I am going to open up my world to public judgement and put my results out there. I want people to see it does not take a Keto, South Beach, Atkins anything diet that restricts your calories or provides fake processed foods from a cardboard box to lose weight. I am going to share a real lifestyle change and choices, foods that heal, that work with our bodies. I will demonstrate that eating can be a delight without killing you.
But I Fell Off the Wagon
I own the mistakes I have made in the past and feel ready to make better choices again. I will say this many times. I know the struggle, it is not easy. I will make mistake, plateau, wonder what is working and what is not. I have a starting point, knowing what has worked in the past. I have an end point, goals, an ideal weight and determination.
Welcome to Sam’s journey! Choose to follow me, to praise me, to chastise me, I am prepared for it all. I am prepared to come out of lockdown changed
Okay, I know there are going to be very strong and opposing views on this. It’s a great conversation starter. I mean seriously, the obvious answer is… Well, what is it? In my opinion it is entirely subjective.
The question was first Started haunting me as I listed to and loved the song “Gimme Sympathy” by Metric. “Who’d you rather be, the Beatles or the Rolling Stones?”
So to my girlfriend at the time I posed the question. Her immediate response “The Rolling Stones”. I paused on her answer. I had expected it to be the Beatles. Not because that was my answer, but because in my mind everyone chooses the Beatles. I mean wait, what? No! Of course not all of you would. Some of you would choose the Rolling Stones.
At the time, I was confident in my answer. For me it was the Beatles. I just always remember loving their upbeat happy, sounding melodies and lyrics. When they went pure hard rock with screeching guitars like in “Helter Skelter“ or Revolution. Listening to the Beatles had always been apart of my musical history since my cousin John married his wife. In fact there are two very defining points in my musical development. The boys from my fathers pipe and drum band and my cousins 8 track collection. Yeah I said It. 8 track!
The Beatles
My Top 5 Beatles Songs
1. “Come Together”: – Released: September 1969 – Album: “Abbey Road” – Written by: John Lennon
Notable Features: This Beatles song has always been one of my favs. It features a distinctive, funky deep bass line and a memorable, cryptic lyrical style. As the opening track for the “Abbey Road” album it has grown to be one of the bands most memorable songs. Written by John Lennon it is credited to Lennon and McCartney. Come Together reached the top of the charts in the US and Australia and peaked at number 4 in the UK.
2. “Something”:
– Released: October 1969 – Album: “Abbey Road” – Written by: George Harrison
Notable Features: “Something” is a beautiful ballad and one of Harrison’s most celebrated compositions. In fact this was the song we walked down the aisle to at my one and only wedding.The song showcases Georges growth as a songwriter. The heartfelt lyrics and a memorable melody turned this song into one of the Beatles’ most popular tracks.
3. “Revolution”: – Released: August 1968 – Album: “The Beatles” (also known as “The White Album”) – Written by: John Lennon
Notable Features: “Revolution” is a politically charged rock song with a raw and aggressive sound. It exists in two versions: the slower and more introspective “Revolution 1” and the faster, more energetic “Revolution.” The song reflects Lennon’s views on social and political change. He was visionary.
4. “Here Comes the Sun”: – Released: September 1969 – Album: “Abbey Road” – Written by: George Harrison
Notable Features: “Here Comes the Sun” is a joyous and uplifting song with a catchy melody. It features Harrison’s intricate guitar work and harmonies. The song is known for its optimistic lyrics and has become one of the Beatles’ most beloved tracks.
5. “Get Back”: – Released: April 1969 – Album: Originally released as a single, later included in the “Let It Be” album – Written by: Paul McCartney (credited to Lennon-McCartney)
Notable Features: “Get Back” is a lively rock song with a catchy chorus. It has a bluesy influence and a straightforward, driving rhythm. The lyrics tell a story about Jojo, a fictional character, and the song showcases the Beatles’ energy and tight musical chemistry.
These songs represent my top 5 Beatles songs. They are a strong representation of what it was I first wanted in the music I was seeking. Their diverse songwriting styles and their ability to create timeless and memorable music that fit many different genres.
Top 5 All Time Songs
The Beatles have had numerous successful songs throughout their career, but here are five of their most widely recognized and commercially successful tracks:
1. “Hey Jude”: The song spent nine weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
2. “Yesterday”: “Yesterday” is a timeless and beautifully melancholic ballad written and sung by Paul McCartney.
3. “Let It Be”: The song became an anthem for many and reached No. 1 on various charts worldwide.
4. “I Want to Hold Your Hand”: The song topped the charts in multiple countries and ignited Beatlemania in the US, propelling them to global fame.
5. “She Loves You”: The song reached No. 1 in the UK and played a crucial role in establishing the Beatles’ popularity early in their career.
These songs represent some of the Beatles’ most successful and enduring hits, showcasing their songwriting prowess, musical innovation, and cultural impact. There are many other favorites, please post in the comments some of yours. Include the link to the video please I love music that is shared.
The Rolling Stones
My Top 5 Rolling Stones Songs
1. “Wild Horses”: – Released: April 1971 – Album: “Sticky Fingers” – Written by: Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
Notable Features: “Wild Horses” is a poignant and incredibly melodic acoustical ballad. It features introspective lyrics, exploring themes of love and deep longing. The song is considered one of the Rolling Stones’ most beloved and enduring tracks. For me in particular is scream of the type of love lost when that connection was just incredibly right and maybe a little wrong at the same time.
2. “Paint It Black”: – Released: May 1966 – Album: “Aftermath” – Written by: Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
Notable Features: “Paint It Black” is a dark and dramatic song characterized by its distinctive sitar riff and driving rhythm. The lyrics convey a sense of despair and introspection. The song’s unique sound and powerful atmosphere contributed to its success.
3. “Sympathy for the Devil”: – Released: December 1968 – Album: “Beggars Banquet” = Written by: Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
Notable Features: “Sympathy for the Devil” is a provocative and bluesy rock song that features a hypnotic rhythm, strong percussion, and Jagger’s charismatic vocals. The lyrics present Satan’s perspective throughout different historical events. The song is considered one of the Rolling Stones’ signature tracks.
4. “Satisfaction”: – Released: June 1965 – Album: “Out of Our Heads” (US version) – Written by: Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
Notable Features: “Satisfaction” is one of the Rolling Stones’ most iconic and recognizable songs. It opens with one of the most famous guitar riffs in rock history. The lyrics express frustration and longing for fulfillment, capturing the spirit of the rebellious rock ‘n’ roll era.
5. “Let’s Spend the Night Together”: – Released: January 1967 – Album: “Between the Buttons” – Written by: Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
Notable Features: “Let’s Spend the Night Together” is an upbeat and energetic rock song with catchy hooks and a lively melody. The lyrics hint at a desire for a romantic intimate encounter. The song generated some controversy at the time due to its suggestive nature.
These Rolling Stones songs showcase my favorites. I definitely like the earlier Stones songs. Hear we can get an idea of band’s range, from heartfelt ballads to gritty rock and roll anthems. Each song has contributed to the Rolling Stones’ legacy and their reputation as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
How They Measure Up!
Okay, I know there are going to be very strong and opposing views on this. It’s a great conversation starter. I mean seriously, the obvious answer is… Well, what is it? In my opinion it is entirely subjective.
The question was first Started haunting me as I listed to and loved the song “Gimme Sympathy” by Metric. “Who’d you rather be, the Beatles or the Rolling Stones?”
So to my girlfriend at the time I posed the question. Her immediate response “The Rolling Stones”. I paused on her answer. I had expected it to be the Beatles. Not because that was my answer, but because in my mind everyone chooses the Beatles. I mean wait, what? No! Of course not all of you would. Some of you would choose the Rolling Stones.
At the time, I was confident in my answer. For me it was the Beatles. I just always remember loving their upbeat happy, sounding melodies and lyrics. When they went pure hard rock with screeching guitars like in “Helter Skelter“ or Revolution. Listening to the Beatles had always been apart of my musical history since my cousin John married his wife. In fact there are two very defining points in my musical development. The boys from my fathers pipe and drum band and my cousins 8 track collection. Yeah I said It. 8 track!
The Beatles
My Top 5 Beatles Songs
1. “Come Together”: – Released: September 1969 – Album: “Abbey Road” – Written by: John Lennon
Notable Features: This Beatles song has always been one of my favs. It features a distinctive, funky deep bass line and a memorable, cryptic lyrical style. As the opening track for the “Abbey Road” album it has grown to be one of the bands most memorable songs. Written by John Lennon it is credited to Lennon and McCartney. Come Together reached the top of the charts in the US and Australia and peaked at number 4 in the UK.
2. “Something”:
– Released: October 1969 – Album: “Abbey Road” – Written by: George Harrison
Notable Features: “Something” is a beautiful ballad and one of Harrison’s most celebrated compositions. In fact this was the song we walked down the aisle to at my one and only wedding.The song showcases Georges growth as a songwriter. The heartfelt lyrics and a memorable melody turned this song into one of the Beatles’ most popular tracks.
3. “Revolution”: – Released: August 1968 – Album: “The Beatles” (also known as “The White Album”) – Written by: John Lennon
Notable Features: “Revolution” is a politically charged rock song with a raw and aggressive sound. It exists in two versions: the slower and more introspective “Revolution 1” and the faster, more energetic “Revolution.” The song reflects Lennon’s views on social and political change. He was visionary.
4. “Here Comes the Sun”: – Released: September 1969 – Album: “Abbey Road” – Written by: George Harrison
Notable Features: “Here Comes the Sun” is a joyous and uplifting song with a catchy melody. It features Harrison’s intricate guitar work and harmonies. The song is known for its optimistic lyrics and has become one of the Beatles’ most beloved tracks.
5. “Get Back”: – Released: April 1969 – Album: Originally released as a single, later included in the “Let It Be” album – Written by: Paul McCartney (credited to Lennon-McCartney)
Notable Features: “Get Back” is a lively rock song with a catchy chorus. It has a bluesy influence and a straightforward, driving rhythm. The lyrics tell a story about Jojo, a fictional character, and the song showcases the Beatles’ energy and tight musical chemistry.
These songs represent my top 5 Beatles songs. They are a strong representation of what it was I first wanted in the music I was seeking. Their diverse songwriting styles and their ability to create timeless and memorable music that fit many different genres.
Top 5 All Time Songs
The Beatles have had numerous successful songs throughout their career, but here are five of their most widely recognized and commercially successful tracks:
1. “Hey Jude”: The song spent nine weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States.
2. “Yesterday”: “Yesterday” is a timeless and beautifully melancholic ballad written and sung by Paul McCartney.
3. “Let It Be”: The song became an anthem for many and reached No. 1 on various charts worldwide.
4. “I Want to Hold Your Hand”: The song topped the charts in multiple countries and ignited Beatlemania in the US, propelling them to global fame.
5. “She Loves You”: The song reached No. 1 in the UK and played a crucial role in establishing the Beatles’ popularity early in their career.
These songs represent some of the Beatles’ most successful and enduring hits, showcasing their songwriting prowess, musical innovation, and cultural impact. There are many other favorites, please post in the comments some of yours. Include the link to the video please I love music that is shared.
The Rolling Stones
My Top 5 Rolling Stones Songs
1. “Wild Horses”: – Released: April 1971 – Album: “Sticky Fingers” – Written by: Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
Notable Features: “Wild Horses” is a poignant and incredibly melodic acoustical ballad. It features introspective lyrics, exploring themes of love and deep longing. The song is considered one of the Rolling Stones’ most beloved and enduring tracks. For me in particular is scream of the type of love lost when that connection was just incredibly right and maybe a little wrong at the same time.
2. “Paint It Black”: – Released: May 1966 – Album: “Aftermath” – Written by: Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
Notable Features: “Paint It Black” is a dark and dramatic song characterized by its distinctive sitar riff and driving rhythm. The lyrics convey a sense of despair and introspection. The song’s unique sound and powerful atmosphere contributed to its success.
3. “Sympathy for the Devil”: – Released: December 1968 – Album: “Beggars Banquet” = Written by: Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
Notable Features: “Sympathy for the Devil” is a provocative and bluesy rock song that features a hypnotic rhythm, strong percussion, and Jagger’s charismatic vocals. The lyrics present Satan’s perspective throughout different historical events. The song is considered one of the Rolling Stones’ signature tracks.
4. “Satisfaction”: – Released: June 1965 – Album: “Out of Our Heads” (US version) – Written by: Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
Notable Features: “Satisfaction” is one of the Rolling Stones’ most iconic and recognizable songs. It opens with one of the most famous guitar riffs in rock history. The lyrics express frustration and longing for fulfillment, capturing the spirit of the rebellious rock ‘n’ roll era.
5. “Let’s Spend the Night Together”: – Released: January 1967 – Album: “Between the Buttons” – Written by: Mick Jagger and Keith Richards
Notable Features: “Let’s Spend the Night Together” is an upbeat and energetic rock song with catchy hooks and a lively melody. The lyrics hint at a desire for a romantic intimate encounter. The song generated some controversy at the time due to its suggestive nature.
These Rolling Stones songs showcase my favorites. I definitely like the earlier Stones songs. Hear we can get an idea of band’s range, from heartfelt ballads to gritty rock and roll anthems. Each song has contributed to the Rolling Stones’ legacy and their reputation as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
Top 5 All Time Songs
The Rolling Stones have had numerous successful songs throughout their career. Below are five of their most widely recognized and commercially successful tracks:
1. “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”: The song’s rebellious spirit and catchy chorus made it a massive hit worldwide.
2. “Paint It Black” This song reached No. 1 on the charts in various countries. It was also a feature in the into to the show China Beach.
3. “Start Me Up”: “Start Me Up” is a rock anthem characterized by its infectious guitar riff and energetic groove. The song became one of the Rolling Stones’ signature tracks
4. “Brown Sugar”: The song became a hit, reaching high positions on the charts in several countries.
5. “Angie”: “Angie” is a heartfelt and melodic ballad that displays a softer side of the Rolling Stones’ repertoire.
Kayaking in the Johnstone Strait. A bucket List Adventure
When you have an opportunity to participate in an adventure that helps you get closer to another bucket list item, kayaking off of Vancouver Island in the summer home of the Northern Resident Orcas, you go. In July 2018, we flew from our tiny home island home in Mexico to experience a 3 nights camping experience in the Johnstone Strait with Spirit of the West Adventures.
Spirit of the West Adventures and Trip Intro
First off, I cannot say enough about the group we went with and the guides. Spirit of the West Adventures provided an excellent experience. The guides were incredibly friendly and knowledgable. Not just about the Johnstone Strait, but also about the wildlife. At every meal they provided us with delicious food prepped by a very thoughtful and generous staff back on Quadra Island.
Not once did we feel like we were not welcome or accepted. While we were the only queer folks on the experience, from the first introductory meeting at the Heriot Bay Inn on Quadra Island the night before the trip through the drop off after the trip ended we were comfortable and got along great with everyone. We even made some new friends.
In case you are wondering. Quadra island is an incredibly gorgeous place as well. The sunsets linger long into the evening and the sounds of nature just appear to calm the body and soul. Across the bay from Campbell River, a quiet little Canadian BC town you can whale watch from in the summer.
The morning after the intro meeting we were picked up by the guides, grabbed other adventurers then headed to the dock, loaded up 2 boats with all the gear and off we went. The boat taxi ride was two hours north to the Johnstone Strait basecamp. This would now our home for the next 3 nights. Each group of 2 were assigned a tent (all of which had stunning views of the water), were prepped on how to be safe and the types of animals we could encounter. All of the tents faced the water where you could see over to the Robson Bight.
Early Morning at CampJohnstone Strait, Vancouver Island, British Columbia
It Was All About the Kayaking
We no sooner landed at camp and the first paddle was planned. From the first paddle until the last (the one where I fell in the freezing cold water) was a majestical and peaceful experience with nature. There were bald eagles flying around the camp, tales of wolves and cougars as well as the hope we would see the mammal we all came for… the Orca whale. After all, this was their favourite place to shop for groceries. The Chinook salmon spawning in the local waters close to the Robson Bight are the north residents favourite meal. The area also attracts the grizzly bears down to the pebbly waters edge in hopes of grabbing a bite.
Despite the excitement leading up to the trip. Despite the call within our hearts to engage with the mighty Orcas in their natural habitat, we never got to see any Orcas. During one of our paddles they were noted to be just farther up the strait at Telegraph Cove. Too far to paddle to make it back to camp before sunset. The rest of the days we all kept hoping it would happen. It just did not. Well, save for that magic early morning with Tara.
I am a person who will need to use the bathroom several times each night. So on the first morning around 4am when we popped out of the tent to relieve ourselves, we paused to hear this strange sound from below the cliffs in the water. It was in rhythm, consistent getting closer and then moving farther away. The mist prevented us from seeing what was making the noise, but we both knew. The Northern Residents were traveling right by our camp. Even better it was a beautiful experience shared by myself and Tara!
Snapshots from the Johnstone Strait Ultimate
4 days and 3 nights deep up in the British Columbia wild at one with nature, getting outside of my current comfort zone and challenging myself to grow. That was what this trip was about, in addition to experience in the wild.
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