View from the other side of the bridge

I felt it was time to share a perspective from the other side of the fence.  I am where you future will be.  I am also a spouse of a contestant and I can bring another perspective that you do not see, and let me tell you it is a good perspective.
I helped as an alumni with the FWSW but I was also going through many parts of it for the first time for there are many things FWSW does that BMSW.  I was thinking how easy it would be to help with BMSW and let me tell you I am being challenged.  I do believe you are further along then we were last year.  I see EJ doing different things with you which I have to learn as well.  You have nothing to compare yourself to and might just look at your perspectives to determine how you are doing.  I know I did last year.  I am able to compare you to what I went through last year and through this year and can see how all of you are doing really well.  I know how hard what you are going through is, but I also see in each of you the determination to push through and do all that you are asked to do.  You guys are really strong and really are trusting the system.  I am so proud to be able to say "hey look at the new group of BMSW."  Keep strong.
I also find it interesting being able to look at this as a spouse.  I remember last year I wanted to really take ownership of my program so I was taking on the shopping for me and the meal planning.  I didn't want to load things on Edna she wasn't really ready to accept.  Now things are so different.  We are having fun shopping and food planning together.  She is getting even more into this than I did in looking beyond just the calories.  It has create a new challenge for me.  I am at a new stage.  I have come to the stage of having to maintain, as a matter of fact I have fallen slightly below my bottom goal weight so am working on not losing any more and trying to get back into my goal range.  To add to this I am also working on my preparing for the 1/2 marathon at Fort4Fitness which is burning a lot of calories.  Our house is cleansed to boot camp food and I don't want to do things that tempt Edna.  I therefore am having to work out how to get my calories in with the food base we are working for me.  It is helping me from just eating for the calories and instead eat for the nutrition.  Being a spouse means I can receive benefits from her doing the program.  I am sure I am not alone but you are able to help positively influence your families as well.
Remember EJ, Rick, and Tina do not through out compliments unless they mean them.  You all are doing great.  Keep taking advantage of all the people who are here for you.  As I said I am so proud of each of you (ok a little more for Edna but can you blame me) and am so excited to see what each of your results will be.  I am here to help you and encourage you.  I am in each of your corners.