Rollerderby Saved My Sanity (and body!)

So, as many of you might already know... I joined roller derby.  I've joined The Dodge City Rollers, an enthusiastic rookie team here in Cumberland BC.  I've since become a little obsessed, promoting roller derby, watching roller derby, even making roller derby art like the picture below:

I haven't given up on the Madonna and Child Project, in fact I may have a roller derby madonna to add to the lineup, but I'm just finding I have some new interests in my life.  It's been quite a revelation that my body is still capable of something so physical.  Childbirth took such a toll on my body and my energy levels that I almost felt like I would never get my old athletic body back.  I felt like that was ok- I was willing to make that sacrifice for my kids, I was willing to give up my body for the bodies of my children.  What a revelation to realize I don't have to make that choice!  It's been amazing to realize that I can sometimes make myself a priority, to make sure I have a life outside of my children.

Here are some before and after photos of my progress.  I have not lost much weight mind you, because I'm building a lot of muscle, but I've lost a lot of belly fat.  If this doesn't inspire you to join roller derby I don't know what will.
 

This photo is from April 5th, when I was already feeling pretty good about my progress.

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This is April 15th- only 10 days later.  Maybe my bikini days aren't over after all!

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So... if you ever wonder about pursuing your own interests, putting yourself first occasionally... if you ever feel guilty like I did for wanting to spend a little time away from your kids... just do it.  I find I have so much more patience, so much more joy to offer my kids since I started taking care of myself.  If roller derby hasn't saved my soul it at least saved my sanity!