Our
Mission

We believe true transformation happens one step at a time, in real-time, with real challenges and authentic victories.

Our mission is to create a supportive community where wellness seekers can find inspiration, practical guidance, and genuine connection on their journey to better health.

As I document my personal goal of losing 50 pounds by my 40th birthday, I’m sharing every step—the victories, the setbacks, and everything in between. This isn’t just another weight loss blog; it’s a chronicle of transformation encompassing physical health, mental wellness, family dynamics, faith, and personal growth.

We’re building a space where:

  • Clean keto meets practical family life
  • Fitness goals align with mental health priorities
  • Academic pursuits complement personal development
  • Faith and wellness work in harmony
  • Real-life solutions meet budget-conscious choices

Our community celebrates progress over perfection, embracing the journey with empathy, compassion, and authenticity. Whether you’re a busy mom, a career professional, a student, or someone seeking positive change, you’ll find resources, support, and inspiration here.

Together, we’re not just transforming bodies—we’re nurturing minds, strengthening spirits, and building lasting connections. Join us as we create sustainable, joyful changes that ripple through every aspect of life, one mindful choice at a time.

meet marissa

Meet Marissa

The Quick Version

  • Former portrait photographer with an eye for life’s beautiful moments
  • Psychology & business student at 38 (because who says dreams have expiration dates?)
  • Wife in a growth-minded partnership
  • Mom to an amazing teenager
  • Christian on a journey of faith
  • Wellness enthusiast finding balance one day at a time
  • Eternal student of life and lover of research

My Story

I’m a firm believer that life’s most interesting paths aren’t always straight lines. My career journey has taken me from capturing precious moments as a portrait photographer to helping people sleep better as a polysomnography tech (definitely expect some sleep wisdom in future posts!). I’ve worked in veterinary clinics, pharmacies, and now I’m pursuing my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Business. Each experience has taught me something valuable about health, wellness, and the human experience.

Current Chapter

These days, you’ll find me diving into clean keto living, balancing full-time studies, and building this community. My husband Maverick (our household’s 3 AM gym warrior) and I are on parallel journeys of growth—his physical discipline inspires my own wellness journey every day.

A Few of My Favorite Things

Food that Feeds My Soul

  • Healthy Go-To: A loaded grilled chicken salad with my secret-recipe Italian dressing
  • Comfort Food: Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo (with extra broccoli!)
  • Healthy Sweet Fix: A colorful yogurt bowl topped with chia seeds and hemp hearts
  • Indulgent Treat: Classic banana pudding (worth every bite!)

Books That Shape Me

Currently reading my course textbooks and “Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins with Maverick—a book that, as Maverick says, shows “through discipline, anything is possible.” 

Movies That Move Me

  1. “A Walk to Remember”
  2. “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale”
  3. “I Still Believe”
  4. “Okja”
  5. “Home Alone” (because sometimes you need a classic!)

Music That Motivates Me

  • 90’s hits (yes, I’m that mom who knows all the lyrics!)
  • early 00’s hits
  • Country classics and current hits
  • Contemporary Christian music that lifts the spirit

Always Learning

Beyond my current coursework in Case Management Practice, Introduction to Addictions, and Psychology of Personality, I’m constantly exploring:

  • Personal development strategies
  • Natural health and wellness approaches
  • Urban herb gardening
  • The art of calligraphy
  • New recipes for clean eating

Why I’m Here

My journey isn’t just about losing weight or getting healthy—it’s about creating a life where wellness, faith, family, and personal growth come together naturally. I believe in sharing real experiences, both victories and challenges, because that’s where true connection happens.

Whether you’re a fellow student of life, a wellness seeker, or someone looking for a community that keeps it real, you’re in the right place. Let’s grow together!

meet maverick

Meet Maverick: My Partner in Health and Life

Meet Maverick

The Quick Version

  • Disciplined early riser (3 AM gym sessions prove it!)
  • Landscape Management professional with a passion for the outdoors
  • Advocate for balanced, sustainable nutrition
  • Growth mindset enthusiast
  • Photography hobbyist with an eye for landscapes
  • Dedicated to continuous self-improvement
  • Believer in the power of discipline and consistency

My Approach to Wellness

I believe in finding what works for you and sticking with it. While Marissa follows keto, I’ve found my sweet spot with a balanced approach that includes healthy carbs and nutritious whole foods. My journey isn’t about restriction—it’s about making better choices for my health and future.

Current Focus

You’ll find me at the gym before dawn, pushing my limits while David Goggins’ voice keeps me motivated. I’m constantly exploring new superfoods and nutritious additions to my diet, including:

  • Quinoa and chickpeas for protein-packed energy
  • Chia seeds and hemp hearts for essential nutrients
  • MCT powder and matcha for clean energy
  • Frozen grapes (because healthy living should still be enjoyable!)

Professional Life

In Landscape Management, I get to combine my love for the outdoors with strategic thinking. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth, whether I’m planning projects or working with my team.

A Few of My Favorite Things

Food that Fuels Me

  • Healthy Go-To: Grilled chicken paired with sweet potatoes and caramelized onions
  • Comfort Food: Spicy pepperoni pizza loaded with jalapeños
  • Healthy Sweet Fix: Yogurt bowl topped with chia seeds and Purely Elizabeth granola
  • Indulgent Treats: Sock it to Me Cake and mint chip ice cream (because balance is key!)

Books That Challenge Me

Currently deep in “Can’t Hurt Me” by David Goggins—a powerful reminder that “through discipline, anything is possible.” Other favorites include “As a Man Thinketh” and “The Da Vinci Code.”

Movies That Inspire Me

  1. “Top Gun” (both original and Maverick—yes, there’s a story behind my nickname!)
  2. “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off”
  3. “Moneyball”
  4. “John Wick”

Music That Moves Me

  • 80’s classics
  • 70’s light rock
  • Country tunes
  • Big Band swing (because sometimes you need that classic energy)

Always Growing

I’m constantly expanding my knowledge through:

  • Landscape management expertise (Brian Knorr’s content is a favorite)
  • Fitness and nutrition science (AthleanX with Jeff Cavalier)
  • Political awareness and current events
  • Practical how-to content

My Philosophy

“Discipline equals freedom.” I believe in making time for what matters—that’s why you’ll find me at the gym at 3 AM. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being consistent and making choices that align with your goals.

Hobbies and Downtime

When I’m not working or at the gym, you’ll find me:

  • Perfecting my golf swing
  • Capturing nature through my camera lens
  • Hiking new trails
  • Reading the latest non-fiction
  • Creating memories with family

Why I’m Here

While my approach differs from Marissa’s, we’re on this journey together. I believe in sharing real experiences and showing that there’s no one-size-fits-all path to wellness. Whether you’re an early bird like me or just starting to explore healthier habits, there’s room for everyone in this community.

Let’s build something great together—one early morning, one workout, and one healthy choice at a time.

sunrise early morning walk

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