I actually started training to get ready for training over a month ago. I have lost 20lbs., no bread, dairy or sugar. I figure the less weight on my joints the better. Last Monday I met Linda C. our training leader, and Jullie Q one of my team mates for the first time. Very excited, we snow shoed for about 1-1/2 hours. Friday I met with Linda and she showed me the Stairmaster machine she wanted me to use regualarly and eventually work up to wearing a pack. Its not a regular stair stepper, very kool. I have been packing in our food approx 20lb pack a couple times a week. I was on snowshoes for about a month, in and out from the house 2 miles. Snow is melting fast now I am just walking, very soon I will be driving in again. Yesterday I started sending emails out and the real fundraising began. I got my first online donation from Lee, Thanks sooooooo much Lee for your support $100. Yesterday I went to the gym and did the Stairmaster for 30 min.