Embarking on a New Journey

It's time for a change in my life, one that will improve and lengthen it. I'm 38, I really don't mind the number of years, but I do mind the wear and tear on my body. At the end of the day, my ankles and feet ache! They hurt so much I hobble. My hips, especially my left side, sometimes have a sharp pain. My energy level has dwindled down to almost nothing, in fact it is so bad, I notice I don't get down on the floor and play with my kids as much as I use to. I procrastinate everything, excusing myself from responsibility because I am too tired. My weight is increasing, and clothes are really starting to bind and pinch. Yes, it is time for change.

I want health. I want to be free from aches and lethargy. I want to vivaciously play with my children. I want to feel comfortable in my clothes. I want energy to accomplish each day's tasks.

The holidays are rapidly approaching. Halloween incorporates so much candy, my head spins thinking about all the sugar highs to be had. Thanksgiving surrounds us with loved ones, and a feast where going back for seconds and thirds is more than appropriate. Christmas, of course, means cookies, fudge, and parties. Don't forget New Year's where appetizers and drinks are abundant.

Normally, I do not dare make eating and lifestyle changes this time of year. Instead, I just expect and accept weight gain as a holiday ritual and eat myself into oblivion. Not this year, this year I am taking control over my health. When January 1, 2008 rolls around, I will look in the mirror and smile, not sigh, not cry, but smile, even clap and cheer and do a little happy dance!

Now, to accomplish this change in my life, I need to set some goals:

Support
With a little determination, and the help of family and friends, we can accomplish anything. I know I have the support of my family and local friends. Through blogging, I know I will also have your help. If you ever want to share some advice or a kind word, I'll be more than happy to listen to what you have to say. I'm also joining the courageous gals at Tales From the Scales. They are having a weight loss challenge: Looking Great in 2008! I am very excited about joining this group and look forward to meeting some of them and reading their successes.

Food
I love food. I know, duh, that's how I got this way in the first place. I do not believe there are bad foods, just bad portions. I will continue to eat the foods I love, but I will measure the amounts I eat. I will journal in a notebook what I am eating and keep track of the calories I consume. I already eat fairly healthy and make sure I get veggies and fruits each day, I just need to limit other foods and rethink eating an entire box of cookies. All together now, "PORTION CONTROL!"

Water
I've noticed I'm not drinking the recommended eight glasses of water a day. Plus, I live in the desert, I probably require a bit more than that. Water consumption is a high priority.

Exercise
No more excuses, I need to get up and moving every day. It may be a walk around the block, or a couple of sprints up and down the stairs, or running with my kids outside. I really want to try and involve my kids with exercise so it becomes a natural part of their day, too.

Weight loss goal
I hope to lose 10 pounds by January 1, 2008. Nothing over the top, but attainable, and definitely a step in the right direction. I currently weigh 172 pounds, ugh. Yes, being 162 pounds will be a HUGE improvement.

Whew, that's a lot to think about. But I'm ready, ready for change, ready for health and energy.