Saturday, November 29, 2014

Still Struggling to Live Healthy

The truth is I am doing much better than I was a couple of years ago. I am very thankful for the progress that I have made but I realize that I have far to go. (I am enjoying a nice hand-rolled Dominican cigar as I type this--not exactly your hallmark of healthy habits!)

Walking is still my regular exercise of choice and the more strenuous stuff seems to find its way to the low end of the priority list. (That's a figurative list, since everybody that knows me knows I don't make lists!)

It's funny how I seem to have a pretty strong will when it comes to regular circumstances and then crumble for the unusual situations...like the holidays.
Normally there is no problem with sweets like cookies and candies. But put a little green and red icing on those bad boys and all of a sudden it's, "What harm can a few (dozen) Christmas cookies do?"
Holiday fudge? Well that's different. Sure, I'll have a piece.
Milkshakes would be of no temptation to me...unless it's an eggnog shake, available only for a limited time! Might as well make it a large!

For the past 18 months, I haven't put anything on the permanently off the diet list (again with the figurative list). I just need to really exercise some extreme moderation for the next few weeks.

When those holiday treats hit the office community table or when the parties are loaded with all of those yummy but not so good for you snacks, go ahead and have a few of your favorites. I know I will (my favorites, not yours). Let's enjoy the holidays and all of the festivities. That doesn't mean that we have to undo the positive healthy habits that we have been living with.

Moderation is the key...and knowing when to say "No, thank you."

Be well.
And good luck!

John <><

Thursday, November 13, 2014

Move Along...

I'm still getting my exercise habits established and figuring out what is going to work for me.
I think that what is going to be best (at least for the time being) is to go back to what I was faithfully doing and then add additional weight, yoga or other exercise in on a regular basis.

I like the weight machine for circuit training and strength training, but until I can really establish a good routine, I'm missing too many days and not really making it up with something else. If I go back to the daily walking or riding routine, I think I'll feel better about adding days with the weight machine (even if they are irregularly spaced) than if I schedule them and miss doing anything. I really am hopeful that retiring in January will help greatly when it comes to having a regular schedule for everything from sleeping at night to working out during the day.

Diet continues to be about the same. I know that I need to pay close attention during the coming holidays. All of those holiday baked goods and the seasonal egg nog...I think I could gain weight just thinking about them!

I just need to stay with it.

John


Monday, November 3, 2014

No Excuse November!

I've never participated in the No Shave November thing. I've never really seen the point.
This year, I'm starting my November activity--No Excuse November!

I'm going to be faithful to my exercise program and  not let the little inconveniences of life keep from my plan--No Excuses! I am still trying to get things figured out as far as what exactly my routine is going to be and I am not afraid to vary it from time to time, nor am I opposed to on-the-fly modifications to accommodate those little inconveniences. I just want to make sure that I keep moving forward (or at least keep moving).

Last week was a bust!
No worries. that was last week.
Today--we work!

It is a Meatless Monday and I started the day with oatmeal (with raisins, cinnamon, butter and milk), toast with jelly, and coffee (no cream). I haven't planned out the rest of my meals and snacks for the day, but I'm sure that a protein smoothie, some fruit, yogurt, peanut butter, eggs, etc. will be a part of the day.

I'll get my workout in pretty soon and maybe skip the elevator at work today or at least try to get a walk in at some point.

What are you doing for your health this month?

Want to join me for No Excuse November?

Be well,
John <><