Six great reasons

So, here we go.

I’ve had several people ask me why I decided to take my weight loss public. Some friends and family think I’ve lost my mind, others have told me that there is no way they would do it.

My reason is simple: motivation and accountability.

I don’t know how many times I’ve told myself that I would start my diet on Monday, or join the gym next week, only to find myself a month down the road and all my good intentions down the drain. It’s so easy to find other ways to fill my time, and this job and its erratic schedule makes it too convenient not to make it to the gym.

Another major motivator was turning 47 last month and realizing I am only four years younger than my father was when he suffered a major heart attack. The doctors told him his unhealthy lifestyle, which included eating too much of the wrong foods, lack of exercise and smoking, caused the heart attack.

I quit smoking 9 years ago, a big first step to a healthy lifestyle, or so I told myself. Somehow, the same tenacity I used to kick tobacco never kicked in with the diet and exercise bug.

I have six great reasons to make 2008 the year I get healthy: my five beautiful and vibrant grandchildren are five, but the most important reason is me. This is something I need to do for me.

Greg and I had our pre-program physical last Friday and finding I had slightly elevated cholesterol levels scared me. Although the doctor said it wasn’t high enough to be overly concerned with at this time and medication wasn’t required, it was higher than normal and left unchecked, could lead to further problems.

So, beginning today, I will be eating healthier. Beginning today, I will be working out at the new AT&T Sports Center. Beginning today, I will start my journey to a healthier lifestyle.

I plan to update my blog each evening and share tips from the personal trainer and nutritionist. I hope you find it useful.