Getting healthy

This time of the year is always a little bitter-sweet.  I am coming up on 12 years since my last miscarriage.  So much has happened since then.  Now I take care of people who are grieving the loss of their children.  I suppose that is the gift that my son James gave to me; an understanding of what it is like to have a child die.

So how do you handle the holidays?  Be kind to yourself, eat and drink and sleep well.  Do something to remember your child by - whether it is volunteering or decorating something.  Do something together with your partner/spouse.

I am taking care of myself by getting healthy and losing weight.  I have lost 15 pounds in the last 12 weeks through changing my eating habits and doing some kind of exercise more days than not.  It makes a difference.  This is not a diet - it is a lifestyle change.  Eat more fruits and vegetables and less fast food.  Be aware of what I am putting in my mouth and how moving makes a difference.  It takes a little more thought and creativity to be able to eat better and healthy on a limited budget, but it can be done.  My husband has lost a few pounds as well.

So as we approach a new year I challenge you to think outside the box in how you would like to change your life.  I see people's lives change every day.  Be a part of the solution.

More later.

Thoughts about Mardi Gras

This is a week of contrasts.  Tomorrow is Mardi Gras or "Fat Tuesday" where there will be grand parties and parades especially in New Orleans.  Beads will be in abundance, especially for those females willing to bear their chests to the world.  Everyone needs to get their partying done by midnight tomorrow when Ash Wednesday begins.  Ash Wednesday marks the 40 day period prior to Easter Sunday and is the beginning of the church season of Lent.  Its a sign of mourning and repentance.  Many people give up something for the season of Lent (think fish Fridays).    Jesus spent 40 days in the wilderness fasting and praying at the beginning of his ministry.  Christians take the 40 days prior to Easter considering how they treat one another, and how they can be more committed to their faith.  There are often 40 day prayer vigils.

So enjoy the celebration tomorrow - and be prepared for the 40 day journey to Easter when we celebrate the capstone of the Christian faith - Christ's resurrection.  Just remember to keep your shirt on.

More later...