Body by Budweiser, No More!

We've said it before, and we're gonna say it again. It's a new year and time to get back in shape. Tracy and I have vowed--- once again--to start dieting. But not just any diet. Yes, we both want to lose ten pounds, but we also want to get our mind and spirit back on track. We are 'cleansing' for the next four weeks (at least....baby steps.)

But alas, every January 1st we make the same promise to ourselves that we will do it this time, we'll take off that winter weight before bikini season. And every year we seem to slide back into our evil ways, breaking our resolution before we really even begin. Here's how it usually goes:

We are good all week long, and then Thursday rolls around and Tracy calls me up at close of business.

"Whatcha up to?" she asks innocently.

"Nothing, just made the kids some dinner, you?"

"Same," she responds. "This week sucked."

"I know, I'm crazy with work," I agree.

"Why don't you come over for a drink? Just one," she assures.

And, without hesitation I say, "Okay."

She only lives down the street, so it's no big deal to pop over for one drink. But then the cheese and crackers come out, one drink leads to three and the diet has officially been blown. And, then, with our heads hanging low, we realize that we really aren't committed to this, and we continue to sabotage ourselves week after week.

This year, however, must be different. There are health issues and emotional well-being at stake. So it requires a different tactic to stay true to our promise.

After reading Stacey Shipman's column, we both realize we've been tackling this resolution thing the wrong way. It shouldn't be a process fraught with pain and suffering. It should be a lifestyle goal to change the way we feed our bodies, minds, and souls. More importantly, a change that will impact the way we feel about ourselves. We deserve to feel and look the best we can.

We officially started the 'cleansing' process on Monday, January 4^th. We are both actively engaging in portion control, cutting out the white stuff (flour, sugar, salt), and jumping on the wagon. Yup, you heard me. No alcohol.

I must admit, the only time I've ever gone cold turkey for an extended period of time was when I was pregnant.  I don't want to speak for my friend Tracy, but I think she follows in my footsteps on this one. But cutting out the beer, wine, and martinis is probably the most critical element here, as it not only pours empty calories into the mix, but it clogs the mind. I, for one, need a clear head moving into 2010. There's so much to accomplish!

Now, we both realize we are not going to get our bikini bods in four weeks, but the hope is we will have seen enough change in our bodies and our minds that we will want to continue-not have to.

So, wish us luck. And, send us your thoughts and recommendations on how to stay on track. We need all the support we can get for the next few weeks ;-).