Cliff Notes

I got orthotic inserts for my shoes a few weeks ago. I have heard that they are money makers for podiatrists, that some people are better off without, that some people are worse off with them. In fact, Dr. Suh scared me with predictions of terrible arthritis problems in a few decades that would curtail my mobility and said if I waited too long it would be too late. Because of my history (I had to wear a shoe bar as a child to attempt to keep my feet from turning in) and recent years' experiences, I believed the doctor and got the orthotics.

Almost immediately I noticed a difference -- my knees didn't hurt! I didn't have a problem getting used to the orthotics, although the shoe options are pretty bleak. But the tailor's bunion on my left foot hardly ever hurts and then only if my shoes with orthotics are too tight. I have figured out that taking the shoe liner out before inserting orthotics takes care of the problem. This does require I wear socks, which is a big bummer.

My feet don't hurt, so I went for a 30 minute walk. The next day (looked like rain) I went to the gym (!) and did the recumbant bicycle for 30 minutes. Because I have been so sedentary (feet hurt!) and because I tend to overdo it,  I am trying to go very slow. They are doing a 90 day challenge at the gym but I declined -- even though the last time I did a team challenge there we won. I'm pretty sure with my starting point and motivation I could win. But I just don't want to do anything publicly right now.

Also, this week I started keeping a food journal online (myfitnesspal.com). I love it! I have to keep track of portions and identify what I am eating (brands help) but it counts calories and nutrional information to let me know how I am doing. I have already lost a few pounds, even though I ate out a few times last week (including fajitas at Chuy's) and have not felt deprived. I have thought more about what I am eating, and have tried to eat consistently rather than skip meals. I think that alone is a big help -- I have been the queen of skipping meals, mostly breakfast. The food journaling helps me keep track of what I am really eating. It is easy to see if my fat intake is too high, or how many fruits or vegetables I am actually getting.

Although I want to lose weight for health and appearance, I am trying to become healthier all around. I feel good about this week's progress toward healthy habits, with one glaring exception. I really need to drink more water. It is my drink of choice, but I don't drink nearly enough.

I want to be in better shape to play this summer with my kids. I am giving myself my own personal challenge. I'll report back in about 90 days.

Here's a common sense article about weight loss that I saw this morning.

Seminary is one hour a day, five days a week. But that hour each morning has a disproportionate affect on my life. Teaching seminary is one of the hardest things I have ever done. It is also somewhat removed from the mainstream consciousness (unless you are dragging your child there every 6 am why would you think about seminary?) and the experience is almost impossible to describe.

But here is a link to someone else who nails it. Number 8 made me laugh in recognition.