Blog #2 Health and Wellness

I am 44 yrs old and have never been what I would consider "fit" or the size/shape I would be happy being. I also realize that the people I know who are, work very hard to get/stay in shape, and I make choices both food and exercies-wise that are not always smart.  I have also had a few minor health issues (prescribed blood pressure medication, had small cyst removed, and an ankle injury) since January that have been wake-up calls for me.  Since January, we decided as a family to turn the kids' toy room into a family exercise room.  We purchased a home gym, set up a tv and Ipod docking station, and I just started using it after the boys get on the bus in the morning.  I also play on a women's soccer team and walk with my Shape-Ups whenever the weather allows.  Food-wise, I have really made an effort lately to keep the fridge well-stocked with fruit and veggies, and have started taking Healty Choice frozen meals for lunch (which saves both calories and money!).  We have also tried to eat more meals at home than running thru the drive-thru (again, both calorie and money saving).  When we do go out, we try to eat foods that are not fried (Go Roma, pizza, Chipotle, etc.).  I have also stopped stopping for a coffee (my only coffee of the day) on my way to work (again, money and caloried saving).

Probably the biggest effect these things have had so far on me is I sleep MUCH better.  I used to suffer from insomnia, and now find I sleep through the night almost every night.  I also feel like I am providing my kids with healthier foods.  They are both very active in sports and seem to need a lot of food to keep them going, but that doesn't mean they have to eat junk.  I cut up a big bowl of fruit or hand them a Fiber One bar rather than a bunch of cookies,etc.  I have not stopped buying junk altogether, but try to limit all of our intake and have a larger selection of healthier foods on hand.