Over the Long Haul

While at lunch with a friend a few weeks ago, we talked a lot about cooking and food. We both enjoy preparing flavorful dishes for our loved ones to enjoy. That discussion led into talking about healthy eating and exercise. 

My friend is engaged to be married soon and made the comment, "It didn't occur to me until recently that I will be solely responsible for the nutrition of my family." That comment struck me deeply...I'd never thought of it that way before. That thought...that responsibility has stuck with me ever since. 

When I went to the doctor recently for a regular check up, I decided to take the advice I see regularly while reading online. "Ask your doctor what she recommends for your diet and exercise." 

What she offered was basic, well-known information, but it helped me focus my efforts and think more simply about the changes I need to make. Remembering what the FlyLady says about adding one habit at a time and not getting too far ahead of yourself by doing too much too soon, I've mapped out my own plan for making a series of adjustments over time.

As for now, my grocery purchases include a variety of lean meats and these things more than anything else: 

Hopefully, I'll do well to take one small step toward a healthier lifestyle each week. As a friend spoke about on her blog recently, this time in life requires the slow, careful plodding of a marathon.