Resolution

Last year on this day (give or take) I made my new year's resolution: lose weight. I was hoping to lose about 10 pounds. Instead, I've gained 10 pounds (give or take). This is not good.

I know, I know, it's silly and counterproductive to make new year's resolutions. It puts undue pressure on oneself to accomplish tasks that may or may not be possible, and it almost guarantees that the goal will not be met. But I did meet it two years ago, when I resolved to quit caffeine by the end of the year. Sure, I've since backslid into more-than-occasional caffeine intake, mostly in the form of decaf coffee, but it was a conscious decision -- and a necessity in the holiday season, when I often don't get my full amount of sleep.

So yes, I will be making a resolution again this year. But it's not going to be some edict to lose n pounds by X date. Instead, I resolve to eat healthier foods, exercise more often and get outdoors more. Those three very general things will make me feel better, and will most likely have the side-effect of helping me shed a few pounds.

Steps are being taken to ensure these resolutions succeed. Cinnamon signed us up for an organic food co-op; we'll be getting a box of fresh organically farmed veggies each week from Newleaf Natural Grocery. And a Bally's Total Fitness is opening up at Clark and Howard, so I plan to work out there at least once a week. Don't worry, I'm not going to join under one of their oppressive "lifetime" memberships; I'll buy one off eBay or through Craig's List, or get one through a friend. I'll also probably get a set of barbells for use at home. I'll also look into a yoga class that fits my schedule. There's a center out in Barrington, but all their classes are either early morning or mid-afternoon, so it looks like "convenient to work" is out. Anyone have any experience with yoga centers in Rogers Park or Evanston?

Posted by Andrew Huff at December 31, 2003 02:14 PM