Lets do this!!!

This summer, aside from teaching summer school, planning a baby shower (for a beautiful baby girl-YEAH), and trying to stay cool (which is tricky now, it's freaking hot), I have had some extra time to myself. I have enjoyed using this time to be with friends, read (I actually went to the library the other day-I haven't been to the library in 10 years!!) and get in some good work-out time.

So, working out has been fantastic. I know that its of course easy now due to the fact I only work half a day, but as I do it each day, I am reminded of how essential it is to me (and really to everyone). My day, heck, my life looks different if I exercise.

Let me hit you up with the first visual of this post:

Although at times I remember very little from my undergrad study, I do remember good ole' Maslow's Hierchy of Needs. Anyone in the field of education, psychology, or really anyone who works with people should know this. I especially find this helpful when working with kids.

Anyways, as the pyramids demonstrates, physiological needs are the base for everything you do. I cannot be a suitable woman, wife, teacher or friend without adequate rest, nutrition and exercise. I know its simple, but this is really something that I am finding myself always coming back to as I add more "roles" in my life.

So the exercise and rest part are pretty well established in my life. Nutrition-not so much. I recently attended a health presentation put on by a friend at work who sells Juice Plus, which is an interesting product that I may consider in the future. Anyways, at this meeting I was presented with another visual.

Does everyone know there is no longer a good pyramid?! Maybe I am the last to know, but it is now a plate.

And here is Visual 2...



Looking at this really let me know what changes I need to make to become healthier. I also have been doing some research on eating healthy on a budget, and while I used to think this was a huge issue, I have come across some methods that no longer lend themselves to excuses.

I also think it will be important for me to change my eating one step at a time. I am a person who gets overwhelemed quickly, so I think that setting a goal one week at time would be best.

So what's the goal this week?

Dear Pop,

Its been a great 26-year old friendship between you and I. However, I have come to find that you...
a) have no nutrtional value
b) strip my bones of my much needed calicum
c) are currently dehydrating me
d) cost extra money that I don't need to spend
So, even though I love your fizz and the sound of opening a fresh can of you, I need to leave you behind. I am sorry to say I am leaving you for water, and occasional tea and coffee. I am sure this will lead to headaches and grief, but the extra money and over-all well-being will be well worth it.I will perhaps seeing you at restuarants or at Christmas time when you come in the special Santa bottles I love.

Regrets,
Carly Showman

I hope everyone is staying cool and safe, and doing something for your health today:) I love you all!