On my last post, I introduced you to my struggle bus. I’m still riding but have managed to make a few stops along the way.

I’ve been consistent with my trainer, going three times a week. I try to go to group classes at least twice a week, but sometimes the timing does not work for my schedule. I do need to add more cardio, whether that means going to the gym to use the machines or doing a video at home (I love the Richard Simmons’ Sweatin’ to the Oldies).

I kept hoping that once I was on a regular workout schedule, my eating would just naturally follow. But it really hasn’t happened that way. And I don’t know why I thought that; my past has proven to me that nothing I do comes naturally. I have to put an effort into all that I do. I do better when I plan for things. I use a Happy Planner to track everything, from my steps to my workouts to my eating. It helps me to visualize what I’m doing and where I need to go.

I realize that I need to be more aware of my food choices. Which, if I’m being honest, means I need to stop being lazy and do the meal planning, grocery shopping and meal prep. It means packing my cooler in the morning with my lunch and snacks, so I’m not tempted to go out to lunch. It means having dinners prepped and ready for when I get home so I don’t go through the drive thru at McDonald’s, where, sad to say, they know my name.

It’s time to take responsibility for my own self-care. It’s on me. Welcome to my journey.