Why wait until the New Year?

Every year, for me, it's the same old resolution. Yep, the "I'm going to lose weight this year, eat healthier and exercise more!" I wake up January first all ready to go, then around the second week I decide I can cheat and have a donut, or skip my walk. February arrives and I have completely abandoned my routine and back on the fast track to terrible eating and no exercising!

July 2, 2010 changed my world completely. My brother went to bed the night before and never woke up. He was overweight, had diabetes and high blood pressure. He wasn't taking care of himself and had many other personal issues that did not help him at all. I ignored the fact that I was overweight, had had blood pressure issues when pregnant and gestational diabetes. Once the kids were born I seemed to even out and get back on track.

That is until October of 2011. I feel ill for several weeks and no one could pinpoint it. I wasn't eating, I wanted to sleep all the time and my stomach was in knots continuously. I had taken a couple of trips to the doctors office and at least one to the emergency room. There was talk that I may be having blood sugar issues. My blood pressure was high, but I just assumed it was due to all the stress of being sick.

Finally the time had come and I was instructed to have blood drawn and checked for diabetes. Yep! There was the culprit. I was diagnosed with diabetes. They prescribed me with meds for it and for my blood pressure. I started feeling better after a few days and felt like that any permanent changes were not necessary. Why bother when I have medication to control it all for me, right?

I have taken a step back and reassessed the situation. I began to really think about how I lost my baby brother and how his health and mine are the same. He was only 34 and has three children and a wife he left behind...not to mention his parents, extended family and a large group of friends. I began thinking about how this may be my eye opener.

I sat and looked at my life. I have three beautiful children and my niece (my brother's oldest who has moved in with us) who need me here. I have an amazing husband who would do anything for me and loves me unconditionally. I need to get my health in check. I need to take care of myself so that I can be here to help take care of them.

This morning (December 29, 2011) I have decided is my "new year". I'm starting RIGHT NOW! I'm changing everything about my diet and exercise. I use the term "diet" loosely because it's more of a lifestyle change. I am including my family as well. We will all start eating healthier, spending less time in front of the TV and more time moving.

This year I vow to make positive life changing changes for the benefit of us all. Walk along with me (us) as we embark on a new journey. Feel free to share any ideas or life changes you're making this new year. It doesn't have to be about food or exercise, it can be anything. Let's support one another and make each other accountable for our promises to ourselves and/or our families!

Good luck everyone! Let's "get 'r done!"