Embracing change

2009 was a difficult year for me and I'm looking forward to a new beginning, a new way of tackling the challenges in my life with a truly happy heart. I kept thinking that I would make 2010 my "Year of Yes." I would say "yes" to more opportunities, open myself up to new experiences, and try to "bring" more happiness into my life. But the more I examined what I needed in my life, the more I realized that everything I needed to make me happy was right here in front of me. I realized that I just needed to make some changes in my life to take better care of myself which would then enable me to take better care of my family. I also found that I was contantly struggling and pushing against the changes that were taking place as I raise my family. I was or should I say, still am, trying to deal with the sadness that I feel as my kids grow up and need me in a different way, as they pull away from me to find their own way in life, to become their own people. I need to embrace this change for what it is so that I can enjoy them more.

I discovered a website on one of my Oprah.com newsletters called www.first30days.com. It's a great resource and support network for tackling the first 30 days of any New Year's resolution or for handling any life change (those you wish for and those that happen against your will). So I've created "My Big Book of Change" to document my year of embracing change. Each month I will focus on a new change that I want to make in my life and at the same time, learn to embrace the changes that I don't ask for, but are just a part of life.

So it's mid-January and the first goal I want to jump start is to take care of my health...to lose weight, get in shape, and lower my cholesterol. I think I've lost and gained the same 20 lbs. about 3 or 4 times over now. Why is it so hard to lose and so easy to gain back? But I digress...we have a ski trip planned at the end of February and I do not want to spend another moment stuffing myself into my ski pants and then huffing and puffing down the slopes. Not this year! I've already been back to the gym 2-3 times a week and am watching what I eat. My goal is to work out at least 3 times a week, maybe more. I hope to feel more comfortable in my clothes, feel stronger, have more stamina and energy, and keep my spirits on an even keel this year.

Wish me luck!