I've got a challenge from the doc: No refined sweeteners. The new sweetener list is short: Stevia, Honey, Agave. End of story.
This is a terrible thing to tell me! I eat sweets all the time! I use candy bars as one of my many incentives for my kids! Our family has a weekly goal-setting day, and an indulgent dessert is a big draw to get them to the table! And, besides, I am hosting a dessert night with friends on Saturday--what do you say to that?
The doc looks right at me, and smiles encouragingly: This will be a good thing!
Ugh. I know she's right. I am pre-diabetic and over weight. I have worked hard since October to lose the 40 pounds I gained when I grieved for the loss of my brother. I'm halfway and at a standstill. It is time to focus on a new challenge.
I'll start by making sure I have a plan in place each morning, and a recipe handy for unexpected cravings. I can't commit to forever--as much as I want to. I can commit to 25 days . . . maybe a few months even. I'll do my best to follow the doctor's challenge for at least that long before I re-evaluate.
I can hear the words I used to encourage my teenage daughter through a difficult moment last autumn echoing in my ear: This is a great opportunity! Enjoy the journey! Relax and find a way to enjoy what you are learning!
Here we go.
