Vigilance

OK, holiday season is really travel season...

Airplanes; jet-lag; parties; eating out... Mm-hhmm

This week I'm visiting family and friends in sunny South Africa. My trip has included the above and more. I'm having a terrific time, but the question is: how do I stay vigilant with all the changes to my routine?

Simple answer: Portion-Control.

I decided that if I'm going to enjoy all the goodies and fun associated with being here, it's important to stick to certain behavioral patterns that have worked these past few months. Eating 1,300 calories has an amazing effect (after enduring the first week): YOUR TUMMY SHRINKS! Yay!!

I look at the food in front of me and know that even if I'm sharing one serving of pasta, it's simply too much food! So, I've been able to enjoy all the goodies by sharing with my sister. I will say though that I did try wolfing down more than I'm used to and man, my tummy was on fire!! That totally took the joy out of the meal. NOT WORTH IT! SO, I decided to stick to what has become my way of living and am much more satisfied!

I even did a shortened version of my core workouts this morning- it felt great! My son teasingly asked: Mom, whatcha doing? My reply: What I always do. He had a satisfied smile, as if to say: some things remain constant.

A friend who's kept her weight off for over 10 years told me one piece of advice: Stay vigilant -- don't take your eye off the ball.

I have been thinking about that. I'm 22 pounds down now - 15 more to go!! SO, I can't let this vacation and change of schedule affect my goal. Yes, everyone's very complimentary on my progress thus far, but I have to keep my eye on the ball.

Vigilance.

That's the ultimate pay off.

---Trailwalker---