Who makes a beeline for the grocery store when they’re already pressed for time on the way to work and school drop off? 

ME!!! The girl who learned that her favorite neighborhood grocery store, Kroger, opens at 6a.m.! 

Grocery shopping is my least favorite domestic responsibility so getting it done as early as possible is the way to go. That morning I was in dire need of a few lunch items for my son and some healthy foods for myself. 

Roasted almonds is what I was looking for. 

  Not only had I already heard of the benefits of almonds as a snack, my new hair dresser recently told me of a slender older woman who she used to work with who snacked on those and salad during the work day.

Yes… I was biting and I’m not ashamed.

Enough was enough!

The Saturday before this early morning grocery run I’d been hanging out with women of bayous ages. There were some who may have been quietly envying my physique but there were plenty who I was envying them.

 Honestly, it’s not about comparing myself to others. More so it’s about my not attaining goals that I set years ago.

Why haven’t I?

Simply because I’ve wanted the results without the work. I can hit the gym, walk laps all day long around my workplace. But tell me I can’t enjoy chocolate chip cookies once a week and you’ve got a problem on your hands!

Not you, literally, but definitely me.

Surface level, I want a physically shaped body that I can be proud of. Over the tears, that image has become more realistic for how I want to live my life.

Beneath the surface, I want to feel good. I want to get out of bed without stiffness, succeed with Yoga, swim (and look good in my swimsuit) and ride my bike to work on National Bike to Work Day without hesitation.

So finally, at age 40, I’m ready to snack on some darn almonds and salad.

Do you feel me?  The new year will be here before you know it? What extremes are you willing to go to achieve your fitness goals.

*I wanted the roasted almonds unsalted but had to settle for sea salt. 

Naturally Yours,

L.A.