... but I am starting each day anew, trying not to drag along the mistakes of yesterday, trying to find ways to encourage, inspire, and support behaviors that will help me forward into a healthier life.

Today: Devotional materials said "Put the truth in your spirit and feed, nurture and allow it to grow. Quit telling yourself 'you're too fat, too old, too late, or too ignorant.' Quit feeding yourself that garbage. That will not nourish [you] . . . Speak life to your own body. Celebrate who you are. You are the image of God."

After laughing out loud, these were just the words (coupled with some Psalms) that I needed to nourish me this morning.

So instead of dwelling on what I am not, what I have not, what I cannot do, I made a short list of what I can accomplish to nourish myself in the areas of BODY, HEART, MIND, SPIRIT. And set them in action.

BODY: exercise, eat healthy food, seek appropriate touch (i.e., massage, a professional hair cut, etc.).

HEART: friendships, family, service.

MIND: learn new things (container gardening, ukulele, write, focus at work).

SPIRIT: The Word, Prayer, Devotional time, WORSHIP, Bible Study in group.

I know these things, but have been unwilling (unable) to make myself accountable throughout this year's stress-inducing events (death of my middle sister, breakup of my marriage). I'm feeling ready to begin, but I may have to begin more than once, more than 10x.

I am using MS Outlook to help: I made recurring daily appointments, with reminders, so I could jot down what I'm doing each day in the areas of BODY, HEART, MIND, and SPIRIT. I also hung up, where I could see it, a pretty little skirt in a size 10 that I long to wear. As I thought about making breakfast, I saw that skirt and was able to say - this meal will help get me to a healthy enough weight to wear that skirt.

So, we shall see how I do this week.

Peace be with you today, and always. -Otter