Does anyone have as much difficulty as I do when trying to order something somewhat healthy at a restaurant? For me, this topic is especially difficult because when I arrive at the restaurant with supposedly wonderful intentions. However, it just doesn't turn out that way. Now, I do need to clarify the usage of the word "restaurant." I mean any eating establishment from cafeterias to snack shops to pot lucks and even buffets.
Or, then there is the time when I go to a restaurant and I have had a heck of a day - filled with exhaustion or emotions. I just don't care if I'm eating unhealthy. As long as it gives me the comfort to soothe the tiredness and the emotions, sometimes I'm willing eat what I want to get through that moment. Of course, then I pay for it later in frustration and increase in weight.
Or, there is the time when I go to a restaurant with family or friends and I have the "peer pressure" syndrome to consume the wrong kinds of beverages or menu items. What do I mean by this? I don't think their intentions are malicious in nature. I just think that we are out having fun and enjoying ourselves. So, therefore I should have fun what I'm eating as well. Sure, let's get an appetizer and drink a glass of wine, or two. Why not? I do know that the ultimate choice is up to me whether I partake in said beverages or grub.
Sometimes, I am at a restaurant and I see some luscious, yummy, delectable, cheesy lasagna on the menu. What am I to do? What? Am I stupid? Of course I'm going to order it! There are some things that are just non-negotiable - lasagna and Boston cream pie. Or bread pudding or ravioli or macaroni and cheese or chocolate ... Aarrgghh! See you later ... I'll be right back ... I'm going out to eat!
Ha-ha! Just kidding, I am back. Seriously though, more and more eating establishments are following healthier guidelines to support the ever growing population that wants to eat healthier. When I go to certain restaurants, I have noticed that they have a special insert in the menu with better choices as well as documenting the calories, fat, protein, and sodium. That's definitely helpful.
This just in: I just now heard that my dad has lost another 10 pounds. There is nothing medically wrong with him. He just has a better metabolism than me. That really sucks! I am happy for him because he is losing weight to be healthier; on the other hand, I am very frustrated because all he does is sit in his Lay-Z-Boy and change the channel on the remote control. That really, really sucks.
Here I am exercising my tail off and the weight just melts off of my dad's gut. It's so unfair how the metabolism of certain people works the way it does. Oh well, I have been very consistent in my exercise endeavors these past couple of weeks. I went to an orientation at the gym the other day. My fellow volunteer and good friend, Wanda, met me at the gym. It is a wonderful thing to have someone to be your cheerleader and support system. It takes a lot of motivation and determination to think about exercising. Once you're there, though, it isn't so bad after all. I was re-orientated to the different weight machines and also the recumbent bike (this is the only machine I can use due to my previous injuries).
That same night I went to swim class. I have still been going to the Tuesday/Thursday arthritic swim class, which I really enjoy. Not only is it good for the body, but it helps when you make connections with your classmates and share a common weight loss goal.
On Wednesday, the 13th of April, I went to volunteering. I honestly did not feel like going to the gym. I was tired but nonetheless, after my shift I went to change into my gym clothes and proceeded to warm up on the recumbent bike for about 5 minutes. I used each weight machine, stretching each time afterwards. Finally, I used the recumbent bike for 35 minutes. I am very proud of myself because every 5 minutes I felt like quitting, but I didn't. I finished my exercise routine. I guess there is hope for me yet! Until next time ...
Casi Stewart can be reached at casichilstew@yahoo.com. A Weighty Issue appears every other Monday on the Life page.
