visions of sugar plums ~ spritz

I am lolling about in the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day. The scene: kids and Joe are in the house. It is rather messy. None of us have bathed for a couple days (since visitors left) and we’re wearing odd assortments of dirty PJ’s and walking clothes. Yes, that’s right – I DID actually leave the house this morning for a brisk walk with Joe. My body couldn’t take it any longer… ‘Get… UP…. Get… OUT… M.O.V.E. your BODY…. NOW!’  You see… during the holidays I typically gorge myself on an assortment of traditional German breads & cookies I learned to bake from my mother and have been enjoying for, well, 41 Christmasses now. To me the taste of almonds, butter, sugar and candied fruit is part of the holiday I savor most.

Now I’m sure NOBODY else can relate, right??? Before we commiserate, however, I invite you to cut yourself some slack. Whether you enjoy food during the Holidays because of family tradition, emotional eating, stuffing feelings, or even general merriment, it’s OK! I am no expert on eating disorders or any disorder for that matter. But I AM an expert in my own self-criticism and general loathing related to food, eating, and body image. I’ve loathed myself so well for so many different reasons… and I’m over it finally. I’m practicing self-approval now, and I would enjoy your company along this new trajectory.

The last of the fruit stollen was consumed this morning (after the walk)… and it was scrumptious! There are still tupperware bins full of chocolate, spritz, lebkuchen, and spekalatius ~ a huge plate of these are accompanying us to our friend’s ‘Not-Yet-New-Year’s-Eve’ party tonight. That leaves chocolate coins which I don’t really love anyway, and the tiny Toblerone which Santa forgot I prefer milk chocolate to the dark chocolate variety… so I think things are looking up for my slow-moving, somewhat rounder, and did I say ADORABLE body.

I’m returning to my healthy pink shake for breakfast, walking/nia/or workout every morning, and will be re-setting my sugar cravings along with many others across the U.S. the week of January 11. Each year after the Holidays I enjoy the RESET program which brings balance back into my diet, allows the cravings to subside and healthier urges to resume. Because I am committed to being healthier, more trim, and fit in the New Year; and I also know that the 2010 Holidays  will include joyful baking and sharing sweet traditions with loved ones yet again; I am grateful to include in my tradition full enjoyment, gradual decrease, and this effective and pleasurable program for easing myself off sugars & carbs and back into my routine.

If you’re thinking about joining us January 11 thru 15, connect with me and I’ll send more details.  In the meantime, my wish for you in this time of retreat and celebration is ~ Love your body. Savor every morsel. Live in gratitude for the abundance on your plate and in your life. Listen to your innate wisdom. Move in ways that surprise and delight you. And celebrate every moment of your transition from 2009 into 2010. May your every intention bear fruit.

Be Well, Maddy

• Tags: balance, Family, Food, healthy, Movement, new year, RESET, sugar
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