Get out and Move!

Pulling up to Starbucks this morning in Mandeville, La. I was shocked. Fifteen cars were lined up in the drive-thru lane!! Fifteen! Yes, it was cold here, 24 degrees, but even so there was no rational for this; no one was in the store. I went in, ordered, and was back out and the line at the drive-thru had increased by three! Now eighteen cars were waiting. By the time I parked, went in, ordered and came back out, only one car had move through. I was in and out before the second in line had moved forward!!

You also see folks driving around a parking lot waiting to find that close space rather than park and get out and walk to the store! Sadly this has become part of the American culture. Drive-thru's, fighting for that close parking space and getting little or no exercise!

Obviously we all must think about safety in parking lots, but sitting for 15-20 minutes in a drive-thru line at Starbucks, McDonalds, Wendy's, etc. is crazy! Get out of the car and walk, get your body moving; you'll burn calories, feel better, and perhaps strike up a conversation.

It's time to think about your health; exercise is a big part of that!

A Fit and Healthy Thanksgiving

Everyone associates Thanksgiving with food and family. This year make it a healthy holiday! There is no reason to over stuff yourself and then just sit and watch football or continue to snack after dinner is over. You do not have to deprive yourself of all the goodies served if you follow these simple tips.

1. Eat a healthy breakfast. Oatmeal with blueberries (fresh or frozen), almonds, Agave Syrup (if you need a sweetener), skim milk and coffee or tea.

2. Take a walk, get your body moving!

3. If dinner will be late in the day, be sure to eat a light lunch. Do not starve yourself waiting for dinner. Keep your metabolism burning.

4. Use a smaller plate at dinner. A salad plate holds less than a dinner plate and you will be less likely to overeat.

5. Do not let your foods touch on your plate. Smaller portions allow you to enjoy a bit of everything without overeating.

6. Quarter the pieces of pie and don't pile whipped cream on top!

7. Limit yourself to two glasses of wine at dinner.

8. Drink water. It will help fill you up.

9. Take another walk after dinner. Get your family members or friends moving instead of just sitting on the sofa. You can still talk, enjoy each other and the holiday while your work off that holiday dinner!!