Bravo Governor!

My original plan for this blog was not to comment on media issues or politics, but instead focus on my personal journey to better health and the foods I prepare and enjoy to take me there. I'm not a pundit. Occasionally, though, I'll take a moment to pass on a gem of information or two.

This article on MSNBC featuring an interview with Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee just really hit the nail on the head for me. In case you hadn't heard, he's co-chair of a campaign with President Clinton to raise awareness for childhood obesity and life-long wellness. He's also lost 110 lbs by controlling eating and exercising more.

That instantly caught my attention.

His story (at least on the surface, I haven't read his book) , seems to mirror my own. I too started out in the 280s, and have lost over 100 lbs. by the same methods. I think one of the keys is taking his approach - changing your mental outlook and lifestyle. Losing weight is about wellness and better health, not about diets. To be truly successful, you have to have to have a holistic approach. It doesn't matter what you do to lose the weight, as long as you learn new skills and methods for living. This includes nutrition, portion control, exercise, discipline, repsponsibility, mental health, stress management, etc.

When my wife and I reach our goal weights, we're not just going to turn our weight loss switches to "off." We're going to keep doing what we've been doing for the last 4 years. This is for life, and we're very happy with our lifestyle.

Read the article.