Calorie Counting

G. Sax

The title of this entry should be sung to the tune of “Domino Dancing” by Pet Shop Boys.

I declared Independence Day on the 4th of July. Independence from a reliance on fatty foods, sugar fixes, salt licks, and a generalized pattern of overeating for the last 14 years.

The lament goes on for many of us… “I used to be something,” we say.

Oh, I was never an Adonis like my friends Paul and Laci, but Paul himself once said—in a typical homosexual lean—”you’re good looking in a unique sort of way.” And you know what? I’m not terrible to look at. Although…

My face is puffy, my chins are doubled up, my saddlebags could hold change for laundry, and my ass is all chumbawamba. I finally decided that that’s not working for me anymore.

I’m doing pretty good so far. Much better than my infamous Weight Journal of 2002 in which I documented my struggle to get below 200 pounds. I’m being more methodical in my efforts this time.

I’m focused on exercise and diet more than I’ve been in several years. I’m actually monitoring what I eat rather than just guessing at it. Progress is good and (for once) healthy. My weight fluctuations are natural but always encouragingly in the right direction, and I’m not cheating (too much) on calories or exercise routine.

The new regimen is time-consuming but invigorating. Time will tell if I can stick it out. I feel as though I have to this time. I deserve liberty from chumbawamba.