New Year, 28.

Although it is not January 1st 2012, it is a new year for me. My birthday was Friday and it is the start of a whole new year for me. I had an absolute blast with my friends on Friday night, eating sushi and partaking in probably 3 too many sake bombs. I had a very rough morning Saturday, and remembered how bad it feels to waste a whole day being hung over. I also had McDonald's... yuck. But it did make me feel a bit better. Laying on the couch all day affords one to think about decisions. Although I had an amazing time with my friends (and a birthday is kind of a "free pass" to indulge in whatever you will), I don't think that I want to drink again for a long while. I've decided that I am going to try not to drink alcohol until New Years Eve. Even though it is only 13 days away, it is still a little step in becoming healthier and keeping a goal. I'm heading home for the holidays and usually partake in more beer at my parents house than I do while at my own. I try not to buy beer because if it is in the house, I will drink it. But it is and extra 200 calories to tack on to a dinner or evening watching TV that I don't need. So that is one of my first mini-goals for my 28th year.

My second mini-goal, no more fast food. In 2011 I cut my fast food intake enormously. I didn't eat fast food for the first 6 months of 2011. As the year went by, I ate it a little more frequently (maybe twice a month). And this last meal with McDonald's makes me want to put an end to fast food for year 28. I don't count Subway or Togos as fast food though. I think that when on the road or for a quick meal when there are no groceries they are the best choice (just don't get soda, chips, or cookies).

This past month has been a whirlwind so far and things finally seem to be settling down. I quit my job, became single again, and am trying to get things back on track health wise. I think that I landed a long term sub job for a friend who is going on maternity leave. The prospect of steady income and actually teaching in a classroom again sounds beyond amazing. December is a month for over indulgence because of the holidays and add in my birthday and I'm in a bit of trouble. Family came down to visit last week and I didn't monitor what I was eating in the slightest. I was also sick with a cold for about 5 days between their visit and my Bday. I am still not feeling 100% and haven't been to the gym in awhile. Then my birthday calorie festival, and now I'm going to be heading home where some of my favorite foods are.

I have made a meal plan for the next 4 days (until I leave for Humboldt) with two things in mind: 1. Eating healthy and calorie count 2. Cleaning out my fridge before I leave. I am also working all four days at the brewhouse and have decided to make good choices (salad and soup) when I get off work. I am optimistic that I can keep to my plan and make good decisions back in Humboldt. I think "Moderation" is the word to live by on vacation. I am also going to try to exercise a bit while at home. And then hit the ground running when I get back to Sacramento for the new year.

I'm not counting my "hang over day after my birthday" as my first day of 28. I'm counting today as my first day of 28 and am going to make this year count in a lot of ways! :)