I've been praying lately that God will bring other people into my life for close friendships as well as accountability. I know that I can't lose weight alone, and along with God's help I also need others that struggle with what I am struggling with to encourage me. I'm good at encouraging others, but somehow when it comes to "self-encouragement" ... I don't believe me. ha! Isn't that terrible? Since I'm now a month away from my heart surgery, and the doctor has released me, it's time to implement the "physical" phase of my change in lifestyle. I'm very proud that I have quit drinking coffee, actually cutting out all caffeine out of my diet (now that I have quit taking excedrin to give me enough energy to make it through the day!). My water consumption is definately NOT what it should be. And.. I would have to say that ice cream is still my downfall. I think its going to be like someone who smokes cigarettes .. either all or nothing. And for me to be successful in this next phase of life change, it's going to probably be 'nothing'. Or at least nothing most of the time. I did buy those little Blue Bell cups, so perhaps I'll work one or two a week of those into my diet, and forego those awesome Braums cherry creme and pecan shakes. Poor Darious, he'll really miss our stops at Braums on the way home! Ben has promised to get the Gazelle set up in our guest room, so that will be the first phase of exercise. Coupled along with a few nights of taking Darious out for walks, then I should be able to ramp-up the weightloss. We'll see! Still praying for those close friendships... I don't know why it is that I have 'lots' of acquaintances, but very few people that are close. I know its not that I don't trust others, sometimes I wonder if something in me is broken? I do have one very good friend, Dianna, but we definately do not get to spend enough time together with all that is going on right now! So two things ~ accountability ~ closer friendships. Near the top of the prayer chain for the week.