Time just seems to get away from me. I know what I need to do, but I just haven't done it. So, I am going to put a plan in writing and follow it no matter what. No more excuses!

In the plus column, I have quit caffeine and am sleeping longer and deeper. In the minus, I have not started exercising or addressing my weight.

Since I can't seem to self motivate, I am going to join a gym. I am not keen on the expense but they have yoga and I really want to take yoga. I can take 4 classes a week if I want for about $40 a month. They also offer other classes but my choices are limited because I'm overweight and out of shape. No high impact for me.

The diet is harder but necessary. I know what I need to do. Little by little I am cutting out foods I need to avoid, but I need portion control. I may have to join weight watcher to get motivated and started. I've been so out of control I may need an accountability partner or something like that in addition to Weight Watcher.

I grew up in a family where we were taught to suppress our emotions. I learned to stuff them (eating). Sometimes you just can't eat enough and the feelings can't be stuffed. I need to learn a new way. A healthful way. I don't want to stop the food and become a shopaholic like a friend of mine did. Or an alcoholic, or a drug user.

While I still have health insurance I might go to counseling. Overeating, lack of exercise, alcohol, drugs, gambling, ect all seem like a slow form of suicide to me. I left my ex so I could have a real life, one with peace and excitement, home and adventure. And, I am floundering badly. Maybe this is normal, or not, after a divorce. I definitely do not regret the divorce. But I am determined to suceed, so maybe that is the first step.

Considering my food expenses, home, work and restaurant, I will probably break even, even with a copay, weight watchers and a gym.

On page 151 of "The Tightwad Gazette II" is a contributors recipe for a very tasty casserole. Its easy and fast to make. I love this casserole right from the oven or slow cooker.

Lentil-Rice Casserole

3c chicken broth, or use water and 1
tbsp vegetable seasoning (taste good
with beef broth also)
3/4 c lentils, uncooked
1/2 c brown rice, uncooked
3/4 c chopped fresh onion
1/2 tsp sweet basil
1/4 tsp oregano
1/4 tsp thyme
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/2 c cheddar cheese, if desired

Blend all together in a casserole dish. Bake, covered, for 1 1/2 hours at 300 degrees. During the last 20 minutes, you may top with 1/2 c grated cheddar cheese, if desired.

I like it best with cheese, its less expensive without the cheese. Even so it cost less than $2.50 to make and serves 5-6.

I use the oven if I'm cooking other things like sweet potatoes and the slow cooker otherwise.