We’re still sharing lessons learned, and they apply equally well in the holiday season. Today we hear from TOPS First Vice President, who’s also a KOPS.
Karen Tinlin’s Lesson
Be Prepared!
I’ve always enjoyed flying (considering it an adventure), but heading home from Milwaukee in March 2020 was just a little strange. I had run out of hand sanitizer and went into every shop along the concourse of two airports. I discovered—to my amazement—a fact that prevailed for the next several months: No one had any hand sanitizer left for sale. I was not prepared for this at all.
A few years ago, I was blessed with a situation that taught me to treasure each day. I learned that life is beautiful and to always savor the joy. But that doesn’t mean I should stick my head in the sand, ignoring circumstances around me. It occurred to me, as I hunted for supplies to hold me through isolation, that I had long been neglecting a valuable lesson from my Girl Guide days. Be prepared!
I’ve promised myself a lower goal weight this year, but that just isn’t going to happen without some planning. My first hurdle was to be prepared with an alternate plan when I couldn’t go walking due to the weather. I had Leslie Sansone walking tapes buried in my office somewhere. I’m now proud to say that I’ve dug them out and they’re on my CD player ready to go.
Then there’s the matter of those pesky cravings that come along for seemingly no reason. I’m loving my new list to grab when that happens to me, and sadly, yes, it’s a familiar occurrence. I give myself permission to give in when this hits, with the one condition that I must choose something from my list and include it in my journal. The list has all my favorite things that I have on hand, with the portion size and nutrition calculated. I mean, how long can we stand with the fridge doors open and expect something to miraculously show up that will make us happy? Make a list!
Lord Baden-Powell’s sister Agnes, who helped him found the Girl Guides, would be proud of me as I again live that motto learned so long ago: Be prepared!
By Ron Wenberg November 14, 2020
Thanks Karen, we always have to have a plan and be prepared! Especially these days with this virus!
By Sandy Exelby November 10, 2020
In the afternoon I crave sweets, sometimes protein and carbs. What starts as reasonable continues to binging. Making the list I hope will help. It can’t include nuts or cheese/crackers or baked goods. Exercising and moderate portions otherwise have kept my KOPS in tact but I struggle to hold on. Being home more is more challenging.
By ruth singer November 10, 2020
Great advice As I live in a rainy climate I walk just about every day rain or shine
When the cravings hit I hit the tea kettle or a glass of water
By Janet Long November 9, 2020
Very good advice, thanks for sharing this with us.
By Beverlee Ewanchuk November 9, 2020
I would love to know what is on your list for when you get a craving.
By Mary Snyder November 14, 2020
Sugar free jello with fruit. I have them made ahead in 1/2 cup servings. 1 fee exchange 1/2 fruit exchange