On December 8, 2023, I started this blog series about a TOPS Healthy Lifestyle. In reality, my journey began on January 10, 2002, when I joined TOPS. That is when I learned that I will always be UNDER CONSTRUCTION (1) and there will be many twists on the road.
On this particular twist, I discussed thirty-four signs. I did my best to comply with the SAFETY FIRST (3) methods. I never planned to STOP (2), but I realize now that a DEAD END (33) won’t SLOW (26) my progress.
A lot of INFORMATION (5) has been learned along my journey. Now, being at a CROSSROAD (22), I know that it is perfectly fine to make a U-TURN (34) and find ALTERNATE ROUTES (11).
As I discovered on a HIDDEN DRIVE (32), knowing what to do and actually doing it are two different things. Despite racking up many MILE MARKER (19) signs, I know I must stay within my SPEED LIMIT (6).
These journeys can be exhausting, and I EXPECT DELAYS (28). I get a boost of FUEL (9) from my chapter (SCHOOL ZONE (24)) and FLAGGERS (12). This helps me when I do make my U-TURN so I can avoid a costly DETOUR (8) by missing that TOLL AHEAD (15).
A difficult message to relay to non-member friends is that I need to avoid DANGER AHEAD (7) warnings. These friends and family members mean well, but their comment of “one piece of cake really won’t hurt you” is a huge SPEED BUMP (16) for me. Instead, I will get to a REST AREA (20), catch my breath and avoid this potential CRASH ZONE (29). I just cannot YIELD (4) to that temptation.
I acknowledge the SURVEY CREW (31) who play an integral role in reminding me, “DON’T TEXT & DRIVE” (30) and letting me know there is more than ONE WAY (27). They help me navigate myself from the ROUNDABOUT AHEAD (17), see that CROSSWALK (18) and not DRIVE THRU (14).
No matter how many of my journeys MERGE (13), FALLING ROCKS (23) will always challenge my WEIGHT LIMIT (25). The best course of action is to fill the VISITOR PARKING (10) area. Then, hopefully, we can SHARE THE ROAD (21) with those visitors.
The more people who are involved in my journey, the more beneficial it will be. Weight loss is a challenge, the road can be lonely and we should never travel alone. I am on my seventh U-TURN to have a healthier lifestyle.
I encourage you to find your signs and join me. With all your support, I will not give up and I will be there to support you, even when you need to make a U-TURN.
One day at a time and stay focused on what you are aiming for when your journey gets you where you want to go. I am with you on this journey too.
I am. on the Hidden Drive
Sending support. You can do it.