My refraction on the phrase “free ride” is that I do not believe it. No matter what I do, there is some type of cost associated with the process. Now, it may not be cash, it may be effort I need to put in, or something owed in kind, such as a favor for a favor. On my winding journey…
The next sign I want to refract on is the infamous DRIVE THRU sign. This sign has two concerns which are of equal importance on the journey to a healthy lifestyle. It bears mentioning that the first DRIVE THRU sign used at a restaurant was in Springfield, Missouri in 1947. If that sounds familiar, Springfield is also where Seeds of…
While I continue to Follow the Signs to a healthier lifestyle, I am reminded of times when the need to MERGE was necessary. Just like what is expected on a highway, there are many reasons to MERGE or YIELD to oncoming traffic. You must take care when trying to MERGE. Planning will prevent unsafe maneuvers. INFORMATION I learned early when…
When I am traveling, either on a new route or one I have been on countless times, I FOLLOW THE SIGNS since things can change at any moment. Signs convey the proper INFORMATION, making sure I am going to get where I had planned. However, there are moments when there is not enough time to get a permanent sign for…
In a TOPS TALK presented on July 15, 2023, Dr. Nia Mitchell stated five ways to achieve weight loss: low-calorie diet, low-carb diet/keto, meal replacement, medication, and bariatric surgery. All are viable ALTERNATE ROUTES and benefit from the support provided by TOPS. Most of us understand the first three ALTERNATE ROUTES. Most likely a majority have tried all three at…
When I walked into my first TOPS meeting over twenty years ago, I had thoughts of confusion and trepidation. Already uncomfortable with the challenges of obesity, I was taken aback upon hearing a pledge followed by a song about “getting together.” I had never heard anything like this before. I was introduced as a VISITOR, and the group welcomed me.…
When on any journey, knowing where to find FUEL is especially important. Regardless of whether it is fossil or electrical, the energy I use to power my vehicle soon will be used up. The need to replace, recharge, or conserve must be part of the plan. Also, I may be able to change my vehicle choice depending on what FUEL…