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…
TOPS Healthy Lifestyle: Follow the Signs – Merge
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…
TOPS Healthy Lifestyle: Follow the Signs – Flagger Ahead
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…
TOPS Healthy Lifestyle: Follow the Signs – Alternate Routes
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…
TOPS Healthy Lifestyle: Follow the Signs – Visitor Parking
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.…
TOPS Healthy Lifestyle Follow the Signs – Fuel
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…
TOPS Healthy Lifestyle: Follow the Signs – Detour
In my refracted view, this next sign for some could be considered good or bad. We all have had to abide by the instructions of a DETOUR sign. Some may think negatively and say this new route will make the trip longer than planned. Personally, I try to look at a DETOUR sign in a positive fashion. It directs me…