You're gonna do what?

Yes Merlin (Tim Robbins in Top Gun), I'm going to give blogging a try again. Why not, it's getting to be summer, and I need somewhere to rant and rave about the Brewers. Besides, if I complain here theoretically I won't complain to Christa as much.

The other reason I wanted to start blogging again was to have a chronicle of my attempt at losing weight and getting back into some kind of decent shape. It seems like eons ago since my high school days when I played three sports and felt fat when I graduated at 185 pounds. I put on my 'freshman 15' and seemed to do so every year since. The thought of staying the way I am now, or getting worse, as our son grows up was kind of scary. Playing ball, being active, and living late into life seemed like much more difficult things to attain.

I had some additional motivation as well. Here's the deal I made with my wife without her knowing about it: when I lose 20 pounds I can get my Blu-Ray player and she can't say anything about it. My plan: no chocolate, no soda, no sugar; reduced portion sizes; healthier food choices; limited fast food; 45 minute walks with the dog after our son goes to bed, and more.

I downloaded an application for my phone from Livestrong.com that has calorie and nutrition information for all kinds of foods, including restaurant food. I'm limiting myself to between 1200 and 1500 calories per day and eating more fruit and veggies than I have at any time in my life. So far, so good. From last Tuesday night when I weighed myself (started the 'diet' on Monday actually) to Saturday morning I had lost 3 pounds. I see no reason I can't lose 3-5 pounds per week, meaning in about 1 to 2 months I'll be enjoying my new Blu-Ray Player. I don't plan to stop there however. I have a goal I'd really like to get to, but I'm not quite ready or comfortable to share it yet.

I hope to keep taking the weight "From the Hip", although whether I'm talking about the Brewers, the weight loss efforts, or whatever else, it'll be "From the Hip".

In honor of Merlin, Goose, Maverick, Iceman, and company, here's a little music to get things started: