the month without sugar.

the month without sugar.

• 5.06.2014

So here's the thing, ever since we moved in New Haven and left our "healthy" lifestyle in Dallas...we've essentially been packing on the pounds. I say "we" here but let's be honest, I'm really just focused on myself. Since we were part of a triathlon team, we worked out regularly especially thanks to basically 10-11 months of good weather. We were also pretty close to Whole Foods as well as plenty of healthier options in the Dallas restaurant scene. 

In New Haven, it's completely different. The closest grocery store is Stop & Shop and the produce section is pathetic. It was below 30 degrees for 5 months...seriously. It's already May and the temps just rose about 55. We also lost our triathlon network. I know, I'm making a lot of excuses here. But when there is 2 feet of snow on the ground and it's 5 degrees outside and it's dark at 3pm...it's pretty  much near impossible to get me into a gym. 

On top of all that, the lack of early morning workouts has also meant more justified evenings of dining out and drinking, something else we did less frequently in Dallas. And now, that's all catching up with us. I pulled out several dresses to try on for last weekend's formal only to find they were quite a big snug in the middle section...not to mention my pasty white skin.

So it's decided. With summer around the corner and several trips to Austin in my future (queue a lot less clothing), it's time to get my act together. I'm not really a "diet girl". It just doesn't work for me. So I'm setting a goal (you heard it here first!) to cut out sugar for the month of May. I started on Sunday. This isn't just about desserts but about trying to cut back on all those sneaky sources of sugar like Truvia in my coffee. I have a serious sweet-tooth and working in an office where there is always some kind of free baked good has been wreaking havoc on my body. Honestly, I'm starting to think this pattern of headaches has something to do with my sugar intake. Gross. 

With this, I'm going to cut out alcohol as well since the "drinking just because" ritual is becoming all too common. I think it would do my body good to take a month off. This will all conveniently end in time for Jessie & Brian's wedding on May 31st. PARTY! 

I'm setting another goal to go to yoga once a week and run twice a week (at least 30 minutes). Small goals here people. I've really been loving yoga because it makes me feel good and hurt in all the right places. I like the calming atmosphere and I'm definitely getting a workout. I also need to get back to running. Even though I honestly don't love it while I'm doing it, I always feel so much better afterwards. The days are getting longer and the temps are just right for a 30 minute jog around our neighborhood. I managed to sneak in 2 lazy miles after work today and while it was painful, I feel much better having done it.

Wish me luck faithful readers! Look out for some fun, healthy recipes for this next month!