One of the most memorable moments in the Bill Murray classic “What About Bob?” is when his character, a paranoid multi-phobic, walks out of his psychiatrists office chanting the new mantra “Baby Steps down the hall”…”Baby Steps to the elevator”…”Baby steps into the elevator”…etc.
That’s how I feel about my fitness these days. And actually, it is quite mentally therapeautic. Bascially, I have allowed myself to be acknowledged for all that I AM doing right, instead of continually berating myself for the things I “should” or “could” have done.
That said, I am quite pleased with a few new simple – “baby steps” toward the healthier me. Here they are:
1. Bus riding to work continues (with subsequent walking to and from involved)
2. “Survival Walks” and “Sanity Breaks” - this has been a really cool and easy addition to my day. A group of my co-workers (special kudos to Mari) have jumped on the band-wagon to support me, and also boost their own mental and physical fitness. Thus, at 10:00 am we all slip on our walking shoes and go outside for a stroll. It has not been completely regular – sometimes we miss a day or so, or go at a different time – however the majority of our days now include at least one “SWl” or “SB”. I highly recommend this to all you office slaves out there! 
3. The Long Walk Home: Yes, Dead Man Hill still looms strong in my nightmares. I found an alternate route which does not make my heart pop out of my chest completely – however involves a longer, steadier climb (there is just no way but UP to my home from the bus stop). I am proud to report that where I used to have to stop about 10 times, I am only pausing for about 5 now. And for the most part I can make it home in about 25 minutes now (instead of 40). The heat has been KILLING me – however I am remembering to take a full water bottle now, which I drain during the hike, and I really do survive
Baby steps…baby steps…baby steps…
4. Nightly Dog Walk: I have not been as diligent about this, making the justification that my long hot hike home each day was sufficient. However, when I do get out there in the evening, I am always rewarded with a smiling doggie and a beautiful sunset to watch from the ridge.
My progress might be slow, but it is definitely progress, and I am moving forward. If I can do it, anyone can!
Still Surviving - HK
A2B,
Congrats on all the “baby steps” you are taking – in the end, such endeavors are the only way to consistently take off the weight and more importantly, keep it off.
Baby steps is my mantra! I have been over 200 pounds for the past 11 years and finally feel committed to getting it off. I finally understand the concept of slow and steady wins the race….so far Ive lost 20 pounds and have about 55 more to go.
Congratulations on your weight loss! You are headed down the right path
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